Streamlining Dedicated Servers: A Guide to the Multiplay Hosting SDK for Unreal Engine
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A new software development kit (SDK) is now available to simplify the process of configuring dedicated game servers within Unreal Engine, offering developers a more efficient pathway to robust online experiences. Released just one day ago, the Multiplay Hosting SDK aims to reduce friction in server deployment for projects utilizing Unreal Engine versions 4.27 through 5.3.
Understanding the Requirements
To fully leverage the Multiplay Game Server SDK, developers should be aware of key prerequisites. Setting up a dedicated server environment within Unreal Engine necessitates a source build of the engine itself. This ensures the necessary level of customization and control required for optimal server performance.
The process begins with establishing accounts on both Epic Games and GitHub, followed by linking the two platforms. Developers will then need to clone the Unreal Engine source code using Git, specifically checking out the branch that corresponds to their target Unreal Engine version – for example, version 4.27. Following the startup and running instructions provided with that specific version is crucial to obtaining the necessary Unreal Engine binaries.
Downloading and Installing the SDK
The Multiplay Hosting SDK is readily available through the Unreal Engine Marketplace. Developers can access it by logging into the marketplace via the Epic Games Launcher and searching for “Unity Gaming Services SDK for Unreal Engine.” The SDK is offered free of charge and can be installed directly into the engine.
According to the installation guide, after locating the SDK, users should select “Open in Launcher” and then proceed to step 4 of the associated documentation. Within the Epic Games Launcher, selecting “Install to Engine” will initiate the download and installation process.
Once installed, developers must open their Unreal Engine project and enable the “Unity Gaming Services SDK for Unreal Engine” plugin. A restart of the engine is then required. Finally, the SDK folder, typically located in C:Program FilesEpic GamesUE_5.3EnginePluginsMarketplace (on Windows, with similar paths for MacOS and Linux), must be copied to the root directory of the project. If a folder doesn’t exist, it should be created.
Building the Project with the SDK
Integrating the SDK into the project requires a build process. Developers should right-click on the project file and select “Generate Visual Studio project files.” After the generation process completes, the project can be opened using Visual Studio.
To ensure the SDK functions correctly, a module dependency must be added to the project’s build file. Additionally, a file containing the server target configuration is required. The Multiplay Game Server SDK relies on these configuration files to access critical server information, including the server query port and server ID.
Configuring Server Details
Multiplay utilizes configuration files to manage essential server details, such as the IP address, port number, and unique server ID. These files also incorporate all active build configuration variables. The SDK specifically accesses the server query port and server ID variables through these files.
Developers can organize these files within the Multiplay Hosting Unity Dashboard and access Build Configurations. The required files must contain both "queryPort": "$$query_port$$" and "serverID": "$$serverid$$". An example configuration file provided demonstrates this structure.
Next Steps and Integration
With the SDK installed and configured, developers can proceed with integrating it into their Unreal Engine project, either through C++ or Blueprint scripting. This integration will allow for seamless communication with Multiplay Hosting services, streamlining the deployment and management of dedicated game servers.
