Castle Game Engine vs Construct 3

Castle Game Engine is a free, open-source engine for building 2D and 3D games with a visual editor and an Object Pascal API. The editor supports designing game worlds and interfaces, then building projects for multiple platforms. Listed targets include Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS, with mobile export, console export, and multiplayer tools. Graphics capabilities include shader effects, physically based rendering, shadows, mirrors, bump mapping, and post-processing. Supported formats include glTF, X3D, sprite sheets, and Spine 2D animations. The project lists Visual Studio Code, Lazarus, Delphi, Blender, and Sketchfab among supported tools and services. A command-line build tool, Docker image, and CI setup documentation support automation. The engine can be used for proprietary applications. Provided Linux binaries require GLIBC 2.34 or newer; older systems can compile from source. Supported operating systems must still receive vendor security support, with Windows 10 temporarily supported as of 2026.

Construct 3 is a 2D game engine for building games with visual logic and optional JavaScript or TypeScript. Its event system lets creators specify behavior through conditions and actions without a conventional programming language; scripts can also be placed in events or separate project files. The editor runs in a browser without a download or installation and can also be installed as an app. A browser trial is available without an email address or registration. Projects can be exported to HTML5 web, Android and iOS through Cordova, and desktop wrappers for Windows, macOS and Linux. Construct works offline after its first load, though subscribers must reconnect at least once every seven days for revalidation. The Free Edition allows 50 events with a verified email or 25 as a guest, and limits publishing to web or Construct Arcade. Paid versions add desktop and mobile publishing and monetization options including advertising and in-app purchases. The Educational Plan is listed at $9.99 a month with a three-seat minimum; other listed license prices are not stated.