3 Game-Making Tools for Non-Programmers

I've been using Unity for 5 years, and I started using Unreal Engine over a year ago (My therapist asked me what I was waiting for to start using Unreal).

If You can code in C# or C++, or if you can visually script in either engine, You're going to have an easier time making a game than someone who can't.

But what if You're an artist, designer, or a sound engineer and You don't know how to code? What if You're a Writer?

You COULD learn to code and make games in either engine, but if you're working solo chances are a big game engine like Unity or Unreal for your vision is overkill.

For some developers coding is just a means to an end. It makes no sense to spend months learning a skill if they don't have to for their games.

Luckily, there's a much easier way to make games, and it's not named Unity or Unreal Engine.

With the rise in the number of Indie game developers, there's also been a rise in the number of ways you can make a game.

And the best part is, no matter your craft, you can make a game with these tools and not write a SINGLE line of code.

GB Studio

GB Studio is a game maker designed specifically for making, you guessed it, games in a Nintendo GameBoy format.

For those who aren't confident in their composing skills (like me), GB Studio has a way for You to write GameBoy-style music and SFX.

For non-programmers, GB Studio uses a visual scripting editor for all of your game's logic.

For artists and non-artists alike, a tool that specializes in making pixel art is your best friend. When I was in university I relied on Piskel for all my pixel art. Another option is Aseprite, but it comes with a one-time price of $20.

2. Twine

Twine is a great tool for any developers who want narrative to be the primary way your players experience your game.

This is a great tool for those who aren't confident in both their programming and art skills, but can write a great non-linear story.

You build your game using a flowchart-like interface where You can connect different pages to one another based on player input.

If You don't wish to illustrate any visuals but know a little bit about text styling, you can code your game's dialogue in CSS and JavaScript to give it some expression & flavor.

3. Bitsy

A game-maker if You wish to deliver a play experience using the bare minimum of resources.

Where a level in Unity can be as large as the developer wants in a Scene, a level in Bitsy is limited to a 16x16 Room where You may place only three different objects: sprites, tiles, and items.

Animations are limited to 2 frames

This is a great tool for those who are looking to challenge themselves to create something within harsh limitations. Encourages developers to be resourceful with the tools provided

These are just 3 of the many game-making tools that exist outside of the Unity-Unreal-Godot ternary.

I've made a game with each of these tools at least once. I recommend you try at least one.

It's never been more accessible to make games, no matter what your specialty is.

Stay consystent!

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