GameMaker will allow the free release of commercial games on the new runtime starting in 2027
The developers of GameMaker have announced a change to the engine's licensing model.
Starting January 1, 2027, the development team will allow the free release of commercial games created using the new GMRT runtime for PC, mobile devices, and the web. Currently, this requires purchasing a Professional license costing $99.99.
It should be noted that GameMaker can already be used for free for game development, but commercial distribution of most projects requires a paid license. The exception is publication on the GX.games platform, which is available without any additional payments.
From 2027, the rules will change: developers will be able to sell games on GMRT without acquiring the Professional license. However, for projects using the old GMS2 runtime, the requirement to purchase a license will remain. The cost of the licenses themselves is not planned to change.
Moreover, GameMaker previously announced plans to grant all users access to the GMRT source code. Developers will be able to study and modify it within the scope of the license. Professional license holders are also promised access to the GMS2 source code.
For console games, the conditions will not change. Their commercial release, regardless of the runtime used, will still require an Enterprise subscription and obtaining approved developer status from the relevant platform holder.
GameMaker is a popular engine, which has previously been used in the creation of many indie games, including titles like Spelunky, Deltarune, and UFO 50. As of 2021, the engine is owned by Opera.