Game Creation From A to Zinc !:
This list contains both free and commercial game creation programs as well as additional tools to speed up the game development process. Some game creators don't even need programming to create games!
Copyright © 2012-2013 Freegameslist.weebly.com
This page is divided into 3 main parts:
1.Game Creators:(or Game Engines) Contains a list of various programs that can be used to create/develop games, both 2D and 3D, free and commercial.2.Game Creation Tools and Utilities: (ALL FREE) Contains a number of general purpose as well as specialized programs to aid in the game design process and includes 3D modelers, texture generators, sound effect generators, icon editors and more.
3.Want more?: section: Contains a list of various websites related to game development such as sites for free games resources, game development tutorials, additional game creators etc.
Game Creators (or Game Engines):[62 programs]
Note that the software on this page may or may not be free but are all free to try. If a game creation program does not specifically say "no programming required" or "no coding required" it is assumed that programming (or some form of it) is needed to create games. Also if a game engine is not listed as free or open source then its not free.
[WML]= Windows,Macintosh and Linux(Refers to which platforms the game engine will run, not necessarily on which platforms the games created will run.)
[WML]= Windows,Macintosh and Linux(Refers to which platforms the game engine will run, not necessarily on which platforms the games created will run.)
001 game engine/Engine 001(~24MB)FREE*[W]
A 2D game engine that doesn't need coding/programming but has scripting support for those that know how to program. While initially designed for 2D RPG games the engine has been improved to allow developers to create virtually any kind of 2D game as well as possible 3D support in future.
*Note: The free (community) version will have less features than their subscription based version. "Create your game on virtually any platform. Whether it be on desktop or mobile devices, 001 can port your game for users to enjoy on multiple types of platforms, whether it be an iPhone or PC device."(from site)
*Note: The free (community) version will have less features than their subscription based version. "Create your game on virtually any platform. Whether it be on desktop or mobile devices, 001 can port your game for users to enjoy on multiple types of platforms, whether it be an iPhone or PC device."(from site)
3D Editor(10MB-20MB)FREE*[W]
"Create complex 3D worlds in a matter of a few minutes. Preview your automated worlds. See your creations come to life. A rich 3D library of 3D models is included. The Editor user interface is built from four views similar to 3D Studio max user interface. The application contains many advanced tools for quick and easy 3D modeling. Suitable for creating large environments and for creation of small models."(from site)
*Note:
1.There are 3 versions of this product. Student(Not free), Non-commercial(Free) and Commercial Version.
2. The Student version(20MB) and Commercial version(20MB) have the same features, but student version cannot be used commercially.
3. The Free version (10MB)has the least number of features, can't be used for commercial applications, has a 20 second nag screen and must be registered to obtain a free serial key which will be sent to your email account.
*Note:
1.There are 3 versions of this product. Student(Not free), Non-commercial(Free) and Commercial Version.
2. The Student version(20MB) and Commercial version(20MB) have the same features, but student version cannot be used commercially.
3. The Free version (10MB)has the least number of features, can't be used for commercial applications, has a 20 second nag screen and must be registered to obtain a free serial key which will be sent to your email account.
3D RAD (~45MB) FREE[W]
"Create interactive 3D worlds and games by visually placing objects in virtual space with this user-friendly 3D editor with a straightforward developing workflow and ready-to-use physics simulation.
You can use it to create any sort of stand-alone, interactive 3D project for Windows Vista/XP. Ideal for CG artists and non-coders, but flexible enough to meet the needs of expert developers as well."
(from site)
If you are a coder then you can try out their other site 3impact.com for their SDK.
You can use it to create any sort of stand-alone, interactive 3D project for Windows Vista/XP. Ideal for CG artists and non-coders, but flexible enough to meet the needs of expert developers as well."
(from site)
If you are a coder then you can try out their other site 3impact.com for their SDK.
3D Game builder (16MB)NOW FREE[ver 1.7][W]
"The 3D Game Builder is a tool for 3D game creating and environments simulation, uses the RAD (Rapid Application Development) concept and allows a quick and easy creation of any 3D application, has a simple and intuitive interface for people with little experience and a powerful script language for experienced developers."(from site) Its uses Pascal for scripting and while the help file that came with the program is only in Portuguese an online version is available which was translated by Google. Recommended for experienced users.
Note: The Developer's website is not currently available.
Note: The Developer's website is not currently available.
3D Web builder plus 3D WorldBuilder(~30MB)FREE for non-commercial use[W]
"Even if you can't program, you can design fantastic worlds using nothing but your mouse.
The 3DSTATE WorldBuilder is currently used by more than 70,000 people.
The product has received the highest rating in every review including leading brands such as Tucows and CNet.Whether games, tourism, education, or else - no matter what your project is s about, using the 3DSTATE WorldBuilder editor you will get top quality results within extremely short time." (from site)
Note:
1. Requires mandatory registration to obtain free serial key.
2. Both 3D editor(10MB above) and 3D world builder are very similar applications with a few differences.
3. For programmers 3D State also have 3D Developer Studio: A Software Development Kit (SDK) that supports Visual C#, Microsoft Visual C++, Borland C++ Builder, Microsoft Visual Basic, Borland Delphi and Euphoria, free for non-commercial use.
The 3DSTATE WorldBuilder is currently used by more than 70,000 people.
The product has received the highest rating in every review including leading brands such as Tucows and CNet.Whether games, tourism, education, or else - no matter what your project is s about, using the 3DSTATE WorldBuilder editor you will get top quality results within extremely short time." (from site)
Note:
1. Requires mandatory registration to obtain free serial key.
2. Both 3D editor(10MB above) and 3D world builder are very similar applications with a few differences.
3. For programmers 3D State also have 3D Developer Studio: A Software Development Kit (SDK) that supports Visual C#, Microsoft Visual C++, Borland C++ Builder, Microsoft Visual Basic, Borland Delphi and Euphoria, free for non-commercial use.
Adventure Game Studio(~8MB) FREE[W]
This game maker is designed to create click and play games similar to Gabriel Knight. Adventure Game Studio allows you to create your own point-and-click adventure games, similar to the early 90's Sierra and Lucasarts adventures. It consists of an easy-to-use editor to create your games, and a run-time engine to play them. (from site)
If you don't know what adventures games are try these well known ones: 5 DAYS A STRANGER and 7 DAYS A SKEPTIC both created with Adventure Game Studio (AGS)
If you don't know what adventures games are try these well known ones: 5 DAYS A STRANGER and 7 DAYS A SKEPTIC both created with Adventure Game Studio (AGS)
Alice (~470MB)FREE[WML]
"Alice is an innovative 3D programming environment that makes it easy to create an animation for telling a story, playing an interactive game, or a video to share on the web. Alice is a freely available teaching tool designed to be a student's first exposure to object-oriented programming. It allows students to learn fundamental programming concepts in the context of creating animated movies and simple video games. In Alice, 3-D objects (e.g., people, animals, and vehicles) populate a virtual world and students create a program to animate the objects.
In Alice's interactive interface, students drag and drop graphic tiles to create a program, where the instructions correspond to standard statements in a production oriented programming language, such as Java, C++, and C#. Alice allows students to immediately see how their animation programs run, enabling them to easily understand the relationship between the programming statements and the behavior of objects in their animation. By manipulating the objects in their virtual world, students gain experience with all the programming constructs typically taught in an introductory programming course."(From site)
This product includes software developed by Carnegie Mellon University.
In Alice's interactive interface, students drag and drop graphic tiles to create a program, where the instructions correspond to standard statements in a production oriented programming language, such as Java, C++, and C#. Alice allows students to immediately see how their animation programs run, enabling them to easily understand the relationship between the programming statements and the behavior of objects in their animation. By manipulating the objects in their virtual world, students gain experience with all the programming constructs typically taught in an introductory programming course."(From site)
This product includes software developed by Carnegie Mellon University.
Allegro Gaming Library (~4MB) Open Source[WML]
"(Mainly for 2D games)The Allegro library provides C/C++ programmers low level routines commonly needed in game programing, such as
input, graphics, midi, sound effects, and timing. It is cross platform and works with many different compilers.
Originally developed by Shawn Hargreaves, it is now a group project with contributions from all over the world!
Some of its key features include:
input, graphics, midi, sound effects, and timing. It is cross platform and works with many different compilers.
Originally developed by Shawn Hargreaves, it is now a group project with contributions from all over the world!
Some of its key features include:
- Ease of Use - comes with comprehensive documentation and examples
- Extensibility - if the built-in functionality isn't enough, there are many add-ons available
- Cross Platform - without changing a single line of code, you can create versions for Windows, OS X, Linux, DOS, and others! Works with many compilers, including DJGPP and VC++
- Open Source - anyone can contribute, including you!
- Free - it won't cost you a dime, and there are no restrictions on its usage" (from site)
Arcade Game Studio (~10MB) FREE*[w]
ARGS is a program tool for making games with the look and feel of the 80's arcade games. Includes genres such as Run'n'Gun, vertical and horizontal Shooters or Platform games, you will be able to make similar games to Pac-Man, Commando, 1942, Ghosts 'n' Goblins or Gauntlet, all with your own sprite sheets, pixel art, sound effects and music. (No Programming required!, free for personal use-you may not sell your games)
BlitzPlus(~10MB) FREE[W}
BlitzPlus provides developers with a complete 2D programming solution for the PC. Utilising a BASIC/C hybrid language for use with its compiler, BlitzPlus is capable of creating any type of 2D program, with minimal development-time and with minimal hassle. Just run the included IDE (or use one of your own), type your code and your Windows executable file will be created, ready to be run on any computer running Windows 95/NT 4 or later. (from site)
Requirements: Windows 95/98/ME/2000/XP/Vista/7/8
BlitzPlus provides developers with a complete 2D programming solution for the PC. Utilising a BASIC/C hybrid language for use with its compiler, BlitzPlus is capable of creating any type of 2D program, with minimal development-time and with minimal hassle. Just run the included IDE (or use one of your own), type your code and your Windows executable file will be created, ready to be run on any computer running Windows 95/NT 4 or later. (from site)
Requirements: Windows 95/98/ME/2000/XP/Vista/7/8
- Click here to learn more about BlitzPlus.
- Click here to create an account.
- When requested to register a product, select BlitzPlus and enter the following code:
- 2SX-PBXYB-KVLWF-WLJK3-V3
- Click the Account > Product updates link - from this page you can download BlitzPlus!
Cafu 3D(formerly known as Ca3D engine)(~89MB) Open Source[WL]
The Cafu Engine is an all-purpose, modern 3D graphics engine and game development kit, feature complete to get you started quickly.
Cafu is available to everyone as 100% free software under the GNU General Public License (GPLv3). It can be used to create a variety of 3D applications, including games, simulations, and training and architectural software. Written in C++, the tools, libraries and framework have been designed to make the development of new games and other 3D applications easy. They are actively and continuously developed in order to provide the latest technology.(from site)
Cafu is available to everyone as 100% free software under the GNU General Public License (GPLv3). It can be used to create a variety of 3D applications, including games, simulations, and training and architectural software. Written in C++, the tools, libraries and framework have been designed to make the development of new games and other 3D applications easy. They are actively and continuously developed in order to provide the latest technology.(from site)
Construct Classic (16MB)(OPEN SOURCE)[W]
"Construct Classic is a free, DirectX 9 game creator for Windows, designed for 2D games. It is the predecessor to the more modern Construct 2. Construct Classic uses an event based system for defining how the game behaves, in a visual, human-readable way - you don't need to program or script anything at all. It's intuitive for beginners, but powerful enough for advanced users to work without hindrance."(from site) Also supports Python scripting.
Note: Construct Classic is no longer being improved by Scirra ( the developer) who has created an newer version called Construct 2 (commercial program)
Note: Construct Classic is no longer being improved by Scirra ( the developer) who has created an newer version called Construct 2 (commercial program)
CopperCube (~10MB)[WM]
"CopperCube is a 3D engine / editor with deployment targets for Flash (.swf), WebGL/JavaScript (.html), Windows (.exe) and Mac OS X (.app).
You can create simple interactive 3D scenes without the need to write one single line of code (=no programming necessary), or even create whole games with the help of a little bit of scripting magic. You can script and access everything in the engine using ActionScript 3 or JavaScript. " (From Site)
Feature List of CopperCube
You can create simple interactive 3D scenes without the need to write one single line of code (=no programming necessary), or even create whole games with the help of a little bit of scripting magic. You can script and access everything in the engine using ActionScript 3 or JavaScript. " (From Site)
Feature List of CopperCube
CraftStudio (~8MB)[W??]
"CraftStudio is a multiplayer platform to create games and interactive movies.It's very easy to use and it feels just like playing. You will be making awesome stuff in no time!"(from site)
This program allows you to create worlds very similar to the look and feel of games such as minecraft.
Note:
This program is still in early development and is free while still in pre-alpha stage.
This program allows you to create worlds very similar to the look and feel of games such as minecraft.
Note:
This program is still in early development and is free while still in pre-alpha stage.
Cube(28MB)[WML]---------------Cube 2:Sauerbraten(~448MB)[WML]
|
|
Cube(FREE): The older of the 2 game engines for making First Person shooter (FPS) style games. The engine is rather unique in that it is actually a game that you can edit rather than a game engine to make separate games. Supports single player and multiplayer type games(LAN games), you can edit the levels by flying around in them and changing the various objects with your mouse.
Cube 2(FREE): Is a redesign of Cube(1) resulting in much better graphics and more features and as well as a significant increase in file size. |
Dark Flow(~2.1MB)FREE*[W]
2D game engine that allows game designers to make their own games using an easy to use graphical interface. Requires some knowledge of game programming to use effectively. The Free version can make games that can be exported to HTML5 (playable in you web browser), Apple iPad as well and windows standalone format (*.exe)
*Note:The free version has a watermark on all games created, plus 10 object limit and 3 Scenes limit.
Dark Flow Pro doesn't have these limitations and supports more platforms (eg Nintendo Wii, Nintendo Ds, Sony PSP and Apple iPhone)
*Note:The free version has a watermark on all games created, plus 10 object limit and 3 Scenes limit.
Dark Flow Pro doesn't have these limitations and supports more platforms (eg Nintendo Wii, Nintendo Ds, Sony PSP and Apple iPhone)
DreamGame(~73MB)[W]
Commercial program to create 3D games without programming. Free version with limited features available. Created games can work on Macintosh, Windows and Android.
DX Studio(~108MB)FREE*[W]
DX Studio is a complete integrated development environment for creating interactive 3D graphics. The system comprises of both a real-time 3D engine and a suite of editing tools. Using DX Studio you can build complete real-time interactive applications, simulations or games, for standalone use or for embedding in other Microsoft Office/Visual Studio applications. (from site)
*Free Commercial Pro License The full DX Studio Commercial Pro edition is now free but requires registration to activate. To get your license key, please first give us (Worldweaver) a Like on Facebook and/or a Follow on Twitter. If you are not on either, we may be able to accept another social network. Please post in the New Users forum and we will PM if approved. (also from site)
*Free Commercial Pro License The full DX Studio Commercial Pro edition is now free but requires registration to activate. To get your license key, please first give us (Worldweaver) a Like on Facebook and/or a Follow on Twitter. If you are not on either, we may be able to accept another social network. Please post in the New Users forum and we will PM if approved. (also from site)
Ethanon Engine(~8MB)Open Source[W]
"Ethanon Engine is a free 2D game development tool focused on the recent video cards for hardware acceleration and shader effects. It may be used to develop any style of game, such as top-down view RPG's, side scrollers and shoot'em up games. The main goal of this engine is to provide high-quality lighting, shadow and particle effects with an easy to use visual interface and a simple and direct scripting system. To control the game flow and handle its events, Ethanon Engine uses AngelScript for scripts, which brings a familiar C++ syntax to the code. The integration with the scripting language is pretty simple and easy to understand. Many features are included in the scripting system, such as full entity manipulation, save and load games with one instruction, video playback support, and more." (from site)
Euphoria(~2MB)(Open Source)[with Allegro for 2D games][WL]
Free powerful programming language.
Euphoria is a simple, flexible, and easy-to-learn programming language. It lets you quickly and easily develop programs for Windows, DOS, Linux and FreeBSD. Euphoria was first released in 1993. Since then Rapid Deployment Software has been steadily improving it with the help of a growing number of enthusiastic users. Although Euphoria provides subscript checking, uninitialized variable checking and numerous other run-time checks, it is extremely fast. People use it to develop Windows GUI programs, high-speed DOS games, and Linux/FreeBSD X Windows programs. It is also very useful for CGI (Web-based) programming. (from site)
Haaf's Game Engine(~4MB)FREE[W]
HGE is an easy to use yet powerful hardware accelerated 2D game engine. It is a full featured middleware for all who want to develop commercial quality 2D games rapidly and easily. It covers all imaginable 2D game genres: you could create everything from a simple puzzle to advanced multilayered platformer or strategy without even thinking of any non game logic code! And you don't have to know anything about "window messages", DirectX programming and all that stuff. Instead you can start developing your own game within 15 minutes! (from site)
Note:This is game engine that uses it own programming language.
Note:This is game engine that uses it own programming language.
InterAx Game Engine(~8MB)FREE[W]
It is an easy to use, yet powerful game editing system that allows you to create first person perspective adventure games (such as the original Myst) without writing any code or even a “script”! It consists of four programs, the InterAx Editor, the InterAx Player, InterAx Easy Crop, and InterAx Project Scanner. The Editor is what you use to design and create your games, the Player runs the games you create, Easy Crop allows you to quickly and easily crop images to be used in InterAx, and the Project Scanner provides useful tools and information about your InterAx projects. (from site)
LÖVE(~2MB)Open Source[WML]
"LÖVE is an *awesome* framework you can use to make 2D games in Lua. It's free, open-source, and works on Windows, Mac OS X and Linux." (from site) You can also check out their wiki page.
Game Develop(44MB)FREE[WL]
Game Develop is a free game development software, allowing creation of any kind of 2D games. No programming knowledge is required, all the development process is made thanks to a graphical user interface, with all editors integrated.(from site)
Game Editor(28MB) (OPEN SOURCE*)[WML]
Popular game making program used to create 2D games with little or no programming knowledge. Also supports scripting:
"Scripting is implemented using a script language compatible with C language and allows a high level of development and flexibility."(From site)
Game Editor is designed to develop games portable across all popular platforms, including Windows (95, 98, Me, NT, 2000, 2003, XP, Vista, 7), Linux, Mac OS X, iPhone, iPad, Pocket PC, Handheld PC, GP2X and Windows Mobile-based Smartphones.
*Note: You are free to use this program for creating games provided that they are 100% Open Source and licensed under GPL v3 . Also games made with Game Editor will have a Powered by Game Editor splash screen depending on the license you choose. Click here for more information.
"Scripting is implemented using a script language compatible with C language and allows a high level of development and flexibility."(From site)
Game Editor is designed to develop games portable across all popular platforms, including Windows (95, 98, Me, NT, 2000, 2003, XP, Vista, 7), Linux, Mac OS X, iPhone, iPad, Pocket PC, Handheld PC, GP2X and Windows Mobile-based Smartphones.
*Note: You are free to use this program for creating games provided that they are 100% Open Source and licensed under GPL v3 . Also games made with Game Editor will have a Powered by Game Editor splash screen depending on the license you choose. Click here for more information.
Game Maker[WM]
A popular game making program that comes in full and lite(free) versions. Both allow you to create games without programming but also allow customizations with their GML programming language. [Mainly for 2D but can also handle 3D]
To get an idea of what can be made with gamemaker checkout Yoyogames.
To get an idea of what can be made with gamemaker checkout Yoyogames.
Game Salad (~7MB) FREE*[WM]
Fun 2D game creation program that now runs on windows(before only Mac).* It has an easy to use interface which makes it very easy to create your own 2D games without any programming! You can make games for Mac, iOS and for the web (HTML5). Game Salad for windows is called Win creator, for Mac, Mac creator.
Note:
1.The Free version has limitations and the Pro version can more features and can publish to Android.
2.Also the windows version works on Windows 7/Vista (only, no XP) and is in open Beta version, which means it may have bugs.
3. For windows users, you will need to provide a valid email address before you can download Game Salad Win Creator.
3.During installation, Game Salad may download additional required software from the Internet, mainly Visual C++ 2010 run-time libraries, if you already have them it probably will not access the internet.
Note:
1.The Free version has limitations and the Pro version can more features and can publish to Android.
2.Also the windows version works on Windows 7/Vista (only, no XP) and is in open Beta version, which means it may have bugs.
3. For windows users, you will need to provide a valid email address before you can download Game Salad Win Creator.
3.During installation, Game Salad may download additional required software from the Internet, mainly Visual C++ 2010 run-time libraries, if you already have them it probably will not access the internet.
Gamestudio /A8 (aka 3DGS)(~80Mb) FREE*[W]
Powerful Game creation program that uses a C like programming language to create games. The free version has a terrain editor, supports shadow mapping, and has a particle editor plus supports Nvidia Physx. Extra resources and tutorials available on their website.
*Note: The free version has limitations. You can also compare it to other game engines.
*Note: The free version has limitations. You can also compare it to other game engines.
Gemix Studio(~10MB)FREE for non-commercial use[WML]
"Gemix Studio is a profesional videogames development tool that includes an IDE with so many tools as possible and a series of DIV derived languages with different improvements.
Gemix Studio intends to be officially the new DIV Games Studio 3 and tries to offer the most possible services in order to develop any 2D or 3D games, either software or hardware. The final version will be a product with different versions (licenses FREE and commercial), so, it can satisfy every kind of user (from the beginner user to specialized companies).
Nowadays we have just a language developed among all those which will form Gemix Studio: Gemix
NOTE: the BETA version usage is FREE and valid until the FINAL version (see = README =.TXT for license info)"(from site)
Gemix Studio intends to be officially the new DIV Games Studio 3 and tries to offer the most possible services in order to develop any 2D or 3D games, either software or hardware. The final version will be a product with different versions (licenses FREE and commercial), so, it can satisfy every kind of user (from the beginner user to specialized companies).
Nowadays we have just a language developed among all those which will form Gemix Studio: Gemix
NOTE: the BETA version usage is FREE and valid until the FINAL version (see = README =.TXT for license info)"(from site)
Giotto (8.2MB) NOW FREE[W]
Giotto is a free alternative to programs like Adobe Flash for creating 2D flash based content such as banners, animations and even games! Although focused on allowing users to create flash based animations without coding, it fully supports ActionScript 2.0 which can be used to create games. It comes variety of features like shape animation, shape morphing and more. Output is Shockwave Flash format (.swf)
JumpCraft(formerly known as Platform Studio)(~5MB)[W]
Allows you to create 2D games with little or no programming knowledge. Uses an intuitive interface to create games. Also has built in scripting support. Good for simple platform games.
Megakerma (~10MB) FREE*[W]
"MEGAKERMA Game Maker is our new 3D game creation system. You can create puzzle solving, adventure, explorer style games or 3D presentations, exhibitions or any other interactive applications.
MEGAKERMA is a complex system. In the Game Editor you can create your 3D world, add textures, models and sounds. You can place static elements, make them pushable or collectable, define dialogs, set up animations, add your game logic via a very simple scripting language called KermaScript." (from site)
*Note: All games made with Megakerma will have a splash screen with the words: " Created with Megakerma-www.megakerma.com".
Also the program will try to access the Internet when loading to check for updates. Also the game engine is focused on creating adventure/puzzle/explorer game creation system for non-shooting games.
MEGAKERMA is a complex system. In the Game Editor you can create your 3D world, add textures, models and sounds. You can place static elements, make them pushable or collectable, define dialogs, set up animations, add your game logic via a very simple scripting language called KermaScript." (from site)
*Note: All games made with Megakerma will have a splash screen with the words: " Created with Megakerma-www.megakerma.com".
Also the program will try to access the Internet when loading to check for updates. Also the game engine is focused on creating adventure/puzzle/explorer game creation system for non-shooting games.
Monkey (~7mb-??)[WM]
Monkey is a next-generation games programming language that allows you to create apps on multiple platforms with the greatest of ease.
Monkey works by translating Monkey code to one of a different number of languages at compile time - including C++, C#, Java, Javascript and Actionscript.
Monkey games can then be run on potentially hundreds of different devices - including mobile phones, tablets, desktop computers and even videogame consoles." (from site)
Note: Demo is available (7MB), full version has unknown size.
Monkey works by translating Monkey code to one of a different number of languages at compile time - including C++, C#, Java, Javascript and Actionscript.
Monkey games can then be run on potentially hundreds of different devices - including mobile phones, tablets, desktop computers and even videogame consoles." (from site)
Note: Demo is available (7MB), full version has unknown size.
M.U.G.E.N. (~8MB)
"M.U.G.E.N is a 2D fighting game engine that is enables you to create commercial-quality fighting games. Almost everything can be customized, from individual characters to stages, as well as the look and feel of the game. M.U.G.E.N is designed to be used by people with little or no programming experience, but with some artistic talent and patience to learn. Of course, having some programming background does give you a bit of a headstart. However, if you are just looking to play with downloaded content, all you need to know is how to unzip files and edit a text file.
Here's a sampling of features you can find in M.U.G.E.N:
Here's a sampling of features you can find in M.U.G.E.N:
- Customizable title screen, character select screen, life and bars, game sound effects, fonts and more.
- Characters can have any number of sounds and sprites of any size limited by your computer's memory.
- Choose from multiple resolutions, ranging from 320x240 up to full HD at 1920x1080.
- Cutscenes, intros and endings." (from site) If you want to see the documentation (including tutorials) click here. You may also want to download MUGEN games, to see what can be done.
MURL Engine (582MB) FREE* [WM]
"The Murl Engine is a free tool for the platform-independent development of games and multimedia applications. The framework has been designed for maximum performance and flexibility. Furthermore, it allows the development of “cutting-edge” applications without restricting developers and designers in the realization of new and innovative concepts.
The “framework code” was completely developed in C/C++ and allows compiling for every platform. The “platform code” is developed platform-specifically in C/C++, Objective C and Java and can hence only be compiled for the particular platform. Application development (“user code”) is performed in C++ and/or LUA according to the API provided. It is possible to create a native application for each supported target platform from these three components: user code, framework code and platform code. "(from site)
Target Platforms:Android, iOS, Mac, Windows
*Note: A free version of the MURL engine is available but includes a 'notification overlay' that displays "powered by Murl Engine" whenever a games runs, and also lacks premium support, more information here. Although premium support is available to the paid for versions or for a fee (when using the free version).
The “framework code” was completely developed in C/C++ and allows compiling for every platform. The “platform code” is developed platform-specifically in C/C++, Objective C and Java and can hence only be compiled for the particular platform. Application development (“user code”) is performed in C++ and/or LUA according to the API provided. It is possible to create a native application for each supported target platform from these three components: user code, framework code and platform code. "(from site)
Target Platforms:Android, iOS, Mac, Windows
*Note: A free version of the MURL engine is available but includes a 'notification overlay' that displays "powered by Murl Engine" whenever a games runs, and also lacks premium support, more information here. Although premium support is available to the paid for versions or for a fee (when using the free version).
MyDoodleGame (38.2MB)FREE [W]
Designed to simplify the creation of 2D platform type games. Requires no programming at all and may be the easiest way to create 2D platform games ever! All characters can be hand drawn and the interface is simple and (relatively) easy to use . Also available for iPad.
Great for Adults and children alike!
Limitations:
Great for Adults and children alike!
Limitations:
- There is no option to create standalone games. Which means users who want to play the game will have to download and use MyDoodleGame.
- The game creation tool is only designed for the creation of simple 2D platform games, similar to Super Mario type games.There is no scripting support or the ability to add additional functionality.
- Every game can only consist of one level even if the level itself can be large.
- There is no direct way to import pictures into the game limiting users to draw all characters by hand or use the pictures that come with the program. There is an indirect way to import pictures though.
NaaLaa(~13MB)FREE[W]
"NaaLaa (Not An Advanced Language At All) is a BASIC like programming language. And if you're interested in making retro style games it might be worth a shot.
These are some of the features:
These are some of the features:
- Very easy to learn
- Create standalone programs for Windows
- Generate Java applets for the web
- Export and import libraries
- Use the NaaLaa standard libraries and tools to make advanced games in no time
- It is freeware"(from site)
Novashell Game Creation System(~20MB)OPEN SOURCE[WML]
"Novashell is a high-level 2D game maker that tries to handle all the hard work behind the scenes allowing you to whip up sweet games using path finding, dialog, persistent dynamically sized maps with construction/deconstruction, save anywhere, and especially features that adventure and RPG type games would use. It's also built to allow easy sharing of games you make and modding of them. The underlying concept is everything is cut and pastable and can be added and removed even during play.
The worlds/games/mods it makes can be played under Windows, OS X, and Linux without changes.
Can create stand-alone games for Win and Mac, from either platform!" (from site)
The worlds/games/mods it makes can be played under Windows, OS X, and Linux without changes.
Can create stand-alone games for Win and Mac, from either platform!" (from site)
Novelty(~35MB)FREE[W]
"Novelty is a tool for creating your own visual novels and
2D games.
2D games.
- Easy to use WYSIWYG visual novel editor.
- Visual point & click programming with "Actions".
- No actual programming required.*
- Create and share art assets easily.
- Hardware-accelerated graphics.
- Play your visual novels in and out of the editor.
- Compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7.
* No coding is required. A scripting language is available for advanced"(from site)
OGRE(65MB-120MB for SDK)OPEN SOURCE, [WML]
"What is OGRE?
OGRE (Object-Oriented Graphics Rendering Engine) is a scene-oriented, flexible 3D engine written in C++ designed to make it easier and more intuitive for developers to produce applications utilising hardware-accelerated 3D graphics. The class library abstracts all the details of using the underlying system libraries like Direct3D and OpenGL and provides an interface based on world objects and other intuitive classes.
What can it do?
Lots of things! See the features page for an up-to-date list of the current features. Also, take a look at the screenshots page to see for yourself the kinds of eye candy OGRE can pump out.
Is OGRE a Game Engine?
No. OGRE can be (and indeed has been) used to make games, but OGRE is deliberately designed to provide just a world-class graphics solution; for other features like sound, networking, AI, collision, physics etc, you will need to integrate it with other libraries, something several frameworks have done, and we have a collision / physics reference integration library as an example in our distribution." (from site)
Supported Programming Languages:C++, as well as Python, .NET and Java using wrappers.
Projects using OGRE including games.
OGRE (Object-Oriented Graphics Rendering Engine) is a scene-oriented, flexible 3D engine written in C++ designed to make it easier and more intuitive for developers to produce applications utilising hardware-accelerated 3D graphics. The class library abstracts all the details of using the underlying system libraries like Direct3D and OpenGL and provides an interface based on world objects and other intuitive classes.
What can it do?
Lots of things! See the features page for an up-to-date list of the current features. Also, take a look at the screenshots page to see for yourself the kinds of eye candy OGRE can pump out.
Is OGRE a Game Engine?
No. OGRE can be (and indeed has been) used to make games, but OGRE is deliberately designed to provide just a world-class graphics solution; for other features like sound, networking, AI, collision, physics etc, you will need to integrate it with other libraries, something several frameworks have done, and we have a collision / physics reference integration library as an example in our distribution." (from site)
Supported Programming Languages:C++, as well as Python, .NET and Java using wrappers.
Projects using OGRE including games.
OpenSpace3D (~62MB) Open Source[W]
"OpenSpace3D is a free and Open Source development platform for interactive real time 3D projects.
Its mains advantages are :
Its mains advantages are :
- User friendly, you can create a whole interactive 3D scene, with great graphical quality, without writing any code.
- Power, lots of functionality are directly included, realizing an OpenSpace3D application consist in linking functionalities together, and defining theirs mutual interactions.
- Technological advance, our team keep searching for and integrates the last technologies in domains of virtual reality, speech recognition, and computer graphics.
"(from site)
Panda 3D (~90MB)(OPEN SOURCE)[WML]
Panda3D is a game engine, a framework for 3D rendering and game development for Python and C++ programs. Panda3D is Open Source and free for any purpose, including commercial ventures(site)
Platinum Arts Sandbox (~421MB)Open Source[WML]
Platinum Arts Sandbox Free 3D Game Maker is an open source easy to use standalone 3D Game Maker and 3D Game Design program currently based on the cube 2 engine being used in many schools throughout the world that allows kids and adults to create their own video games, worlds, levels, adventures and quests, even cooperatively! The goal is to make it accessible to kids but also powerful enough for full game projects. With a simple click and roll of a mouse wheel users can modify the world however they want. In the words of Margaret, a nine year old Sandbox whiz I babysit for, “Press Edit and go fulfill your dreams!”. Now features new game modes such as sidescroller, machinima, kartmode, RPG, and more!
RealityFactory(~35MB)(FREE)[W??]
Reality Factory is a program that - in conjunction with other tools - allows you to create 1st and 3rd person perspective games without programming! Reality Factory is built on top of the powerful Genesis3D Open Source engine and supports all major 3D graphics cards.(from site)
RPG MAKER 2000\RM2K(~13MB)FREE FOR NON-COMMERCIAL USE[W]
If you have ever wanted to create a 2D RPG games then this is for you. Its does need time to learn the interface but soon you should be able to make a workable game in a short time.
Note:
1. The are several versions of this game creation tool but this is the most common.
2.Make sure you download all 3 (Rm2K_105E.exe,RTPe.exe,rtp132e.zip) files on the website as they are all required for RM2K.
3.If you haven't played an RPG game before try Final Fantasy Endless Nova(6mb) which is made with RM2k.
4. There may be legal issues with this program.
Note:
1. The are several versions of this game creation tool but this is the most common.
2.Make sure you download all 3 (Rm2K_105E.exe,RTPe.exe,rtp132e.zip) files on the website as they are all required for RM2K.
3.If you haven't played an RPG game before try Final Fantasy Endless Nova(6mb) which is made with RM2k.
4. There may be legal issues with this program.
RPG Maker 3D (83MB)FREE**[W]
Still under development?
RPG Builder 3D is an easy to use game development suite for creating 3d-RPG's. This program will be a perfect tool for anyone from beginner to pro to create what is arguably the most technical genre of video games. This software will contain such features to help you create these games with ease. (from site)
**Note: The website (not sure about the game engine) is still under construction which means no tutorials, no help files(not even in the 83MB download!) and no functioning community as of writing this article. The screenshots of the engine still look impressive though.
**Note: The website (not sure about the game engine) is still under construction which means no tutorials, no help files(not even in the 83MB download!) and no functioning community as of writing this article. The screenshots of the engine still look impressive though.
RPG Toolkit(~7.1MB)Open Source[W]
"The RPG Toolkit is a free, open-source tool for creating 2D role-playing games and much more. First released in 1997 by Christopher B. Matthews and now developed by the community, the RPG Toolkit has a long history in the RPG making community.There is a simple, yet powerful scripting language called RPG Code that lets you get straight into the basics of game making in no time. In addition there's editor with all the tools you need to build your game world and plugins released by the community that add even more functionality.
Find out more about the features here."(from site)
Find out more about the features here."(from site)
Scroller Game Creator (~4.7MB)
"Scroller Game Creator is a tool that enables you to create scroller-type games without any programming knowledge. The program is a full game creator, it handles all game elements that are required, and it produces the final executable. You don't need to install any special programs, you don't need to learn difficult scripting languages or spend hours learning the basic functions." (From site)
Features:
- Standard image formats: BMP, PNG, JPEG, GIF
- Animated images (GIF)
- Supported sound formats: WAV, MP3
- Trigger system
- Customizable HUD
- Full WYSIWYG Editor
Features:
- Standard image formats: BMP, PNG, JPEG, GIF
- Animated images (GIF)
- Supported sound formats: WAV, MP3
- Trigger system
- Customizable HUD
- Full WYSIWYG Editor
Scrolling Game Development kit 2(~5MB)Open Source[W]
"All-in-one program for creating 2D scrolling games. Compile your games into stand-alone .NET executables or customizable C# source code. The IDE and framework are build on OpenTK, which wraps OpenGL, so generated games can be cross-platform.
Features
Features
- Built-in graphics editor with alpha translucency and anti-aliased tools including rotation.
- Frameset editor to designate real-time anti-aliased transforms without storing transformed copies of graphics.
- Multi-layer parallax scrolling map editor.
- Support for animated and overlapping tiles.
- Generates Visual Studio projects for enhanced editing and debugging.
- Project format includes all game resources and code in one file for easy extensibility and portability.
- Export fully functional games to HTML5 to play on other platforms."(From site)
Silent Walk FPS Creator (~9MB)[W]
A Game Engine designed for rapid creation of 3D First Person Shooter (FPS) without needing any form of programming.
Features:
- Full 3D editor
- Animated 3DS, X and B3D model support
- High quality textures with mip-mapping
- 3D sound and music (mp3, ogg, wav, xm)
- Multi-floors
- Predefined and UV mapped static elements
- Trigger system
- Predefined enemy AI
- Customizable HUD
- Animated weapon movement
- Encrypted resources
Features:
- Full 3D editor
- Animated 3DS, X and B3D model support
- High quality textures with mip-mapping
- 3D sound and music (mp3, ogg, wav, xm)
- Multi-floors
- Predefined and UV mapped static elements
- Trigger system
- Predefined enemy AI
- Customizable HUD
- Animated weapon movement
- Encrypted resources
Silent Walk: Renaissance (~77.5MB) FREE[W]
Considered as an improved version of Silent Walk 1.1 (source) this game engine is also designed as a way to rapidly create 3D FPS type games. Comes with basic resources such as textures, sounds, 3D models included. It uses a simple 2D based interface to create the various 3D levels.
"Features:
Rewritten Game Editor and Game Engine
- Improved enemy AI
- Added game scripting via GML
- Added multi-floors with built-in stairs creator
- Added new Weapon Editor
- Added melee weapon handling
- Added weapon animations
- Added pixel perfect shoot/attack hit handling
- Added fully scriptable player HUD
- Added animated texture support (even on HUD)
- Model formats: MAN, GM, OBJ, MD2
- Texture formats: PNG, BMP, GIF, JPG, TGA, PCX, GMSPR
- Added 3D Particle System
- Added Skybox
- Added built-in model editor
- Added Smart Packer Pro (pack everything into a single exe)" (From Site)
"Features:
Rewritten Game Editor and Game Engine
- Improved enemy AI
- Added game scripting via GML
- Added multi-floors with built-in stairs creator
- Added new Weapon Editor
- Added melee weapon handling
- Added weapon animations
- Added pixel perfect shoot/attack hit handling
- Added fully scriptable player HUD
- Added animated texture support (even on HUD)
- Model formats: MAN, GM, OBJ, MD2
- Texture formats: PNG, BMP, GIF, JPG, TGA, PCX, GMSPR
- Added 3D Particle System
- Added Skybox
- Added built-in model editor
- Added Smart Packer Pro (pack everything into a single exe)" (From Site)
ShiVa 3D engine(~300MB-~600MB)*[WM]
"ShiVa3D is the developers’ tool of choice for easily creating amazing 3D real-time applications and games for Windows, Mac OS, Linux, iPhone, Android, BlackBerry, Palm, Wii and the iPad. ShiVa is a powerful multi-platform 3D game engine, WYSIWYG 3D Editor and MMO Server." "In the editor import your assets from 3ds Max, Maya or XSI, your textures, sounds and movies, configure the materials, particles, trail, terrain, ocean and much more using the WYSIYWG Editor. You can create artificial intelligence using the built-in LUA Script Editor or directly in C++ and export as a single STK file for the ShiVa Authoring Tool.
"Note : The ShiVa Web Edition (Free, non time-limited and without watermark) is a ShiVa unlimited version for publishing 3D on your web site. Use it for your full online games, mobile/console game previews and facebook 3D applications.
Download ShiVa Web Edition (~637MB) "(from site)
"Note : The ShiVa Web Edition (Free, non time-limited and without watermark) is a ShiVa unlimited version for publishing 3D on your web site. Use it for your full online games, mobile/console game previews and facebook 3D applications.
Download ShiVa Web Edition (~637MB) "(from site)
Stencyl(~60MB)FREE*[WML]
Powerful (and good looking) 2D game creation program that doesn't need programming to create 2D games. Based on Scratch.
Note:The free version can only output to flash format (*.swf)
Note:The free version can only output to flash format (*.swf)
TemporalWars Indie Game Engine(~350MB)[W]
"Temporal Wars 3D Engine is a powerful easy-to-use 3D rendering game engine, built on the XNA Framework, for commerical development both on the Windows and XBox-360 platforms. And includes a full suite of WYSIWYG tools designed for rapid creation of your game world. Temporal Wars editors, like the Height, Paint and Assets Tools, can be used to manipulate objects and textures in real-time."(from site)
Thinking Worlds(~66MB)FREE FOR NON-COMMERCIAL USE*[W]
Thinking Worlds is the perfect authoring tool for users who want to take their first steps into the world of sim & game design as well as more advanced users looking for a more powerful, but rapid, design tool. It is the only completely free 3D engine and authoring tool available that makes the creation of high-impact simulations & games for web and mobile accessible to everyone. (from site)
*Note:
1. Paid for versions remove watermarks.
2. You will need to register the product to start using it (even with free version), which will need a valid email address where the pin code can be sent. After which you should be able to use it offline.
*Note:
1. Paid for versions remove watermarks.
2. You will need to register the product to start using it (even with free version), which will need a valid email address where the pin code can be sent. After which you should be able to use it offline.
The Game Creators[W??]
This website hosts many commercial game creators including DarkBasic, DarkBasic Professional, FPS Creator and more. Worth a look if you want a commercial product.
The Games Factory 2(TGF)[W]-------Multimedia Fusion2(MMF2)[W]
TGF and MMF2: No need to program
Along with its predecessor The Games Factory 1 and Klik and Play are able to make 2D games without any programming. It works with the use of an Event editor which allows various tasks to be performed just by clicking a few options, yet is powerful enough to create a complete game or even a screensaver.
Multimedia Fusion2 Is the current successor to Games Factory 2 and has the most functionality while still allowing beginners to create games without any programming knowledge.
Note: If you are unsure of the Games Factory\Multimedia Fusion then you can try an old predecessor: Klik and Play(5MB)[direct download] which can be found at Marty's Website.
Multimedia Fusion2 Is the current successor to Games Factory 2 and has the most functionality while still allowing beginners to create games without any programming knowledge.
Note: If you are unsure of the Games Factory\Multimedia Fusion then you can try an old predecessor: Klik and Play(5MB)[direct download] which can be found at Marty's Website.
Truevision 3D (~78MB)[W??]
"The TV3D SDK is a complete 3D middleware solution for programmers looking to create anything from next generation games to complex simulations. By using our complete API and your favorite development language, you can write less code, and get more done in a shorter amount of time.
The entire TV3D SDK has been built from the ground up to give the programmer total control over every aspect of their 3D world. Complete control is maintained through a very easy to learn system of objects, each with a very specific set of functions. This easy to learn system still gives you all the power of programming with DirectX, without having to learn a complex API." (from site) Supports C++, C#, Delphi, Java, Visual Basic 6, and Visual Basic.NET. You can see the complete features list here.
There is an evaluation version available, that would add a watermark on the games created.
The entire TV3D SDK has been built from the ground up to give the programmer total control over every aspect of their 3D world. Complete control is maintained through a very easy to learn system of objects, each with a very specific set of functions. This easy to learn system still gives you all the power of programming with DirectX, without having to learn a complex API." (from site) Supports C++, C#, Delphi, Java, Visual Basic 6, and Visual Basic.NET. You can see the complete features list here.
There is an evaluation version available, that would add a watermark on the games created.
Tululoo (~1.3MB) FREE[WL]
(Requires JavaScript programming) "Tululoo Game Maker is a complex game creation environment that allows you to create browser based games. With Tululoo you can create games for your mobile devices as the latest ones already support the new HTML5 standards. Tululoo comes with a user friendy resource manager and script editor, where you can import your images, backgrounds, animated sprites, sounds. You can easily create the objects (actors like player, enemies, collectable items, etc.) and you can also add your own functions and scripts to the game objects. he program generates a Javascript code that can be played in web browsers using the next generation web standard HTML5. " (From Site)
Unity3D(504 MB)FREE*[WM]
Unity is a feature rich, fully integrated development engine for the creation of interactive 3D content. It provides complete, out-of-the-box functionality to assemble high-quality, high-performing content and publish to multiple platforms. Unity helps indie developers and designers, small and major studios, multinational corporations, students and hobbyists to drastically reduce the time, effort and cost of making games.
*Note:
1.The free version will make watermarks on the games created.
2. The Pro version will have more features.
*Note:
1.The free version will make watermarks on the games created.
2. The Pro version will have more features.
Wizapply(27MB)Open Source[WML]
"Wizapply is a suite of libraries and tools to support cross-platform development. You only need to program in C/C++ . If Wizapply is used, an application can be developed in a short period of time !!
Wizapply will continue to support three goals:
1. Eliminate Study of API Group according to Many Devices and Operating Systems (Cross Platform). 2. Eliminate Study of the Various Programming Methods (C/C++ Language Only). 3. Eliminate Making Brief Processing Code Which Tends to Become complicated"(Paraphrased from site)
Wizapply will continue to support three goals:
1. Eliminate Study of API Group according to Many Devices and Operating Systems (Cross Platform). 2. Eliminate Study of the Various Programming Methods (C/C++ Language Only). 3. Eliminate Making Brief Processing Code Which Tends to Become complicated"(Paraphrased from site)
ZGameEditor(2.4MB)FREE[W]
Small but powerful game maker
A small game maker used for creating arcade type games. The games produced can be very small games.(around 64KB)
Recommended for more experienced users as the format of the game editor will be very familiar to coders.
Recommended for more experienced users as the format of the game editor will be very familiar to coders.
Free Game Creation Tools and Utilities:(Yes all free!)[53 programs]
( Free Game Development Tools, Free Game Development Software)
Note: While this list contains tools that are free to use, not all of them are free to use for commercial purposes (ie for financial gain), please read relevant documentation for more information.
3DAce (883KB) [w]
Easy to use 3D modelling tool for creating low poly models.
This program allows you to create 3D models by basically tracing a background image. Understanding perspective will also help in creating more accurate 3D models.
Features:
Import: *.ACE, *.ROK(Hexagreat 3D), *.DXF, *.LWO, *.OBJ, *.MX, *.MQO(Metasequoia), *.3DS, *.TED.
Export: *.ACE, *.ROK(Hexagreat 3D), *.DXF, *.LWO, *.WRL, *.MX, *.OBJ, *.MQO(Metasequoia), *.XSI, *.X, *.3DS, *.TED.
Note:
1.The program was developed in Japan and therefore the help file is in Japanese. There is no english help file as of yet. But those interested can view the Papercraft videos (Part 1[31 minutes] and Part 2[33 minutes]) on youtube that makes use of the 3DAce program.
2.Also this program works similar to another program called Hexagreat 3D although 3DAce has more features.
This program allows you to create 3D models by basically tracing a background image. Understanding perspective will also help in creating more accurate 3D models.
Features:
Import: *.ACE, *.ROK(Hexagreat 3D), *.DXF, *.LWO, *.OBJ, *.MX, *.MQO(Metasequoia), *.3DS, *.TED.
Export: *.ACE, *.ROK(Hexagreat 3D), *.DXF, *.LWO, *.WRL, *.MX, *.OBJ, *.MQO(Metasequoia), *.XSI, *.X, *.3DS, *.TED.
Note:
1.The program was developed in Japan and therefore the help file is in Japanese. There is no english help file as of yet. But those interested can view the Papercraft videos (Part 1[31 minutes] and Part 2[33 minutes]) on youtube that makes use of the 3DAce program.
2.Also this program works similar to another program called Hexagreat 3D although 3DAce has more features.
3D Cover Box Designer (1MB)
Simple program that is used to create 3D box shots for anything from games, to ebooks to software/apps. (Like 3D Box Shot maker , but with slightly different functionality)
Accepts BMP, JPG, PNG and ICO image formats.
Note: You will need to create the images using a separate program like GIMP and then import them into the program.
Accepts BMP, JPG, PNG and ICO image formats.
Note: You will need to create the images using a separate program like GIMP and then import them into the program.
3D Box Shot Maker(~1.3MB)
Another simple program to create 3D box shots for anything from games to ebooks to programs.
Remember that you have to create your own cover images for the side and front of the 3D box shot before you use this program. (And it may be a bit slow in rendering the box shot)
Remember that you have to create your own cover images for the side and front of the 3D box shot before you use this program. (And it may be a bit slow in rendering the box shot)
AppCompactor(1MB)
Make your programs or games smaller!
Small general purpose program to reduce the size of program/executables (.exe). It uses UPX but has a very easy to use interface. Good for reducing the file size of demos and the final game.
Note: Sometimes the compressed program may not work so always test the compact program afterwards!
Note: Sometimes the compressed program may not work so always test the compact program afterwards!
Anim8or (~1MB)
small is beautiful
Small but powerful 3D modelling and animation program.
"Anim8or is a 3D modeling and character animation program that I have written over the past couple of years, not as a commercial endeavor, but because I love 3D graphics, animation, and programming. While it is far from a complete professional level application like 3DStudio MAX or Lightwave, I believe that it has enough capability to be of use to others."(from home page)
Recommended for beginners.
Input & Output formats supported:3D Studio (*.3ds),Lightwave (*.lwo),Wavefront (*.obj), its own (*.an8)
Rendered output formats BMP and JPG for still images and BMP, JPG and AVI for animations.
1.Anim8or supports its own scripting language (ASL) and the community has created a variety of scripts that enhance Anim8ors features, they can be seen here.
2. A new preview version is available here.
4. To get started you can try Cyberdogs Anim8or page.
"Anim8or is a 3D modeling and character animation program that I have written over the past couple of years, not as a commercial endeavor, but because I love 3D graphics, animation, and programming. While it is far from a complete professional level application like 3DStudio MAX or Lightwave, I believe that it has enough capability to be of use to others."(from home page)
Recommended for beginners.
Input & Output formats supported:3D Studio (*.3ds),Lightwave (*.lwo),Wavefront (*.obj), its own (*.an8)
Rendered output formats BMP and JPG for still images and BMP, JPG and AVI for animations.
1.Anim8or supports its own scripting language (ASL) and the community has created a variety of scripts that enhance Anim8ors features, they can be seen here.
2. A new preview version is available here.
4. To get started you can try Cyberdogs Anim8or page.
ASEPRITE (aka Allegro Sprite Editor) (~1.22MB)
Simple yet functional 2D pixel art drawing tool. Used to create 2D sprites, animation and backgrounds for games etc..
"Features:
"Features:
- Sprites are composed by layers & frames.
- Supported color modes: RGBA, Indexed (palettes up to 256 colors), and Grayscale.
- Supported image formats (load/save): PNG, GIF, JPG, FLC, FLI, BMP, PCX, TGA, and ASE (special format).
- Load and save animations in a sequence of bitmaps (e.g. frame1.png, frame2.png, etc.).
- Tiled drawing mode, useful to draw patterns and textures.
- Undo/Redo for every operation.
- Multiple editors support. You can split an editor horizontally or vertically multiple times to edit and view the same sprite with different zooms, or different sprites.
- Import/Export Sprite Sheets.
- Pixel art specific tools like filled Contour & Polygon.
- Onion skinning" (From site)
Bitmap Font Builder (~1.4MB)
Easy to use program to create bitmap fonts from installed fonts.
Bitmap sizes (64x64, 128x128, 256x256, 512x512, 1024x1024, 2048x2048) Support for up to 2 fonts on one bitmap image.
Features:
Bitmap sizes (64x64, 128x128, 256x256, 512x512, 1024x1024, 2048x2048) Support for up to 2 fonts on one bitmap image.
Features:
- Saves font texture in 8-bit TGA, 24-bit TGA, 32-bit TGA, RAW or BMP format
- Automatic font sizing
- Automatic texture sizing – pick your font sizes and the texture will automatically be resized to fit that font.
- Character justification settings
- Grid color adjust
- Option to save character widths to binary or INI file
- Option to save character ABC Widths to binary file
- Copy texture image to Windows’ clipboard
Bitmap Font Generator (~358KB)
Another program to create bitmap fonts from (TrueType) fonts.
Features:
Features:
- Support for complete Unicode 5.1 character set, as well as 8 bit OEM character sets
- Optimal use of texture space, i.e. as little unused area as possible
- Support for kerning pairs
- Easy to use file format, either normal text file or xml files. Binary format is available for those that prefer that
- 8bit or 32bit texture output (TGA, PNG, and DDS files)
- Option for packing 4 layers of font images into 1 32bit texture. Needs special shader to render with, but saves a lot of memory
- Anti-aliasing, both through Windows native font smoothing and super sampling
- Configurable padding and spacing between characters
- Select characters from text file, supports both UTF8 and UTF16 encoded files
- Generate bitmap font from command line
- Import colored images as characters, supports: bmp, jpg, tga, dds, png
- Optional outline to font characters
- Optional packing of characters with outline into 1 channel. Needs special shader to unpack during rendering, but saves a lot of memory
- Use TrueType fonts directly from the file without installing them first
Blender(~30MB)open source
very powerful, for experienced users
"Blender is a free and open-source 3D computer graphics software product used for creating animated films, visual effects, interactive 3D applications or video games. Blender's features include 3D modeling, UV unwrapping, texturing, rigging and skinning, fluid and smoke simulation, particle simulation, animating, match moving, camera tracking, rendering, video editing and compositing. It also features a built-in game engine."(From Wikipedia Page)
Blender Wikipedia Page
Blender Wikipedia Page
Buttonz and Tilez (1.4MB)[Direct download]
simple and easy
2 programs in one (Buttonz and Tilez).
Buttonz works like zpaint (below) to create button images for games, programs, websites with a variety of settings to adjust, while Tilez allows you to create seamless tiles for any task. (click pic)
Note:
1.The author is no longer developing this program.
2.Repacked: should work on XP and above. (had old installer )
CharacterFX (4.1MB)
"CharacterFX is a freeware character animation package, created for game developers. It allows you to animate meshes with a skeleton and keyframes. Its integrated scripting language (LUA) makes it extremely easy to extend. The easy and intuitive user interface actually makes it fun to animate characters! It allows you to breathe live into your meshes using skeletal animation and advanced tools like Inverse Kinematics and Weighted Vertices, but still it is easy enough to use for all levels of computer graphic artists." (from developer)
Features:
Username: CFX4FREE
Registration Key: 5b2fe4
CharacterFX Tutorial PDF (The Game Creators newsletter issue 71)
Features:
- Imports WaveFront OBJ, MilkShape3D ASCII, Autodesk 3DS
- exports WaveFront OBJ, MilkShape3D ASCII, Autodesk 3DS, Nebula N/N3D, DirectX X (v7 and v8), Quake2 MD2, BlitzBasic B3D
- You can also add you own with the SDK
Username: CFX4FREE
Registration Key: 5b2fe4
CharacterFX Tutorial PDF (The Game Creators newsletter issue 71)
DeleD 3D Editor CE(~11MB)
"DeleD is a 3D modeler designed to help you create content for your game project, whether you're a professional or indy game developer. Other areas in which you can put DeleD to good use are, for example, educational services, webdesign, prototyping and image creation.
DeleD focusses on five areas to provide in your daily modeling needs. These are:
DeleD focusses on five areas to provide in your daily modeling needs. These are:
- Geometry Editing: DeleD has lots of tools to modify 3D objects, including Smoothing and Boolean Operators
- Animation: DeleD provides a basic animation system allowing you to create animated objects in no-time
- UV Mapping: DeleD has a build-in UV editor, enabling you to skin your objects in detail
- Lightmapping: DeleD lights up your world with advanced lightmapping functions
- Raytracing: DeleD can create stunning pictures with its build-in raytracer
Gimp(~70MB)
Powerful Photoshop alternative.
Fully featured image editor and graphics program, contains many features that can be extended with plugins. Highly customizable, recommended for beginners and pros alike. You can view their features list for more info.
For a more lightweight program with a good number of features you can try Magix Photo Clinic (10MB) (Download at Cnet.com) listed on the free software page.
For a more lightweight program with a good number of features you can try Magix Photo Clinic (10MB) (Download at Cnet.com) listed on the free software page.
Iexpress.exe[built into windows]--------GPinstall(1.8MB)[DIRECT DOWNLOAD]
Click pic
After creating your game(s) you will need to package them into an installation program so that it will be easy to distribute. You could use GPinstall (more powerful) or try the simpler built-in iexpress that comes with Windows, your choice.
To use iexpress[In windows]:
1. Get to the run dialog box [press and hold windows key and r on the keyboard]
2.Type iexpress in the run dialog box and press enter.
3.Choose your options and you're done !
Note:
1.I'm providing a direct download link to gpinstall because its website no longer seems to support it.
2.Not sure if gpinstall will work with Vista or Windows 7
To use iexpress[In windows]:
1. Get to the run dialog box [press and hold windows key and r on the keyboard]
2.Type iexpress in the run dialog box and press enter.
3.Choose your options and you're done !
Note:
1.I'm providing a direct download link to gpinstall because its website no longer seems to support it.
2.Not sure if gpinstall will work with Vista or Windows 7
Enigma Virtual Box(~3.5MB)
After creating you games you might end up with a bunch of files like dlls, data files, images,models etc.. Using Enigma Virtual Box you can package all those files into 1 single Exe file!. Perfect if you don't want you end user to see the inner workings of your games.
"With Enigma Virtual Box, you can virtualize any types of files, dynamic libraries (*.dll), ActiveX/COM objects (*.dll, *.ocx), video and music files (*.avi, *.mp3), text files (*.txt, *.doc), etc. Enigma Virtual Box does not extract temporary files to the HDD; file emulation is performed in the process memory only. The supported versions of Windows include Windows 2000/XP/2003/Vista/2008 and Windows 7." (from site)
"With Enigma Virtual Box, you can virtualize any types of files, dynamic libraries (*.dll), ActiveX/COM objects (*.dll, *.ocx), video and music files (*.avi, *.mp3), text files (*.txt, *.doc), etc. Enigma Virtual Box does not extract temporary files to the HDD; file emulation is performed in the process memory only. The supported versions of Windows include Windows 2000/XP/2003/Vista/2008 and Windows 7." (from site)
Explogen2(2MB)
simple 2D explosion generator
This tool is for making 2D explosion animations for games. The output is sequential bitmaps (*.bmp) of varying dimensions. Very easy to use and has a variety of options. (click pic)
Explosion Texture Generator (aka ExploTexGen) (473KB)
Another great tool for creating 2D explosion animations with some extra features such as the ability to import you own base and spark particles (in .dds file format) as well as support for the alpha channel among others.
"Features
"Features
- Create countless different explosions. Each explosion is randomized and all important parameters can be changed
- Exports to PNG complete with an alpha channel. No more black backgrounds and additive blending for your explosions anymore. The result texture inlcudes a full alpha channel
- Different texture sizes (from 256×256 up to 4096×4096, depending on wether your graphics card can manage that)
- Different grid sizes for setting the number of animation frames on a texture (4×4, 8×8, 16×16)
- Use your own particle textures. Either use the included ones I made from scratch or create your own particle textures and use them
- Change the parameters. All parameters used to calculate the explosion animation can be changed to make each animation unique
- Watch your explosion within the application. After generating a texture, it’s shown in realtime together with a preview of the animation." (From site)
Screenshot of Metals freepack
Filter Forge Freepacks (12MB-30MB each) [WM]
Consist of a number of free themed packs, which allow for the creation of high quality textures relatively easily. There are also a number of settings (including seamless tiling) as well as a randomizer to make even more variantions. The free packs can be used as standalone programs or as plugins for Photoshop.
Output formats are: .JPG, .BMP, .PNG, .TIFF, .TGA, OpenEXR (.exr) and .PFM, and maximum resolution for textures is 3000x3000 pixels.
Recommended free packs are Metals, Patterns, Distortions and Photo effects. Others include Frames and Hearts.
Consist of a number of free themed packs, which allow for the creation of high quality textures relatively easily. There are also a number of settings (including seamless tiling) as well as a randomizer to make even more variantions. The free packs can be used as standalone programs or as plugins for Photoshop.
Output formats are: .JPG, .BMP, .PNG, .TIFF, .TGA, OpenEXR (.exr) and .PFM, and maximum resolution for textures is 3000x3000 pixels.
Recommended free packs are Metals, Patterns, Distortions and Photo effects. Others include Frames and Hearts.
GlueIT (22KB) [DIRECT DOWNLOAD] [W]
GlueIT is small program that it will take a series of single images and put them on a single page ready to be incorporated in your game engine. In other words it creates sprite sheets from a series of single images. Loads .PNG, .BMP, Saves .PNG, .BMP, .JPG
The original developer's website not longer works. http://sysimage.250free.com/
The original developer's website not longer works. http://sysimage.250free.com/
Gmax(19.2MB)
A 3D modelling program based on Autodesk's 3D max, but directed towards games development. (pic from Wikipedia)
Note: 1. You need to register the program, before you can use it (which includes creating an account with Turbosquid) .
2. Help files (15Mb) and tutorials (14MB) are separate downloads.
3. The program is no longer supported but you can use the turbosquid forums.
Note: 1. You need to register the program, before you can use it (which includes creating an account with Turbosquid) .
2. Help files (15Mb) and tutorials (14MB) are separate downloads.
3. The program is no longer supported but you can use the turbosquid forums.
L3DT standard(~14MB)
Very powerful 3D terrain generator
Very powerful 3D landscape generation tool. L3DT (Large 3D Terrain generator) allows you to create large 3D terrain maps for things such as games. Outputs include: COLLADA digital asset exchange (*.dae), Wavefront Object File (*.obj),3D studio File (*.3ds),DirectX mesh files(*.x) and Zeolite mesh file (*.zmesh) A tutorial is also included. Has many options to customize the terrain.
Note: This is the 'free' version of their more powerful L3DT Professional program. And will have some limitations.
Note: This is the 'free' version of their more powerful L3DT Professional program. And will have some limitations.
LabChirp(80KB)
Amazingly powerful sound generator that works like sfxr (above) but adds almost endless customization options, while still making it very easy to make sounds for games and anything else. Output is wave format (*.wav) . Additional features include the ability to add up to 8 channels of sound and save presets that can be used again.
Lithunwrap(700KB)[DIRECT DOWNLOAD]
Click pic
LithUnwrap is a free Windows tool for mapping and editing the
UV coordinates of low poly models. It can unwrap a 3D model and
export the UV map to a bitmap which can then be painted. (from ReadMe)
Note:This is the freeware predecessor of the commercial program: Ultimate Unwrap 3D.
UV coordinates of low poly models. It can unwrap a 3D model and
export the UV map to a bitmap which can then be painted. (from ReadMe)
Note:This is the freeware predecessor of the commercial program: Ultimate Unwrap 3D.
LMMS (aka Linux Multimedia Studio) (23MB)
Make music like a Pro!
Despite its name, LMMS will work on both windows and Mac OS X in addition to Linux. LMMS is a free alternative to commercial music creation programs like FL Studio and its features include:
- "Song-Editor for composing songs
- A Beat+Bassline-Editor for creating beats and basslines
- An easy-to-use Piano-Roll for editing patterns and melodies
- An FX mixer with 64 FX channels and arbitrary number of effects allow unlimited mixing possibilities
- Many powerful instrument and effect-plugins out of the box
- Full user-defined track-based automation and computer-controlled automation sources
- Compatible with many standards such as SoundFont2, VST(i), LADSPA, GUS Patches, and MIDI
- Import of MIDI and FLP (Fruityloops® Project) files" (From site)
Mappy(~500KB)
A free utility for creating flexible 'maps' for 2D and 3D tile based games.
The output can be in PNG (requires separate plugin) or in the supported FMP format. Your tile graphics should be in a BMP, PNG, PCX or TGA picture. Mappy supports the use of FMP maps in a variety of game creation tools(by downloading required files) including DirectX,Allegro,OpenGL,Java,CDX, Delphi,Blitz Basic,Blitz Max,GBA,GameMaker,GL Basic and XNA.
Note this is the free version the pro version has more features.
The output can be in PNG (requires separate plugin) or in the supported FMP format. Your tile graphics should be in a BMP, PNG, PCX or TGA picture. Mappy supports the use of FMP maps in a variety of game creation tools(by downloading required files) including DirectX,Allegro,OpenGL,Java,CDX, Delphi,Blitz Basic,Blitz Max,GBA,GameMaker,GL Basic and XNA.
Note this is the free version the pro version has more features.
MaPZone (~26MB) [W]
"MaPZone is simply the most advanced texturing tool ever. MaPZone is only intended to be used for producing high quality textures, and this is what it does best. Based on a unique and patented technology called the FX Maps, MaPZone is the only procedural tool giving you that much control over your creation."(From Site)
Its another node-based texture generating tool for creating high quality seamless textures. Support textures of up to 2048 pixels (and above.)
Output formats supported: DDS, BMP,JPEG, PBM, PNG, PPM, XBM and XPM.
Note: The program may try to access the Internet for downloading required DirectX files, and to update the program. Otherwise Internet access in not required.
Its another node-based texture generating tool for creating high quality seamless textures. Support textures of up to 2048 pixels (and above.)
Output formats supported: DDS, BMP,JPEG, PBM, PNG, PPM, XBM and XPM.
Note: The program may try to access the Internet for downloading required DirectX files, and to update the program. Otherwise Internet access in not required.
MeshMixer 24.4MB [WM]
3D modelling program similar to Sculptris. (listed below) Users can start off with a base model and sculpt it into different forms. Also features a parts toolbar allowing users to add various parts like hands, legs, heads, horns etc.. from a pre-existing library. Supported import formats .OBJ, .STL and .PLY, export formats .OBJ, COLLADA (.dae), .STL and .PLY.
Note: Textures (currently) can only be exported in the .ply format .
Note: Textures (currently) can only be exported in the .ply format .
Misfit Model 3D (~4.2MB)[WML]
"Misfit Model 3D is an OpenGL-based 3D model editor that works with triangle-based models. It supports multi-level undo, skeletal animations, simple texturing, command-line batch processing, and a plugin system for adding new model and image filters. Complete online help is included. The primary design goal is to be easy to use."(From Site)
Misfit Model 3D is no longer under active development.
Misfit Model 3D is no longer under active development.
Musagi [Beta](2MB)
Create advanced sound effects with this tool!
If your want to create more sophisticated sounds for (mostly) arcade games then try this tool out also made by Dr Petter. Note it is more complicated to use that sfxr so recommended for more experienced users.
Neo TextEdit (~1.2MB)[WL]
Neo TextureEdit is a powerful Open Source node-based seamless texture generator, using a variety of nodes one can create almost any type of (high quality) seamless texture for games or any other purpose.
Outputs PNG files at 256x256, 512x512,1024x1024 pixels and custom sizes also available. To export the textures right-click the node with the required > select Export Image and choose a required image size.
Requires Java 1.6 or above to run.
Outputs PNG files at 256x256, 512x512,1024x1024 pixels and custom sizes also available. To export the textures right-click the node with the required > select Export Image and choose a required image size.
Requires Java 1.6 or above to run.
PaceMaker (2MB)[W][Direct Download]
Easy to use, 3d Skeletal Animation application with in-built physics engine, physics based IK and real-time motion capture of ragdoll simulation.
Features:
Pacemaker is no longer being developed. And the developers website (www.gOddysey.com) is no longer available.
Here are some (external) tutorials available to see how PaceMaker works: (all WMV format) Tutorials part 1, 2 ,3,4, animation_test, update and walkcycle. (filesizes for videos range from 9MB to 30MB)
Also Parts 1, 2, 3 and 4 the Pacemaker tutorial as well as recoil tutorial are available on Youtube.com
Easy to use, 3d Skeletal Animation application with in-built physics engine, physics based IK and real-time motion capture of ragdoll simulation.
Features:
- Animated .b3d model viewer with sequence playback functions.
- Static mesh import - .b3d, .3ds, .x and .xml
- Export Animated mesh to DarkbasicPro (.dbo ),DirectX (.x) or XML (.xml)
- Sequence extractor - Extracts animation sequences from baseframes and saves this info with the .b3d file. Pacemaker will generate a function to reload and recreate your sequences automatically when the model is loaded.
- -Rag-Doll Animation Tool. Real time motion capture of impacts,jumps falls, acrobatics and much more.
-Real-Time IK session recording
- Import/Export Skeleton - autoscaling.
- Import/Export animation sequences - shaer anumation between models - Special adaptive scaling and rotation algorithym allows you to share animation between models of different size, proportion and even structure. - More
Pacemaker is no longer being developed. And the developers website (www.gOddysey.com) is no longer available.
Here are some (external) tutorials available to see how PaceMaker works: (all WMV format) Tutorials part 1, 2 ,3,4, animation_test, update and walkcycle. (filesizes for videos range from 9MB to 30MB)
Also Parts 1, 2, 3 and 4 the Pacemaker tutorial as well as recoil tutorial are available on Youtube.com
Pixel 3D(4.4MB)
Very useful 3D logo creator with many options.
"Pixel 3D is the professional's choice for creating and converting 3D logos and objects. Use Pixel 3D's powerful auto-tracing facilities to automatically convert your scanned or Windows Bitmap (.BMP) logos into 3D outlines. Then use Pixel 3D's Logo Wizard to easily extrude and bevel your logo." (from help file)
Recommended for creating Logo and title screens for games.
"Pixel 3D is the professional's choice for creating and converting 3D logos and objects. Use Pixel 3D's powerful auto-tracing facilities to automatically convert your scanned or Windows Bitmap (.BMP) logos into 3D outlines. Then use Pixel 3D's Logo Wizard to easily extrude and bevel your logo." (from help file)
Recommended for creating Logo and title screens for games.
PixelToolbox(~3.6MB)
Create icons and cursors with ease
Powerful yet easy to use tool for creating icons and cursors for games as well as other programs. You can even paste images that are on your clipboard into the program. (click pic)
PlantStudio(~3MB)
Very powerful program to create 2D pictures and 3D models of plants for anything from illustrations to games (think forests or outdoor levels). The program is easy to use and has many options. (click pic for 3D model options)
Note:
1.The program needs to be registered with a username and code, both of which are available from the downloads page. (its free)
2. Make sure to download the zip version as the installer may not work in XP and above.
Note:
1.The program needs to be registered with a username and code, both of which are available from the downloads page. (its free)
2. Make sure to download the zip version as the installer may not work in XP and above.
PxTone (9.7MB)
Small yet functional Japanese developed sound effect generator and music composer created by the author (aka PIXEL) of the freeware game Cave Story. You can create simple arcade sounds for games (using PtNoise) as well as full background music (using PtCollage).
The program allows the use of samples (called "voices") for music composition and allows the input of samples in .wav, .ogg, .pcm, .ptvoice, and .ptnoise formats and output as .wave (wave format) or if you are using GameMaker you can use PxTone as a music engine throught the use of the included DLL library.
Note: The link listed above for PxTone links to the English version of the program as well as the great 95 page PxTone manual created by GRYZOR87 in a 9.7MB rar file. The download is listed as PXtone_manual_2010.rar but contains the whole program plus the manual.
PxTone Wikipedia Page
Piston Source (Additional PxTone Resources)
The program allows the use of samples (called "voices") for music composition and allows the input of samples in .wav, .ogg, .pcm, .ptvoice, and .ptnoise formats and output as .wave (wave format) or if you are using GameMaker you can use PxTone as a music engine throught the use of the included DLL library.
Note: The link listed above for PxTone links to the English version of the program as well as the great 95 page PxTone manual created by GRYZOR87 in a 9.7MB rar file. The download is listed as PXtone_manual_2010.rar but contains the whole program plus the manual.
PxTone Wikipedia Page
Piston Source (Additional PxTone Resources)
Resource Hacker(~730KB)
Change more than just icons ;)
Extremely powerful tool that can be used (in its most basic form) to change the icons for games and other software. This is especially good you cannot easily change the icons for games any other way. (click pic)
Note:
1.This is an EXTREMELY powerful tool that can change a lot more than just icons (see pic) in programs(.exe) and DLLs(.dll) so use with caution!!!
2. To start using the program you can check out this tutorial.
Note:
1.This is an EXTREMELY powerful tool that can change a lot more than just icons (see pic) in programs(.exe) and DLLs(.dll) so use with caution!!!
2. To start using the program you can check out this tutorial.
Sculptris(~19MB)
Powerful 3D modelling program.
Program used for 3D modelling that allows users to sculpt their own masterpieces using digital clay. Output is waveform (*.obj). Originally developed by Dr Petter.
"Users can pull, push, pinch, and twist, similar to modeling clay. It is geared toward character sculpting and "organic" models." (From Wikipedia)
Note you will need to enter your details to get the program. The download link will be sent to your email address.
Wikipedia Page for Sculptris
"Users can pull, push, pinch, and twist, similar to modeling clay. It is geared toward character sculpting and "organic" models." (From Wikipedia)
Note you will need to enter your details to get the program. The download link will be sent to your email address.
Wikipedia Page for Sculptris
Sculpty Paint (~1.7MB) [WML]
SculptyPaint is a low polygon 3D creation tool originally written for creating sculpts; 3D low polygon models for SecondLife. But currently it can also export to .obj files that can be read in Blender, wings3D etc.
Requires Java 1.6 or above to run.
Includes presets for Flowers, Stones, Stairs and Arches.
Sculpty Paint Wiki
Requires Java 1.6 or above to run.
Includes presets for Flowers, Stones, Stairs and Arches.
Sculpty Paint Wiki
SFXR(50KB)[Sounds effects generator]
Create arcade sounds easily with this tool.
This simple to use sound effects generator made by Dr Petter can be used to create your own unique sounds (mostly) for arcade type games. Output is in wave format (*.wav)
Spacescape 0.3(~9MB)
Powerful space skybox creator
Powerful tool for creating Space themed skyboxes for games. You can use a variety of somewhat cryptic options to create some stunning pictures. To understand how to use the options click here. Output is in PNG and JPEG formats. (6 Images are output) (dimensions 512x512,1024x1024, 2048x2048, 4096x4096 pixels)
Note: You may need a good graphics card to use the 'noise' option in the program, if your graphics card doesn't support the function and you use the noise option the program will exit with and error. (pic from site)
Hot TIP:
Adding more 'billboards':
In Spacescape, billboards are actually images stored in the media>materials>textures directory. There are about 11 that come with Spacescape and you use them to create the stars in the program. We can add more for free, here's how.
Note: You may need a good graphics card to use the 'noise' option in the program, if your graphics card doesn't support the function and you use the noise option the program will exit with and error. (pic from site)
Hot TIP:
Adding more 'billboards':
In Spacescape, billboards are actually images stored in the media>materials>textures directory. There are about 11 that come with Spacescape and you use them to create the stars in the program. We can add more for free, here's how.
- Download the shareware version of the excellent Universe Image Creator Standalone version(~700KB) (you could also buy it if you want) and install it.
- Launch the program and choose from enabled buttons on the menu bar and 'draw' on the black area. You can draw many different objects from the menu and change their color. Save your work as a JPEG image.
- Crop the JPEG so that there is only one object per picture. You can use MS paint if you need to.
- Copy all the individual pictures to the media>materials>textures directory of the Spacescape folder.
- You can now use them in the program, make sure that from the Layer type: option that billboards is selected and then type the name of the image you want to use in the Billboard Texture option (at the bottom)
ShapeShop (9.8MB) [Windows only]
Well at least it looks like a cow!
Innovative 3D modelling program that uses sketch-based modelling techniques as well a mouse gestures to create and manipulate 3D models.
Features:
Note:
1.While the program can be easier to use than conventional 3D modelling programs, it is highly recommended that users read the included manual or at least watch the videos listed on the site to get use to interacting with ShapeShop. This is because ShapeShop uses techniques to create and manipulate 3D models that is unlike (almost) any other 3D modelling program!
2. The program is still in beta and some features may not be functioning as yet.
Features:
- Supports sketch-based modelling which makes it easier to create models.
- Supports the importing of textures.
- Exports to .OBJ, .STL, .COLLADA and .MeshLite formats.
- Mirroring and hollowing operators added to recent build.
Note:
1.While the program can be easier to use than conventional 3D modelling programs, it is highly recommended that users read the included manual or at least watch the videos listed on the site to get use to interacting with ShapeShop. This is because ShapeShop uses techniques to create and manipulate 3D models that is unlike (almost) any other 3D modelling program!
2. The program is still in beta and some features may not be functioning as yet.
SolveSpace (2MB)[W]
A cool way to model objects.
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SOLVESPACE is a parametric 3d CAD program. Applications include:
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Tattoo (1.2MB) [Windows only]
Paint textures for 3D models
A simple yet powerful program to create textures for 3D models by quite literally painting onto the 3D models themselves. (also called projection painting) The program works like any other painting program and supports multiple brushes.
Tattoo is a free alternative to programs like BodyPaint3D (commercial) and Blacksmith3D(commercial) but with fewer features.
Features:
Tattoo is a free alternative to programs like BodyPaint3D (commercial) and Blacksmith3D(commercial) but with fewer features.
Features:
- Supports .3DS / .LWO / .X / .OBJ and .B3D file formats natively
- Create your own brushes (see included ReadMe.html)
- Tattoo Images into your Mesh (PNG, JPG, BMP and TGA formats)
- GFX Tablet support with Alpha Pressure.
- Free for non-commercial and commercial use.
Terrain Texture Generator (aka TerrTexGen) (~1.5MB)
A tool to create a complete texture map for terrains based on grey-scale heightmaps.
Features:
Features:
- Import custom textures for snow, grass, water etc...
- Supports creation of texture maps of up to 4096 x4096 pixels.
- Preview the texture map in 3D.
- Blurs texture maps based on sun position and orientation.
Terragen Classic(~1.6MB)
Made this scene in 10mins!
Popular landscape\terrain generation program. This tool is often used to create skyboxes for 3D games as well as animations. The interface needs a little getting use to, but once you know the basics you can create some really magnificent images.
Note:
1.This version is free for non-commercial use, using for commercial applications requires purchase and registration .
2.Terragen 2 is also available in a free (for non-commercial use)version but with higher system requirements.
3. The paid for versions have no such restrictions.
4.Creating a skybox using Terragen by Valve Development Community.
Note:
1.This version is free for non-commercial use, using for commercial applications requires purchase and registration .
2.Terragen 2 is also available in a free (for non-commercial use)version but with higher system requirements.
3. The paid for versions have no such restrictions.
4.Creating a skybox using Terragen by Valve Development Community.
Texture Studio(1.05MB)
Program for creating high quality seamless textures. Very easy to use just add a picture in the same folder as the program, import it and let the built in wizards to the rest!
Tiled Map Editor (~6.7MB) (OPEN SOURCE) [WML]
Powerful yet easy to use tile map generation tool.
Features:
Features:
- General purpose tile map editor with XML-based map format
- Supports orthogonal and isometric maps
- Custom objects can be placed with pixel precision
- Full undo/redo and copy/paste support
- Add custom properties to tiles, layers, objects or the map
- Automatically reloads tilesets when changed externally
- Resize or offset your tile map later as needed
- Efficient tile editing tools like stamp and fill brushes
- Supports exporting to: Droidcraft map files (*.dat),Flare (*.txt),Json (*.json),Lua (*.lua),T-Engine4 (*.lua),TMW-eAthena collison (*.wlk) and the image format PNG (*.PNG)
- Supports importing of: Tiled map (*.tmx),Droidcraft (*.dat) and Json (*.json)
- Supports Automapping.
- And more.
Tile Studio(1.1MB)
Tile Studio is a complete development utility for graphics of tile-based games. The application contains a bitmap editor for creating tiles and sprites and a map editor for designing level maps.(from site)
Similar function to Mappy for creating maps and levels for 2D games especially for 2D platform games. Output is in bitmap (*.bmp)and png(*.png).
Similar function to Mappy for creating maps and levels for 2D games especially for 2D platform games. Output is in bitmap (*.bmp)and png(*.png).
Truespace 3.2 (20MB) [DIRECT DOWNLOAD]
Although it is an older version of Truespace 7 many people prefer this one. This is a 3D modeling and rendering program with lots of features.
Note:
1. If the program asks for a serial key use this: 5300311729374
2.This version is completely free and legal to my knowledge.
3.If you want to learn how to use Truespace 3 click here.
4. For those still looking for Truespace 7.61 (with version 6.6).
Note:
1. If the program asks for a serial key use this: 5300311729374
2.This version is completely free and legal to my knowledge.
3.If you want to learn how to use Truespace 3 click here.
4. For those still looking for Truespace 7.61 (with version 6.6).
.Werkkzeug 1.2(~600Kb)[direct download]
.Werkkzeug 3(~900KB)[direct download]
Pic from site of werkkeug 1
Powerful tools to create 3D demos as well as games.
.werkkzeug 1 Only allows to create non-interactive 3D demos like the popular demo and the demos can be as small as 64KB including player.
.werkkzeug 3 "With this new version of .werkkzeug you can create not only demos, but games too. This version is limited because it is unable to create exe files, but you can simply use .wz3 as player or render video. WZ3 provides many functions, such as anaglyptic rendering, doing advanced animation, wavelet-transformations and advanced video effects. "(from site)
Note:These tools are very powerful and need a good graphics cards to use them. Also make sure you read the tutorials to see how to use these tools. For more information click here.
.werkkzeug 3 was one of the tools used to make .kkrieger
.werkkzeug 1 Only allows to create non-interactive 3D demos like the popular demo and the demos can be as small as 64KB including player.
.werkkzeug 3 "With this new version of .werkkzeug you can create not only demos, but games too. This version is limited because it is unable to create exe files, but you can simply use .wz3 as player or render video. WZ3 provides many functions, such as anaglyptic rendering, doing advanced animation, wavelet-transformations and advanced video effects. "(from site)
Note:These tools are very powerful and need a good graphics cards to use them. Also make sure you read the tutorials to see how to use these tools. For more information click here.
.werkkzeug 3 was one of the tools used to make .kkrieger
Wings 3D (~9MB)(OPEN SOURCE)[WML]
"Wings 3D is an advanced subdivision modeler that is both powerful and easy to use.
Originally inspired by Nendo and Mirai from Izware, Wings has been developed since 2001, when Björn Gustavsson and Dan Gudmundsson first started the project. Richard Jones (optigon) maintained Wings and coded most of the new additions between 2006 and 2011. Wings 3D is currently maintained by Dan Gudmundsson (aka dgud at github and sourceforge).
Wings 3D offers a wide range of modeling tools, a customizable interface, support for lights and materials, and a built-in AutoUV mapping facility. " (From Site)
There is no support in Wings for animation.
Originally inspired by Nendo and Mirai from Izware, Wings has been developed since 2001, when Björn Gustavsson and Dan Gudmundsson first started the project. Richard Jones (optigon) maintained Wings and coded most of the new additions between 2006 and 2011. Wings 3D is currently maintained by Dan Gudmundsson (aka dgud at github and sourceforge).
Wings 3D offers a wide range of modeling tools, a customizable interface, support for lights and materials, and a built-in AutoUV mapping facility. " (From Site)
There is no support in Wings for animation.
Wood Workshop (4.4MB)
Specialized program designed to create seamless wood textures. Supports texture sizes of up to 3000x3000 pixles! Variety of options to choose from.
xNormal (~202MB) [W]
"xNormal is an application to generate normal / ambient occlusion / displacement maps. It can also project the texture of the highpoly model into the lowpoly mesh ( complete texture transfer, even with different topologies ).
It also includes an interactive 3D viewer ( with advanced shaders and realtime soft shadows / glow effect ), some Photoshop filters and importers/exporters for 3dsmax and Maya.
It supports high levels of parallelism using multicore/multithreading, distributed/parallel rendering, ray tracing and advanced GPGPU techniques." (From site)
It also includes an interactive 3D viewer ( with advanced shaders and realtime soft shadows / glow effect ), some Photoshop filters and importers/exporters for 3dsmax and Maya.
It supports high levels of parallelism using multicore/multithreading, distributed/parallel rendering, ray tracing and advanced GPGPU techniques." (From site)
Zpaint(286KB)
Create professional button images for programs,games, website etc..
Easy to use program for creating button images for programs, games and websites etc. You can also import your own textures to use in the program (Bitmap and JPEG only)
You can also create images for basic 2D games like Breakout with minimal effort. (example)
You can also create images for basic 2D games like Breakout with minimal effort. (example)
Want more ?
Even more Game Creators:
ADRIFT: A program to create interactive text adventures or interactive fiction.
Adventure Creation Kit(21MB) : Game creator for creating 1980's style games like Ultima and Questron. Ambrosine's resources page (Note some of the game makers on the page may no longer be available)
3Dxo.com (3D game engines list)
Wikipedia Game engines list
Ray Game Designer 2 (3MB) Old Free 3D game creator (which doesn't need coding), note the help file is only in French!
Game Makers List from g4g.it ( Note:Lots of duplicates)
Power Game Factory: Open Source 2D side scrolling game creator only for the MAC
Pendix: 3D modelling tool to create simple blocky shapes easily, still in early development.
Game Development: General
NetLogo is a multi-agent programmable modeling environment. It is used by tens of thousands of students, teachers and researchers worldwide.
Big List of Game Design by Pixelprospector: Very comprehensive list of game design articles.
BAFTA Video Game competition for young game designers.
Game Development Blog by Chris DeLeon.
Even more Game Creators:
ADRIFT: A program to create interactive text adventures or interactive fiction.
Adventure Creation Kit(21MB) : Game creator for creating 1980's style games like Ultima and Questron. Ambrosine's resources page (Note some of the game makers on the page may no longer be available)
3Dxo.com (3D game engines list)
Wikipedia Game engines list
Ray Game Designer 2 (3MB) Old Free 3D game creator (which doesn't need coding), note the help file is only in French!
Game Makers List from g4g.it ( Note:Lots of duplicates)
Power Game Factory: Open Source 2D side scrolling game creator only for the MAC
Pendix: 3D modelling tool to create simple blocky shapes easily, still in early development.
Game Development: General
NetLogo is a multi-agent programmable modeling environment. It is used by tens of thousands of students, teachers and researchers worldwide.
Big List of Game Design by Pixelprospector: Very comprehensive list of game design articles.
BAFTA Video Game competition for young game designers.
Game Development Blog by Chris DeLeon.
Game Resources:
Retroremakes.com's Useful remaking Resources. (list of game creation resources and tools)
OpenGameart.org Huge list of game resources including 2D, 3D, sound and textures Free for non-commercial and Commercial use, read the FAQ if you want to use the resources in a commercial game (as some licenses require the source code of the game to be released. ).
IndieGameTools: Big list of game making tools in a somewhat funky website.
Big List of 3D modellers, terrains generators and more. (Including free and commercial programs)
The Game Creators Newsletter Lists recent game developments as well as game tools and even games!
Reiner's Tilesets-Source for game resources like 2D sprites,3D models, textures, sound effects and more.
Skyboxes and Sounds(midi and wave format) from redsorceress.com. If you don't know what a skybox is click here.
Another good list of game development tools maintained by the Ogre3D community. (Free and commercial)
Free Sound effects, 3D models and textures by Psionic's 3D Game resources
60 excellent Free 3D model websites by Kay Tan
Free background music for any purpose. Categories include: Rock, Pop, Disco and Electronica among others. You can also preview the music online. You should also read their FAQ for more info. The music is in MP3 format.
Retroremakes.com's Useful remaking Resources. (list of game creation resources and tools)
OpenGameart.org Huge list of game resources including 2D, 3D, sound and textures Free for non-commercial and Commercial use, read the FAQ if you want to use the resources in a commercial game (as some licenses require the source code of the game to be released. ).
IndieGameTools: Big list of game making tools in a somewhat funky website.
Big List of 3D modellers, terrains generators and more. (Including free and commercial programs)
The Game Creators Newsletter Lists recent game developments as well as game tools and even games!
Reiner's Tilesets-Source for game resources like 2D sprites,3D models, textures, sound effects and more.
Skyboxes and Sounds(midi and wave format) from redsorceress.com. If you don't know what a skybox is click here.
Another good list of game development tools maintained by the Ogre3D community. (Free and commercial)
Free Sound effects, 3D models and textures by Psionic's 3D Game resources
60 excellent Free 3D model websites by Kay Tan
Free background music for any purpose. Categories include: Rock, Pop, Disco and Electronica among others. You can also preview the music online. You should also read their FAQ for more info. The music is in MP3 format.
