Modern game production tools like Unreal Engine 4 allow for the creation of aesthetically appealing and intensely engaging games. The engine was created by Epic Games and has been used to make some of the largest video game franchises, including Fortnite, Gears of War, and Batman: Arkham Knight.
With the help of this fast-start tutorial, you may create your first game level and get an introduction to Unreal Engine 4. To utilize Unreal Engine 4, you don’t have to be an expert programmer or game developer. The engine has a user-friendly interface and a number of features that enable speedy game creation. Unreal Engine 4 offers the resources you need to produce games of the highest caliber, regardless of matter whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional game developer. So, let’s get started and learn more about Unreal Engine 4’s capabilities for game production.
What Is Unreal Engine 4?
Epic Software created the gaming engine known as Unreal Engine 4. It is a potent tool used to create interactive applications including simulations, virtual reality experiences, and architectural representations. The engine offers a number of tools and features that make it simple to produce high-caliber games rapidly.
The accessibility of Unreal Engine 4 is intended for programmers of all skill levels. Developers can quickly access and utilize its many capabilities because to its user-friendly interface. The engine also offers a variety of tutorials and documentation that make it simple for novices to begin game production.
Tomb Raider, Final Fantasy XV, Fortnite, PUBG, and other popular games have all utilized the engine. It is a popular option for game creation due to its potent graphics rendering capabilities, sophisticated physics system, and strong networking features. Developers now have the resources necessary to produce top-notch games and apps thanks to Unreal Engine 4.
No of your level of expertise as a developer, UE4 offers a robust and adaptable framework for producing incredible games and experiences.
Getting the Software and Setting Up
To embark on your journey with Unreal Engine 4, your initial task:
Acquiring the engine by downloading it from the Epic Games website. Once you have successfully procured the installer, it is essential to execute it and meticulously adhere to the on-screen prompts to ultimately equip your device with the engine.
It is worthy to note that Unreal Engine 4 is accompanied by a plethora of content creation tools such as the Material Editor and Blueprint Visual Scripting, which can aid in creating an immersive and interactive experience. However, to utilize these tools, one must diligently install them during the engine installation process.
If you aim to expand the engine’s functionality, be aware that Unreal Engine 4 supports a gamut of plugins. Therefore, if you are seeking to use a specific plugin, it is paramount to download and install it from the Unreal Marketplace.
Now that you have fulfilled the prerequisites of procuring the engine and any additional tools, it is crucial to establish a project. You can effortlessly achieve this by launching the engine and selecting the “New Project” button. Upon doing so, a myriad of templates will be available for your selection, ranging from a First Person Shooter to a Third Person Template.
Assuming you have created a new project, it is necessary to initiate the setup of your first level. You can accomplish this by navigating to the “Levels” tab in the Content Browser and selecting the “Create New Level” option. You will then have access to numerous level templates, including an empty level or a level with a landscape. From this point, you can begin integrating assets and constructing your level.
Creating a Game Project
A new project must be created before you can begin developing your game with Unreal Engine 4. Here is how to get going:
Visit https://unrealengine.com/en-US/download to get the most recent version of the program: Unreal Engine 4 must first be downloaded and installed before you can start a new project.
Put it in Applications if you’re using a Mac to install it on your computer: After downloading the engine, run the installer and install it on your computer by adhering to the on-screen instructions. The engine is located in your Programs folder if you’re using a Mac.
By double-clicking the Unreal Engine icon in the Dock or by selecting it from your Applications folder, run Unreal Engine: The engine can be started after installation by double-clicking its icon in the Dock (on a Mac) or by selecting it from your Applications folder.
Creating a new project is as simple as clicking the “New Project” button on the engine’s home screen. You can then select a project template, such as a First Person Shooter or a Third Person Template, from that point on. You must also choose a location to save your project and give it a name.
After creating your project, you may begin developing your game. You may easily and rapidly develop high-quality games with the engine’s variety of tools and capabilities. Create high-caliber games that will enthrall gamers and keep them coming back for more using Unreal Engine 4.
Starting Your First Level
It’s time to start creating your first level. Here are the steps to follow:
First and foremost, the process of creating your maiden level requires that you import your assets into Unreal Engine. To achieve this feat, click on the File option and subsequently select the Import Assets function. Choose the assets that you wish to import from your arsenal, ranging from skyboxes, terrains, player controllers, to characters.
Once your assets have successfully been imported into the engine, it’s time to incorporate them into your level. To get started, select the “Add Actor” option from the Actor Classes located in the Content Browser window, situated at the apex left corner of your interface. Next, proceed to choose the assets that you desire to add to your level, for instance, the skybox or terrain.
The next step involves the careful placement and scaling of your assets. After adding your assets to your level, utilize the transformation gizmo to move, rotate, and scale them to cater to your requirements.
Incorporating lighting is a crucial aspect of game development, which significantly enhances the level’s visual appeal. To facilitate this, select the “Light” alternative from the “Add Actor” menu in the Content Browser. From there, fine-tune the settings of your light to attain your desired effect.
Once your level is complete, it’s time to put it through the paces to ensure it meets the required standards. To accomplish this, press the “Play” button situated in the top toolbar of the engine, which permits you to traverse through your level and tweak any necessary changes.
The process of creating your first level in Unreal Engine 4 can be a thrilling and gratifying experience. By following these aforementioned steps, you’ll be well on your way to crafting your own game of the highest caliber.
Learning to Use the Editor
The editor in Unreal Engine must be learned if you want to create games. The primary interface for making levels, characters, and other game materials is this one. The editor is really extremely simple to learn, despite its initial frightening appearance. The editor contains a ton of tools that may be used to make fantastic games, such as the potent Blueprint system that enables you to construct intricate logic without of the need for programming. In-depth landscapes, visual effects, and magnificent cinematic sequences may all be created with the editor.
It’s a good idea to start with the fundamentals while using the editor for the first time. Learn how to navigate the viewport, become familiar with the many windows and menus, and begin playing with various tools and features. Online, there are a ton of tutorials and guidelines that can get you started.
After becoming familiar with the fundamentals, you may begin investigating some of the editor’s more sophisticated capabilities. You may use the Material Editor to create amazing visual effects or Blueprints to build your game’s intricate logic. Ultimately, becoming proficient with the editor is essential to understanding how to utilize Unreal Engine for game creation. With sufficient effort and experimentation, you can soon master the editor’s use to produce fantastic games.
Final Thoughts
Unreal Engine is a flexible and feature-rich platform for creating video games that may assist you in realizing your original ideas. Unreal Engine contains everything you need to create elite games and other interactive experiences, whether you’re an experienced developer or just getting started.
If you’re looking for expert guidance and support in using Unreal Engine, Eventyr can help. Our team of experienced professionals can provide you with the support and guidance you need to create your dream project. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you bring your ideas to life.