# GameMaker GMRT runtime will be free for commercial use

> **Key takeaway:** Starting January 1, 2027, developers can commercially distribute games using the new GMRT runtime without a Professional license.

**Published:** 2026-10-23T09:31:34+00:00 
**Source:** GamingOnLinux (Steam, Proton & Deck) 
**Category:** open-gaming 
**Canonical URL:** https://fosswire.org/news/gamemaker-gmrt-runtime-will-be-free-for-commercial-use.html 

## Summary
GameMaker has announced that its next-generation runtime, GMRT, will be free for commercial use beginning January 1, 2027. This change removes the requirement for a Professional license to release games using the new runtime. Additionally, developers will gain source code access across all tiers for non-console platforms.

## Changes to GameMaker licensing
- **GMRT (next-gen runtime)**: Commercial distribution is free starting Jan 2027.
- **Source Code**: Available to view for all tiers on non-console platforms.
- **Existing Users**: Professional license holders can still use the GMS2 runtime for commercial distribution and will receive GMS2 source code access.
- **Console Export**: Requires an Enterprise license and approved developer status regardless of the runtime used.

## Why it matters
This move positions GameMaker more competitively against engines like Godot and Unreal Engine by lowering the financial barrier for commercial game releases.