The Basic Version

The basic version of Unreal Engine is free to use for personal projects and non-commercial purposes. This version includes most of the features and tools that you need to create simple games or interactive experiences, such as physics engines, animation tools, and visual scripting. However, it has some limitations on the number of users and project size, which are explained below.

Project Size Limitations

The basic version of Unreal Engine allows you to create projects up to 1 GB in size. This means that if your project is larger than this, you will need to upgrade to a more advanced version. The exact size limit can vary depending on the complexity of your project and the number of assets you use, so it’s essential to keep an eye on the file size as you work.

User Limitations

The basic version of Unreal Engine allows up to 10 users working simultaneously on a project. If you need more than this, you will need to upgrade to a more advanced version. The exact user limit can vary depending on the complexity of your project and the number of users you need to work with, so it’s essential to plan accordingly.

Advanced Versions

The advanced versions of Unreal Engine offer more features and tools for creating complex games and applications. However, they also come with a cost. The two main advanced versions are:

Epic Games Launcher

The Epic Games Launcher is the most popular advanced version of Unreal Engine. It includes all the features and tools of the basic version plus additional features such as advanced analytics, social media integration, and support for virtual reality (VR) development. The cost of using the Epic Games Launcher varies depending on the number of users and project size.

Source Code License

The source code license allows developers to access the Unreal Engine source code and modify it for their specific needs. This version is ideal for large-scale projects that require customization and development beyond what is available in the basic or Epic Games Launcher versions. The cost of using the source code license varies depending on the number of users, project size, and other factors.

Summary

In conclusion, Unreal Engine does come with a cost for advanced features and tools. While the basic version is free to use, it has limitations on project size and user count. The advanced versions, such as the Epic Games Launcher and source code license, offer more features but require payment. It’s essential to plan and budget accordingly when deciding whether or not to use Unreal Engine for your project.