Free 2D Game Assets for Indie Developers

Prototyping on a Budget

Game development is an expensive endeavor. When you are just starting out, or simply testing a new mechanic for a weekend game jam, you don't want to spend hundreds of dollars on art. Fortunately, the indie game community is incredibly generous, and there are amazing free resources available to get your project off the ground.

1. Kenney.nl (The Asset Jesus)

No list of free assets is complete without mentioning Kenney. His library contains thousands of public domain (CC0) 2D sprites, 3D models, UI elements, and sound effects. His 2D platformer kits are iconic and are used in thousands of prototypes worldwide. Because they are CC0, you don't even need to provide credits, though it's always appreciated.

2. Itch.io Free Asset Sections

Itch.io isn't just for indie games; it has a massive marketplace for game assets. You can filter the "Game Assets" section by "Free". You will find incredible pixel art characters, massive RPG tilesets, and lush background environments. Be sure to check the specific license on each download, as some artists require attribution.

3. Grab It Ready Free Characters

We know how important it is to test an asset in your own engine before committing to a purchase. That is why we offer completely free, production-ready characters right here on our site. Our free assets aren't stripped-down demos; they include the layered PSDs and fully animated Unity packages so you can experience the premium workflow at zero cost.

Conclusion

Don't let a lack of art skills stop you from coding your dream game. Use these free resources to build out your mechanics, prove your game is fun, and then consider upgrading to premium assets when it's time to polish the final product!