GameMaker Studio 2 Desktop

GameMaker Studio 2 Desktop
N/A
Metacritic
80
Steam
77.126
xDR
Our rating is calculated based on the reviews and popularity of the game.
Price
$99.99
Release date
8 March 2017
Developers
Publishers
Steam reviews score
Total
80 (2 223 votes)

GameMaker Studio 2 is the latest and greatest incarnation of GameMaker! It has everything you need to take your idea from concept to finished game. With no barriers to entry and powerful functionality, GameMaker Studio 2 is the ultimate 2D development environment!

Show detailed description

GameMaker Studio 2 Desktop system requirements

Minimum:

  • Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
  • OS: Microsoft 64bit Windows 7
  • Processor: 64bit Intel compatible Dual Core CPU
  • Memory: 2 GB RAM
  • Graphics: OpenGL 4-compliant onboard graphics
  • DirectX: Version 11
  • Storage: 3 GB available space
Similar games
GameMaker
GameMaker

Animation & Modeling, Design & Illustration, Education, Software Training, Utilities, Web Publishing, Game Development

Free xDr: 79.09
Popularity
Reviews
Write a new review
Xenotel
Xenotel

It's amazing what an untrained programmer like me can produce (at 68 y/o). There's tonnes of stuff on YouTube and the built in info libraries to get you started as a beginner. Don't hesitate, jump in. The programme is awesome, nothing less.

Nibiru Imagineering
Nibiru Imagineering

I have moved from the steam version to the standalone Indie subscription.
I have found there are several issues that bothered me under steam.
The first one would be the steam version seems to be an older build
The second issue would be controller support, which is handled by steam, which is frustrating to say the least.
The third issue is using the Steam API with any project, there seems to be issues testing.

If the above doesn't bother you, if you are developing a project / game just using mouse and keyboard and not using the API (Steam API) then this product will be a good choice.

for a few dollars more (around $10) one could get the indie subscription for the standalone product.

all in all still a great experience and still would recommend.

NeedleNoseMouse
NeedleNoseMouse

I have no idea what i'm doing.

Edit: Changed review to negative because of scummy actions recently made by the company
And revoking my license despite me paying 100$ for a perma one. Now I no longer have access to my projects, Thanks gms!

face
face

Great for understanding the basics of game development. Definitely the best IDE for creating 2D games!

The Great Gatsby
The Great Gatsby

I've used GMS2 for quite a while now and though it takes some learning it is super useful and professional

Mummy75
Mummy75

story is nonexistient but is a great sandbox game. biggest issue are the tutorials are outdated so fan walkthroughs are basically required.

Pedro-NF
Pedro-NF

I was planning to start using this program when I learned that the developers were switching to a subscription-based sales model, which is an absolute no-go in my book. Users who don't subscribe will no longer receive new feature updates, besides lots of other limitations. I feel scammed by the developers and, unfortunately, it's too late to ask for a refund. They won't be seeing any more of my money ever again, though.

Hentaimaster9000
Hentaimaster9000

I think this is a very good software but only for small games otherwise not good and not for the price!!!!

DestructoDisk
DestructoDisk

I have been using this program for literal decades, since back when it was free. The modern version is better than ever. There is a a learning curve, but it's not a big one. Basically this is the simplest program on the market that will allow you to make real full games in any genre without learning to program. Need any proof of this programs abilities? Amazing games like Axiom Verge were created with Game Maker.

abatron3
abatron3

It is a really good software to understand the fundamentals of creating a game! Good Organization and easy to use interface!

wp
wp

finicky at best with mac, their change to a subscription model is disappointing and it has messed with my official license (no longer shows up on the yoyogames website. this may just be a personal issue, though.)

I have a personal vendetta against subscription services, so that shift alone is enough for me to move to a different software entirely.

exporting on mac is a pain in the ass, and apparently doesn't support cross-platform exports. (i may be wrong, feel free to correct me.)

Apparently, if you're using a mac, you must have a developer's license which is $99 per year. I am simply a hobbyist (as well as a student), so this is simply not worth it. I just want to be able to make stupid games and send them to my friends for a good laugh, that's about it.

Gamemaker's interface was quite nice, especially if you are unfamiliar with programming, but anyone can learn (imho). Programming isn't some mystical art. Anyways, I'll be moving to Unity (or just straight programming in python).

Not to say that this is inherently a bad software-- if it works for you that's cool. I'm mostly just peeved --again-- at the subscription format. Very disappointing.

DoubleTroubleBoy
DoubleTroubleBoy

Great tool to make games! GML looks a lot like C and C++ which are both languages I am used to. As a full-time programmer working on business applications interested in making amateur games, I found this tool pretty fun to use. I was able to make a client and connect it via TCP with a back-end written with NodeJS for a small morpg I am working on.

The IDE is great, pretty intuitive. The sprite editor I didn't care for, as I am using Aseprite which is better for this kind of work with its own shortcuts and all. I didn't care for DND either, but I do understand the interest of using a tool like that for people with no programming experience.

People seem to be bothered with the different DataStructures, as they are more used to scripting languages, but I find them neat and I find them to be a great way to introduce people to those concepts if they ever want to move to a more advanced language (C, C++ or Rust).

I find the memory management in the client great. I think it offers better performance than the typical Unity 2D project; however, Unity outshines GMS2 for the C# ecosystem. Nevertheless, the fact that you can extend functionalities with DLLs programmed in C/C++ equalizes things a little.

Speaking of GML, I think the language would benefit from a stricter semi-column policy and from more examples in the documentation. Also, I am not a fan of brining abstract objects and physically placing them in a room to use some functionality. But you know, it's a RAD tool, so that kind of thing is to be expected.

In short, GMS2 is versatile tool, comes with a bunch of functionality and allows people to easily make games.

erenq
erenq

Nice and quick to get started. Refreshingly simple. Fun to work in.

The new subscription model for the license if you buy directly is a bit iffy, but seems that the Steam version is still stand-alone perpetual so feels worth the price. A bit annoying that they artificially divided it into PC/Mobile/Html versions. Taken together it could be a bit of a warning signal for how they plan to move forward.

Ruto_Rider
Ruto_Rider

It's really easy to use one you get used to it & it's pretty easy to find the resources to learn. The fact that it breaks up the code into different sections really help when trying to find where you need to make changes & fix things when you have errors

StButtersworth
StButtersworth

An excellent platform for making 2D games, this software is easy to learn and use. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to make video games, whether they have experience or are a complete beginner.

masoncreeps
masoncreeps

Very easy to navigate and features a very intuitive design for beginners. Wish it was free but highly recommend either way. Much easier to dive into that Unity or Unreal.

jjasu
jjasu

greatgame
11/10
:cinnamon2: :steamthumbsup: :steamthumbsup: :steamthumbsup:

2022-07-01
소규모 업데이트가 있었는데 몇몇 사람들이 실행이 안 된다 합니다
보안 프로그램이 bin 파일을 바이러스라 생각하고 파일을 몇게 삭제하더군요(...)

그럴경우 잠시 꺼 두었다가 실행하면 됩니다 이후엔 다시 켜둬도 되네요?

그리고 이제 스팀에서 지원 안한다 합니다
스팀키 이제 비싸질듯?

milk
milk

I wanted to be a indie game developer but mast game engines where hand to use. until I found game maker.
I love game maker because it is super easy to use and learn. game maker will be good for you if you are or used to struggle with other game engines.

Vkn164
Vkn164

While I may not have released a game, all the skills and lessons I learned from making prototypes and such is well worth the price.

PentakramliTshirt
PentakramliTshirt

I don't like only one thing. Linux games that exported from this engine cannot detect gamepads. (windows instances with wine can detect.)

Jeraxel
Jeraxel

developers are attempting to turn this into a $99 yearly subscription service which is in violation of steams sales license agreement. people who have already purchased need to com plain to the London attorney generals office.

cruxer
cruxer

This game engine is so easy to use as a beginner coder, but also as my friend has been teaching me to code I can see that it is also a very powerful tool for those who would know how to use it. Through my research I have also seen that alot of very popular games where made using this engine such as, undertale, and the first version of spelunky.
Also having grazed the surface of unity and ue4 this engine is way more organized from the start and its easier to stay organized in my opinion.

Skystr1ke
Skystr1ke

Really nice and easy to use software. I like it a lot more than Unity. Also Toby Fox used it to make Undertale.

Luke :I
Luke :I

Spend a whole year of your life working 6 hours a day in a game to earn less than a minimum wage, i greatly recommend it.

wildanoid
wildanoid

Been using it since I was 13 years old, Game Maker 8.0 once. I'm self taught solo game developer and now I just turn to 25. Many prototype I've created with this software but I never full released one of my game. At last it help me to know 'What inside game' and building my relations with people who builds their game, and sometimes I apply for beta tester program.

māku
māku

this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell this is hell

K-A-D-I-N
K-A-D-I-N

This company will screw legacy users. Forcing us to update after spending hundereds on expansions for HTML5 and macOS publishing. Great way to treat your customers.

Honestly thought the takeover by opreaGX would be a good thing but all good things must come to an end. Go use construct or something else that keeps updating to new and popular 2D ideas.

BobShark
BobShark

Game maker studio 2 has been a blast to use. It might be intimidating at first but after you follow a few tutorials it wont be long until you understand the basics of GML and start making your own games. I suggest starting with shaun spalding's platformer tutorial on youtube. Complete all the videos. After you're done, start a fresh game from scratch and make something on your own. reference the tutorials when you need to.

If you've always wanted to make game then give this a shot.

Xitilon
Xitilon

Never mind the 0.1 hours on record, I've been using the GameMaker since 2005.

Greatest tool to make 2D games with so much less overhead than other engines offer at the moment.

Believe me, because after being an indie games enthusiast for some years, I've built my console publishing business from scratch on this engine, pioneering such obscure things as publishing on Xbox with UWP. As of 2022, GameMaker's bigger than ever in its history. If you're into 2D games (and you really should be, before going 3D), check it out.

Demon
Demon

We've had GM8, GM:S 1.x and now it's GM:S 2.x and 2022 year:
2022 - 2012 = 10 years ago

We still have ability to only work with 1 THREAD

Is it worth talking about how much this feature can speed up run time? I think no
Especially for huge match calculations
Without this, the level of games that can be made are close to 8-bits

A recent update that added errors handling, structures, new scripts syntax - manna from heaven
I still have hope that you will add something really useful, and not just any slag

The funny thing is that you can FREE download VS / C++ and do it all without paying money, and it will work even faster, no one limit or ingore you by features

And I know about YYC, but it does not cover all the limitations that are here

I put negative, until you add real asynchrony
Instead of adding fking room effects, particle editors and multiplayer development changes

Punisherx6
Punisherx6

Totally recommend GM to anyone wanting to make a 2d game. This engine has recently been coming out with great features non-stop, and I believe it's just about to get even better.

ThatFirey
ThatFirey

cool game #2
-----
Jokes aside despite all the criticism for switching to subscription based service, engine is still one of the best for making 2D games, although it's said they had to take down the permanent versions.
Many people say, it's forcing everyone to update - I don't think so, you paid for permanent DESKTOP export module, you get it. You still can download the official up to date version from YoYo Games website and use it with still being able to export to PC all the time.

Graffiti Cat
Graffiti Cat

Notice: At the request of the publisher, GameMaker Studio 2 Desktop is no longer available for sale on Steam.

Drayma
Drayma

I have one thousand hours on this thing and no game to speak of. I am 95% sure that the reason for my long hour counts is me having the thing open in the background.

However I am working on a game that I plan on releasing on steam in the future with this engine.

If you are getting this know that its not the strongest or 'best' engine that exists. Its mostly great as an all in one tool for 2D games. You can make basicly anything you need except the music in this thing.

Its extreemly beginner friendly with enough depth that developers can show some real magic.

All in all if you want something for a 2D game than this is for you.

crelus318
crelus318

"This document explains the legal terms and conditions that apply when you use GameMaker, the YYG Platforms and any content or services available via them (as explained below)."

This review explains why not to use your software. Right now I'm using unity and I have purchased quite a few unity add-ons. I wanted to go back and give this a try to see is maybe this was easier being more focused on a specific gaming type. First I get all kinds of grief and then when I finally can log in I get this huge legal agreement. But the best part is this:

"We may change this User Agreement if we consider it necessary"

So I must agree to the agreement that may or may not still be the agreement I agreed upon at a later date.

"I am altering the deal. Pray I do not alter it any further." Thanks Darth Vader! I didn't know you made video games engines too!

Below I have provided my response to your legal agreement.

46.55.43.4B.20.59.4F.55

Joel Michaud
Joel Michaud

Making games is great!, but it's also weird as well, at first it's a little hard to understand but after reading and watching a few tutorials you can be making games at a nice steady pace, I would recommend this to people who are looking to make 2D games.

Anonymous
Anonymous

I've stopped using this product lately since the newer updates seem to be extremely crash-prone. Just today, the software decided to freeze for a full minute then terminate. Six hours of work down the drain. This was not an isolated incident. Yoyo, please fix your product.

𐌂𐋅𐌉𐌄𐌅
𐌂𐋅𐌉𐌄𐌅

honestly, releasing a free version on steam is acceptable, but charging for a subscription (SAME PRICE AS FOR FREE ..) for people who bought the product at the time is unavailable!

"I don't even use this program often."

Catctus
Catctus

i love this engine too much. but today i have to leave it and go to use godot instead of game maker studio 2. the problem happened after they update patch then i can't use this engine to make my game. i'm decision go to use godot instead of this engine. bye yoyogame i don't want to support your engine anymore. i bought all DLC but i can't use your engine after you update patch. it's very nice.

nullpointer exception
nullpointer ex…

This game engine just isn't good. First of all It's closed source, why would anyone ever want to distribute a game when don't know what the source code to your own game contains? Second of all the work flow itself just isn't good. You'll often find yourself with many different windows open and scattered all about. Finally, the scripting language is terrible too. To make a function, you have to make what is called a 'script' which is a separate file. You literally have to have every function in a separate file, who's idea was that?? All of this garbage and you have to pay a subscription for this terrible game engine.

The Alternative:

The alternative is to use a free and open source game engine called 'Godot'. Godot supports 3D and 2D, has a way better workflow and scripting language, and you can even code in C++ if you want to. Oh, and Godot doesn't crash if you leave it open for more than 2 hours like game maker does!

Bunnings Shopping Trolley
Bunnings Shopp…

Honestly, this game engine is the best I have used. It is so easy to pick GML up and make a game in. This tool can be used for both starters in coding and more advanced coders. The built in sprite editor is also amazing to have built into the engine.

Rinnuru
Rinnuru

I am quite happy purchase this apps before they stop selling this on Steam.
I will learning to make game with this apps until I am ready to purchase the subsribtion

Dr. Büni
Dr. Büni

I recommend using Godot instead, if you are a beginner. Don't pay for Game Maker Studio 2, download Godot Engine (which is free) and buy the GDQuest course, if you want to spend money. If not, it is totally doable to learn with YouTube tutorials. Hop into the Godot subreddit, people there will have tons of tutorials and YouTubers to recommend.

Konstantin Spasoff
Konstantin Spasoff

Just finished my 4th rework of "Drugs and Crime Idle". Been using gamemaker for many years now and it has grown on me. It's a great software. GML is fairly easy to learn with many tutorials on youtube, reddit, the yoyo games forum. Has a great, well written documentation.

6 abs
6 abs

You can make some pretty cool stuff with this, I mean I've made some small projects but then my ADD kicks in and i loose all motivation for it.

WOOO