Preface

Since 1999, GameMaker: Studio has enabled fledgling and experienced developers alike to help create video games quickly and easily. In the years since its initial release (as a program called Animo), GameMaker has grown and evolved into a viable commercial game engine that has helped developers release games for PC, Mac, mobile devices, and even the Microsoft Xbox and Sony PlayStation family of consoles.

During its progression, GameMaker has changed in many ways, adding new features and abilities to be taken advantage of by developers around the world. Though these features may be out of reach for new users, the goal of this book is to familiarize beginners and bring such elements within reach. This book is not just a how-to manual, it is an answer to the question "What can GameMaker do for me?"

By reading this book and completing the recipes therein, you will gain a greater understanding of GameMaker's capabilities as well as start them on the path to unlock their full potential.