One of the most recognisable names in the gaming industry is the Unreal Engine. Games such as Fortnite have been produced using this engine. For those who are new to the technology, it may be useful to learn more about its features and operations.
For game developers and enthusiasts, Unreal Engine is a robust software that facilitates the creation of virtual worlds and games that cannot be achieved through other mediums. Familiarising oneself with the language employed by the software and related components should be a priority for those keen on game development and programming to gain an enhanced understanding of the industry and the games they appreciate.
The Enigma That is Unreal Engine
Epic Games’ widely known Unreal Engine (UE) is a prevalent tool used for various purposes, including developing video games. Aside from creating simulations, modifying audio or video and producing animated shorts, programmers have leveraged the software to create some of the most successful games on offer in the market today.
With a legacy that spans over 25 years, Epic Games’ objective is to make its software attainable for a worldwide audience via collaboratively working with strategic partners. The software is exceptionally user-friendly and straightforward, which is a notable boon. In addition to this, Epic Games is the dominant leader in the AAA game development software market, a segment that is rapidly expanding.
The Unreal Engine, owing to its C++ programming, is highly adaptable and compatible with a multitude of platforms such as iOS, Android, Windows, PlayStation, and Xbox.
The most recent update of the Unreal Engine represents a significant breakthrough by permitting creators to create and implement personalised maps in their projects. In addition to this, Unreal Engine was amongst the first of its kind to introduce user-generated content sharing capabilities to a wider audience.
The Programming Languages Utilized by Unreal Engine for Game Design
The best-suited language for game design via Unreal Engine is C++, primarily due to its exceptional stability and its efficacy in memory management and allocation.
Although C++ is the most prevalent language for developing video games, it is widely known to be particularly challenging for beginners to grasp.
C++ is a challenging programming language that attains its complexity from mandating the use of header and implementation files for every class. Consequently, a high aptitude for programming is necessary to tackle its steep learning curve. However, those who commit the time and effort are privy to a vast array of dynamic tools and resources to accomplish their goals.
Utilising the Unreal Engine is cost-free for game developers, albeit Epic Games and other affiliated companies do benefit from the vaious subscription plans available for the engine.
Unreal Engine vs. Unity: Which One Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a game engine is a cardinal decision for any developer producing a new game. Luckily, there are multiple top-tier engines available free-of-charge to amateur developers, which is a massive benefit. The two most favoured choices are Unreal and Unity Engines, both of which have been employed by many renowned AAA games which include Sea of Thieves, Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, Rainbow Six Siege, Fortnite and The Stanley Parable.
Studies conducted throughout the last few decades have disclosed the benefits and drawbacks of both engines. Constructing 3D applications is a breeze with Unity Engine, particularly for beginners due to its foundation on the user-friendly C# language.
In contrast, Unreal Engine is an authoritative and sophisticated tool that may present considerable difficulties even to seasoned 3D programmers, as a result of its widespread use of the advanced C++ programming language. Nevertheless, it is capable of effortlessly exhibiting extremely optimised 3D worlds. The upsides and downsides of each engine are discussed in this article.
- Unreal Engine can be acquired at no cost by new users. To begin using the engine, users must download and extract it from the website before running it. An online community of fellow users is available where developers can ask questions and receive assistance. Additionally, Unreal Engine can construct elaborate games from scratch. However, due to the intricacy of many programming languages involved, novices may find this job to be difficult.
- The Unity Engine is a widely-utilised and exceedingly proficient game development tool. Although it shares various similarities with Unreal Engine, it offers a more straightforward experience for beginners on the platform. Hence, for newcomers to game development, Unity is an optimal selection.
Inexperienced or young game developers may be daunted by the vast array of features provided by Unreal Engine. While not all these attributes are compulsory for developing a first game, a 5% royalty must be paid to Epic, the engine’s creator, on any quarterly earnings above $3,000.
Numerous free online courses are readily available, however additional services necessitate payment from users. Unity offers a beginner-friendly platform with all the necessary features, even for those undertaking intricate and demanding projects.
For private usage, Unity Engine is free, while students are privy to supplemental features like ‘Dark Mode’ and ‘Real-time Cloud Diagnostics’. Access to Unity’s premium learning platform, named Learn Premium, is complimentary for all users. Here, users can discover all the resources they require, participate in live sessions and register for several courses.
It is critical to note that if a person’s annual earnings exceed £200,000, they must switch to Unity Plus, a paid service costing £37 per team user.
E-Commerce Powered by Unreal Engine
Developers using Unreal Engine can utilise the Unreal Engine Marketplace to vend their own products and procure items crafted by other users. Game engine usage is also free of cost for educational institutions and other organisations.
Access to a plethora of game assets created exclusively with Unreal Engine technology is available through the Unreal Engine Marketplace. This presents a convenient resolution for studios and developers who have licensed the engine’s development technology.
The assets furnished consist of an extensive variety of resources, such as pre-built levels, characters, music, and C++ code fragments. These resources can be utilised as-is, or modified to meet specific needs. To assist developers in commencing their game creation, the Unreal Engine Marketplace offers a collection of demos, tutorials, and completed games curated by Epic Games.
Additionally, 88% of the profits generated by the marketplace are assigned to the creators of the content, providing them with the same revenue allocation observed on the Unity Storefront. Users are granted the right to use the purchased asset indefinitely and have the liberty to modify it as desired.
