Currently creating games is not just a task for programmers! Below you will find the 10 best programs to create games in an easy and practical way, both for PC and for Android and iOS phones! Most programs have a greater focus on 2D games, but some also allow you to create 3D games and a good range of genres. Check out!
1. RPG Maker
One of the greatest classics when it comes to creating games. RPG Maker is a program very focused on creating 2D RPG games, with numerous tools and resources ideal for this genre. It is a “specialist” program in this area, but with the right creativity it is still possible to create games of other styles.
RPG Maker has a very intuitive interface and doesn't require any programming skills, but it still allows more advanced users to program new commands. Very suitable for creating games for PC, browser and Android.
Pros
- Very intuitive interface.
- Simplified codes, but still allows for more advanced programming.
- Huge active community.
- Free and paid versions with different content and DLCs (downloadable content) with additional features.
Cons
- Relatively limited compatibility for games.
- Not so suitable for total beginners.
- Limitation on the game genre.
2. Construct 3
Another beginner's program, Construct 3 is also geared towards 2D games and doesn't require any programming knowledge, just drag and drop icons to assign commands. It is one of the fastest software to master and is perfect for creating arcade, platform, puzzle and racing games.
One of the best aspects of Construct 3 is the forums where you have access to a lot of content shared by the community, like tools and sprites to implement in your games. The program runs directly in the browser and, unfortunately, is paid.
Pros
- Extremely easy to use.
- Free trial period.
- Great active community.
- Constant updates.
Cons
- It's paid.
- Limited Compatibility: Only runs on PC.
3. Scratch
Scratch is a game creation platform that aims to teach programming to children. This makes the basic concepts of the programming language present, but in an extremely easy and explanatory way. Here, you just drag and drop icons to assign commands, which are also very easy to edit.
Scratch is very suitable for creating educational games, as well as animations and stories that contain dialogue, multiple choices, explanatory images and sounds, etc. The program also has a large active community where you can share and compare your games with others.
Pros
- Children's interface aimed at the younger audience.
- Very educational.
- Free.
Cons
- Limited game mechanics and variety.
4. Stencyl
Stencyl is a middle ground between Scratch and Construct. The program also has an educational aspect aimed at teaching the basics of programming, but allows for a much wider variety of tools and games.
Stencyl is very suitable for flash games and several of its games appear on sites like ArmorGames, Kongregate and Newgrounds. Very good for creating platform, tower defense, arcade and 2D RPG games
Pros
- Good compatibility with Flash, Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android and HTML5.
- Teaches the basics of programming.
- Possibility of obtaining sponsorship in your games.
Cons
- It's paid.
- It doesn't have as many tools.
- Although compatible, games are not ideal for cell phones.
5. Clickteam Fusion 2.5
Clickteam Fusion is one of the oldest software when it comes to game creation. The show aired in 1994 (!) and was responsible for games like The Escapists or Five Nights at Freddy's. With it it is possible to create 2D and 3D games without programming, but although it is easy to perform the simplest tasks, it takes more time to master the program.
Clickteam Fusion is a perfect software for creating platform and arcade games. Regarding 3D games, the engine is much more limited, but still satisfying if you don't expect amazing graphics.
Pros
- Free and paid versions.
- Great active and engaged community.
- Games compatible with iOS, Android, HTML 5 and Flash.
Cons
- Very few updates.
- Old interface.
- Program is only compatible with Windows.
6. Game Maker Studio 2
Game Maker Studio 2 is the program responsible for creating successful games like Undetarle and Hotline Miami. The engine is not as simple as the others on this list, but it is much more complete and allows the creation of 2D and 3D games. Its main differential is that it allows the creation of elements in the program itself, without the need to import them. That way you can see the results much faster.
Game Maker Studio 2 offers everything you need to create a successful indie game, suitable for many different genres.
Pros
- Advanced tools.
- Great tutorials within the software.
- Relatively simple to learn.
Cons
- Payment.
- You need a very basic knowledge of programming.
- It has its own language.
7. Roblox Studio
Roblox Studio, as you can imagine, is the program used to create games on the famous Roblox platform. It offers all the tools you need to create 3D games very quickly and simply, as it has several tools and templates ready for you to just drag to the desired locations.
With Roblox Studio, of course, all games follow the same classic Roblox mechanics, leaving you to create the scenarios and game rules.
Pros
- Free.
- Creating fully 3D games in a very easy way.
- Lots of content and big active community.
Cons
- Very low compatibility. Games only run on the Roblox platform.
- Program only runs on Windows and Mac.
8. Kogama
Like Roblox, Kogama is an online platform where people can play, create and share their games. With it you can make your 3D games without having to download a program, since the editor runs directly in the browser.
Kogama is even simpler than Roblox, with very basic tools where you just have to drag elements wherever you want. Of course, the games will be platform-limited, and they're pretty limited as well.
Pros
- Extremely simple and easy to use.
- Free.
Cons
- Exclusive games for the Kogama platform.
- Limited games in terms of mechanics.
9 and 10. Advanced: Unreal Engine and Unity 3D
These two are only for advanced users with 3D programming and modeling knowledge. Unreal Engine and Unity 3D are the most popular programs in the world when it comes to game creation. With them you can create any high quality 2D and 3D game, with all the desired mechanics.
Of course, both programs are paid and require licenses if you want to publish your games. Some examples of games created by these programs are:
- Unity 3D: Hearthstone, Genshim Impact, Fall Guys, Mobile Legends, etc.
- Unreal Engine: Gears of War, Street Fighter V, Borderlands 3, Fortnite, etc
