raylib

A simple, free C library for learning game programming.

  • Free
  • Open source
  • Good for beginners
  • Jam-friendly

What it does

raylib is a small library for writing games in C (with bindings for many other languages). It was designed for teaching, so its API is easy to read and has lots of examples.

Highlights

  • Simple, readable API
  • Bindings for 60+ languages
  • Hundreds of examples
  • No external dependencies

Is it right for me?

Skill level
Intermediate, Advanced
Useful for
Game jams, Indie developers, Students, Hobby projects
Game jams
A good fit — quick to pick up and use under time pressure.

Pairs well with

GitHub

Version control

Store your project's code online, track changes and work as a team.

  • Free + paid plans
  • Good for beginners

Godot Engine

Game engines

A free, open-source engine for 2D and 3D games.

  • Free
  • Open source
  • Good for beginners

GitLab

Version control

Git hosting with built-in CI/CD and planning tools.

  • Free + paid plans
  • Open source
  • Good for beginners