This is one of the best free Game-making programs on the internet. It it an outstanding program with easy-to-use tools for beginners, and a solid flexible programming Language for advanced users. I've been using this program for over
a year now, and I must say that it is amazing. It may not be as good as OpenGL
C++, but it's still worth the download. You can also register if you want to use some of the more advanced functions, such as Multiplayer functions, DLL manipulation, and such. If you would like to take a look at this program, click on the link below:

http://www.gamemaker.nl

Register at the forums also for assistance in using Game Maker. Well, I hope you check out Game Maker, and I hope you see what it can do.

Game Maker is only for 2D side-scrolling games. It is a bit of fun to play around with, and you can create some relatively entertaining games with it, but if you want to get into more serious stuff, then you should head for 3D games design.

Actually, Game Maker can be used to make many unique games, including Platformers, Puzzle Games, Maze Games, and is flexible enough to tackle challenging games like RPGs, RTS (Real-Time Strategy) Games, and "3D" games.
If one gives him/herself enough time to grasp the fundamentals of GM, one will have the capabilities to create amazing things. You've just got to have the will, and patience.

You are right on your last point, however. Game Maker is for 2D games, and once one is done with it, they should aim for 3D game design.

yeah but u need to know coding to get into 3-D design. Isnt there one that doesnt need coding for 3-D?

Of course you do. 3D game design is very complicated work. You need to know the ins and outs of the programming language you are going to use if you want to make good 3D games. I know there are some 3D game makers out there, like 3D Game Maker, 3D Rad, Morfit, etc., but their flexibility, even for making 3D games, is limited.

Anyways, back on topic.

i dont get it why do ppl decide that they want to make a game. isnt it kinda sad. well, most ppl just enjoy playing games created by others so wats the point in making a 2d game with gamemaker if u are a noob

it isn't that bad of a program. i used it work an while.. it's pretty good. still C++ is better.

Yeah that is a pretty good game maker but i like to use gamer maker 2003 and soon xp because there easy to script.

i agree, i use gm, and i love it, AND IT CAN CREATE 3D GAMES! with dll extensions. i been using GM forover 2years now, and i love it

I don't know how it could be sad, but I can tell you that there are quite a few people who have used Game Maker and have made amazing 2D games. It's hard work to make a "good" game, yes, but I do think it's worth it. GML (the Game Maker Language) may not be as good as C++, but it's great for beginners, and is good even for those who don't want to learn C++ or Delphi just yet. To be quite honest, using GML will help you on your way to real hardcore programming with the big programming languages.