RocketWerkz' C# framework 'BRUTAL' is now available to all developers
RocketWerkz and Ahwoo released BRUTAL, an open-source C# framework for game development, offering developers an alternative to third-party engines like Unity or Unreal.
RocketWerkz, the studio behind *Kitten Space Agency*, and Ahwoo, both founded by Dean Hall, have open-sourced BRUTAL, a C#-based framework designed to give developers greater control over game code. The framework integrates C# and .NET with C++ libraries and low-level graphics access, serving as a foundation for building proprietary tools or entire games from scratch. Its release follows industry concerns about the stability of third-party engines, particularly after controversies like Unity’s Runtime Fee and Unreal Engine’s Blueprint depreciation.
BRUTAL is available under an open-source license that permits commercial use without royalties, though it requires developers to include attribution and display a logo during gameplay. Unlike user-friendly engines such as Godot, BRUTAL is a programming framework that demands familiarity with C# and a willingness to work with foundational code. Its adoption is not plug-and-play but offers long-term flexibility for developers seeking independence from third-party dependencies.
The framework’s practicality was highlighted by Ludeon Studios’ recent port of *RimWorld* from Unity to a custom engine built on BRUTAL, which reportedly improved performance and startup times. Dean Hall, who has criticized Unity’s licensing practices, argues that programming frameworks like BRUTAL represent the future of game development, emphasizing developer autonomy. Hall’s stance stems from past disputes with Unity, including allegations of license termination threats over alleged terms of service violations.
BRUTAL’s design prioritizes structured, low-level control over ease of use, reflecting Hall’s belief that developers should have the option to build their own tools. While Hall does not intend for BRUTAL to become an industry standard, he encourages others to create simpler frameworks inspired by its approach. The framework’s complexity may deter some developers, but it provides a viable path for those willing to embrace its technical demands.