GameMaker Runtime goes free for PC and mobile from January 1, 2027
YoYo Games says commercial use of the next-generation GameMaker Runtime will cost nothing on PC and mobile, while console distribution stays behind an enterprise plan.
YoYo Games announced on October 23 that commercial use of the next-generation GameMaker Runtime, known as GMRT, will become free starting January 1, 2027, according to Automaton Media. Under the change, developers will be able to create and distribute PC and mobile games with GMRT at no cost.
Console distribution is the exception. Shipping games built with GMRT to consoles will still require an enterprise plan, the company said.
Developers on Professional plans or higher will continue to be able to release games commercially using the existing GMS2 Runtime.
Background
An open beta of GMRT was released in July 2024, and development of the runtime continues. In 2023, GameMaker revised its pricing plans and expanded what the free plan allows for non-commercial use.
GameMaker has been the engine behind titles such as Undertale, Hotline Miami, Katana ZERO and VA-11 Hall-A.
Quick answers
When does free commercial use of GMRT start?
YoYo Games said commercial use of the GameMaker Runtime becomes free from January 1, 2027.
Can I release a console game with GMRT for free?
No. Distributing games to consoles with GMRT requires an enterprise plan.
What about the current GMS2 Runtime?
Developers on Professional plans or higher can still commercially release games made with the GMS2 Runtime.