Most of it is hard code not events starfish. Think before you post dipstuff. Game maker is like any other compiler just more user friendly.
I'm sorry, but I really do think that Game Maker is lame. Programming is programming, it isn't more "hard core" if you use a visual drag and drop language, or a text syntax considering that it's all logic. Besides in GM, drag and drop programming is basically a watered-down visual wrapper, if you may. That's not the problem. I tend to dislike Game Maker because it is restricting in a manner that chokes speed and graphics rendering abilities in compiled software. Game Maker is
not on par with mainstream compilers.
Aside from the fact of you using Game Maker, the game itself is "alright". I realize that it's in pre-beta/alpha but it just doesn't seem to capture any attention. It's lifeless, story and all and everything seems forced.. I think that you should add some more innovative gameplay to the mix, or suffer from a mediocre game. Good luck!