Top 10 Most Popular Game Engines
A game engine is tool equipped with various functionalities to make easy game development process. Since there are many different programming languages, game engines can be also tailored to specific programming language. For example Unreal Engine provides libraries for C++ and Unity provides C# programming language.
Sometimes game engines provide their own unique programming language built on a different low level programming language to utilize its performance and to increase development speed and stability for the programmer.
By using a game engine you can benefit from complex programming task such as implementing physics or creating a water simulation. Such programming tasks require hi level of experience and also technical knowledge about the scientific approaches and the relevant programming language. In that sense a game engine helps you to save time by using their built-in functionalities for complex programming tasks.
| Game engines | Launching year | Top games | Price | Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UNITY | 2005 | Firewatch, Monument valley | Free. Paid plans start at $35 per month. | Windows 7+, macOS 10.12+, Linux |
| UNREAL ENGINE | 1998 | Bioshock, Batman | Free | Windows 7+, macOS 10.12+, Linux |
| GODOT | 2014 | Cruelty squad | Free | Windows 7+, macOS 10 |
| PHASER | 2013 | Bayou island | Free | Windows 7+, Linux |
| GAME MAKER STUDIO 2 | 2012 | Undertale, Katana zero | Free. Memberships start at $39 per month | Windows 7+, macOS 10.12+, Linux |
| ARMORY | 2020 | Armory 3d | Free | Windows 7+, Linux |
| CRYENGINE | 2002 | Far cry, Crysis | Free. Memberships start at $50 per month | Windows 7+, macOS 10.12+, Linux |
| DEFOLD | 2002 | Bring me cakes, potato jam | Free | Windows 7+, macOS 10.12+, Linux |
| Amazon lumberyard | 2016 | Star citizen, New world | Free | Windows 7+, macOS 10.12+, Linux |
| Gamesalad | 2012 | 8 bit space | Free | Windows 7+, Linux |
Game Maker Studio 2
Game Maker Studio 2 is an easy to start making games if you don’t have any programming experience. GameMaker makes game development easy, regardless of your background or skill level. All you need is an idea!
Check the following youtube video and see how it is easy to create a platformer game in short amount of time.
Yet another video serie showcasing the creation of a scrolling type platformer gamer.
Unity
Unity tutorials for educators to start with beginner level.
Lesson 1.1 - Start your 3D Engines - Unity Learn
Unreal Engine
The Unreal Engine is a powerful game engine that is widely used for creating high-quality, visually impressive games. It is known for its advanced graphics capabilities, including realistic lighting, shaders, and visual effects. The engine is also well-suited for large, complex game projects and is a popular choice for AAA game development. However, it requires more powerful hardware and may not be the best fit for simpler or solo game projects.