The new update introduces Procedural Content Generation tools and a Substrate shading system providing artists with new real-time functionality – both showcased in March at GDC’s Electric Dreams real-time demo; also announced Unreal Fest 2023 coming to New Orleans in October.
Epic Games has released Unreal Engine 5.2, featuring the introduction of Procedural Content Generation (PCG) tools and the Substrate shading system - both announced at GDC and showcased in the photorealistic Electric Dreams real-time demo.
The new Substrate shading system allows artists to compose and layer different shading models to achieve levels of fidelity and quality not previously possible in real-time. In addition, the new PCG tools let artists define rules and parameters to quickly populate expansive, highly detailed spaces that are art-directable and work seamlessly with hand-placed content.
Additional updates in Unreal Engine 5.2 include enhancements to the virtual production toolset, including a new iPad app offering an intuitive touch-based interface for stage operations; native support for Apple Silicon within the Unreal Editor; and a new ML Deformer sample project exploring Unreal Engine machine learning technology use in creating a high-fidelity real-time character with deformations driven by full muscle, flesh, and cloth simulation.
In addition, Epic announced the dates for Unreal Fest 2023, taking place October 3-5 in New Orleans. The program will feature 150+ sessions, dozens of hands-on labs, and learning tracks, including Unreal Engine ecosystem tools and UEFN and Fortnite Creative content. The call for speakers is open now through Friday, June 9.
Watch the “Unreal Engine 5.2 Feature Highlights” video, then visit the Unreal Engine 5.2 blog here for additional information.
Source: Epic Games
Debbie Diamond Sarto is news editor at Animation World Network.
