GameMaker free access sparks wave of new users

More aspiring young game developers than ever are starting their game design journeys with GameMaker after access to the platform was made free for non-commercial users to create and share games late last year.

The latest GameMaker user survey has found that the percentage of new 13-17-year-old users has rocketed by two-thirds (63%) since access was made free. At the same time, the percentage of new 18-21 year old users has also risen by half (49.6%), compared with data from the last user survey in 2023*. As a result, the number of games being created and shared in GameMaker has risen by 20% in the last six months.

GameMaker free access leads to 63% increase in new teen users

"Making a video game should be as accessible as sharing a video or social media post online. Free access and easy-to-use tools are important for those just starting out on their game development journey, so we’re proud to support these young creative minds as it can only mean good things for the future of games," said Russell Kay, head of GameMaker.

Making video games isn’t just a great hobby. Game design can also be a powerful tool for helping young people to foster key skills, such as problem-solving, coding, design, and project management. 77% of teachers who teach game design using GameMaker reported higher levels of engagement among their students.

Regardless of your age or skill level, getting started with GameMaker is easy. All you need is an idea. GameMaker features a wealth of free learning resources including interactive tutorials like Space Rocks that help you to build a space-shooter game in just 15 minutes, to free Asset Bundles packed with sounds and graphics to help bring your ideas to life.