Construct 3 vs GameSalad
Construct 3
construct.netGameSalad
gamesalad.comSide by side
| Figure | Construct 3 | GameSalad |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | $2.75/mo | $2.42/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | Yes | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | — |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 7 | 8 |
| Spec score · Game Engine Software | 9.3 (#1) | 8.5 (#29) |
| Spec score · Game Visual Scripting Software | 9.1 (#1) | 8.2 (#9) |
| Spec score · Game Development Software | 9.1 (#3) | 8.3 (#22) |
| Free plan | Yes | No |
| Headquarters | London, United Kingdom | Austin, Texas, United States |
| Mobile export | Yes | Yes |
| Support | The pricing page directs customers to [email protected] for plan questions and the site provides documentation and a community forum. | The education instructor guide lists support by email at [email protected] and by phone at 1-844-837-8387. |
| Target platforms | web,Android,iOS,Windows,macOS,Linux | web,iOS,Android,HTML5,desktop |
| Visual scripting | Yes | Yes |
Plans
Construct 3
- Educational Plan$9.99 a month
- Startup PlanPrice not published
- Free EditionFree
- Personal License$15.99 a month
- Educational Plan$32.99 a year
- Personal License$129.99 a year
- Business Plan$469.99 a year
GameSalad
- GameSalad Basic$19 a month
- GameSalad Home EduPrice not published
- GameSalad Pro$29 a month
- GameSalad Learn@Home$19 a month
- K-12 Bundle$29 a year
- Higher Ed Bundle$57 a year
- Developer EDU Discount$149 a year
- Site/Building$1,495 a year
In their own words
Construct 3
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.
GameSalad
GameSalad Creator is a visual programming tool for making mobile and web games. GameSalad describes its approach as no-code, and says creators and learners ages 12 and beyond can use it. Creator downloads are available for macOS and Windows; iOS and Android Viewer apps support native-device previews. Publishing depends on the plan: Basic subscribers can use Creator’s behaviors and functions, preview with Viewer, and publish to GameSalad Arcade. Pro subscribers get access to all publishing platforms, including iOS App Store, Android App Store and HTML5 publishing, as well as priority technical support. Plans include GameSalad Basic at $19 a month and GameSalad Pro at $29 a month. Education options include lesson plans, tutorials, classroom management and student progress views through a teacher dashboard. App store publishing requires separate store processes, credentials and fees, which are not included in the education license. GameSalad is based in Austin, Texas, and launched in 2010.