As of 2024-2025, new developments are emerging. An open-source project called "OpenZuma" (a reimplementation of the engine in SDL2) is under development. This will eventually lead to:
Until then, the existing level editor remains a monument to fan dedication. It is a clunky, dangerous, wonderful piece of software that lets you squeeze another decade of life out of a stone frog. Zuma Deluxe Level Editor
For the hardcore modder. Zuma Deluxe stores its levels in the levels.zdb file (Zuma Data Base). Using a hex editor, you can manually manipulate byte values. As of 2024-2025, new developments are emerging
Pros: Unlimited control. You can create impossible vanilla levels.
Cons: One wrong byte corrupts your entire installation. No visual feedback. Until then, the existing level editor remains a
Most editors show a grid (e.g., 15x15 tiles).