Game Engines

Before game engines existed, games were created in assembly language. There wasn't a unified code base, making it extremely difficult to reuse code. It was until later on around 1985 where reusing code became more accessible. The Super Mario Bros was one of the first console games to be made by reusing code.

Game engines in short is a software development program that hosts an environment for designers and developers alike to develop video games. Today, game engines can be used for much more. Some non-game applications include animatin, UI/UX design, digial art, math visualizations, machine learning training environments, cinematography, and many more! An early game engine from 1985 was Garry's Kitchen GameMaker.

Unity Engine

Unity is a cross-platform game engine for mobile, desktop, web, console, and headset games. In this course, we will be working primarily in Unity. If you do not have a Unity account, make sure to sign up with you usc.edu email to get access to Unity's Student Plan.

!!! note "Install Unity Hub (Student)"

Install the latest version of Unity Hub. Below is a screenshot of Unity Hub. Check your version by going to UnityHub/ About Unity Hub.

!!! note "Install Unity"

Install Unity Editor Versions 6 and a version above 2021.3.29f1. Make sure to also unclude the WebGL Build Support module. Below includes a screenshot of the versions (Unity 6 and Unity 2022) Debbie will be using on her Mac.

Godot Engine

Godot is a cross-platform game engine for 2D and 3D games. The cool part of Godot is that it is free and open source! If you're interested, you can contribute to the Godot Engine community on GitHub!

!!! abstract "Reading: Godot Docs"

If you are intersted in learning Godot, reading the Getting Started/Introduction would be a great place to start!

!!! note "Install Godot (Optional)"

Install Godot Engine .NET Version 4.1.1.

Unreal Engine

Unreal Engine is a game engine specifically designed for advanced real-time 3D creations and graphics. Unreal Engine is ideal for photoreal visuals and immersive experiences.

!!! note "Download Epic Games launcher (Optional)"

Follow the download instructions.

!!! note "Install Unreal Engine (Optional)"

Download Unreal Engine 5.2. This version brings native support to Apple Silion and other developments for macOS.