Homegames: Open-source game platform for browser-based play and creation

Homegames is a free, open-source game platform that has been under active development as a side project since 2018. It allows users to play, create, and share games entirely within a browser — no download, installation, or account needed to start playing. The platform features a simple code editor for making games, complete with live multiplayer preview so changes can be tested in real time with other players. Developers can upload their own files, draw, or record assets directly in the studio, and then publish their creations publicly or keep them private. The entire stack — from platform code to game code to the website itself — is released under the GPLv3 license, and Homegames is designed to be fully self-hostable, including the API. This ensures preservation: even if the main website goes offline, all games can live on elsewhere. The project is maintained mostly by a single developer, Joseph, and is available on GitHub.

Homegames democratizes game development by removing barriers like accounts, fees, or complex toolchains. Its browser-native approach lowers the entry point for beginners while still offering enough depth for experienced creators through code and asset management. The live multiplayer preview is a standout feature, enabling iterative design in a social context. For the open-source community, the GPLv3 licensing and self-hosting focus set it apart from proprietary platforms like Roblox or itch.io, emphasizing user autonomy and data ownership. With eight years of iteration, Homegames is a polished, niche tool that appeals to indie developers, educators, and anyone interested in game jams or rapid prototyping — all without surrendering control to a centralized service.