Superpowers

Game development is easier than ever nowadays, especially if you know a bit of coding. Most modern engines also come with a variety of already available assets for you to use, which makes the task even simpler. However, a proper game usually requires at least a handful of people working together, especially if you want to include original assets and artwork, not to mention a soundtrack and unique gameplay mechanics.

Superpowers is an editor that allows anyone to start working on their vision right away, requiring no additional software and minimal coding skills. Obviously, you can still write as much code as you want, but it’s definitely not mandatory. The engine uses HTML5 to render the sprites and the 3D models, so the finished product should run pretty smoothly. Moreover, this also gives you the option to make your game run in browsers.

One of the most useful and powerful features included with Superpowers is the ability to create servers and let your colleagues contribute to the project from anywhere in the world. However, that doesn’t mean you need a constant Internet connection to be able to work. Every file is saved on your computer, which allows you to work offline from wherever you might be.

Assets comprise most of your game in regards to content, so they are obviously quite important. The editor allows you to import all sorts of objects and scripts, including sprites, tile sets and even 3D objects, which can also be modified from inside the application. Most parameters can be changed using the appropriate attribute fields, but you can also use actual code to customize everything as you see fit.

Finally, Superpowers comes with a few already included plugins as well, most of which are popular JavaScript scripts that should be familiar to everyone. The user interface is about as basic as possible to help you keep the screen clear at all times. This simplicity can be a bit disorienting at first, however, especially if you are new to the whole game development thing. You’ll come to appreciate the lack of intrusive panels later on, on the other hand.

Although there are plenty of powerful engines available to everyone, Superpowers seems to be most approachable, at least if you are willing to use HTML5 for your games. The fact that it comes with a native online repository is definitely a huge plus.

Note: You can support the developers by donating on their Patreon page.