How to Make a Horror Game in Unreal Engine 5 - Full Beginner Course

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of creating a first-person horror game using Unreal Engine 5. Whether you are a complete beginner or have some experience, this step-by-step guide will help you understand the essential components needed to build a captivating horror game.

Step 1: Project Setup

• Download and install Unreal Engine 5.
• Create a new project using the "First Person" template.
• Organize your project by creating folders for assets, scripts, and sounds.

Step 2: Create the True First-Person Camera

• Open your character blueprint.
• Remove the default camera and add a new camera component.
• Adjust the camera's position to align with the player's eyes for a true first-person view.
• Set up the input mappings for looking around using the mouse.

Step 3: Add a Flashlight

• Create a flashlight blueprint by adding a spotlight component.
• Attach the flashlight to the player's camera.
• Set up input controls to toggle the flashlight on and off.
• Ensure the flashlight has a limited battery life for added tension.

Step 4: Implement an Interactive Drawer

• Create a drawer mesh and add it to your level.
• Set up a blueprint for the drawer to enable interaction.
• Implement the functionality to open and close the drawer when the player interacts with it.

Step 5: Add Footstep Sounds

• Import footstep sound files into your project.
• Create a sound cue to manage different footstep sounds based on the surface material.
• Use the character movement blueprint to trigger footstep sounds when the player walks.

Step 6: AI Setup

• Create an AI character by duplicating your player character.
• Set up a basic AI controller for the character to manage AI behavior.

Step 7: Create AI Behavior Tree

• Open the behavior tree editor and create a new behavior tree for your AI.
• Add nodes for patrolling, chasing the player, and idle behavior.
• Connect the nodes to create a logical flow for the AI's actions.

Step 8: AI Animations

• Import character animations for the AI.
• Set up an animation blueprint to control the AI's animations based on its state (patrolling, chasing, etc.).

Step 9: Implement AI Sensing

• Add a perception component to the AI character.
• Configure the sensing radius and field of view to detect the player.
• Use the perception component to trigger AI behavior when the player enters its detection zone.

Step 10: AI Attack Mechanism

• Create a simple attack animation and add it to the AI.
• Implement a blueprint event for when the AI detects the player, allowing it to chase and attack.
• Ensure the player has a health system in place to respond to AI attacks.

Step 11: Weapon Setup

• Create a weapon blueprint for the player.
• Set up the ability to equip and use the weapon in the game.
• Implement shooting mechanics and sound effects for a more immersive experience.

Step 12: Character Customization

• Add customization options for the player character, including animations and appearance changes.
• Implement a system for the player to choose or unlock different character skins.

Step 13: Environment Design

• Design the game environment using assets from the Unreal Engine Marketplace or your own models.
• Create a dark and immersive atmosphere using lighting and sound design.
• Consider adding interactive elements to enhance player engagement.

Step 14: Final Touches

• Polish the game by adding retouches to animations, sounds, and interactions.
• Test the game thoroughly to ensure everything works as intended.
• Gather feedback from playtesters to identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion

You've now created a basic first-person horror game in Unreal Engine 5! This tutorial covered essential elements such as camera setup, AI behavior, and player interactions. To further enhance your game, consider exploring additional assets and integrating more complex mechanics. Happy game developing!