Build 3D games and simulations in Unreal Engine 5

This course will introduce methods for modern game development, focusing on the Unreal Game Engine (UE), one of the two major game engines. The course will give you a practical introduction to the underlying C++ language used by the engine, via relating it to C# and Java, languages that you have been using in the GDLT bachelor’s programme.

You will be introduced to the features/tools and the workflow needed to create 3D games and simulations in Unreal Engine, including the concepts of blueprints, user interface, BSP geometry, and the built-in AI tools. Special emphasis is given to how there are multiple applications of AI in games, including procedural content generation (PCG) and discussing how AI-based characters can used to enrich player experiences.

The course gives you sufficient technical knowledge to design and implement games/simulations in Unreal Engine, including AI/PCG systems.

What You Will Learn:

  • Typical workflows (Blueprints, Quick Prototyping)

  • Core gameplay components (Physics, Audio, Light)

  • Advanced engine components (AI, Landscaping, Raytracing, Nanite)

Course Overview:

  • ~5 ECTS theory and practice (lectures + readings/tutorials)

  • ~5 ECTS labs & project in groups (iterative, incremental development)

  • Oral group examination based on project report