A substantial number of games for all platforms are being developed using Epic's Unreal Engine 4. Just recently, the latest version of the game development engine has been released, and reports claim that it can fully support the Nintendo Switch. It seems that the update will prove to be a boon for Nintendo and its plans for the new gaming platform. The Japanese gaming firm has previously confirmed its commitment to bring more third-party games to the new console.
It has been confirmed that Epic worked closely with Nintendo to bring the Unreal Engine 4 to the Nintendo Switch. Gamespot also mentions that the source code for the game development engine has been released for free to approved developers. The previous version 4.15 already had support for the Switch, but it was considered experimental at the time. Now, the UE 4.16 version boasts complete support for the new game system.
Eurogamer reports that Epic Games has officially partnered with Nintendo to "release the full Unreal Engine 4 source code for Nintendo Switch." Interested developers are advised to request Nintendo's approval in order get the free source code for Switch games development. Approved developer will also have access to Epic's UE4 Nintendo Switch forum along with other creators to discuss the process.
Epic's Unreal Engine 4 is one of the more popular games development platforms used by a lot of AAA titles. Analysts believe that its availability on the Nintendo Switch will surely help Nintendo attract more third-party developers. It's predecessor, the Nintendo Wii U, obviously failed to meet the company's expectations as the lack of third-party game support ultimately led to its poor sales and mediocre popularity.
Games like Gears of War 4, Shenmue III, and Street Fighter V are powered by Epic's Unreal Engine 4. It seems the Nintendo Switch's hardware limitations might also add to its lack of high-profile games. Bungie's Mark Noseworthy just recently confirmed that the Switch's unknown fidelity with its online connectivity and processing power are key reasons why Destiny 2 was not made available for the new platform.
