Sharpmake
Sharpmake is Ubisoft's Apache-2.0 open-source project generator. It describes targets, configurations, and dependencies in C#, rapidly generating large Visual Studio projects and solutions while also supporting GNU makefiles, Xcode projects, and execution on modern .NET systems.
Why use it
A large native game can multiply platforms, rendering APIs, editors, tools, optimization levels, and dedicated servers into hundreds or thousands of configurations that hand-maintained project files cannot sustain. Sharpmake consolidates that matrix into debuggable, refactorable typed rules and regenerates it in seconds; extensions also let studios keep NDA-bound console layers private.
Where it fits
Find engines, frameworks, code libraries, version control, and production automation.
What to check
It generates projects but does not compile, acquire dependencies, or publish builds, so compiler, SDK, and third-party wiring remain team responsibilities. C# definitions become critical build code and need tests plus pinned .NET and tool versions. Console extensions are not in the public repository, and upgrades can create broad project diffs that should be reviewed on an isolated branch.