Game Maker Studio
Game Maker Studio (now called GameMaker) is a cross-platform game development engine and integrated development environment (IDE) designed for creating 2D games. It features a drag-and-drop visual programming system and its own scripting language called GameMaker Language (GML), making it accessible to beginners while offering advanced capabilities for experienced developers. The engine supports exporting games to multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and consoles.
Developers should learn Game Maker Studio when creating 2D games, especially for rapid prototyping, indie development, or educational purposes, as its visual tools and GML lower the barrier to entry compared to more complex engines. It is ideal for projects like platformers, puzzle games, and arcade-style games, where its built-in physics and sprite management streamline development. Use it when targeting multiple platforms with a single codebase, as it simplifies deployment across desktop, mobile, and web.