2024’s Top 20 Amazon Lumberyard Alternatives

Amazon Lumberyard is a free, cross-platform game engine developed by Amazon Game Tech. It is based on CryEngine and offers integration with AWS and Twitch. The engine has evolved into Open 3D Engine, managed by the Open 3D Foundation.

To explore alternatives to Amazon Lumberyard, one can consider Unreal Engine, Unity, CryEngine, Open 3D Engine, Stride, Defold, jMonkeyEngine, GameMaker, O3DE, Babylon.js, libGDX, GameSalad, Construct 3, Roblox, Solar2D, Panda3D, Heaps, Phaser, Love2D, and RPG Maker.

Unreal Engine

Unreal Engine (UE), developed by Epic Games, is a renowned series of 3D computer graphics game engines first showcased in the game Unreal in 1998.

Primarily developed for PC first-person shooters, it now finds usage across a plethora of industries including film and television.

Unreal Engine Top Features

Fully written in C++, supporting a wide range of platforms from desktop and mobile to console and virtual reality.
Updated version Unreal Engine 5, available from April 2022.
UE incorporates a level editor, UnrealEd, supporting real-time constructive solid geometry operations.
UE3 was open for modders, enabling widespread community input and innovation.
Introduced Unreal Development Kit (UDK), supporting creation of iOS games and apps.
Unreal Engine Marketplace enables sale and purchase of developer’s creations, boosting ecosystem richness.

Key Offering	Benefit
Basic Project Templates	Provides a strong starting point for first-person or third-person experiences.
Royalty Model Waiving	Waived for games published on the Epic Games Store, enhancing profitability.
Strategic Global Alliances	Helps popularize its use worldwide, propagating its footprint and influence.

Unreal Engine Downsides

Epic charges royalties of 5{66f7997927a862c9f57ec7dffc6a2fe6d405caee7001dff533b976d48fe118b1} for revenues over USD 1 Million for commercial use.
The high learning curve for beginners, particularly if unfamiliar with C++.

Unreal Engine Pricing

Unreal Engine operates on a royalty model, charging 5{66f7997927a862c9f57ec7dffc6a2fe6d405caee7001dff533b976d48fe118b1} of revenues from products making more than $3,000 per quarter. However, for games published on the Epic Games Store, the royalty model is waived.

Unreal Engine Use Cases

Use Case 1: Game Development

Unreal Engine with its advanced C++ development environment is ideal for creating cutting-edge, immersive games across platforms.

Use Case 2: Film and Television

The 3D graphics capabilities of UE can be leveraged for special effects in film and television, creating lifelike scenarios and characters.

Use Case 3: Education

Universities and schools have free access to UE, facilitating next-gen learning and research in game development and VR/AR experiences.

Unity

Launched in 2005, Unity is a sophisticated game development engine admired for creating 2D and 3D games. It’s competent enough to support cross-platform games, including Android and iOS.

Unity Top Features

Cross-platform support enabling developers to develop games for both Android and iOS platforms.
Supports a variety of coding languages including BOO script, Javascript, and C#.
Built-in asset store with a wide range of pre-designed textures and features, helping developers to ideate game designs better.
Dynamic community of developers offering mutual assistance, problem-solving, and feedback for system enhancement.

Feature	Description
Adaptability	Highly versatile, supporting creation of a range of applications from AR to 3D simulations.
High-Quality Game Creation	Comes loaded with tools, rendering technology, and diverse features facilitating high-quality game creation.
User-friendliness	Constantly evolving its technology to improve compatibility, immersive visual experiences, and ease of use.

Unity Downsides

New pricing strategy expected to roll out on January 1, 2024, has sparked a backlash from developers.
Unannounced changes in strategy has eroded trust among its users.
The shift in pricing model could significantly impact financial sustainability of game developers.
Solo, indie, mobile developers face potential risk due to per-install fees.

Unity Pricing

The Unity payment model involves developers paying a fee each time a game using Unity software is installed. With a revision to be effective from January 1, 2024, a significant number of developers have voiced concerns. However, Unity assures that developers will not be charged an install fee until their game reaches $200,000 in revenue and crosses 200,000 installations. Thus, it strikes a balance by providing both free and paid versions of Unity with numerous features.

Unity Use Cases

Use case 1

Unity stands out as an exceptional choice for developing Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) games. It’s continuously enhancing adaptability for AR/VR features.

Use case 2

As a cross-platform engine, Unity is an excellent solution for developers aiming to launch games across diverse platforms, effectively encompassing a wider user base.

Use case 3

For developers seeking robust community support, Unity’s active developer community offers an invaluable resource for assistance and feedback, fueling constant learning and system improvement.

libGDX

Envisage a platform that harnesses the raw power of intense coding and flexibility, that is libGDX. A tenured and distinguished Java game development entity extending its virtuosity across multiple platforms.

libGDX Top Features

Unfaltering cross-platform compatibility for Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS, and the Web.
Rendering is at its zenith with OpenGL ES 2.0/3.0 integration.
A true ode to Java, it leverages the entire Java ecosystem such as IDEs, Git support and various libraries.
Empowered input handling system accommodating multiple touchpoints like mouse, keyboard, touchscreen, controllers and sensors.
Exhibits robust graphics and UI features.
Baked in support for 2D physics (via Box2D) and 3D physics (via Bullet).
Supports in-app purchases and readily integrates with AdMob, Google Play Games and Apple Game Center.

Features	Benefits
Audio streaming	Supports diverse audio formats like WAV, MP3, OGG ensuring high-quality audio.
Firebase integration	Augments data syncing and user authentication, fortifying the game foundation.
Opensource	Offers the freedom for customization, catering to specific requirements.

libGDX Downsides

Requires intensive coding knowledge, which might be demanding for novices.
Leaning towards applications requiring fine-tuned controls, hence might be excessive for simpler games.

libGDX Pricing

LibGDX does not put a price on your dreams, it is entirely free-to-use, and it maintains a strong commitment to open-source ethos.

libGDX Use Cases

Use case 1 – 2D/3D Games

Due to its efficacious suite of physics engines and detailed graphics features, it is a powerful tool for crafting both 2D and 3D games.

Use case 2 – Multiplatform Games

Elevate your game to a larger audience with libGDX, offering smooth cross-platform execution.

Use case 3 – Customizable Games

Foster your unique game-play vision to reality as libGDX is open source, facilitating a refined level of customization.

GameSalad

Let’s introduce GameSalad, an easy-to-use, drag-and-drop game creation engine that allows you to develop games for iPhone, iPad, Android, and HTML5. It’s been used in over 223 schools, providing a platform for learning computer science concepts and logic based thinking in an interactive setting.

GameSalad Top Features

Full Spectrum of Platforms: Supports Android, iOS, Windows, and Amazon Marketplace.
Drag-and-drop Coding: A straightforward, user-friendly coding platform which eliminates the need for extensive programming knowledge.
In-App Previewer for Testing: Refine your games with hands-on testing directly in the development environment.

Feature	Description
Web Publishing System	Facilitates cross-platform publishing, broadening your game’s reach.
Extended Features with GameSalad Pro	Includes social features and monetization options, along with attractive discounts for students, educators, and US Military.

GameSalad Downsides

Discontinued Free Memberships: In 2015, GameSalad decided to no longer offer free memberships.
Staff Reductions: In 2012, the company laid off half its staff, potentially leading to longer customer service response times.

GameSalad Pricing

The pricing structure of GameSalad is not mentioned in the provided summary but given their past, a free-to-make model could be an expectation.

GameSalad Use Cases

Use Case 1 – Education

GameSalad has been employed in school settings, helping students grasp complex computer science concepts in a fun, interactive way. It promotes STEAM learning and aligns with both the ISTE standards and state CS standards.

Use Case 2 – Game Development

If you’re keen on developing games for iOS, Android, and HTML5 without needing extensive coding knowledge, GameSalad serves as a great tool with its user-friendly, drag-and-drop interface.

Construct 3

Welcome aboard the Construct 3 express, a beloved buffet of 2D magic whipped up by Scirra Ltd. The platform is HTML5 based, thriving in browser flexibility, and even offers an offline mode. Notably, its ‘event sheets’ are the main chefs, adding the spice to the game creation process.

Construct 3 Top Features

Rapid 2D game development using logic-based actions through ‘event sheets’.
Platform flexibility with browser-friendly design and offline use support.
In-built pixel editor for crafting game graphics.
Strong support of behaviors including solid, platform, tile movement, etc.
Outstanding for non-coding language operations, significantly reducing game development time.
Allows export of games as web apps or using an HTML wrapper.

Feature	Description
Cross-browser support	Accommodates Google Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer 9+, Safari 6+, and Opera 15+.
JavaScript integration	Latest update includes JavaScript as an optional scripting language for advanced needs.
Education-friendly	Used in 400 US schools across 48 states for teaching coding and game design.

Construct 3 Limitations

Challenges in creating large-sized games.
Support for 3D game development is estimated at a meager 0{66f7997927a862c9f57ec7dffc6a2fe6d405caee7001dff533b976d48fe118b1}.
Lack of native exporters and dependency on the device’s support for web content.
Limited support for creations on multiple platforms – Apple TV users, we feel you!

Construct 3 Pricing

While Construct 3 is generous with a free version, for those looking to boost their game-building power, the personal plan stands at a comfortable $99/year.

Construct 3 Use Cases

Use case 1: Indie Developers

Construct 3 is a gem in the indie developers’ toolkit, enabling swift creation of games without dipping feet into coding waters.

Use case 2: Educators

With it being extensively used in schools for engaging coding curricula, this is a great ally for teachers seeking to blend fun with learning.

Use case 3: Beginner Programmers

Construct 3, boasting an easy-to-grasp, non-coding environment is a fantastic playground for the early days of programming adventures.

Roblox

Founded in 2004 by David Baszucki and Erik Cassel, Roblox stands as a titan in the universe of game development engines, operating as a mammoth online platform for game creation and gameplay. Folding robust tools like its proprietary engine, Roblox Studio, and a Lua derivative, Luau, into its folds, the platform boasts over 50 million user-generated games and the loyalty of 100 million monthly active users.

Roblox Top Features

Several avenues for creative expressions: Allows users to generate games, foster interactive experiences, and forge custom characters.
Supports unstructured play and collaborative development: Empowering a sense of community and mutual support.
Inclusive demographics: A diverse player base including substantial engagement from females and girls primarily from the UK.
A fruitful platform: Recompenses creators generously with payouts reportedly surpassing $100M in 2019 alone.
Virtual currency system: Robux enhances the in-app purchase experience.

External Software Compatibility	Teaching Resources Available
Integrates Blender for modelling and animation.	Offers game development basics and Roblox programming languages, online classes, published books and YouTube tutorials.
Supports gameplay on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Xbox One, Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest Pro, PlayStation 4.	Strong presence in YouTube tutorial communities and social media networks.

Roblox Downsides

Moderation Issues: Criticized for its difficulty in controlling adult content and misuse by adult players.
Microtransaction critiques: The platform’s system of in-app purchases has sparked controversy.
Frequent Allegations: The platform has encountered allegations of hosting child-exploitative practices.

Roblox Pricing

Primarily free-to-play, Roblox offers the option for in-app purchases using its virtual currency, Robux.

Roblox Use Cases

Use case 1 – Aspiring Game Developers

With robust learning resources for game development basics and programming languages, Roblox acts as an impressive training ground for aspiring game developers.

Use case 2 – Social Gamers

Roblox’s commendable emphasis on unstructured play and community interaction makes it an ideal platform for social gamers seeking community-based, interactive experiences.

Use case 3 – Freelancing Developers and Small Businesses

With its rewarding payout strategy and the promise of an audience of millions, Roblox emerges as a promising platform for freelancing developers and small businesses in the realm of game development.

Solar2D

Occupying a unique space in the realm of game development engines, Solar2D, formerly known as Corona SDK, offers a cross-platform solution well-regarded for its potent features and applicability. Ideal for mobile, desktop and TV devices, Solar2D supports iOS, tvOS, Android, Android TV, macOS, Windows, Linux, HTML5 and more.

Solar2D Top Features

Unified code base for diverse platform development, boosting productivity.
Instant-update Simulator and Live Builds for real-time testing and updates.
Solar2D Native for activation of native libraries/APIs.
Thorough plugin collection for comprehensive app functionalities.
A robust community with a decade-long history promises extensive support.

Qualities	Description
Language	Backed by Lua, a premier scripting language in game development.
Privacy concerns	No tracking or data gathering. You retain rights to your source code.
Licensing	100{66f7997927a862c9f57ec7dffc6a2fe6d405caee7001dff533b976d48fe118b1} free, open-source with MIT license.

Solar2D Limitations

Predominantly 2D-oriented, limiting 3D development.
Reliant on plugins for expanded functionality. Potential issues if plugins are outdated or unsupported.

Solar2D Pricing

Solar2D’s usage is without cost, free from hidden fees or royalties. It’s an open-source platform, ensuring contributions and enhancements from a broad developer community.

Solar2D Use Cases

Use case 1: Mobile App Development

Solar2D’s cross-platform compatibility paired with an immense plugin directory enables swift and efficient mobile app development. Suitable for both iOS and Android applications.

Use case 2: Desktop Software Development

Whether it’s macOS, Windows, or Linux, Solar2D’s unified code base facilitates smooth desktop application creation. Its potent APIs expedite development, enhancing time efficiency.

Use case 3: TV Device Applications

From Apple TV to Android TV, Solar2D stands a favored choice for TV device application development, stripping away the complexities related to multi-platform development.

Panda3D

Born from the innovative minds at Disney Interactive and Carnegie Mellon University, Panda3D is a pioneering game engine that enables 3D rendering and game development for Python and C++. Not just a tool for the professionals, this engine opens the doors to ambitious tech enthusiasts with a basic understanding of Python and APIs.

Top Features of Panda3D

Python and C++ Support: Fully functional with both languages, providing automatic management of engine structures with Python’s garbage collector.
Feature-Rich: A comprehensive engine that packs in graphics, audio, I/O, collision detection, AI, networking, and finite state machines.
Advanced Shaders: Offering modern per-pixel lighting techniques, gloss and normal map, automatic shader synthesis.
Open Source: Free for usage and contribution, fostering a community of developers around the world.

Feature	Description
3D Audio	Powered by FMOD, OpenAL or Miles Sound System.
Physics System	Integrated with the engine to bring realism to your virtual worlds.
Third-Party Libraries	Compatible with FMOD, Nvidia Cg, DirectX, and MFC.

Limitations of Panda3D

Not for Novices: Panda3D requires a basic understanding of Python and APIs, hence it may not be suitable for beginners.
Less User-Friendly Setup: The setup process can be relatively complicated due to specific building and configuration instructions for different operating systems.

Panda3D Pricing

As an enticing part of its offering, Panda3D is an open-source and completely free game engine.

Use Cases of Panda3D

Commercial Games Development

With its versatility and advanced features, Panda3D has already been employed in the development of major games such as Toontown Online and Pirates of the Caribbean Online.

University Courses and Research

Thanks to its roots in academia, Panda3D is often utilized in university courses and research projects, offering a robust platform for exploration and learning.

Open Source Projects

Built on community contributions, Panda3D lends itself excellently to open source game projects looking for a cost-effective, highly capable game engine.

Heaps

Introducing Heaps-a mature, cross-platform graphics engine beloved for crafting high-performance games. It’s enough to give GPUs a new perspective on life, and you, a fun-filled gaming experience!

Top Heaps Features

A design party with modern GPUs
Developed with Haxe programming language- the handyman’s tool of coding!
Powers games that you might be crushing on: Rushberry Mercs, Voidrun, Nuclear Blaze, Evoland, and let’s not forget Northgard!
A welcoming social club for developers and creators to swap and share content
Flexible with its 2D and 3D capabilities like an Olympic gymnast
Supports multiple game genres – think Arcade, Role Playing, Real-time Strategy
A platform independence – the gaming world’s peaceful Latvia, perhaps!

Heaps	Beneficial Features
Pioneering	Initiated by Nicolas Cannasse, one of Haxe’s creators!
Performance-Optimized	Stability beyond question, displaying sheer power in game titles!
Haxe-based	A useful way to build up portability; flashbacks to the golden age of Flash anyone?

Heaps Downsides

Less of a game engine, more of a library – imagine a librarian at a rock concert
If you’re a beginner, the learning curve may be a tad steep, like climbing tech’s Mount Everest
Limited out-of-the-box support; not all you want might be in the package

Heaps Pricing

All good things in life are free, right? Heaps is open source just like Grandma’s secret cookie recipe!

Heaps Use Cases

Casual and Indie Developers

Sick of Unity’s quirks or Godot’s whims? Heaps is the refreshing alternative you’ve been craving.

Developers Migrating from Flash

If Flash’s demise felt like losing an old friend, meet Haxe: your new best buddy with heaps of features.

Heaps, for Building Portable Games

Going places? Your game can too! Heaps’s integration into a codebase for portability makes it your new global companion.

Phaser

Welcome to the versatile world of Phaser. A JavaScript and TypeScript-based 2D game framework, Phaser effortlessly supports HTML5 games for desktop and mobile alike.

Phaser Top Features

Canvas and WebGL renderer for quick rendering, with auto-switch based on browser support.
Games deployable to iOS, Android, and native desktop apps using tools such as Apache Cordova and PhoneGap.
Multitude of versions including Phaser 1, 2, CE, 3 and the in-development Phaser 4, each with its unique specifications and developer communities.
Compatible with any browser supporting canvas element.
Multiple physics systems including Arcade Physics, Ninja Physics, and P2.JS.
Web and HTML5 audio for sound playback.
Over 1800 examples and active community support to make game development easy and accessible.
Phaser Mini-Degree from Zenva Academy for beginner-friendly learning and skills upgrade.

Folder	Function
Scripts/js	Contains the framework file and game code.
src folder	Stores source files.
assets folder	Holds graphic & sound assets, tilemaps, and miscellaneous data.

Phaser Downsides

Lacking in 3D capabilities due to its focus on 2D game development.
May require substantial initial learning time for beginners unfamiliar with JavaScript or TypeScript.

Phaser Pricing

Delightfully, Phaser is a free, open-source software, making it an accessible option for all developers.

Phaser Use Cases

Use case 1: Indie Game Development

With its robust, feature-rich platform, Phaser promises unprecedented support to indie developers looking to craft unique, immersive web-based games.

Use case 2: Learning and Education

For those keen on enhancing their game development skills or breaking into the industry, Phaser serves as an invaluable learning resource thanks to its comprehensive support, vast examples library, and a beginner-friendly Phaser Mini-Degree.

Use case 3: Rapid Prototyping

Phaser’s quick rendering and flexibility make it an ideal choice for developers looking for a rapid-prototype solution for their game ideas.

Love2D

Embarking on a journey through the realm of 2D game development, Love2D (or LÖVE) emerges as a free and open-source game framework. Initially released in 2008 and penned in C++, Love2D caters to a wide range of platforms including FreeBSD, OpenBSD, NetBSD, Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android.

Love2D Top Features

Free and Open-Source – Published under zlib License.
Supports Lua Scripting Language – Extendable and flexible script language.
Multi-Platform Compatibility – Wide range of supported systems.
Extensive Format Support – Accommodates audio formats WAV, OGG, MP3, and image formats PNG, JPEG, GIF, TGA, BMP.
Physics Engine – Incorporates Box2D for realistic in-game physics.

SDL and OpenGL Compatibility	Libraries wolf in harmony with SDL and OpenGL, including OpenGL ES 2 and 3
LÖVE2D	Purposely crafted for 2D game development.
Active Community Support	LÖVE’s Discord server, IRC channel, and issue tracker foster a lively, supportive community.

Love2D Disadvantages

Limited to 2D Games – Lacks the power to develop 3D games like Unreal, Unity.
No Guarantee of Cross-Platform Game Compatibility – No guarantee of games working between different LÖVE versions.
No Graphical Interface – Limited visual modules to interact with.

Love2D Pricing

As an open-source framework, Love2D doesn’t have any pricing attached. It’s accessible, free for all, and supports the developer community’s spirit of sharing and collaboration.

Love2D Use Cases

Use Case 1: Game Development Competitions

Love2D, with its swift adaptability and compatibility, finds utility in game development competitions like Ludum Dare. Its openness allows developers to experiment and innovate freely.

Use Case 2: Indie Game Developers

The accessibility and flexibility of Love2D make it a favourite among indie game developers. Its physics engine and 2D game focus are beneficial for crafting unique single or multiplayer games.

Use Case 3: Educational Purpose

As an open-source platform, Love2D serves as an excellent resource for students and educators alike. The platform aids in understanding how 2D games are developed and encourages diving into the world of coding.

RPG Maker

An established player in game development engines, RPG Maker, developed by ASCII, Enterbrain, Agetec, Degica, Gotcha Gotcha Games, has been serving developers since its maiden release on December 17, 1992. English, Japanese, Korean and Chinese languages are supported. Originally designed for the development of story-driven RPGs, RPG Maker has expanded and evolved across diverse platforms, from the initial NEC PC-9801 to present ones like Windows, Mac, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation 4.

RPG Maker Top Features

No coding knowledge required: With its user-friendly interface, RPG Maker MV allows individuals to venture into game development.
Robust character creation options: Ripe for customization, RPG Maker offers an array of character features.
Support across platforms: Windows, Mac, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo 3DS, Linux, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Gameboy – RPG Maker leaves no stone unturned.

Version	Release Date
Initial Release	December 17, 1992
Latest Stable Version (RPG Maker MZ)	August 27, 2020

RPG Maker Downsides

Design limitations: While the engine is robust, making a game without a skilled developer could lead to failure due to engine limitations.
Controversy: Games, including “Super Columbine Massacre RPG!” and “Heartbeat”, have sparked controversy given their content.

RPG Maker Pricing

Welcome to a world of extensive customization. Over 200 DLCs available, ranging between $5-$25, RPG Maker MV allows you to enhance the gaming experience.