Free Version vs Paid Version
Unreal Engine has two versions: a free version called Unreal Engine 2D and a paid version called Unreal Engine 3D. Both versions are designed for creating games, but they have some differences in terms of functionality and features.
Unreal Engine 2D
Unreal Engine 2D is a 2D game engine that allows you to create games with simple graphics and limited interaction. It’s suitable for beginner game developers who want to learn the basics of game development.
Unreal Engine 2D offers basic 2D rendering, physics, animation, and audio features.
Unreal Engine 3D
Unreal Engine 3D, on the other hand, is a full-featured game engine that supports 3D graphics, advanced physics, and complex interactions. It’s suitable for professional game developers who want to create high-quality games with realistic graphics and advanced features like AI, VR, and AR.
Unreal Engine 3D offers a wide range of features including graphics rendering, animation, physics simulation, audio, and networking.
Pricing Options
The paid version of Unreal Engine has several pricing options, depending on the size and complexity of your project. Here are some of the most common pricing options:
- Personal License: This license is designed for individual game developers who want to create games on their own or work on small projects. It costs $19.99 per month or $240 per year.
- Plus License: This license is suitable for larger game development studios that need more features and support. It costs $79.99 per month or $960 per year.
- Enterprise License: This license is designed for large enterprises that want to use Unreal Engine for business purposes like training, simulation, and visualization. Pricing for enterprise licenses varies depending on the size of the organization and the number of licenses required.
Alternatives to Unreal Engine
If you’re looking for a free game engine, there are several alternatives available, including Unity, Construct 3, and Godot. Each of these engines has its strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs and experience level.
Summary
In conclusion, while Unreal Engine offers a free version for beginner game developers, the full version requires a license fee. Depending on your project size and complexity, you may need to consider alternative game engines like Unity or Construct 3. If you’re looking for advanced features and support, a paid version of Unreal Engine may be the best choice for your game development needs.