Side by side
Game Developer Studio vs GameMaker
Both stand on game asset marketplaces. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Game Developer Studio pairs a sizable 2D asset library with a free browser editor and a license that permits commercial derivative projects. Check the standalone redistribution restriction, browser caveat, and supporter-only texture tools before relying on it.
Visit Game Developer Studio
GameMaker offers visual and code-based scripting alongside a broad list of export targets. Check the plan terms carefully: Professional is listed with a monthly price but a one-time billing note, while Enterprise includes console exports and source code access.
Visit GameMakerThe facts
| Game Developer Studio | GameMaker | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Enterprise: $79.99 a month |
| Plans published | 2 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | GameMaker |
| Website | gamedeveloperstudio.com | gamemaker.io |
| On game asset marketplaces | #7 of 21 | #3 of 21 |
Game Developer Studio: what it does well
- Lists 1,292 asset packs.
- Core editor is free without sign-up or membership.
- Imports SVG, PNG, JPEG, JPG, and GDS files.
- Standard license permits commercial derivative projects without attribution.
What to know first
- Editor is for desktop browsers.
- Recent Brave versions may conflict with the editor.
- Texture panel and library require GDS Plus supporters.
- Supporter Club is temporarily closed.
GameMaker: what it does well
- Offers GML Code and GML Visual.
- Includes visual scripting and multiplayer tools.
- Lists desktop, web, mobile, and console targets.
- Free plan is available for non-commercial use.
What to know first
- Free plan does not include console exports.
- Free plan is restricted to non-commercial use.
- Professional billing is described as a one-time purchase.
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