As an Unreal Engine developer, you may have come across the debate about whether Unreal C++ is the same as C++ or not. While both are programming languages that use the C++ syntax, there are several key differences between them that you need to understand before diving into Unreal Engine development.
Unreal C++ vs C++: A brief overview
C++ is a general-purpose programming language that is used in a wide range of applications, from video games to operating systems. Unreal Engine is a popular game engine that uses C++ as its primary language for developing games and simulations.
Syntax Differences
While the syntax used in Unreal C++ and C++ is largely the same, there are some minor differences. For example, Unreal Engine uses a different approach for defining classes and functions.
In C++, you define classes using the keyword “class,” while in Unreal C++, you define them using the “UCLASS” macro.
Similarly, in C++, you declare functions using the keyword “function,” while in Unreal C++, you use the “UFUNCTION” macro.
Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
One of the key differences between Unreal C++ and C++ is that Unreal Engine uses a variant of object-oriented programming (OOP), called Blueprints Visual Scripting. Blueprint Visual Scripting allows developers to create game logic without writing any code by using graphical interfaces and pre-built nodes.
This makes it easier for developers to create complex game systems without the need for extensive coding knowledge.
Cross-Platform Development
Another key difference between Unreal C++ and C++ is that Unreal Engine supports cross-platform development out of the box. This means that you can develop games and simulations that run on multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more, using a single codebase.
In contrast, developing cross-platform applications in C++ requires additional work and expertise.
Performance and Speed
Unreal Engine is optimized for real-time graphics and performance, making it one of the fastest game engines available. This is achieved through several techniques, including advanced shader optimization, dynamic batching, and multi-threaded programming.
While C++ can also be optimized for performance, it requires more manual work and expertise to achieve the same level of optimization as Unreal Engine.
Key Differences Between Unreal C++ and C++
Here are some key differences between Unreal C++ and C++:
- Syntax Differences:
- In C++, you define classes using the keyword “class,” while in Unreal C++, you define them using the “UCLASS” macro.
- In C++, you declare functions using the keyword “function,” while in Unreal C++, you use the “UFUNCTION” macro.
- Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
While the syntax used in Unreal C++ and C++ is largely the same, there are some minor differences. For example:
Unreal Engine uses a variant of object-oriented programming (OOP), called Blueprints Visual Scripting. Blueprint Visual Scripting allows developers to create game logic without writing any code by using graphical interfaces and pre-built nodes.
- Cross-Platform Development
Unreal Engine supports cross-platform development out of the box, meaning that you can develop games and simulations that run on multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more, using a single codebase.
In contrast, developing cross-platform applications in C++ requires additional work and expertise.
Unreal Engine is optimized for real-time graphics and performance, making it one of the fastest game engines available. This is achieved through several techniques, including advanced shader optimization, dynamic batching, and multi-threaded programming.
While C++ can also be optimized for performance, it requires more manual work and expertise to achieve the same level of optimization as Unreal Engine.
Case Study: Developing a Game with Unreal C++ vs C++
Let’s take a look at an example of developing a game using both Unreal C++ and C++. Suppose we want to develop a simple first-person shooter game that runs on multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more. We will compare the development process for each language and see which one is easier and faster.
Developing with Unreal C++:
- Setting up the environment: First, we need to set up the environment by installing Unreal Engine on our system and creating a new project. This can be done through the Unreal Engine launcher.
- Creating game assets: Next, we need to create the game assets, such as characters, weapons, and environments. We can do this using Blueprint Visual Scripting or by writing code in C++.
- Writing game logic: We can write the game logic in C++ using the UCLASS macro for classes and the UFUNCTION macro for functions. Alternatively, we can use Blueprint Visual Scripting to create game logic without writing any code.
- Testing and debugging: Once we have written the game logic, we can test it by running the game on different platforms. We can also use Unreal Engine’s built-in tools for testing and debugging.
- Optimization: Finally, we can optimize the game for performance using Unreal Engine’s advanced shader optimization, dynamic batching, and multi-threaded programming techniques.
Developing with C++:
- Setting up the environment: First, we need to set up the environment by installing the latest version of C++ on our system and creating a new project.
- Creating game assets: Next, we need to create the game assets using a text editor or an IDE. We can also use third-party tools like Blender or Maya to create assets.
- Writing game logic: We can write the game logic in C++ using standard syntax and libraries. We can also use pre-built engines like SDL or GLFW to create the game logic.
- Testing and debugging: Once we have written the game logic, we can test it by running the game on different platforms. We can also use debugging tools like gdb to identify and fix bugs in the code.
- Optimization: Finally, we can optimize the game for performance using manual techniques like loop unrolling, function inlining, and memory management optimization.
Comparing the Development Process:
Based on the above case study, it is clear that developing a game with Unreal C++ is easier and faster than developing it with C++. This is because Unreal Engine provides a complete set of tools and features for game development, including Blueprint Visual Scripting, advanced shader optimization, dynamic batching, and multi-threaded programming techniques. On the other hand, C++ requires more manual work and expertise to achieve the same level of optimization as Unreal Engine.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while both Unreal C++ and C++ are powerful programming languages for game development, Unreal C++ provides a complete set of tools and features that make it easier and faster to develop games than using C++ alone. Additionally, Unreal Engine’s optimized performance and cross-platform support make it an ideal choice for developing high-performance games that run on multiple platforms.
