Scratch Alternatives

What is Scratch?

Scratch is a programming language that can be used to create animations for children. The platform comes with a visual interface which can be used to create stories, games., animations, etc. The app is available for free and can be used in seventy languages. The platform has been designed for children aged between 8 and 16 though people of all ages can use it.

Price Plans of Scratch

Scratch programming language is available for free.

Why Scratch alternatives?

• Students may not get exposure to traditional coding methods and languages

• Challenges for more advanced students will be limited

• Teachers are unable to monitor what students are doing

• Students may need the email of their parents and some of them do not have it

• 3D projects are not available

How to choose a Scratch Alternative?

• Easy to use

• Students of all ages can access the tool

• Problem solving skills and creativity are developed

• Different types of programming concepts can be taught

• Teamwork and collaboration can be easily done

Top 10 Scratch Alternatives

There are many Scratch alternatives and some of them have been discussed here in detail. The list is given below −

• GDevelop

• Snap

• Tynker

• Kodu

• Godot

• Construct 3

• Pictoblox

• Hopscotch

• Lightbot

• CodeCombat

Alternative 1 – GDevelop

GDevelop is an open-source platform which can be used to develop different types of games which can run on desktops, mobiles, and web browsers. Users who do not have any experience in coding and programming can also use it to develop different types of games. You can use the events to develop games. Games developed on one platform can be exported to another one easily.

Alternative 2 – Snap

Snap is a programming language where you can drag and drop the components needed to develop your software. You can build your own blocks through this platform. Other features include first class lists, first class procedures, and continuations. The software is useful for students to learn different aspects of computer science.

Alternative 3 – Tynker

Tynker is another great platform which can be used as an alternative to Scratch. The platform can be used by kids to learn coding gradually from visual blocks to text-based coding. Kids can share the projects that they have developed on Tynker. Another feature of the platform is Remix which allows the kids to see the source code for a visual block.

Alternative 4 – Kodu

Kodu is a game design and development platform introduced by Microsoft. It is a great alternative to Scratch and can be used to create games for Xbox. You can make simple games with the help of 3D graphics. The developed games can be played by using an Xbox controller. The user interface of the platform can be easily used.

Alternative 5 – Godot

Godot engine is a popular game development platform and is an open-source and free alternative to Scratch. You can develop 3D games by using Godot and this feature is not available in Scratch. Using the platform is easy because of its simple interface. Godot engine supports different types of programming languages. Godot is available only as a desktop application and no web-based interface is available.

Alternative 6 – Construct 3

Construct 3 is a paid platform and comes with different types of pricing plans. Many things are similar between Scratch and Construct 3. Construct 3 can be used by beginners who want to learn any programming language. You can develop only 2D games and projects through this platform. Games can be developed with the help of readymade components and blocks.

Alternative 7 – Pictoblox

Pictoblox is another great alternative to Scratch and is based on STEM-based products. You can connect Pictoblox to any device with the help of USB or Bluetooth. The platform consists of drag and drop coding process and you can develop games and other types of apps. The Pictoblox has only a web-based interface. There is no desktop or mobile version of the platform.

Alternative 8 – Hopscotch

Hopscotch is another popular Scratch alternative which can be used by kids to learn coding. The platform is easy to understand and use You can do only basic level costing on this platform. The platform is suitable for children whose age is between 4 and 7 years. The platform is available in the form of an application for iPads and iPhones.

Alternative 9 – Lightbot

Lightbot is a popular Scratch alternative which helps kids to learn coding by developing different types of games. Kids have to complete different types of puzzles and become familiar with the concepts of programming. Some of these concepts are overloading, conditions, loops, and many more. Learning through this platform will be fun for kids.

Alternative 10 – CodeCombat

CodeCombat is a great tool which kids can use to play different types of games Like mazes, discovering buried treasure, and a lot more. The tool will help kids to learn the principles of programming. Parents who are worried about teaching programming concepts to their kids can use this app.

Conclusion

Scratch is an open-source app which can be used to teach students about programming principles. You cannot develop 3D games and students will not get any exposure to learn text-based coding. There are a few other drawbacks which lead people to look for Scratch alternatives like GDevelop, Snap, Tynker, and many more.