The Showdown Between Godot vs Unreal Engine

Godot positions itself ideally for both rookies and veterans of game development with its open-source, scene-driven, and license-free framework. Whereas, Unreal Engine appeals to a wide-range demographic with its established presence, massive toolset, and robust C++ support. Opt for Godot if you aim for simplicity and flexibility. Choose Unreal Engine for demanding, high-end projects.

Key Distinctions Between Godot and Unreal Engine

• Origin: Godot is open-source and license-free, while Unreal Engine imposes a 5% royalty for gained revenue over \$1 million.
• Scripting: Godot provides GDScript and C#, while Unreal Engine strictly uses C++.
• 3D Support: Unreal Engine excels in rendering high-quality 3D models, Godot supports both 2D and 3D but struggles with complex 3D.
• User-Friendliness: Godot offers node-based architecture for simpler game logic, whilst Unreal Engine provides templates for first and third person experiences.
• Community and Marketplace: Unreal Engine’s Marketplace enables developers to share and monetize assets, whereas Godot is backed by a community that contributes numerous language bindings.

What Is Godot and Who’s It For?

An open-source, MIT-licensed game engine, Godot specializes in providing a streamlined design process through its intuitive, scene-driven design. Bolstering the freedom of game creation from simple blocks to complex scenes, it offers maneuverability with its own scripting language, GDScript. With a tech stack offering C#, C++, and community support for Rust, Nim, Python, the Godot engine supports both high-end and low-end devices, making it accessible for a wide spectrum of developers. Godot aims at those passionate about game development, from beginner level to experienced professionals. Its prowess lies in 2D game workflow and simpler 3D game development.

Pros of Godot

• Open-source, modifiable codebase
• Supports a range of languages including GDScript, C#, and C++
• Equally beneficial for novices and seasoned game developers
• Robust 2D and simple 3D game development support
• No licensing fees, contracts, or hidden fees

Cons of Godot

• Not suitable for complex 3D game development
• Limited .NET support for desktop platforms in Godot 4

What Is Unreal Engine and Who’s It For?

Unreal Engine (UE), a product of Epic Games, is a powerhouse 3D computer graphics game engine. Since its first showcase in 1998, it has charted a triumphant journey across various game genres and industries, including film and television. Written in C++, UE has a broad platform reach, covering desktop, mobile, console, and VR. The latest avatar, Unreal Engine 5, saw its grand release in April 2022. This technology primarily targets seasoned game developers and professionals in related industries seeking a powerful engine for complex 3D game development and cinematic presentations.

Pros of Unreal Engine

• Powerful tool for complex 3D game development
• Wide range of platform support
• Lucrative marketplace for developers to sell creations
• Free for schools and universities
• Includes acquired features like Quixel

Cons of Unreal Engine

• Charge of 5% of revenues over USD 1 million for commercial use
• Requires high technical proficiency

Code Examples for Godot & Unreal Engine

Godot

This Godot code snippet depicts an engaging player movement setup in a 2D platformer environment. The code requires the Godot Engine version 3.0 or newer equipped with a GDScript.

extends KinematicBody2D

var speed = 500
var jump_force = -850

var on_ground = false

var movement = Vector2()

func _physics_process(delta):
    
    movement.x = 0

    if Input.is_action_pressed("ui_right"):
        movement.x += speed
    elif Input.is_action_pressed("ui_left"):
        movement.x -= speed

    if on_ground:
        if Input.is_action_just_pressed("ui_up"):
            movement.y = jump_force
    else:
        movement.y += delta * 1000

    movement = move_and_slide(movement, Vector2.UP)

func _on_ground_detector_body_entered(body):
    on_ground = true

func _on_ground_detector_body_exited(body):
    on_ground = false

Unreal Engine

The Unreal Engine snippet translates player-inputted actions into character movements and rotations. For this to function as desired, you need Unreal Engine 4.25 or higher and a visual scripting language, Blueprint.

void AYourCharacter::SetupPlayerInputComponent(UInputComponent* PlayerInputComponent)
{
    Super::SetupPlayerInputComponent(PlayerInputComponent);

    PlayerInputComponent->BindAxis("MoveForward", this, &AYourCharacter::MoveForward);
    PlayerInputComponent->BindAxis("MoveRight", this, &AYourCharacter::MoveRight);
    PlayerInputComponent->BindAxis("Turn", this, &APawn::AddControllerYawInput);
    PlayerInputComponent->BindAxis("LookUp", this, &APawn::AddControllerPitchInput);
}

void AYourCharacter::MoveForward(float Value)
{
    if ((Controller != NULL) && (Value != 0.0f))
    {
        const FRotator Rotation = Controller->GetControlRotation();
        const FRotator YawRotation(0, Rotation.Yaw, 0);

        const FVector Direction = FRotationMatrix(YawRotation).GetUnitAxis(EAxis::X);
        AddMovementInput(Direction, Value);
    }
}

void AYourCharacter::MoveRight(float Value)
{
    if ((Controller != NULL) && (Value != 0.0f))
    {
        const FRotator Rotation = Controller->GetControlRotation();
        const FRotator YawRotation(0, Rotation.Yaw, 0);

        const FVector Direction = FRotationMatrix(YawRotation).GetUnitAxis(EAxis::Y);
        AddMovementInput(Direction, Value);
    }
}

Godot vs Unreal Engine: Making the Verdict

After encompassing the extensive realms of both Godot and Unreal Engine, let’s delve into which of the two giants prevails!

Indie Developers and Hobbyists

For the solo creators, indie devs, or hobbyist devs, who thrive on flexibility, ease of use, and zero-cost model, Godot strides ahead with its intuitive scene-based design and the built-in scripting language, GDScript. Especially for 2D game projects, Godot’s unbeatable. Its open-source nature allows you to tinker and tailor the game engine as per your needs, sans any hidden costs or fees.

Triple-A Studios and High-end VR Developers

For those aiming for the stars – Triple-A Studios, high-end VR developers, i.e., teams looking for robust and high-performance 3D capabilities, Unreal Engine is your call. Its profound compatibility with intricate 3D graphics, C++ programming support, and its evolving ecosystem make it the more robust choice for teams capable of harnessing its power.Expect cutting-edge output, albeit at a price.

Education Institutions

Educational entities in diverse sectors, rubbing shoulders to teach game development or graphics, greatly benefit from Unreal Engine’s complimentary policy. Unreal Engine’s free access to schools and universities facilitates a resourceful ground for learners. The built-in templates serve as quality stepping stones for those attempting their first hit.

When considering Godot or Unreal Engine, Godot’s perfect for indie creators needing flexibility, ease of use, and a costless model. For high-end developers and Triple-A studios, Unreal Engine’s superior in its robust 3D capabilities and vast ecosystem. Yet, Unreal Engine charges licensing fees after a certain revenue threshold, unlike Godot’s absolutely free model.