Game maker functions using sprites, or images (for more information, please view Game Maker terms page). This is a relatively simple process, and is within the understanding of anyone that can use paint.

1. Click "Create a Sprite".
2. Click "Edit Sprite". From here, you can resize the canvas if you want, but it remains similar if you do not.
3. Double click on the green square.
4. I recommend zooming in before editing at this point. Draw whatever sprite you want to use.
5. Click the green check mark.

This is the simplest form of sprite; from here you can save it and use it in your game. Alternatively, you can stretch the animation and make it into an animation.

1. Click "Animation".
2. Click "Stretch Length".
3. Set the number of frames.
4. I would recommend picking key point to animate, then stretch the animation further and animate the space in between, so you don't have to restart each time.
5. Animate each frame separately so as to make a moving whole. This can generate a running figure, or an attacking character, or whatever else you might think of.
6. Click the green check mark and close sprite.

This is an explanation of how to create sprites, for how to incorporate them into objects, view the object tutorial from the tutorial menu.

By Hegemon

Date: February 26, 2010