Vfx

Unreal Engine VFX Systems Overview

• Visual Effects Systems

• Cascade (Old System)

  • Found in starter content/particles folder
  • Still present in marketplace assets

• Niagara (New System)

  • Multiple emitters combine into one system
  • Has timeline and preset variables
  • Preview controls:

    Left click: rotate view Right click/wheel: zoom Middle mouse: camera position

• Niagara Emitter Types

• Basic Structure

  • Created via FX category
  • Must be part of Niagara system to use in-game
  • Can adjust background/bounds in preview

• Common Types:

  • Blowing particles: floating wisps
  • Confetti burst: celebration effect
  • Directional burst: uses gravity/forces/drag
  • Static beam: connects two fixed points
  • Fountain: water-like spray
  • Hanging particulates: ambient dust/fireflies
  • Omnidirectional burst: spark/explosion
  • Upward mesh burst: uses 3D models

    Can randomize multiple static meshes

• Niagara Systems

• Right click to create system
• Add multiple emitters for complex effects
• “Modular design” for combining effects
• Cannot use emitters alone, must be in system

Niagara represents Unreal’s modern VFX approach, replacing Cascade with a modular system that combines various emitter types into complex effects through system integration.