Downloading Game Maker
The latest version of Game Maker is version 6.1. Version 6.1 adds a number of new features, in particular a better installer, a simple explosion and special effects generator, drawing surfaces, and an improved image editor. Also a large number of small changes were made and many bugs have been corrected. You can still download old versions through the Old Versions Page. For a more extended list see the Changes document.

Game Maker runs on the Windows platform, versions 98 SE, 2000, ME, XP (and later). It does require a DirectX 8 or higher compatible graphics graphics card with at least 16MB of video memory (preferably 32 MB or more). Also a DirectX 8 or higher compatible sound card is required. DirectX version 8.0 or later is required (not included; you can download it at the Microsoft DirectX page).

There are two versions of Game Maker: the free unregistered version and the full registered version.

Free Version
The unregistered version of Game Maker can be used for free. Simply download it here, and execute gmaker.exe. This will install the Game Maker on your machine.
Game Maker version 6.1 (3.6 MB)
If you have problems with downloading executables, you can also download a zip file containing the program. Unzip it and run gmaker.exe inside it to install it. Read the included license agreement before using the program.
Zip version of Game Maker version 6.1 (3.6 MB)

These downloads contain a few example games and a small collection of sprites, backgrounds, sounds, etc. If you want more resources go to the Resources page.

Full Version
The full version of Game Maker has a number of important extra features, in particular:

  • No Game Maker logo when running a game.
  • Rotated, color blended and translucent sprites.
  • Additional actions for e.g. CD music, rotated text, and colorized shapes.
  • Special sound effects and positional sound.
  • A number of advanced drawing functions, e.g. for textured polygons.
  • A particle system to create fireworks, flames, rain, and other effects.
  • Functions for 3D graphics.
  • The possibility of making multiplayer games that can be played over a network.
  • Functions to create and modify resources (sprites, backgrounds, etc.) while the game is running.
  • A collection of functions to create and use data structures.
  • Functions for motion planning.
  • The possibility of extending Game Maker using DLLs.

If you want to check out what these features actually mean, you can download the Registered Features Demo (2.0 MB).

To obtain the full version, download the free version above. Next go to the Registration Page and register the program (currently the registration fee is Euro 15 or equivalently US$ 20). By entering the registration key you obtain by email in the program you unlock the additional features. By registering your copy you support the further development of Game Maker.

Split Files
Some people have problems downloading large files like the ones above. This can result in a corrupt file. To solve this problem load the following five split-up files. Put them in the same folder and execute gmaker_split.exe.
Game Maker version 6.1 File 1 (0.8 MB)
Game Maker version 6.1 File 2 (0.8 MB)
Game Maker version 6.1 File 3 (0.8 MB)
Game Maker version 6.1 File 4 (0.8 MB)
Game Maker version 6.1 File 5 (0.4 MB)

Problems
If you experience problems when you try to install or run Game Maker best consult the Frequently Asked Question List.