In 2015 I started a series on no-code game development with Construct 2. Construct 2 still works, but Construct 3 (browser-based) is the standard now. Original intro preserved + 2026 roadmap below.

2015 — Original Intro

Starting a series on game-making from scratch with Construct 2. Why Construct 2? A game engine that doesn’t require coding. The free version supports up to 100 events, which covers your starting projects. Once you commit to a bigger title you can buy a license; for now the free tier teaches almost everything.

2026 — Construct 3 and Modern Alternatives

The game-development landscape shifted in 11 years.

Construct 2 → Construct 3

• Construct 3 launched in 2017 — fully browser-based, no install.
• Opens C2 projects, but start new work in C3.
• License: $99/year (Personal), student discount available.
• HTML5 export remains the main target + Android (APK), iOS, Steam, Xbox.

2026 No-Code Game Engines

1. Construct 3: 2D, browser-first, still the easiest entry.
2. GDevelop: Construct competitor, open source, free.
3. Bitsy / Inky: text-based / minimalist games.
4. Defold (King): Lua-based with a powerful visual editor.
5. Unity + Bolt/Visual Scripting: 3D no-code.
6. Unreal Engine 5 Blueprints: AAA-grade visual scripting.

AI-Assisted Game Development (2024+)

AI asset generation became mainstream from 2024:

• Scenario AI: pixel-art / 3D sprite generation.
• Suno AI: game music.
• ElevenLabs: character voice-over.
• Claude / ChatGPT: game-mechanic design, JS/C# code.

Your First Construct 3 Project — 30 Minutes

1. Go to construct.net, open a free account.
2. Click “Start New Project” → pick a 2D template.
3. Add a character sprite (attach 8DirectionMovement behavior).
4. Add obstacle sprites with collisions.
5. In the event sheet: On collision with enemy → Destroy.
6. Run preview — mini-game in 30 minutes.