Unreal Engine
unrealengine.com
Real-time 3D engine for games and virtual production.
Quick Information
- Category:
- 3D & Games
- Pricing:
- Free
- Platforms:
- Windows, macOS, Linux
- Free Plan:
- Yes
- API Available:
- Yes
- Last Verified:
- October 2026
What Is Unreal Engine?
Unreal Engine is Epic Games' real-time 3D engine for games and virtual production. Epic's licence page says all lifetime gross revenue above $1 million directly attributable to the Unreal Engine product is subject to a 5% royalty, and game developers are free until that threshold. Revenue from sales on the Epic Games Store is royalty-free, and individuals and small businesses with under $1 million in annual gross revenue are also listed as free. Royalty payments are due 45 days after the close of each calendar quarter.
The $1 million threshold is lifetime gross revenue per product, not annual, and the 2020 change that introduced it applies retroactively to revenue from January 1, 2020. For non-game uses, a 2024 report said companies over $1 million in annual revenue would move to a seat-based model at $1,850 per seat, and a 2026 blog repeats the figure for architecture, simulation and film, but neither confirms it is current. No 2026 announcement changing these terms was found. Check Epic's licence page and FAQ, and look at custom licences if your project is large.
Unreal Engine suits studios that need high-end visuals, film and virtual production teams, and architects. Compare Unity, RealityScan and Substance 3D. Browse the 3D & Games tools directory for more.
What Can You Use Unreal Engine For?
AAA and indie games
High-end visuals.
Virtual production
Film and TV.
Architecture and simulation
Seat-based for larger firms.
Unreal Engine Features
- Royalty model — 5% above $1M lifetime per product.
- Epic Games Store terms — Royalty-free sales.
- Quarterly royalties — Due 45 days after quarter end.
Who Is Unreal Engine For?
- Game studios — Free until $1M.
- Film and VR teams — Real-time visuals.
Unreal Engine Pros & Limitations
What We Like
- Free to start
- No upfront cost for games
- Epic Games Store revenue is royalty-free
Limitations
- 5% royalty above $1M per product
- Non-game seat fee unconfirmed
- Steep learning curve for beginners
Unreal Engine Pricing
| Plan | Price | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Game development | Free; 5% royalty on lifetime gross revenue above $1M per product | Epic Games Store sales are royalty-free |
| Non-game (companies over $1M revenue) | Reported $1,850 per seat per year (unconfirmed) | Architecture, simulation and film |
Pricing was last verified October 2026. Check the official website for the latest pricing.
AI Listing Jungle Ranking
- Global Rank:
- #999
- Overall Score:
- 37.8/100
- Monthly Users:
- –
- Rank Change:
- ▼ 257
This ranking reflects AI Listing Jungle's own independent scoring methodology and is not an endorsement by Unreal Engine or its company. How Our Rankings Work
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Unreal Engine free?
Yes for game developers until $1M lifetime gross revenue per product.
What is the royalty?
5% of lifetime gross revenue above $1M.
Are Epic Games Store sales free of royalties?
Yes.
What about non-game use?
Reports say $1,850 per seat for companies over $1M; verify.
Our Take
Unreal's licence is generous for small and mid-size projects.
Read the licence carefully if you plan a hit game or non-game use.
Unreal Engine Alternatives
Unreal Engine Comparisons
Ready to try Unreal Engine?
Visit the official website to get started.
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