Epic Games has unveiled Unreal Engine 5.5, packed with groundbreaking features that revolutionize animation, rendering, mobile development, virtual production, and more.

This release elevates in-editor animation by simplifying workflows and reducing dependence on external DCC applications. The new Sequencer update now includes a customizable interface, non-destructive layers, and animatable deformers for character rigging directly in Sequencer.

The MetaHuman Animator within the MetaHuman Plugin now delivers highly accurate facial animations from audio inputs alone, including expressive upper-face gestures.

Another standout is the Mutable character customization system, allowing developers to craft dynamic meshes, materials, and textures that evolve at runtime, optimizing resources while offering flexible customization.

The Lumen global illumination system now supports 60Hz on compatible devices, and the Path Tracer has achieved full production readiness with impressive rendering fidelity. This update also brings expanded support for Linux and features like sky atmosphere and volumetric clouds for high-quality rendering.

A major experimental addition, MegaLights, allows lighting artists to place numerous dynamic, shadow-casting lights without sacrificing performance, thanks to its ability to use textured area lights and Light Functions with soft, volumetric shadows across platforms.

Virtual production tools receive enhancements with support for SMPTE 2110, a Camera Calibration solver, and Virtual Scouting, plus a new Color Grading Panel for intuitive creative control.

The Mobile Forward Renderer now supports D-buffer decals, area lights, volumetric fog, and more, while automatic PSO precaching and a refined Mobile Previewer streamline mobile development.

For improved data processing, Unreal Zen Server has been optimized, now offering cached data storage and streamlined cooked data streaming to platforms like PC, console, and mobile.

Lastly, Fab Marketplace has been integrated, letting developers access Quixel Megascans and asset packs directly from the Content Browser for seamless content integration. Check out the release notes for a full rundown of Unreal Engine 5.5’s powerful new capabilities!

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