YoYo Games has announced that GameMaker is now free for non-commercial use on all non-console platforms, aiming to enhance accessibility in game development, Game Developer reports.
This monumental shift accompanies the introduction of a novel pricing structure aimed at empowering indie developers and hobbyists within the gaming sphere.
YoYo Games makes GameMaker free for non-commercial use, revolutionizing pricing with a one-time fee, aiming for inclusivity and empowerment in game development.
Big Announcements from GameMaker
In a blog post, Russell Kay, the head of GameMaker, revealed the strategic transition, marking a departure from conventional subscription models.
The shift involves replacing the existing Creator and Indie subscriptions with a singular one-time fee. Emphasizing continuity, Kay assured console-targeting developers that the revered Enterprise subscription remains unaltered.
The pivotal decision, according to Kay, is an expression of gratitude to the GameMaker community while responding to recent industry moves hinted at as "awkward moves" made elsewhere - Game Developer thinks this one is about Unity.
GameMaker's Major Shift
The announcement also talked about GameMaker's meteoric rise, witnessing a threefold surge in active users since joining the Opera family.
Kay proudly highlighted this surge, noting the influx of young creators engaging with GameMaker, resulting in over 6,000 published games on gx.games. This evolution, coupled with GameMaker's enhanced features, solidifies its position as a premiere 2D engine.
"Other platforms made awkward moves with pricing and terms, prompting us to pivot oppositely - a move beneficial for developers," Kay remarked.
📢 From today, GameMaker will be free for non-commercial use on all platforms (excluding console). To further meet your needs, we are introducing a one-time licence, replacing our current subscriptions! pic.twitter.com/F2sUYo2SzH
— GameMaker (@GameMakerEngine) November 21, 2023
Read Also: Epic's Tim Sweeney Reveals Legal Threats Over PlayStation Cross-Play Push in Epic vs. Google Trial
A Closer Look at the Changes
The revised pricing structure champions inclusivity and adaptability.
The newly freed non-commercial version serves as an enticing entry point for newcomers venturing into game development, while the one-time commercial fee targets inquisitive creators exploring more expansive avenues.
Simultaneously, the subscription-based enterprise tier remains available, catering to seasoned professionals seeking scalability.
This paradigm shift is a stark departure from the subscription tiers introduced in August 2021, reflecting GameMaker's responsiveness to the evolving needs of its user base.
Earlier this year, the company teased plans to integrate AI and mod extensions into its arsenal. Moreover, the decision to make all asset bundles freely accessible amplifies the company's commitment to supporting creators of all levels.
In Time for Thanksgiving
The strategic timing of this announcement, coinciding with Thanksgiving, adds a touch of gratitude and celebration within the gaming community. Additionally, existing subscribers stand to benefit, with entitlements to complimentary commercial licenses or discounts.
This seismic shift in GameMaker's pricing strategy marks a watershed moment, democratizing game development tools and amplifying opportunities for burgeoning developers.
In Other News
Saudi Arabia is gearing up to unveil the world's fastest and tallest rollercoaster, the Falcon Flight, boasting breathtaking speeds up to 156mph.
This attraction is set to be a centerpiece at the Six Flags Qiddiya amusement park in Riyadh, slated for its grand opening in 2024.
Stay posted here at Tech Times.
Related Article: Nintendo Says Upcoming Indie World Livestream Will Happen on Nov. 14: More Small Studio Switch Games Coming?
