Visual Studio Code

A free code editor that works with almost every game language.

  • Free
  • Open source
  • Good for beginners
  • Jam-friendly

What it does

VS Code is a fast, free code editor with extensions for GDScript, C#, Lua, JavaScript, Python and more. It is the default code editor for many game developers.

Highlights

  • Extensions for most game languages
  • Built-in Git support
  • Debugging
  • Runs on every desktop OS

Is it right for me?

Skill level
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Useful for
Game jams, Indie developers, Students, Hobby projects
Game jams
A good fit — quick to pick up and use under time pressure.

Pairs well with

GitHub

Version control

Store your project's code online, track changes and work as a team.

  • Free + paid plans
  • Good for beginners

Godot Engine

Game engines

A free, open-source engine for 2D and 3D games.

  • Free
  • Open source
  • Good for beginners

GitLab

Version control

Git hosting with built-in CI/CD and planning tools.

  • Free + paid plans
  • Open source
  • Good for beginners