Stencyl - FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stencyl?: Stencyl is a free game-creation platform with which users of all skill levels can create games and share them on the web. Our goal is to make game creation easier, so that authors can spend time making fun games instead of learning how to program.
When will Stencyl launch?: We will launch this year and will announce a date when we are ready.
Is Stencyl free?: Stencyl is free with no strings attached.
Can I beta test Stencyl?: We plan to initiate a closed beta program later this year. Exact details will come when we are ready.
What platforms does Stencyl run on?: Stencyl runs on all versions of Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X. In the future, will run on other kinds of devices.

Can Stencyl do [xxx]?: Stencyl can make virtually any 2D game imaginable. We don't impose any artificial limitations.
Do I need to know how to program to make real games?: No! This is the entire point. We want to break down the walls preventing novices or creative professionals from creating great games. Our motto is "find the fun," and we strongly believe that game creation should be about creating fun games, not about debugging or fussing with technical details.

Scripting and other "advanced" features are available for use by experienced users, but normal users will never need to use these features to get the most out of Stencyl.
How do I play games? Where are they distributed?: Games are distributed on our website, which you can think of as a virtual marketplace for games of all types. Players can opt to play games in-browser, in a separate window or in full screen. Regardless, games are downloaded and cached to the user's computer, so they only need to be downloaded once, or until the author releases an update.
Can I extend Stencyl?: We plan to open up both our engine and our editor to extension through a public API.
How does Stencyl compare to existing solutions?: Generally speaking, all of the existing solutions can make games, but cannot make game creation easy, fun, or accessible. We are genuinely trying to make game creation easier, and our approach and execution set us apart from the competition.

When did Stencyl start?: We founded the company in January 2008 and began work that same month.
Who is working on Stencyl?: Jon and Stephen are the co-founders of Stencyl, running the technical and web side of the venture respectively. Additionally, we have a few dozen alpha testers who are rigorously testing our product right now.
Has Stencyl taken any funding or outside investment?: No. We are currently funding Stencyl out of our pockets and have not taken any outside investment. However, we are not ruling that option out in the future.
Why are there no screenshots or videos on the site?: We are currently in "stealth mode" and will not post up any materials until we are finished.

Where can I find more information?: Please view our FAQ Forum for the latest information.