The Best No-Code Game Engines - a Comparison

No-code game makers are quickly changing the landscape of how video games can be crafted. Not only do no-code game development platforms save developers time and money, but they also make it easier for those with little to no coding experience to create engaging digital content. It's no wonder why so many are turning to these user-friendly, intuitive software packages!

This no-code game maker comparison will look at the seven best that stand out amongst the competition. Each of these platforms offers a wide range of features that cater to different types of gamers and developers. If you are interested in game making - in another article we summarized how to make games without coding.

From allowing users to build 3D or 2D games across multiple platforms to enabling game remixing, here are the benefits of using a no-code game platform versus traditional game development platforms.

The benefits of using no-code game makers

No-code tools are faster and easier to use than traditional coding tools, they allow for more flexibility in terms of game design, and they make it possible to create games that can be played on multiple platforms.

There's no need to learn a new coding language to develop games with a no-code tool. Instead, most no-code tools rely on graphical user interfaces (GUIs) that allow developers to drag and drop various elements in order to create their games. This makes the process of creating a game much less daunting and more approachable for those who have limited coding experience.

In addition, no-code tools allow for more flexibility in terms of game design, they are ideal for those who want to experiment with different types of gameplay or who want more control over the look and feel of their games.

With traditional coding tools, it can be difficult (if not impossible) to change the core mechanics or aesthetics of a game after it has been created. But with a no-code tool, these changes can be made relatively easily, giving developers more control over the final product.

Finally, one of the biggest advantages of using a no-code tool is that it enables developers to create games that can be played on multiple platforms. This contrasts with traditional coding tools, which typically require developers to create separate versions of their games for different platforms (e.g., PC, mobile, console).

By using a no-code tool, developers can save time and money by creating a single version of their game that can be played on all major platforms.

Soba (best overall)

For several reasons, Soba tops the list of no-code game development platforms. First, Soba allows you to make games for multiple platforms (mobile and desktop), which not many no-code game makers develop for. See in the video below how a game is being created on a phone.

Second, Soba has a wide range of features to help novices quickly get their ideas into action. From in-editor animation tools to physics simulations, Soba makes it easy to make games with professional-level production values. Plus, with Soba, you have the opportunity to build Obby games, platform games, or game remixes. It's always up to the designer!

The best part? Soba allows you to distribute your game on its platform as well as other third-party stores like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. That means your game has the potential to gain traction without you needing to pay for marketing efforts. In other words, the distribution is done for you. Follow this link to get early access to soba

Struckd (3D exclusive games)

If you’re looking for a platform that excels at making 3D games, Struckd is a good choice. Not only does it provide developers with the tools they need to create 3D games, but it also offers an extensive library of 3D models that can be used to create a variety of game assets.

What's more, Struckd is good for creating Obby games, adventure titles, and other genres that benefit from the larger canvas of three-dimensional space. Using their in-house publishing tools, you can also distribute your game on Android and iOS platforms.

Rec Room (VR and cross-platform games)

Rec Room is a good no-code game maker for VR or cross-platform games. It allows developers to create immersive experiences on both HTC Vive and Oculus Rift headsets, while also making it possible for them to share their creations with friends across platforms.

Rec Room's 3D-level design tools make it easy to create complex levels with ease. The game engine also supports a wide range of game genres, including first-person shooters, turn-based strategy games, and puzzle games. With Rec Room, developers can also share their creations on PC, Xbox One, and PlayStation 4 platforms.

GameMaker Studio 2 (2D platforms)

GameMaker Studio 2 is a great choice for those looking to create 2D platformers or other side-scrolling titles. It comes with an intuitive drag-and-drop interface that makes it possible to rapidly build basic prototypes without coding.

The software also allows you to add custom scripts written in Game Maker Language (GML) to add more advanced features. Plus, you can use GameMaker Studio 2 to build games for both PC and mobile platforms. if you're a total beginner, GameMaker Studio 2 will help you learn.

Gdevelop (cross-platform games)

Gdevelop is an open-source game engine that makes it easy to create cross-platform titles without the need for any coding. This tool comes with all the necessary components to help developers prototype ideas rapidly and bring them to life quickly.

Not only does Gdevelop make it easy to create complex layouts, but its scripting language also allows users to program custom logic into their creations. With Gdevelop, you can create puzzles, bullet shooters, platformers, and much more – all on PC, Android, and iOS.

Scratch (for younger audiences and beginners)

Scratch is a no-code game maker designed with children in mind. This makes it ideal for game remixers and novice developers. Scratch allows you to create interactive stories, animations, music, and games by simply dragging and dropping blocks of code.

What’s more, the platform also supports multiplayer functionality so that your friends can join in on the fun! Plus, since Scratch is web-based, you don't have to worry about downloading any software or plugins – fire up a web browser and start creating.

Unity Visual Scripting (cross-platform)

If you’re looking for a powerful cross-platform game engine that doesn’t require any coding, then Unity Visual Scripting is the way to go. It's designed with visual programming in mind, which makes it a great choice for those who are intimidated by code.

That said, Unity Visual Scripting also allows users to write custom scripts using C++ or C# if they're looking for more control over their projects. With this tool, you can create exciting 3D and 2D titles that run on PC, MacOS, iOS, and Android platforms. Plus, its built-in asset store provides developers with a wide range of tools and resources to enhance their creations.

The bottom line

No matter what type of game you’re trying to make – from Obby games to remixes or 3D platformers – there’s a no-code game maker out there to help you bring your creative vision to life. Whichever option you choose, you can rest assured that making games without coding is easier and more accessible than ever before.

By leveraging these seven no-code game makers, you’ll be able to develop the types of games you’ve always dreamed about. So why wait? Get started today and start creating amazing gaming experiences from your own home!