Construct 3 vs Stencyl

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.

Stencyl is game creation software for making mobile, web, and desktop games with visual logic or custom code. Its drag-and-drop designer uses snapping blocks and includes hundreds of ready-to-use blocks. Creators can also make and share blocks, import libraries, extend the engine with code, and write Haxe classes that work with block-based Behaviors. The Scene Designer provides selection, zooming, grid-snapping, and flood fill; the Actor Editor adjusts appearance, behaviors, and physical properties. Stencyl targets iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Linux, and HTML5. The free Starter edition publishes HTML5 games and lets users test games on paid target platforms, but cannot publish desktop, iOS, or Android games and displays Stencyl branding. Indie costs $99 a year and adds web and desktop publishing without watermarks. Studio costs $199 a year and includes publishing to iOS and Android, ads, leaderboards, in-app purchases, and third-party plugins. Publishing iOS games to the App Store requires an active Apple developer license and a Mac. Stencyl says it collects no royalties on games.