What is GameMaker?
GameMaker (GM) is the latest and greatest iteration of our software. It provides a powerful yet easy-to-use platform for all your game development needs.
Is there a free/trial available? What other options are there?
Yes, there is a free version available, as well as a range of other export options covering all major desktop OSes, many modern web browsers, iOS and Android mobiles, and all the current major consoles.
For the free licence specifically, please see this FAQ all about the free version
For further information on all options available, you can find more on this FAQ about the different subscriptions
Will GameMaker import my Studio 1.4 project? Will it run?
Any version of GameMaker (formally Studio 2) will import GameMaker: Studio 1.4 projects just fine. For any obsolete functions, we will generate a compatibility script automatically for you so we can hopefully get your project running straight away - this compatibility script can continue to be used or you can edit your project so the extra script is no longer needed.
Some older resources (e.g., backgrounds and especially the old way of using tiles) will require a bit of manual work to bring them into line with the new functionality.
If it's an older project you should ensure your project works correctly in 1.4.1763 or later before attempting to import into GameMaker. For more information on importing legacy projects into GameMaker, see here.
Will GameMaker import my legacy GameMaker (7/8/8.1) project? Will it run?
No, GameMaker does not support these old formats. You will need to use GameMaker: Studio 1.4 to update your project and confirm it all works in 1.4, then re-export from 1.4 to import it into 2.0.
This requires you to have a GameMaker: Studio 1.4 licence already as they are no longer available to purchase and are not provided to new users.
Can I use GameMaker on my Mac?
Yes, the IDE can be run on both macOS and Windows computers.
Will I need to make a separate purchase to use GameMaker on Mac?
No. When you use GameMaker you get access to both macOS and Windows downloads of the IDE.
Does GameMaker require an internet connection?
When you first install GameMaker you will be required to have an internet connection to log into the product and download any additional runtimes. After that, you can use the product offline, although you will be required to connect again every few weeks to verify the account using the product. Note, though, that by not being connected you will not be able to access various features like Account Management or the Marketplace, nor will you receive any updates to the IDE or the runtimes.
IMPORTANT! If you are using the Steam Client, then this MUST be set to online, as GameMaker will not work in offline mode.
Does GameMaker send any data to YoYo Games?
GameMaker sends analytics data to YoYo Games from the IDE. This includes data about the PC running the program (e.g.: monitor size, CPU, GPU, memory, etc.) and this data is being accumulated so that we can better target our services towards the needs of the user.
For further information please refer to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.
How many computers can I install GameMaker on?
You can have GameMaker installed (and be logged in) on 3 concurrent devices. However, these must all be your own personal devices, as you are not allowed to share your GameMaker Account with others.
Can I install GameMaker and GameMaker: Studio 1.4 on the same machine without issues?
GameMaker is not an update to 1.4, but rather a completely new version and as such can be installed fine side-by-side with GM:S 1.4. The import/export file formats are different too, so file associations for both will be maintained.
How much does it cost and is it subscription only?
GameMaker has a Free version that can be used as well as 3 levels of Subscription; Creator, Indie and Enterprise which are available at a Monthly and Yearly cost. For information on costs and the different upgrade packages please see our pricing page.
Do I have to pay royalty fees or give YoYo Games any of the profits from my game?
No, YoYo Games does not require you to pay royalties. Your game is your property and YoYo Games does not take a cut from your profits.
Where can I get support/help?
Anyone wanting coding help and advice can get assistance at any time from the GameMaker Community forums. Please note we do not offer coding/design support on the Helpdesk or bug-reporting facilities - you will be asked to make yourself a GMC thread and ask there.
Of course, whenever you need them you can see our various installation and platform setup guides right here on the Helpdesk.
If you believe you have identified a GameMaker bug (not one in your own code!), then please Report a Bug. You can find this link on the Help menu inside GMS.
Are you stopping support for Studio 1.X?
Yes. Support for GameMaker: Studio 1.4 has now ended and the final version has been released. For more information, see here
Is there an education version
Yes. Please see our Education page here.
Where did the Studio 2 go?
The name was simplified from GameMaker Studio 2 to just being GameMaker.
More information can be found in our Blog Post (https://www.yoyogames.com/en/blog/release-2022-3) For full branding details please see the Branding Guidelines.