Unreal Engine (UE) is a powerful real-time 3D engine that is widely used in game development, architecture, engineering, filmmaking, and other industries. It offers a wide range of features and tools that make it easy for developers to create stunning graphics and interactive experiences.
Licensing Fees
Unreal Engine offers a range of licensing options that allow users to choose the best option for their needs. The most common licensing models are:
- Perpetual License: This license allows users to use UE indefinitely, with no recurring fees. It is suitable for large-scale projects and businesses that require more control over their software assets.
Subscription License: This license requires users to pay a subscription fee on an annual or monthly basis, depending on the version of UE they choose. It offers more flexibility than a perpetual license, as users can easily upgrade or downgrade their subscription at any time.
Subscription Fees
In addition to licensing fees, Unreal Engine also offers subscription-based pricing options. The most popular subscription models are:
- Epic Games Store Subscription: This subscription allows users to access UE and other Unity assets from the Epic Games Store. It costs $19.99 per month or $199 per year.
Source License: This license allows users to modify and distribute the source code of UE, as long as they comply with the license terms. It is suitable for open-source developers and organizations that want more control over their software.
Free Versions
Unreal Engine also offers free versions of the engine, which are suitable for small-scale projects or hobbyists who want to learn the ropes. The most popular free versions are:
- UE4 Basic: This version is available for free and allows users to create 2D projects, mobile apps, and basic 3D projects using UE’s powerful tools. It has some limitations on features and scalability compared to the paid versions.
UE5 Early Access: This version is also available for free and allows users to access the latest version of UE before it is officially released. However, it requires a Unreal Engine account and has some restrictions on usage and support.
Summary
In conclusion, there are various pricing options available for Unreal Engine, depending on your needs and budget. If you are a large-scale business or organization that requires more control over their software assets, then a perpetual license may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you are a small-scale project or hobbyist who wants to learn the ropes, then a free version of UE may be suitable. For those in between, subscription-based pricing options offer more flexibility and scalability.