Open Platforms

Open Platform refers to a variety of other game-making tools that you can use in your design. Your game may be made using any game creation platform that permits the prototype to be played by the Challenge judges on a browser, personal computer or mobile device without the purchase of a subscription or license. You can use a tool not on the list below as long as it meets that requirement.

 

AgentSheets by AgentSheets, Inc.
agent cubesAgentSheets is a unique software authoring environment where users of all ages can build games, interactive demonstrations, modifiable simulations, and more!

To check out AgentSheets click here.

 

 

Flash by Adobe Systems Inc.
adobe

If you play games online, you have almost certainly played a game made with the Flash suite of development tools. As Adobe suggests on their product website, the Flash Platform is designed to help software developers rapidly develop cross-platform rich Internet applications and content using the open source Flex framework. It includes support for intelligent coding, debugging, and visual design and features powerful testing tools that speed up development and lead to higher performing applications.

To check out Flash click here.

 

GameSalad by Gendai Games Inc.
gamesalad

GameSalad is a game creation tool for non-programmers. With GameSalad, game makers of all levels can bring their ideas to life without programming a single line of code. Build games visually using a drag-and-drop interface along with a robust behavior system. Publish your games quickly and easy to the iPhone, iPod Touch, and the iPad.

To check out GameSalad click here.

MicroWorlds EX developed by LCSI
microworlds

MicroWorlds EX is the latest in a line of products used by millions of children (and adults) around the world. Students explore and test their ideas in this idea exploration and project creation environment that helps develop creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.

To check out MicroWorlds EX click here.

 

RPGMaker VX and RPGMaker XP by ENTERBRAIN,INC
rpgmaker

RPG Maker VX is software that helps you create you own unique RPG without any programming experience necessary.

RPGMaker XP is the latest entry in the RPG MAKER series that gives you the power to create your own original RPGs.

To check out RPGMaker click here.

 

Stagecast Creator by Stagecast Software, Inc.
Stagecast-Creator-thumb

Stagecast Creator is an easy-to-learn, easy-to-use software tool for making your own games and simulations. Starting with a blank stage, simply add a cast of characters using the included picture painter or imported graphics, then move the characters around to generate rules of behavior completely visually. Without using a programming language, you can easily create games or simulations and then share them with friends at home or on the Internet.

To check out Stagecast Creator click here.

 

The Game Creators
thegamecreators

The Game Creators offer a wide range of game making tools designed for hobbiest and indie developers. From the easy to use My Doodle Game and FPS Creator products to programming tools like Dark Basic and App Game Kit. There are many trial versions of the tools and some of them can be downloaded in a FREE to use format.

To check out The Game Creators click here.

 

Tululoo Game Maker by Silent Works
tululoogamemaker

Tululoo Game Maker is a complex game creation environment that allows you to create browser based games. The program generates a Javascript code that can be played in web browsers using the next generation web standard HTML5.

To check out Tululoo Game Maker click here.

 

Unity 3D by Unity Technologies

unity3d

Unity is the development environment that gets out of your way, allowing you to focus on simply creating your game. Developing for web, mobile, or console? Unity is the tool for the job.

To check out Unity 3D click here.

 

 

 

XNA Game Studio by Microsoft
Microsoft-XNA-Logo

Microsoft XNA Game Studio is a set of tools that allow students, hobbyists and independent developers to build games for both Microsoft Windows and Xbox 360. XNA Game Studio is based on the .NET Framework and includes custom managed code libraries, Xbox Live Support, and Games for Windows Live support to make multi-player game development easier.

Coupled with XNA Game Studio, the App Hub 12-month Student Membership opens up video game development to untapped creative minds, enabling anyone to affordably build and play their amazing game ideas on Xbox 360 systems for the first time ever.

To check out XNA Game Studio and the App Hub 12-month Student Membership click here.

 

Other Tools

Are you the maker/publisher of another game creation tool you’d like us to know about? Contact us.