Niagara Systems

Using Niagara VFX Systems

• Methods to Use Niagara:

• Direct Scene Placement

  • Drag from content browser
  • Use 3 dots by play button -> Simulate
  • “Effects only play once by default”

• Loop Settings

  • Open Niagara system
  • Find loop behavior in details

    Once vs Infinite options Compile & save after changes

• Blueprint Spawning

  • Use “spawn system” nodes

    Avoid Cascade (Effects category) Use Niagara category instead

  • Two main approaches:

    Spawn at location

    • Needs actor location
    • Effect stays in place

    Spawn system attached

    • Connects to mesh component
    • Uses bones/sockets
    • “Travels with character movement”

• Animation Notify Method

  • Right-click Notify track
  • Choose Play Niagara effect
  • Can adjust:

    Spawn location Rotation

  • Triggers with animation

Niagara systems offer versatile implementation methods from simple dragging to complex animation integration. Each approach serves different needs, with options for static placement or character-attached effects.