01What Is GLM 5.2 and How Does It Work?
GLM 5.2 is a flagship coding model from ZAI that you can use to build games, apps, and more. It works through a coding plan, where you get an API to connect to your coding agents. It's designed for long multi-step tasks and powerful coding capabilities.
In this episode, Julian Goldie shows examples of what he built with GLM 5.2, like 3D games and an operating system with apps. The model can handle big jobs, like creating a full video with 14 agents working together. It also plans to be open source, so you can run it locally for free if you have a good setup.
GLM 5.2 is not just for coding; it can also generate images using ChatGPT image, create blogs, and edit videos. You can plug it into your existing tools and even use it in a CLI for direct interaction. It's a versatile tool that makes building fun and easy.
02Main Features of GLM 5.2
GLM 5.2 comes with several key features that make it stand out. It has a 1 million token context window, so it can handle long and complex jobs without losing track. It also has two thinking modes, including higher max, which helps with detailed tasks.
- Powerful coding capabilities for building games and apps.
- Usable on the coding plan, which is cheaper than other options.
- Can run locally for free once open source is released.
- Works with tools like Claude Code, Klein, and Hermes.
- Integrates with an agent operating system for shared memory.
- Can create videos with multiple AI agents working together.
These features make GLM 5.2 a robust choice for developers and creators. You can use it to build projects quickly, and it's flexible enough to fit into your existing workflow.
03How to Set Up GLM 5.2
Setting up GLM 5.2 is straightforward. Here are the steps Julian shows in the episode:
- Get the GLM coding plan from ZAI.
- Grab an API from your dashboard.
- Point your coding agents (like Claude Code) to this API.
- Or use the documentation and give it to Claude to set up for you.
- If you have an agent operating system, add GLM 5.2 as a section.
You don't need to be technical. You can let Claude handle the setup using the documentation. Once set up, you can start building right away.
04How to Use GLM 5.2 to Build Projects
Julian shows multiple ways to use GLM 5.2. You can create a 3D game, an open-world RPG, or an operating system with apps. He built these by taking previous code from Kimi K217 and improving it with GLM 5.2.
For example, to make a game, you describe what you want, and GLM codes it. You can go back and forth to tweak graphics and features. He also created a video using a Kanban board with 14 agents that worked together.
You can also chat with GLM 5.2 directly in the CLI. It can create images for screens, build blogs with articles, and even make fireworks effects on a page. The key is to experiment and have fun.
05Results and Comparisons in the Episode
Julian tested GLM 5.2 by building several projects. He created a 3D game that looks like Skyrim but with simpler graphics. He also made a neon particle galaxy with fireworks effects.
The results were impressive for just a few hours of work.
He compared it to Opus 4.8, saying it's 'definitely up there.' The coding plan is cheaper, which is a big plus. He also noted that some games were a bit buggy, but you can tweak them.
He built an operating system with apps, a full video with AI avatars, and a blog with three articles. He used GLM 5.2 for all these, showing its versatility and power.
06Tips, Limits, and Mistakes to Avoid
Julian shares some tips for using GLM 5.2. He recommends using the coding plan because it works well. He has been building all day without issues.
But he warns that some projects can be buggy, like the scoring game.
- Start with simple projects and add complexity as you go.
- Use the CLI for better builds, as it seems to produce better stuff.
- Save your work in a workspace to come back later.
- Create multiple versions of the same project to explore ideas.
- Don't worry about technical setup; let Claude do it.
- Be patient when tweaking graphics; it takes time.
Avoid expecting perfect results immediately; you'll need to go back and forth. But the output is high quality, so it's worth the effort.
07Who Is GLM 5.2 For and Why It Matters
GLM 5.2 is for anyone who wants to build games, apps, or content quickly. It's great for developers, creators, and even non-technical users if they use Claude for setup. Julian says it's fun to use and can save time.
It matters because it offers a cheaper alternative to other models, with a large context window and strong coding skills. You can integrate it into your existing systems, and soon you can run it locally for free.
Whether you're a pro or a beginner, GLM 5.2 can help you build cool stuff. Julian has seen 180 pages of testimonials from others using it successfully. It's a tool worth trying.