Can You Buy a Game Engine? Exploring the Options

When it comes to game development, the term 'game engine' can be quite broad and open to interpretation. Depending on your needs, there are different ways to access or purchase a game engine. Whether you're looking to develop a commercial game, or just start creating your own projects, understanding the various options available is crucial. In this article, we will delve into the different types of game engines you can purchase, their benefits, and the considerations you should keep in mind.

Types of Game Engines

Game engines can be broadly categorized into commercial, proprietary, open source, and custom development. Each type offers unique advantages and considerations for game developers.

Commercial Game Engines

Popular commercial game engines like Unity and Unreal Engine are widely used and offer a variety of features for game development. Many of these engines are free to download and use for individual projects. However, they often require purchasing a license or paying revenue-sharing fees once certain income thresholds are met. If you want specific versions or add-ons, you can purchase these licenses separately. This approach balances the initial cost of entry with ongoing financial contributions as your game gains traction.

Proprietary Engines

Some companies develop in-house game engines that cater specifically to their internal needs and are sometimes sold to other developers. These engines can be quite expensive but usually come with robust technical support and regular updates. Companies that have the resources to develop custom engines often do so for long-term strategic reasons, offering a tailored solution that can be a considerable investment.

Open Source Engines

Engines like Godot are completely free to use and modify. You can distribute and modify the software under the terms of the license, making it a popular choice for developers who want full control over their projects. However, while these engines are cost-free, you can pay for additional support or services if you need them. This flexibility is a significant advantage but requires a deeper understanding of technical limitations and customizations.

Custom Development

If your game has specific requirements that none of the existing engines can meet, you may opt for custom development. This involves hiring a team of developers to create a game engine tailored to your exact needs. While this can be expensive, it allows for total control over the engine's functionality and scalability. Custom development requires thorough planning and budgeting but can be a worthwhile investment for larger, more complex projects.

Evaluating Your Options

When considering purchasing a game engine, you need to evaluate your budget, the types of games you want to create, and the engine's features and community support. Each option has its pros and cons, and your choice will depend on your specific needs. Here are some key questions to ask:

What is your budget for purchasing the engine, or for developing a custom engine? What type of game are you planning to develop? Do you need features and support that are only available in a specific engine? What level of community and resources are you looking for? How scalable and maintainable do you need the engine to be in the long term?

Considering these factors will help you make an informed decision and choose the best game engine for your project.

Reselling Game Engines

If you're looking to buy a game engine and resell it to others, be aware that Unity and Unreal Engine are the most popular options in this space. While it's technically possible to acquire the codebase of these engines, it would be a monumental undertaking, especially given their vast scale and complexity. Even if you manage to acquire such a license, you would still need to manage and update the codebase for ongoing use.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to license a game engine from a popular platform or create a custom one, it's essential to have a clear understanding of your needs and goals. By considering the different types of game engines available and the specific requirements of your project, you can make a well-informed decision and set yourself up for success in the game development industry.