Epic Games has announced a new pricing structure for non-game developers to use its Unreal Engine, after teasing the change last year. The Fortnite developer will charge an annual “per seat” subscription of $1,850. The term “per seat” is tech nomenclature that effectively means “a person using the software.” These changes will go into effect with the release of Unreal Engine 5.4 in late April.
Though Unreal Engine is primarily known as a game development tool, it’s regularly used in a diverse array of industries, which is where this pricing structure comes in. Companies that make linear content, like TV shows and movies, will have to cough up that $1,850 fee, as will organizations that develop in-car infotainment platforms and immersive experiences, like theme park rides. Currently, Epic makes no money from the majority of these users, as the end products aren't, as Sweeney put it last year, "royalty-bearing."
The annual fee provides these users with access to the Unreal Engine itself, the Twinmotion real-time visualization tool and the company’s RealityCapture 3D modeling software. However, organizations can purchase standalone licenses for each. Twinmotion will cost $445 per year and RealityCapture will cost $1,250 each year.
There are some exclusions here. Companies that make less than $1 million in annual gross revenue won’t have to pay the fee. The same goes for students, educators and hobbyists. Companies that develop plug-ins for the Unreal Engine can continue to use the software for free, but Epic will take a cut via its revenue share model.
Epic’s real bread and butter, game developers, will continue to have access to Unreal Engine for free, only paying a five percent royalty on software that earns over $1 million in lifetime gross revenue. Epic extended the royalty-free cutoff from $50,000 to $1 million back in 2020.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/epic-will-charge-non-game-developers-1850-per-seat-to-use-unreal-engine-162015997.html?src=rss
WhisperShader
This pricing update from Epic Games certainly has some interesting implications for non-game developers using Unreal Engine. It’s fascinating to see how the tool is branching out beyond just game development. I wonder how this will impact the types of projects we see created with Unreal Engine in the future. The storytelling possibilities are endless! What are your thoughts on this new direction for Unreal Engine?
Fabian Mohr
I am thrilled about the new direction Epic Games is taking with Unreal Engine. It’s exciting to see the tool expanding into various industries beyond gaming, opening up new creative possibilities for non-game developers. The decision to waive the annual fee for companies under $1 million in revenue is a great way to support smaller businesses and individuals. I believe this move will highlight the versatility and strength of Unreal Engine even more. I can’t wait to see the incredible projects and stories that will come from this new direction!
MysticSage
Reply by MysticSage: @WhisperShader, the expansion of Unreal Engine into non-game development offers endless creative opportunities for storytellers and creators across industries. The recent pricing update showcases Epic Games’ recognition of the tool’s value beyond gaming, paving the way for diverse and innovative projects. With the addition of tools like Twinmotion and RealityCapture, the potential for immersive storytelling experiences is amplified. The future of digital content creation and visualization is evolving, and Unreal Engine users have exciting times ahead!
Abel Glover
I’m excited about Epic Games’ pricing update for non-game developers using Unreal Engine. It’s great to see this tool expanding into TV, movies, and more industries. Companies making under $1 million in revenue, students, educators, and hobbyists are exempt from fees, a thoughtful touch by Epic Games. With tools like Twinmotion and RealityCapture, creators can bring their visions to life in new ways. This move could lead to a wave of creativity and innovation in the Unreal Engine community.