Maybe it would be easier just to make an open source cross-platform sidescrolling game maker. Many many years ago someone in the Super Metroid fan community was making one. And there was a "Zelda 2 Classic" project that kept getting abandoned, too.
Also Wonderboy III the Dragon's Trap is another game like what is being discussed.
I actually agree with you. I use Linux so using Game Maker is out of the question for me unfortunately as Game Maker software doesn't work at all with Wine/Crossover. I even tried to play Mushroom Kingdom Fusion and I got one of those stinking errors about compatibility issues. Though yes if Yoyo actually do make a Linux port of Game Maker it would be very nice. A project like this could not only be possible, but everyone on every platform could play it

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