Traditionally, one of the biggest obstacles to game development is learning to code. That's time consuming! Developing for retro hardware can be even more challenging thanks to the scarcity of modern development tools. Well, the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive homebrew scene is about to explode thanks to the impending release of MD Engine from indie developer Two Black Cats. The MD Engine software will launch on Steam on September 7.
Official description:
[MD Engine] borrows a page from GB Studio's playbook, the tool that opened up Game Boy development to a wave of hobbyists, but points it at the 16-bit era instead. Drag, drop, and build platformers, shoot-'em-ups, action RPGs, or puzzle games, then turn the result into a ROM that runs on original hardware, flash carts, and devices like the MegaSG or Retron3 HD. Creators who'd rather stay on modern platforms can target Web, Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS instead — Steam achievements included.
Features:
- Visual Scripting: Quickly prototype and refine gameplay using intuitive drag-and-drop events.
- Retro Graphics: Craft visually authentic 16-bit games effortlessly.
- Versatile Gameplay Creation: Easily build platformers, shooters, action RPGs, puzzle games, and more.
- Powerful Debugging: Real-time insights into palettes, variables, actor coordinates, and event logic.
- Beginner-Friendly, Expert-Ready: Accessible to newcomers yet robust enough for seasoned game developers.
- Export and Play on Original Hardware: Easily export your games, burn them to cartridges, and enjoy your creations on original retro hardware. The games have been tested so far on Sega Mega Drive 1 (JP NTCS), 2 (PAL), and Genesis 1-3 (NTCS) original models, as well as with Retron3 HD and MegaSG consoles!
- Web Export: Export your game to HTML5 and upload it to the internet for everyone to see!
- Steam Integration: Export for Windows with full support for Steam, including Steam Achievements to enhance your game's reach and player engagement.
I have very little experience with game development, but this software sounds really exciting. Why not give it a shot and make a co-op game? We'll dip our toes in and report report back with impressions after launch!
MD Engine will launch on Steam on Monday, September 7. For more information, visit TwoBlackCatsGames.com.