Unreal Engine (UE) is a powerful game engine developed by Epic Games, which is used for creating 3D video games, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and other interactive experiences. The cost of Unreal Engine varies depending on the version and licensing model you choose. In this article, we will discuss the different pricing options for Unreal Engine and their features.
Unreal Engine Pricing Models
Free Version
Unreal Engine offers a free version called “Unreal Engine 2D,” which is designed for creating 2D games and interactive applications. This version has limited functionality compared to the paid versions, but it allows you to create simple games with basic graphics, animations, and sound effects. The free version is suitable for beginners or small indie studios who want to start developing their games without investing in expensive hardware or licensing costs.
Paid Versions
Unreal Engine 4
* Basic Edition (Single User License): $69 per user per year
* Advanced Edition (Single User License): $1,499 per user per year
* Basic Edition (Team License): Contact Epic Games for a quote
* Advanced Edition (Team License): Contact Epic Games for a quote
Unreal Engine 5
* Basic Edition (Single User License): $69 per user per year (available after the release)
* Advanced Edition (Single User License): Contact Epic Games for a quote
* Basic Edition (Team License): Contact Epic Games for a quote
* Advanced Edition (Team License): Contact Epic Games for a quote
Enterprise Pricing
Unreal Engine also offers enterprise pricing for large-scale projects that require more support and customization. The pricing for enterprise licensing is negotiable, and it depends on the scope of the project, the number of users, and other factors. Epic Games provides dedicated support, training, and consulting services to its enterprise clients.
Features of Unreal Engine Pricing Models
Free Version
The free version of Unreal Engine has the following features:
- 2D game development tools
- Basic graphics rendering
- Limited animations and sound effects
- No multiplayer support
- Limited licensing terms
Paid Versions
The paid versions of Unreal Engine have more advanced features than the free version, including:
- Advanced graphics rendering and shaders
- Advanced animation tools
- Multiplayer support
- Virtual reality and augmented reality development tools
- AI and machine learning capabilities
- Dedicated cloud hosting services
- Advanced licensing terms that allow for unlimited use of the engine within your organization.
Conclusion
Unreal Engine offers a range of pricing options for developers, from a free 2D version to paid versions with advanced features. The cost of Unreal Engine depends on the version and licensing model you choose. If you are a beginner or small indie studio, the free version is a good option. For larger-scale projects that require more advanced features and support, the paid versions may be better suited. If you have a large organization with specific needs, Unreal Engine also offers enterprise pricing options for customized solutions.