Unity and Unreal Engine are the two leading software platforms for VR development. They both offer free versions that you can utilize for testing. Which platform is better is a decision only you can make depending on your project and what you want to achieve.
A Quick Summary of Unity 3D
Unity 3D has been with us since 2005. Unity 3D is the platform that 60% of XR (VR/AR) content use. It is also used in about half of the games that we have. It is loved because it is a cross-platform software that supports 28 platforms.
Many tend to think that Unity 3D is mobile-oriented and cannot support complex projects, but it is not the case. Unity 3D has evolved and can support any project, even the most complex ones.
Unreal Engine
Unreal Engine has been in the industry since 1998. The 4th edition that has the free version was released in 2015. Unreal Engine is associated with AAA game titles and multi-million complex projects. Unreal Engine is now adapting to mobile development.
Unreal Engine and Unity 3D have made a lot of effort to work on their weaknesses, making it tough to choose between the two. Read on to discover their differences.
Differences Between Unreal Engine and Unity 3D
The difference between the two software platforms is a bit technical. We will look at the differences in documentation & training, asset stores, community, development process, graphics, and source code access.
Documentation and Training
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Both engines provide sufficient documentation to guide users. The difference arises when we consider external training.
Most of the courses focus on Unity 3D. Courses for Unreal Engine are fewer. When you get into a business-oriented course, the course will likely focus on Unity 3D.
Assets Stores
Both engines have asset stores, but their contents differ. Unreal Engine has about 10,000 assets, while Unity 3D has about 50,000.
Unreal Engine assets are of finished game productions with better visuals, making it ideal for video games. Unity 3D is often preferred by businesses since ready-made assets are easier to find.
Community
Unity 3D has been free and accessible for a long time, resulting in a larger community. This makes it easier to find solutions when challenges arise.
Development Process
Unity 3D uses C# as its primary language, while Unreal Engine uses C++.
While both languages are powerful, beginners often prefer C# because it is simpler. C++ is more advanced but suitable for complex projects.
Graphics
Both engines can create realistic images. Unreal Engine has an edge because of its superior assets and tutorials.
Unity 3D can still achieve similar results with adjustments in lighting and materials.
Source Code Access
Unreal Engine is open-source, allowing developers to tweak the source code freely.
Unity 3D, however, is not open-source, and modifications require an enterprise license.
Verdict
The verdict depends on your project and skills. If you are comfortable with C++, Unreal Engine is a strong choice. If you are a beginner, Unity 3D is easier to learn with C#.
Unity 3D works best where you need multiple prototypes and customizations. Unreal Engine shines in desktop games with AAA visuals or visual presentations.
Imroz Mansuri
Founder
