For versatile, free, and 2D-intensive game development, the open-source engine Godot is a strong choice. However, if you value simplicity tailored for beginners with a broad set of tools, go for GameMaker. Developers aiming for cross-platform scalability may lean towards GameMaker.
Key Differences Between Godot and GameMaker
- Godot thrives on an intuitive scene-driven design and the use of nodes for complex scenes, while GameMaker simplifies game design with straightforward tools.
- Advanced users may favor Godot for its GDScript language and optional static typing, whereas GameMaker’s Language Server offers more language support.
- Godot’s license is entirely free with no hidden fees, while GameMaker operates on a tiered pricing system, including a free version.
- GameMaker plans to implement significant upgrades like AI support and a new Code Editor in the future, while Godot benefits from community-driven updates and improvements.
| Comparison | Godot | GameMaker |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and web platforms | Enterprise version offers major consoles platform |
| Development model | Open-source, MIT License | Various tiers: Free, Creator, Indie, and Enterprise |
| Scripting languages | GDScript, C++, C#. Community support for Rust, Nim, Haskell, Clojure, Swift & D | Proprietary GameMaker Language, with Language Server for Syntax Highlighting and Intellisense support for more languages |
| First release | An offshoot of OKAM studio in 2007 | Originally developed as Animo in 1999 |
| Features | Intuitive scene-driven architecture, Nodes system, Direct import of Blender files. Built-in visual editor | 2D-focus with scalability and simplicity, extensive tools, upcoming features like new code editor, AI support, and enhanced modding capabilities |
| User experience | Ideal for both beginners & experienced game devs, despite less powerful 3D capability | Praised by users like Gabriel Gonçalves, praised for its ease of use and scalability, especially for 2D games |
What Is Godot and Who’s It For?
Godot is an open-source game engine, renowned for its intuitive, scene-driven design that simplifies game creation. Its novel structure uses nodes to make complex, reusable scenes and integrates a built-in scripting language, GDScript. Godot is chiefly a choice for developers and game enthusiasts interested in creating games ranging from basic to advanced levels.
It’s versatility, evident in features like direct import of Blender files and specialized 2D workflow, makes it an industry favorite. It is liberally licensed under the MIT license and offers an open-source, modifiable codebase.
Pros of Godot
- Free and open-source
- Intuitive scene-driven design
- .NET and C++ support in Godot 4
- Direct import of Blender files
- Specialized 2D workflow
Cons of Godot
- Not suitable for complex 3D games
- .NET only available for desktop platforms
What Is GameMaker and Who’s It For?
GameMaker is a user-friendly 2D game engine lauded for its simplicity and comprehensiveness. Designed to transform game design even for beginners, it’s appreciated by developers at all skill levels. Games like Undertale and Forager are products of this engine.
It provides various tiers catering to diverse development needs and ambitions. With a history dating back to 1999, it has seen constant evolution and refinement. Upcoming updates promise a new code editor, AI support, and enhanced modding capabilities.
Pros of GameMaker
- Simplifies game design
- Scalability and extensive tools
- Used in the creation of popular indie games
- Supports multiple languages including Shader Languages, JSON, and XML
Cons of GameMaker
- Limited to 2D game development
- Major updates only expected in 2023
Godot vs GameMaker: Pricing
Godot operates under an open-source MIT license, making it free of cost, while GameMaker offers a free tier and additional paid tiers with expanded features.
Godot
The price of using Godot is effectively zero. As an open-source engine licensed under MIT, it has no licensing fees, no contracts, and no hidden fees. User games are owned entirely by the user, allowing for complete control and financial freedom. This accessible pricing model makes Godot an attractive choice for both beginner and experienced game developers, particularly those who value flexibility and customization.
GameMaker
GameMaker, popular with both novice and full-fledged developers, caters to various needs with its structured pricing tiers. The Free tier offers an introduction to the engine, while the Creator tier is ideal for those looking to advance their game development career on desktop stores. The Indie tier comes with multiple export options for game release, while the Enterprise tier is perfect for studio releases on major consoles. As such, the pricing of GameMaker scales with the user’s level of commitment and development needs.
Code Examples for Godot & GameMaker
Godot
This sample code demonstrates how to create a custom character controlled by player input. This character can move in four directions – up, down, left, right – using the arrow keys. To run this script, you will need Godot 3.0 or later versions. Make sure to attach this script to a sprite in your 2D scene.
extends Sprite var speed = 200 func _process(delta): var velocity = Vector2() if Input.is_key_pressed(KEY_UP): velocity.y -= 1 if Input.is_key_pressed(KEY_DOWN): velocity.y += 1 if Input.is_key_pressed(KEY_LEFT): velocity.x -= 1 if Input.is_key_pressed(KEY_RIGHT): velocity.x += 1 velocity = velocity.normalized() * speed position += velocity * deltaGameMaker
This GameMaker code illustrates a ball that bounces off screen borders, creating a pong-like effect. The code requires GameMaker Studio 2.0 or later. Attach this script to an instance of a ball object in your scene.
Bounce = 5; DirectionX = choose(-1, 1); DirectionY = choose(-1, 1); if (x < 0 or x > room_width) { DirectionX *= -1; } if (y < 0 or y > room_height) { DirectionY *= -1; } x += DirectionX * Bounce; y += DirectionY * Bounce;Final Verdict: Godot vs GameMaker
In this neck-and-neck race of game development platforms, your search for supremacy rests on your professional needs and aesthetic inclinations.
Beginner Game Devs
GameMaker takes the cake with its simplicity, making it the ideal choice for novices in game design. Its user-friendly interface, and a thriving support community further cements its position at the top.
Intermediate to Advanced Game Devs
Godot’s versatility unleashes the full potential for more seasoned developers. Its node-based design and compatibility with multiple scripting languages inject creative freedom, making your ambition the only limit.
AR/VR Enthusiasts
Godot outclasses GameMaker due to its high-compatibility with 3D game development. Its open-source nature allows for the extension of AR/VR functionalities, yielding to immersive experiences.
For the aspirant in you, GameMaker simplifies the initiation into the mystifying world of game development. Meanwhile, Godot is the fulcrum characterizing your journey from simplicity to a universe adorned with possibilities. Much like the art of game creation, the choice between Godot and GameMaker is yours to craft.
