GameMaker has been behind some of the most memorable indie games out there! From tight action platformers to genre-defining hits, this collection is a snapshot of some of our favorite games of what’s possible when small teams push simple tools in bold directions.
Hotline Miami by Dennaton Games is a GameMaker-built top-down action shooter driven by speed, precision, and brutal one-hit combat loops. A must-play for developers studying how instant feedback, high tension, and audiovisual intensity can turn simple mechanics into an addictive, fast-reset gameplay experience.
Rivals of Aether by Dan Fornace is a GameMaker-built competitive platform fighter focused on tight hitboxes, elemental character mechanics, and deep combo systems. A must-play for developers studying how to build readable yet high-skill combat, strong character identity, and fighting game responsiveness at speed.
UFO 50 by Mossmouth (Derek Yu & collaborators) is a GameMaker-built collection of 50 retro-inspired games, each exploring a different genre, mechanic, or design constraint within a shared universe. A must-play for developers studying rapid prototyping, creative variety, and how strong design constraints can produce surprising depth across many small experiences.
UNDERTALE by Toby Fox is a GameMaker-built RPG where combat, dialogue, and choice systems all reshape how the story unfolds. A must-play for developers studying how player decisions, humor, and emotional writing can completely redefine traditional combat and progression systems.
Shelldiver by Gagonfe is a GameMaker-built underwater action adventure where exploration, resource collection, and light combat unfold through a deep-sea diving experience. A great example of how atmosphere, exploration loops, and simple mechanics can combine into a focused, immersive gameplay journey.
Öoo by NamaTakahashi is a GameMaker-built puzzle-platformer where you guide a small bomb-like creature through quiet, minimal levels built around timing, experimentation, and subtle interaction. A strong example of how restraint, simplicity, and clarity can create deeply thoughtful puzzle design and atmosphere.
Pizza Tower by Tour De Pizza is a GameMaker-built high-speed platformer focused on momentum, expressive animation, and chaotic level flow. A must-play for developers studying how animation, sound, and movement combine to create extreme game feel and player-driven intensity.
Fields of Mistria by NPC Studio is a GameMaker-built cozy farm-life RPG that blends farming, exploration, and character-driven storytelling in a magic-filled village. A great study in how to combine progression systems, worldbuilding, and long-term content updates into a living, evolving game world.
Moonleap by Guselect is a GameMaker-built precision platformer centered around tight jumps, clever level layouts, and momentum-based movement. A great pick for developers studying how simple mechanics can be refined into challenging, highly readable gameplay.
Hyper Light Drifter by Heart Machine is a GameMaker-built action RPG that combines stunning pixel art, atmospheric worldbuilding, and fast, skill-based combat. A must-play for developers interested in visual storytelling, environmental design, and creating a rich game world with minimal dialogue.
Grapple Dog by Medallion Games is a momentum-driven platformer built with GameMaker. A must-play for developers looking to study responsive controls, game feel, and polished movement systems.
Grapple Dogs: Cosmic Canines by Medallion Games is a GameMaker-powered platformer featuring grappling hooks, fast movement, and two distinct playstyles. A great example of gameplay variety, polished controls, and sequel design done right.
Spelunky (Classic) by Derek Yu is a GameMaker-built roguelike platformer focused on emergent systems, procedural generation, and brutal but fair difficulty. A must-play for developers studying how simple rules can create endlessly replayable gameplay.
Cook, Serve, Delicious! by Vertigo Gaming is a GameMaker-built restaurant management sim focused on rapid multitasking, layered systems, and escalating complexity. A strong example of how UI, pressure, and progression can drive addictive gameplay loops.
Downwell by Moppin is a GameMaker-built vertical action roguelike built around simplicity, momentum, and weaponized movement. A great example of minimal controls producing deep mastery.
Nuclear Throne by Vlambeer is a GameMaker-built top-down roguelike shooter focused on extremely tight combat feel, randomness, and high replayability. A must-study for action design and “feel-first” gameplay.
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