Introduction

What is MakeChiptune?

MakeChiptune is a free browser-based chiptune music maker for indie game developers, content creators, and retro gaming fans. It runs entirely in your browser using the Web Audio API — no downloads, no signup, no server-side audio rendering.

Key Features

  • Step Sequencer: A multi-track grid editor with up to 64 steps per pattern. Lock to a scale and key, set BPM and swing, then paint notes with mouse or touch.
  • 44 Retro Presets: Carefully modeled NES, Game Boy, and Commodore 64 chip sounds — square/pulse waves, triangle, and noise percussion kits with authentic envelopes.
  • AI Chiptune Generator: Type a scene description and get a full chiptune loop in seconds. The AI outputs notation; your browser renders the audio.
  • WAV Export: Export your loop to a 44.1 kHz WAV file — royalty-free and CC0-ready — using OfflineAudioContext.
  • Browser Storage: Auto-save drafts to IndexedDB. Revisit your library anytime, even after closing the tab.

Quick Start

  1. Open the Studio.
  2. Click cells in the grid to place notes.
  3. Press Play to hear your loop.
  4. Click Export WAV to download.

For a faster start, try the AI Chiptune Generator — describe a mood (e.g. "fast happy platformer level") and get a complete loop to edit.