Creating Your First Project
Step 1: Launch Unreal Engine
- Open the Epic Games Launcher
- Click "Launch" next to Unreal Engine 5
- Wait for the Unreal Engine window to open
Step 2: Choose Project Template
- You'll see the "Unreal Project Browser"
- Click on "New Project" tab at the top
- Choose "Games" category (it should be selected by default)
- Select "Blank" template (this gives you a clean starting point)
- Choose "Blueprint" (easier for beginners) or "C++" (if you know programming)
Step 3: Configure Your Project
Project Settings:
- Target Platform: Desktop
- Quality Preset: Maximum (for best graphics)
- Raytracing: Optional (requires powerful graphics card)
- Starter Content: ✅ Check this box! (This gives you free assets to use)
Project Location:
- Choose a folder where you want to save your project
- Give your project a name (e.g., "MyFirstLevel" or "CaveAdventure")
Click "Create Project"
Step 4: Explore the Interface
Once your project loads, you'll see:
Viewport: The main 3D window where you build your level
Content Browser: Where all your assets (models, textures, etc.) are stored
World Outliner: Shows all objects in your level
Details Panel: Properties of selected objects
Toolbar: Buttons for playing your game and other tools
Your First Steps
- Move around: Right-click and drag to rotate view, scroll wheel to zoom, middle mouse button to pan
- Add a floor: In the Place Actors panel, drag "Floor" into the viewport
- Save your work: Press
Ctrl+Sor go to File → Save All
Tips for Beginners
- ✅ Always save your work frequently!
- ✅ Use the Starter Content - it has lots of free assets
- ✅ Don't worry if things look confusing at first - you'll learn as you go
- ✅ Experiment! Try clicking on different things to see what happens