Construct - the free open-source game creator
Construct is a free, DirectX 9 game creator for Windows, designed for 2D games. It 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. Been disappointed by logic blocks or events in other programs? Wait until you try Construct.
Construct is not a commercial software project, instead being developed by volunteers. It is free to download the full version - no nag screens, adverts or restricted features, just the complete program for free. Construct is licensed under the GPL.
Indie game designers and hobbyists can use Construct to enter the world of game creation. Artists can produce games without having to use any programming. Teachers and students can use Construct to teach the principles of logic in a fun way. Developers can use it to rapidly create mockups and prototypes — or simply as a faster alternative to coding. Whoever you are, Construct has many features to help you. These are outlined here, or you can click the links on the right to go in to more detail.
Interface
Construct uses a ribbon interface for easy access to commands. The layout of the interface is fully customisable, so you can arrange it as you want. The layout editor provides a visual, what-you-see-is-what-you-get view of the level. Objects can be arranged on to layers. Find out more about the interface
Event sheets
Events, put simply, are lists of conditions, followed by a list of actions to be run when those conditions are met. However, they go a lot further than that. Events are logic blocks that work. Find out more about Construct's event system
Plugins & behaviors
Construct's plugin architecture means objects can be written by independent C++ developers, allowing unlimited expansion of Construct's capabilities. Behaviors are a way to give instant capabilities to an object, such as a platform movement, enabling line-of-sight, or even realistic physics simulations. Read more about Plugins & Behaviors
Effects & rendering
When you run your created game, the rendering is hardware-accelerated using DirectX, giving optimal performance by utilising the graphics card. This also allows you to use pixel shaders on objects, for advanced rendering effects. Read more about Construct's rendering
And more...
Construct has many features, interesting plugins and new behaviors, ranging from experimental to essential. Find out more about other features