Gamemaker Studio 2 and Unity are popular game development engines. Let's explore the key differences between them.
Development Platforms: Gamemaker Studio 2 primarily targets Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android platforms, while Unity supports a wider range of platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and more. Unity provides more flexibility for developers looking to target a variety of platforms.
Programming Languages: Gamemaker Studio 2 uses its proprietary scripting language called GML (Gamemaker Language), which is specifically designed for game development. On the other hand, Unity offers support for multiple programming languages including C#, JavaScript, and Boo. This provides developers with more options and the ability to choose their preferred programming language.
Asset Management: Gamemaker Studio 2 utilizes a drag-and-drop system for handling assets, allowing users to easily import and organize their game elements. Unity, however, employs a hierarchical asset management system where users can organize resources using folders and subfolders. This hierarchical structure provides better organization and ease of access to assets in large projects.
Visual Scripting: Gamemaker Studio 2 incorporates a visual scripting system called Drag and Drop (DnD), which enables users to create game logic without writing any code. In contrast, Unity offers a similar visual scripting system called Playmaker, but it is not included in the standard Unity package and needs to be purchased separately. Gamemaker Studio 2 provides a built-in visual scripting solution, making it more accessible for beginners and those who prefer a code-free approach.
User Interface Design: Gamemaker Studio 2 features a user-friendly and simplified user interface where users can easily navigate and access game components. Unity, on the other hand, provides a more complex and feature-rich user interface with a wide range of customizable options. Unity's interface offers more flexibility and customization for advanced users who prefer a high level of control over their game development process.
Community and Support: Both Gamemaker Studio 2 and Unity have active communities and offer extensive support resources. However, Unity has a larger community with a wider range of resources, tutorials, and plugins available. Unity's larger community means there are more opportunities for collaboration, learning, and troubleshooting.
In summary, Gamemaker Studio 2 primarily targets Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android platforms and uses its proprietary scripting language GML, while Unity supports a wider range of platforms, offers support for multiple programming languages, and provides more flexibility in asset management, visual scripting, user interface design, and community support.
What are some alternatives to Gamemaker Studio 2 and Unity?
Godot
It is an advanced, feature-packed, multi-platform 2D and 3D open source game engine. It is developed by hundreds of contributors from all around the world.
AppGameKit
It is an easy to learn game development engine, ideal for Beginners, Hobbyists & Indie developers. It solves many problems caused by mobile device fragmentation. With it you can code your game once and then deploy your game to multiple platforms. Different resolutions and input systems are all easily handled by it.
three.js
It is a cross-browser JavaScript library and Application Programming Interface used to create and display animated 3D computer graphics in a web browser.
Unreal Engine
It is a game engine that helps you make games. It is made up of several components that work together to drive the game. Its massive system of tools and editors allows you to organize your assets and manipulate them to create the gameplay for your game.
Phaser
It is a free open source HTML5 game framework. It uses Pixi.js for WebGL and Canvas rendering across desktop and mobile web browsers. Games can be compiled to iOS and Android apps via 3rd party tools.
