![Construct logo](https://zoftware-logo.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/construct-1672079592848.avif)
Construct
by Construct
by Construct
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
We help make selecting a software for your business effortless, economical and efficient.
by Construct
by Construct
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
Profile Information Last updated on: 1 July 2024
The typical implementation process for Construct 3 software involves several key steps, and the duration can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the user's familiarity with the tool. Here is a general outline of the process:
1. Setup and Installation
Construct 3 runs directly in your browser, so there is no need for a traditional installation process. Users can start using the software immediately by visiting the Construct 3 website.
2. Learning the Basics
- Interactive Guided Tour: Construct 3 offers an interactive guided tour that helps new users get acquainted with the interface and basic functionalities.
- Beginner's Guide: Users can go through the beginner's guide to learn how to make their first game. This guide covers essential concepts and provides step-by-step instructions.
3. Creating a Project
- Event Sheet View: Users create and modify their games using the powerful event sheet view, which allows for fast and easy development.
- Combining Blocks and JavaScript: Users can combine visual blocks with JavaScript to add more advanced functionalities to their games. They can also include JavaScript files for complete control over their projects.
4. Development and Testing
- Adding Special Effects and Graphics: Construct 3 makes it easy to add special effects and high-quality graphics to games.
- Testing: The software provides tools for testing games within the browser, ensuring that developers can quickly identify and fix issues.
5. Publishing
- Exporting Games: In a few clicks, users can export their games to various platforms, putting their creations in front of millions of potential players.
- Monetization: Construct 3 includes tools for publishing and monetizing games, helping developers turn their projects into profitable ventures.
6. Continuous Updates and Improvements
Construct 3 is known for its non-stop updates and improvements, ensuring that users always have access to the latest features and enhancements.
Duration
The time it takes to implement a project in Construct 3 can vary:
- Simple Projects: For simple games, the process can take a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the user's experience and the complexity of the game.
- Complex Projects: More complex games with advanced features and high-quality graphics may take several weeks to months to complete.
Overall, Construct 3 is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, allowing both beginners and experienced developers to bring their game ideas to life quickly and effectively.
Construct 3 is a highly customizable game development software that can be tailored to fit specific business needs through various features and tools. Here are several data points that illustrate its customization capabilities:
1. Custom Behaviors and Plugins
- Custom Behaviors: Construct 3 allows users to create custom behaviors using the Addon SDK. This enables developers to define specific functionalities that can be reused across different projects. Custom behaviors can be created to handle unique game mechanics or business logic that standard behaviors do not cover[20].
- Plugins: Developers can create custom plugins to extend the functionality of Construct 3. The Addon SDK provides the necessary tools and documentation to build plugins that can introduce new object types, behaviors, effects, and themes.
2. Event System and Custom Actions
- Event System: Construct 3's event system is highly flexible, allowing users to define custom events and actions. This system can be used to create complex interactions and logic without needing to write traditional code[16].
- Custom Actions: Custom actions are special event blocks that can be called from an action in an associated object type or family. They help organize event sheets and avoid duplicating groups of actions or events. Custom actions can also be parameterized and used asynchronously, making them powerful tools for creating tailored functionalities.
3. Advanced Signals and Custom Expressions
- Advanced Signals: This behavior allows for the creation of powerful instance-based functions or triggers using the event sheet. It supports polymorphism and multiple parameters, making it suitable for creating scalable and maintainable systems.
- Custom Expressions: Users can create custom expressions for objects and families directly using event sheets. These expressions can return values based on conditions, parameters, and calculations, providing a high degree of customization for game logic and data handling.
4. JavaScript Integration
- JavaScript Coding: Construct 3 supports JavaScript coding, allowing developers to write custom scripts and integrate them with the event system. This feature provides complete control over the game's logic and can be used to implement specific business requirements that are not covered by the visual scripting system.
5. Family Features and Polymorphism
- Family Features: Construct 3 supports the use of families, which are groups of object types that share behaviors, variables, and effects. This feature allows for the creation of modular and reusable components, making it easier to manage complex projects and implement business-specific logic.
- Polymorphism: The ability to use polymorphism with families means that custom behaviors, signals, and expressions can be shared among family members, enhancing the flexibility and scalability of the project.
6. Community and Support
- Community Addons and Consulting: The Construct 3 community actively develops and shares addons that can be used to extend the software's capabilities. Additionally, consulting services are available for businesses that need specialized support or custom development.
7. Documentation and Tutorials
- Extensive Documentation: Construct 3 provides comprehensive documentation and tutorials that cover various aspects of customization, from creating custom events and behaviors to developing plugins and using JavaScript.
- Video Tutorials: There are numerous video tutorials available that explain how to use different features of Construct 3, including custom behaviors and event handling, which can help businesses quickly get up to speed with the software.
Construct 3 has a straightforward pricing model with no hidden additional costs such as setup fees, maintenance, or support charges. Here are the key points regarding the costs associated with Construct 3:
Pricing Plans
Construct 3 offers three main pricing plans:
1. Education Plan: $29 per year per seat.
2. Business Edition - Startup Discount: $149.99 per year per seat (available for companies with annual revenue less than $50,000 and net assets less than $100,000).
3. Business Edition: $399.99 per year per seat.
Additional Costs
- Setup Fees: There are no setup fees associated with any of the Construct 3 pricing plans.
- Maintenance and Updates: The subscription model includes ongoing maintenance and updates, ensuring that users always have access to the latest features and improvements without additional charges.
- Support: While Construct 3 does not have premium consulting or integration services, the subscription includes access to community support and regular updates. However, some users have reported dissatisfaction with the level of support provided, particularly in terms of response times for critical issues.
Free and Freemium Versions
- Free/Freemium Version: Construct 3 offers a free version with limited features, which can be a good starting point for new users or those with minimal requirements.
Construct 3 offers a variety of training and support options to help new users get started and become proficient with the software. Here are the key resources available:
1. Interactive Guided Tour and Beginner's Guide
- Interactive Guided Tour: Construct 3 provides an interactive guided tour that helps new users get acquainted with the interface and basic functionalities. This tour is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy for beginners to start creating games right away.
- Beginner's Guide: The Beginner's Guide covers all the fundamentals of Construct 3, including how to create a new project, add objects, and use the event system. This guide is an excellent starting point for those new to game development.
2. Video Tutorials
- YouTube Tutorials: There are numerous video tutorials available on platforms like YouTube. These tutorials cover a wide range of topics, from basic game creation to more advanced features. For example, the "Platformer Game Tutorial" on YouTube walks users through creating a platformer game step-by-step.
- Mammoth Interactive Course: A free 30-minute course by Mammoth Interactive teaches users how to build a game without coding. This course is ideal for absolute beginners and covers creating a dynamic player, setting up the game scene, and more.
3. Online Documentation and Manuals
- Construct 3 Manual: The official Construct 3 manual provides a comprehensive reference of all features, plugins, and behaviors. It includes detailed instructions on how to perform various tasks and solve common issues.
- JavaScript SDK Documentation: For users interested in extending Construct 3 with custom plugins, behaviors, and effects, the JavaScript SDK documentation provides all the necessary information and examples[16].
4. Tutorials and Courses
- Construct Tutorials: The Construct website hosts hundreds of tutorials covering various aspects of game development, from basic to advanced levels. These tutorials include how to create specific game mechanics, use tilemaps, animate objects, and more.
- Free Online Courses: Construct 3 offers free online game development courses that guide users through creating their own games. These courses cover a range of topics, including multiplayer game development, optimization techniques, and publishing games[18].
5. Community Support
- Forums: The Construct 3 forums are a valuable resource for getting help and support from other users. The forums include sections for general discussion, scripting, education, and more. Users can ask questions, share their projects, and get feedback from the community.
- Discord Server: An unofficial Construct Community Discord server provides real-time support and discussions. This server is run by community members and offers text and voice channels for help and collaboration[19].
6. Customer Support
- Email Support: Users can contact Construct 3 support via email for specific queries. The support team aims to respond within two working days. However, they do not offer support on how to use Construct 3 by email due to resource constraints.
- Bug Reporting and Suggestions: Users can submit bug reports and suggestions through dedicated channels. This ensures that engineers review and address issues promptly.
7. Educational Resources
- Construct 3 in Education: Construct 3 is widely used in educational settings to teach programming fundamentals, teamwork, and other skills. It is suitable for a range of educational levels, from primary to adult education. The software includes features designed to facilitate classroom use, such as easy setup and student privacy protections.
Construct 3 implements several security measures to protect user data, ensuring compliance with various privacy regulations and providing robust data protection. Here are the key security measures in place:
1. Compliance with Privacy Regulations
Construct 3 adheres to multiple privacy regulations, including:
- UK-GDPR and EU GDPR
- California Privacy Act (CCPA)
- Nevada Privacy Law (SB-220)
- New York Education Law 2-D (Part 121)
- Children's Online Privacy and Protection Act (COPPA)
- The Children's Code (ICO standards)
These regulations ensure that Construct 3 handles personal data responsibly and securely.
2. Data Minimization and Children's Code
Construct 3 actively works to minimize the amount of data stored and addresses the 15 standards of the Children's Code set out by the ICO. This includes reducing data storage to the minimum necessary and ensuring compliance with COPPA.
3. Automatic Updates
Construct 3 automatically updates with the latest patches and bug fixes, eliminating the need for manual updates. This ensures that all installations are up-to-date with the latest security improvements, reducing vulnerabilities.
4. Encryption and Cryptography
- Cryptography Object: Construct 3 includes a Cryptography object that can perform encryption and hashing operations. This is useful for educational purposes and for making it harder to modify sensitive data such as save game data.
- Secure Connections: For secure data transmission, Construct 3 recommends using HTTPS, which encrypts data sent over the network.
5. Data Storage and Access Control
- Google Drive Integration: When using Google Drive for saving and opening project files, Construct 3 requests permission to access the user's Google Drive account. The data is transmitted directly between the browser and Google servers, ensuring that Scirra (the company behind Construct 3) does not access or process the files.
- Server Locations: Personal information and files are stored on Scirra’s servers and the servers of their service providers, primarily located in the USA. These servers are compliant with applicable laws and regulations.
6. User Rights and Data Management
Users have the right to:
- Request a copy of their personal information.
- Correct, delete, or restrict the processing of their personal information.
- Obtain their personal information in a structured, machine-readable format and request its transfer to another controller.
- Object to the processing of their personal information in certain circumstances.
7. Best Practices for Security
Construct 3 documentation advises users to:
- Avoid entering usernames or passwords in events, as these will be visible in plain text in exported JavaScript.
- Use server-side scripts to handle sensitive data and connect to databases securely.
- Regularly back up projects to protect against data loss due to hardware failure, cyber attacks, or other catastrophic events.
8. Community and Support Resources
Construct 3 provides forums and community support where users can discuss security concerns and share best practices for protecting their game data and source code. This includes discussions on encryption, data obfuscation, and secure data management.
9. Data Security Measures
General data security measures recommended for users include:
- Using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication.
- Regularly updating software and applying patches.
- Implementing data backup strategies.
- Employing encryption techniques for sensitive data.
- Educating employees about cybersecurity best practices.
Construct 3 is known for its frequent and regular updates, ensuring that users have access to the latest features, improvements, and bug fixes. Here is an overview of how often Construct 3 releases updates and how these updates are managed:
Frequency of Updates
Construct 3 releases updates at a rapid pace, often with multiple updates per month. For example, in 2022, Construct 3 made 56 releases, averaging just over one release per week. This includes both stable and beta releases, with stable releases being more thoroughly tested and beta releases providing early access to new features and improvements.
Types of Updates
1. Stable Releases: These are well-tested updates that are recommended for all users. They include new features, performance improvements, bug fixes, and other enhancements. Stable releases are designed to be reliable and are less likely to introduce new issues.
2. Beta Releases: These updates provide early access to new features and improvements but may not be as thoroughly tested as stable releases. Beta releases are useful for users who want to try out the latest developments and provide feedback to the developers.
Management of Updates
- Automatic Updates: Construct 3 is designed to update automatically. When a new stable version is available, the software updates itself without requiring user intervention. This ensures that users are always running the latest version with the most recent fixes and features.
- Manual Updates: Users can manually update Construct 3 by reloading the page or closing and reopening the app. This is particularly useful for those using the desktop app or who may have skipped an update notification.
- Version Control: Users can specify which version of Construct 3 they want to use (beta or stable) in the settings. This allows users to opt-in to beta updates if they wish to access new features earlier.
- Changelog and Release Notes: Construct 3 maintains a comprehensive history of all changes introduced in each update. Users can view detailed release notes that include information about new features, bug fixes, and other improvements.
Update Notifications
- In-App Notifications: Construct 3 notifies users within the app when a new update is available. This ensures that users are aware of the latest updates and can take advantage of new features and improvements as soon as they are released.
- Website and Blog: The Construct 3 website and official blog provide regular updates about new releases, including detailed changelogs and highlights of major new features and improvements.
Handling Game Updates
- Game Update System: Construct 3 supports mechanisms for updating games, including checking for updates online and prompting users to reload the game to apply updates. This ensures that players always have the latest version of the game without losing their progress or save data.
Construct 3 has a clear policy on data ownership and portability, ensuring that users retain control over their data and can easily manage and transfer it as needed. Here are the key points regarding Construct 3's policy on data ownership and portability:
Data Ownership
1. User Control: Construct 3 emphasizes that users have control over their data. This includes the ability to create, store, and manage their project files independently. Users can save their projects locally or use cloud storage options like Google Drive.
2. Privacy and Security: Construct 3 is committed to protecting user data and complies with various privacy regulations, including GDPR, CCPA, and COPPA. The platform minimizes the amount of personal data it stores and does not sell or share personal information with third parties.
3. Data Minimization: Construct 3 continually seeks to minimize the private data it holds on individuals to reduce risk. This includes reducing the retention of personal data to the minimum necessary for operational purposes.
Data Portability
1. Export Options: Construct 3 provides multiple options for exporting project data. Users can export their projects in various formats, such as HTML5, Android, iOS, and desktop applications. This flexibility ensures that users can move their projects across different platforms and environments.
2. JSON and CSV Export: Users can export data stored in arrays or other structures to JSON or CSV formats. This is useful for analytics, reporting, or transferring data to other applications like Excel or Google Sheets[18].
3. Cloud Integration: Construct 3 allows users to integrate with cloud storage services like Google Drive. This enables users to save and load their project files directly from the cloud, facilitating easy access and portability.
4. Data Transfer Rights: Under applicable laws, users have the right to request a copy of their personal information, correct or delete it, and transfer it to another controller. Construct 3 supports these rights, allowing users to manage their data as needed.
Data Management and Compliance
1. Data Governance: Construct 3 follows best practices for data governance, ensuring that data is managed securely and in compliance with relevant regulations. This includes implementing data protection measures and maintaining transparency about data usage.
2. User Rights: Users can object to the processing of their personal information in certain circumstances and have the right to request the deletion of their data, subject to legal and operational constraints.
Practical Implementation
1. Automatic Updates: Construct 3 automatically updates with the latest patches and improvements, ensuring that users always have access to the most secure and efficient version of the software without manual intervention.
2. Support for Data Export: Construct 3 provides detailed documentation and community support to help users export and manage their data effectively. This includes tutorials and forum discussions on how to export data in various formats and integrate with other services[18].
Construct 3 offers flexible terms for scaling up or down as organizational needs change, particularly through its subscription model and licensing options. Here are the key points regarding these terms:
1. Flexible Licensing
- Adding and Removing Seats: Construct 3 allows organizations to easily add or remove seats from their subscription plans. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for educational institutions and businesses that may need to adjust the number of users based on changing requirements.
- Monthly and Yearly Plans: Construct 3 offers both monthly and yearly subscription options. This allows organizations to choose a plan that best fits their budget and usage patterns. For example, educational institutions can opt for monthly plans if they only need the software for a few months each year.
2. Subscription Plans
- Personal and Business Licenses: Construct 3 provides different subscription plans tailored to individual users, startups, and larger businesses. The Personal License is priced at $99 per year, while the Business Edition is available at $399.99 per year per seat. There is also a Startup Business License at $149.99 per year per seat for companies with annual revenues less than $50,000 and net assets less than $100,000.
- Education Plan: The Education Plan is priced at $29 per year per seat, making it affordable for schools and universities to provide access to students and teachers.
3. No Setup Fees
- No Entry-Level Setup Fee: Construct 3 does not charge any setup fees for its subscription plans, making it easier for organizations to start using the software without incurring additional costs.
4. Cloud and Local Storage
- Cloud Integration: Construct 3 supports cloud storage options like Google Drive, allowing users to save and load projects from the cloud. This feature is useful for organizations that need to manage projects across multiple devices and locations.
- Local Storage: Users can also save their projects locally, providing flexibility in how data is managed and stored.
5. Automatic Updates
- Regular Updates: Construct 3 automatically updates with the latest features and bug fixes, ensuring that users always have access to the most current version of the software without manual intervention.
6. Support for Scaling
- Scalable Licensing: Construct 3's licensing model is designed to scale with the needs of the organization. Whether an organization needs to increase the number of licenses due to growth or reduce them during off-peak periods, the subscription model supports these changes seamlessly.
- Discounts for Larger Purchases: Construct 3 offers discounts for bulk purchases, making it more cost-effective for larger organizations to scale up their usage. For example, the price per seat decreases with the number of seats purchased.
7. Educational Use
- Flexible Educational Licensing: Construct 3's educational licenses are designed to be flexible, allowing schools to assign seats to specific students or use access codes for groups of students. This flexibility helps educational institutions manage their licenses efficiently.
8. Terms of Service
- Termination and Changes: The terms of service allow Construct 3 to update its policies and pricing. Users are encouraged to review the terms periodically to stay informed about any changes that might affect their subscription.
Construct 3 has specific terms and conditions for contract renewal and cancellation, which are designed to provide clarity and flexibility for users. Here are the key points regarding these terms:
Contract Renewal
1. Automatic Renewal: Construct 3 subscriptions are set to renew automatically at the end of each billing cycle. This applies to both monthly and yearly subscriptions. Users are notified of upcoming renewals, but the delivery of these notifications is not guaranteed.
2. Billing Cycle: The subscription renews automatically until the user cancels it. The renewal process ensures continuous access to the software without interruption.
3. Price Changes: Users are notified of any price changes before the renewal. For example, one user noted a price increase of £10 upon renewal.
Cancellation
1. Cancellation Process: Users can cancel their subscription at any time by logging into their account, viewing their plans, and selecting the option to cancel. This can be done through the account information page or by contacting support via email with at least two working days' notice.
2. Access After Cancellation: If a subscription is canceled, users will continue to have access to Construct 3 for the remainder of the paid period. After this period, access will revert to the free version, which has limited functionality.
3. Non-Refundable Payments: All payments for subscriptions are final and non-refundable. Users are responsible for canceling their subscription ahead of time to avoid recurring charges.
4. Forfeiture of Credit: If a user cancels their subscription and has remaining credit on their plan, this credit will be forfeited.
5. Failed Payments: If a payment fails, Construct 3 will attempt to charge the card multiple times before canceling the plan due to too many failures. Users have reported issues with the billing system repeatedly attempting to charge expired or insufficiently funded cards.
Support and Resolution
1. Contacting Support: For issues related to subscription renewal or cancellation, users are advised to contact Construct 3 support via email. The support team aims to respond within two working days[20].
2. Subscription Issues: Users have reported various issues with subscription renewals, such as unexpected cancellations or failures to auto-renew. These issues are typically resolved by contacting support[20].
Terms of Service
1. Acceptance of Terms: By using Construct 3, users agree to the terms and conditions set forth by the company. These terms include provisions for automatic renewal and the process for cancellation.
2. Changes to Terms: Construct 3 reserves the right to change, modify, add, or remove portions of the terms at any time without notice. Users are encouraged to review the terms periodically to stay informed about any changes.
Refund Policy
1. Refunds for Assets: While subscription payments are non-refundable, Construct 3 offers a refund policy for assets purchased from the Construct Asset Store under certain conditions. Users must report any issues via their orders page within the allotted time to be eligible for a refund.
2. Chargebacks: Initiating a chargeback with a financial institution will result in the suspension of all items in the payment and any related subscriptions until the chargeback is resolved. During this period, users are prohibited from using the associated assets.
Construct 3 software meets several compliance standards to ensure data privacy and security for its users. Here are the key compliance standards that Construct 3 adheres to:
1. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
Construct 3 complies with the GDPR, which is a regulation in EU law on data protection and privacy for all individuals within the European Union and the European Economic Area. This includes measures to protect personal data and ensure user consent for data processing.
2. UK-GDPR
In addition to the EU GDPR, Construct 3 also complies with the UK-GDPR, which is the United Kingdom's version of the GDPR following Brexit. This ensures that data protection standards are maintained for users in the UK.
3. California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)
Construct 3 adheres to the CCPA, which is a state statute intended to enhance privacy rights and consumer protection for residents of California, USA. This includes providing users with the right to know what personal data is being collected and the ability to request deletion of their data.
4. Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)
Construct 3 complies with COPPA, which imposes certain requirements on operators of websites or online services directed to children under 13 years of age, and on operators of other websites or online services that have actual knowledge that they are collecting personal information online from a child under 13 years of age.
5. Nevada Privacy Law (SB-220)
Construct 3 meets the requirements of the Nevada Privacy Law, which gives consumers the right to opt-out of the sale of their personal information.
6. New York Education Law 2-D (Part 121)
Construct 3 complies with New York's Education Law 2-D, which focuses on the privacy and security of student data. This law requires educational agencies to adopt data security and privacy policies.
7. Children's Code (ICO Standards)
Construct 3 adheres to the Children's Code, also known as the Age Appropriate Design Code, which is a set of 15 standards designed to ensure that online services likely to be accessed by children are appropriate for their use and protect their personal data.
8. Google Play's Design Apps for Families Programs
Construct 3 complies with Google Play's Design Apps for Families Programs, which sets guidelines for apps that are designed for children and families, ensuring that they meet specific privacy and content standards.
9. Data Privacy and Security Measures
Construct 3 employs industry-standard techniques to protect against unauthorized access to data, including the use of SSL encryption for secure browsing and data transmission. The software also supports secure connections over HTTPS for data sent to servers.
By Construct