Struckd

Struckd on Steam aims to give all users the chance to create a video game of their own. You don't need any programming knowledge, and you most definitely don't need any computer skills to be able to enjoy the benefits of this program. It's easy to use but a little bit dull, on account of it not allowing you total freedom. Add to this constant hiccups, such as stuttering and, more rarely, crashing, and you pretty much get the idea about the ingenious concept but not-so-bright execution situated at the core of this app.

This particular game creation tool feels more like a simulator's edit mode. You can create your own world or start with one of the templates provided by the developer. No matter what you choose, your experience will be the same. The palette of options is not really that big. It's not small either. You can't really create something outside of the box. It all boils down to a few types of games, mostly shooters and arcade racers. If you haven't had the chance to actually create a game up to this point, then Struckd could be a great starting point, there is no doubt about that.

Out of all the tools integrated in this particular app, the terrain editor is one of the most interesting to talk about. It allows the most freedom of creation. Even though it does not manage to have that many options, the variety of terrain you can create with what you have is surprising. It's also the area where you can build the most original content in your future game. Creating terrain means you start from scratch. No templates.

Struckd is an application worth taking into consideration if you're new to the game creation business. Otherwise, if you've already had that contact, you'll feel this app to be seriously limiting, something that in most cases will convince you to move on. The concept of a game creator without necessary coding skills is great, but it needs to be coupled with variety and freedom, as much of both as possible.