Defold vs GDevelop

Defold is a game engine for building cross-platform 2D and 3D games. Its toolchain combines an editor, runtime, scripting workflow, build pipeline, and deployment flow. Game logic is written in Lua; native extensions can use C, C++, Objective-C, Java, or JavaScript. Visual editors, a debugger, profiler, particle effects, animation, and integrated 2D and 3D physics are included. Target platforms listed are Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, HTML5, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch. Integrations include Firebase Analytics, AdMob, in-app purchases, push notifications, Google Play services, Nakama, and PlayFab. The Asset Portal offers reusable components and extensions. Live Update can provide additional game content after the initial download, with customizable content verification. Source code for the engine, editor, and build tools is available on GitHub under a developer-friendly license derived from Apache 2.0. Defold costs nothing, with no licensing fees, royalties, or runtime fees. Community help is available through a forum, and technical support contracts are available if needed.

GDevelop is an open-source game engine for creating and publishing games with visual, drag-and-drop tools that do not require code. JavaScript is available for scripting. It supports web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, with publishing destinations including Google Play, Steam, desktop, web, iOS, and gd.games. Built-in multiplayer services include lobbies, leaderboards, and player accounts. The Free plan costs nothing and includes multiplayer and online services, thousands of Asset Store assets, and Android and desktop publishing once per day. Paid plans include full access to the mobile app, and the Pro plan supports project sharing with teammates. Support options include community resources, professional Discord channels, commercial troubleshooting, and custom development. Education plans provide anonymous student accounts, project access, and classroom resources. Subscriptions can be billed monthly or yearly, with annual savings of up to 40%, and can be canceled at any time; access ends after the paid period.