How to Use and Create Plugins in Unreal Engine

Edited 1 week ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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The Unreal Engine is a powerful tool for creating games and other real-time 3D applications. One of the many features that extend its functionality is the ability to use and create plugins. Plugins allow developers to add new functionalities, modify existing features, and automate repetitive tasks. In this guide, we will explore the basics of using and creating plugins in the Unreal Engine using clear and simple language to ensure that even those new to programming can follow along.

Understanding plugins

Plugins in Unreal Engine are essentially a package of pre-compiled code or assets that can be integrated into your project. These plugins can range from simple utility tools to complex systems that add new mechanics or capabilities. They are designed to be modular, allowing developers to easily plug them into their project without modifying the core engine code. Plugins can save time and effort by providing shared functionality across multiple projects or by leveraging third-party solutions directly within Unreal Engine.

Using existing plugins

Finding plugins

Finding existing plugins is the first step to using them. Unreal Engine comes with a variety of built-in plugins that can be easily enabled. Additionally, you can explore a plethora of third-party plugins available through the Unreal Engine Marketplace. Third-party plugins are developed by the community and can range from free to paid options.

Enabling plugins

To use the plugin in your project, you must enable it. You can do this as follows:

• Open the Unreal Engine editor.
• Go to the "Edit" menu and select "Plugins."
• Browse the list of available plugins or use the search bar to find a specific plugin.
• Enable the desired plugin by checking the checkbox next to its name.
• Once enabled, you may be asked to restart the editor for the changes to take effect.

After restarting, the plugin will be fully integrated into your project and available for use. Each plugin may have its own additional settings that you can configure within the editor to suit your needs.

Create a new plugin

Why create a plugin?

If you have custom functionality or features that you plan to use across multiple projects, creating your own plugin is beneficial. By packaging your custom tools or libraries into plugins, you can maintain a modular codebase that can be easily shared and maintained.

Creating the plugin

Here's a step-by-step guide for creating a simple plugin in Unreal Engine:

Step 1: Create a new plugin

• Open the Unreal Engine editor.
• Go to the "Edit" menu and select "Plugins."
• In the Plugins window, click the "New Plugin" button.
• Choose the plugin template that best suits your needs, such as “Blank”, “Content Only” or “Editor Mode.” For a basic setup, select “Blank”.
• Provide a name and location for your new plugin. Also, provide a short description.
• Click "Create Plugin" to create the plugin files.

Step 2: Plugin structure

A plugin consists of several major files and folders:

• Contents: This folder contains all the assets provided by your plugin, such as blueprints or textures.
• Source: This is the primary location for your code files. It will contain your C++ classes.
• Resources: This folder stores miscellaneous files, such as images for icons.
• config: This folder contains the configuration files for your plugin.
• .uplugin file: A JSON format file that defines the plugin's settings, including its dependencies, modules, and metadata.

Step 3: Implementing the plugin

Now it's time to add functionality to your plugin. Open your favorite code editor, and add your custom logic to the C++ files of the module located in your plugin's source folder. Here's an example of how you can create a simple function inside your plugin.

    // Example function in a plugin module int32 MyPluginFunction(int32 A, int32 B) { return A + B; }

Once you've added your code, compile your plugin. In many cases, this can be done directly in the Unreal Engine Editor by selecting "Compile" from the toolbar or by using your IDE.

Step 4: Test your plugin

After you've implemented and compiled your plugin, you'll want to test it to make sure it works as expected:

• Restart the Unreal Engine Editor to apply the changes if necessary.
• Make sure your plugin is enabled in the Plugins window.
• Use your plugin's functionalities within Unreal Engine for testing. This can include creating new content using your plugin or interacting with it through custom UI elements.

Use Unreal Engine's debugging tools to troubleshoot any issues that arise during testing.

Delivery and maintenance

Sharing your plugin

Once your plugin is fully developed and tested, you may want to share it with others. Whether it's distributing it to team members or publishing it to the Unreal Engine Marketplace, there are a few steps you should take:

• Package your plugin: Create a zipped file of your plugin's directory, excluding unnecessary files such as intermediate build files.
• Documentation: Include readme files or other documentation to help users understand how to install and use your plugin effectively.
• Submission: If you plan to list your plugin on the Unreal Marketplace, follow Epic Games' submission guidelines to ensure your plugin is compliant and complete.

Update your plugin

Since the Unreal Engine is updated frequently, you will need to maintain your plugin to ensure compatibility with new versions of the engine. Regular updates can improve your plugin's functionality, address bugs, and enhance performance. Keep the following points in mind for plugin maintenance:

• Monitor Unreal Engine releases: Stay informed about engine updates that may impact your plugin's functionality.
• Quality assurance: Test your plugin thoroughly with each update to quickly resolve any compatibility or functionality issues.
• Community feedback: If your plugin is publicly available, actively engage with the community to get feedback and suggestions that can help improve the plugin.

Conclusion

Plugins play a vital role in extending and customizing the capabilities of Unreal Engine. By learning how to effectively use and create plugins, you can significantly enhance your production workflow, ultimately leading to more efficient and innovative projects. Whether you are using existing plugins from the Marketplace or developing your own, it is important to understand their structure, functionality, and maintenance. With this knowledge, you can make the most of what Unreal Engine has to offer.

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