What's a Game Engine?

A game's engine is the underlying technology that makes the game run.  Popular games like the 3D shooter Quake run on top of a "3D Game Engine" that builds the levels and rooms, creates and manipulates heroes and enemies, etc. The following programs don't necessarily require programming, but they are complex and require time to learn. However, the payoff is that they're capable of making professional-looking games.

Clickteam:

Clickteam makes both Multimedia Fusion and The Games Factory Cost: MM Fusion Basic $99 Pro $299 Games Factory Home $29 Pro: $49

Game Maker:

The Game Maker software is available from the author, Mark Overmars. Cost: free!

Pie in the Sky GCS:

Available from: Pie in the Sky Software Cost: Basic $69.95 Pro: $154.95