Tutorial 7 – Creating a Playable Character

In this tutorial, you will learn how to create a playable character in Unreal Engine. A playable character is a character that players can control in the game, using inputs like a keyboard, mouse, or game controller.

Steps to Create a Playable Character

1. Start a New Project
   Open Unreal Engine and create a new project. Choose a template with a character setup, such as the “Third Person” template, or start from scratch with a blank project.
2. Create a Character Blueprint
   A Character Blueprint is used to define the playable character.
   • Go to the “Content Browser,” right-click, and choose Blueprint Class.
   • Select Character as the parent class. Name the Blueprint (e.g., “PlayerCharacter”).
3. Add a 3D Model
   The 3D model represents the appearance of the character.
   • Open your Character Blueprint and go to the “Components” panel.
   • Add a Skeletal Mesh component and assign a 3D model with a skeleton. This will be your character’s body.
4. Set Up Animations
   To make the character move realistically, assign an Animation Blueprint.
   • In the “Skeletal Mesh” settings, choose an Animation Blueprint that matches your character.
   • If you don’t have one, you can create an Animation Blueprint and set up animations for walking, running, jumping, and idle.
5. Add a Camera
   Players need a view of the game world.
   • Add a Camera component to the Character Blueprint.
   • Position the camera to provide a third-person or first-person view.
6. Set Up Movement
   Define how the character moves using the Enhanced Input system.
   • Create Input Actions for movement (e.g., “Move Forward” and “Turn”).
   • In the “Input Mapping Context,” bind keys or joystick axes to these actions.
   • In the Character Blueprint, use Blueprints to link input actions to movement logic. For example:
     • Move Forward → Add Movement Input.
     • Turn → Add Controller Yaw Input.
7. Add Player Controller
   The Player Controller manages player inputs and controls the character.
   • Make sure your game mode is set up to use a Player Controller.
   • Assign your Character Blueprint as the default pawn in the Game Mode settings.
8. Test in the Game
   Press the Play button to test your playable character. You should be able to move, jump, and perform actions based on your input setup.

Optional Enhancements

• Add Abilities: Use Blueprints to add actions like attacking, sprinting, or crouching.
• Sound Effects: Add footsteps or other sounds when the character performs actions.
• Physics Interaction: Enable the character to push objects or pick up items.
• Customization: Allow players to change the character’s appearance using material swaps or skin options.

By following these steps, you can create a playable character that feels responsive and engaging. Once set up, you can expand its functionality to make your game even more exciting.