Construct 3 vs Ren'Py

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.

Ren'Py is a free visual novel engine for making interactive stories and life simulation games with words, images, and sounds. Its script language handles visual-novel writing, while Python can be used for more complex game logic. Default games include menus, automatic saves, rollback, predictive image loading, and mouse, keyboard, or gamepad controls. Creators can customize screens and styles using the screen language and Python. The launcher builds Windows, Mac, and Linux games from any of those desktop systems. Ren'Py also supports Android export and can package games for WebAssembly browsers, though web support is beta and lacks networking and multithreading. It targets Windows 10 or later, macOS 10.10 or later, Linux x86_64 or Arm, Android 5.0 or later, and iOS 11 or later. Building for iOS requires a Mac and Xcode, and that support remains a work in progress. The engine is free for commercial and non-commercial use; most is MIT-licensed, with some LGPL components whose terms distributors must meet.