GameMaker's GMRT runtime will soon be free for all developers
GameMaker will make its GMRT runtime free for all developers starting January 1, 2027, expanding distribution options to PC, mobile, browser, and GX Games without requiring a professional license.
GameMaker, the 2D game engine owned by Opera, announced that its GMRT runtime will become free for all developers beginning January 1, 2027. Previously, developers needed a professional license to distribute games using GMRT or the older GMS2 runtime. The change removes this barrier, allowing broader access to shipping games on platforms such as PC, mobile, browser, and GX Games. The company framed the move as part of an effort to make indie development on GameMaker more accessible.
The update follows GameMaker’s April 2026 introduction of GMRT, which introduced new tooling including AI-based programming support via Claude Code. Developers will now have greater flexibility in how they use GameMaker, alongside a simplified commercial model for new projects. The company also suggested that the community could explore, adapt, or contribute to the technology, reflecting a shift toward openness.
Existing professional license holders will retain access to the GMS2 runtime and its source code, though they will not automatically gain GMRT capabilities. Developers targeting PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, or Nintendo Switch 2 will still require an enterprise license. The announcement arrives as other major engines explore AI-driven workflows and alternative distribution models.
Industry context shows competing strategies among platforms like Unity, Epic Games, and Godot, each integrating AI coding tools or streamlining workflows. Despite these shifts, GameMaker’s focus on 2D development continues to attract a dedicated user base. Developers interested in Godot’s offerings can visit its website for further details.