Top 9 Best JavaScript Tools for Game Development in 2021
Tags: javascript, gamedev
Published: 2021-09-19 16:24:23

JavaScript has been one of the main components behind game development for many years, producing top-quality games through various game engine options. An engine can cater to your programming desires, providing the latest online options no matter your needs or skill level.

Here are some of the best tools available for [creating mobile and web games](https://www.wikihow.com/Create-a-Gaming-App), with fast 2D and 3D rendering. 

##1. Babylon.js

Babylon is one of the most popular Microsoft libraries offering detailed elements that can help you render and build 3D games alongside other programs such as WebGL.

One of the biggest strengths is the huge community that uses this engine. This makes finding any information quick and easy. Guidelines, tutorials, and codes can all be found. You can also use this program no matter what computer you’re working on. No installation is needed as Babylon works through your browser or code editor.

##2. Phaser

Phaser is an excellent program if you’re looking to create HTML5 for mobile and desktop games. Features include various images, sprites, and control inputs using three primary physics engines. In addition, Phaser works alongside WebGL and Canvas internal renderer that will automatically switch between them depending on the browser you’re using. 

A large community of users can be found on forums and social media that can help you with any problems you may come across. The game engine can only be used if your web browser supports the <canvas> HTML tag. Along with JavaScript, Phaser supports TypeScript code.

##3. Cocos2d

Cocos2d is a self-described king of [game development tools](https://www.theverge.com/2020/4/14/21219609/video-game-tools-editor-developer-make-price-free-programming). With Cocos2d, you can code an entire game using JavaScript and export your game across multiple platforms. In addition to this, you have the opportunity to use game previewing, scene editing, debugging, publishing features, and resource management through the open-source Cocos2d-x framework. The Cocos2d engine is available for Windows and Mac users. There is also a dedicated forum to help users and for discussions.

##4. Panda Engine

Working together with Pixi, Panda Engine can be used to render 2D games for desktop and mobile. This tool comes in a small package supporting lots of different algorithms and libraries. A great feature found on Panda Engine is tracking Google Analytics inside of the game you have developed. This allows you to analyse the performance of your game and help to improve its performance.

##5. Crafty

For building interactive games, Crafty is a great library that combines an extensive collection of elements. Developers are given a chance to explore the depths and abilities of JavaScript creating custom actions and calls. In addition, crafty is an engine that offers a straightforward way to organise components and entities without external applications.

##6. Kiwi.js

For beginners, Kiwi is one of the best open-source applications to create desktop and mobile HTML5 games. Kiwi is compatible with Canvas and WebGL rendering and builds games published on apps like Chrome Webstore and CocoonJS. One of the main talking points is the collection of plugins. They are rich in abilities and include engines to customise and create achievements centred around quest management, user progress, sprites, artificial intelligence algorithms, and social media connectors. Along with all these abilities, Kiwi has lots of guides and tutorials, giving beginners the chance to learn, create and develop.

##7. MelonJS

MelonJS is a community-supported, open-source project. The main objective of this application is to bring a plugin-free tool that allows users to explore the world of physics, 3d rendering, animation management, transition effects, and other aspects to build HTML5 interactive programs for games.

The community aspect is one of the biggest positives of MelonJS. New developers and users can access community forums to ask questions, report any bugs, and learn about the program so that their game development improves and works.

##8. PlayCanvas

PlayCanvas is a 3D game-building application with many supported elements in its graphics infrastructure, such as light features, meshes, physical rendering, WebGL 3D, lightmaps, and much more.

Aside from all of these elements, PlayCanvas can be used on the cloud, meaning there is no need for plugins when testing or running your developed games on your browser. PlayCanvas is a free, open-source tool, but a paid-subscription service unlocks more accessibilities, such as migrating projects to private servers, creating more storage capacity.

##9. Pixi.js

In addition to HTML5 games, Pixi allows you to create interactive digital content in any format. Some of the brands using its features include Spotify, Marvel, Google, and Adobe.

In case a browser doesn't support WebGL, Canvas is used instead.

Downloading the prebuilt build will get you started using Pixi immediately. NPM or CDN install can be used to accomplish this. Additionally, you might be interested in seeing how the library works by checking out the online playground.

##Roundup

No matter which program you choose, there are many great and [latest online options](https://casino.betmgm.com/en/games/c/slots) to get your game development well underway. JavaScript is a fantastic code format helping your games jump to the next level.