unreal-cpp-gameplay

Unreal C++ Gameplay

Write correct UE5 gameplay C++: the reflection macros that connect C++ to the editor and Blueprints, the Gameplay Framework class roles, and module dependencies. Targets UE 5.8.

When to use

• Use when creating C++ gameplay classes (AActor, APawn, ACharacter, AGameModeBase, UActorComponent), exposing properties/functions with UPROPERTY/UFUNCTION, setting up a GameMode's default classes, or adding a module dependency in *.Build.cs.
• Use when the project has a Source/ tree with *.h/*.cpp using UCLASS, and *.Build.cs.

When not to use: designer-facing visual logic → unreal-blueprints. Player input binding details → unreal-enhanced-input. AI logic → unreal-behavior-trees. This skill owns the C++ class/reflection foundation those build on.

Core workflow

1. Name with the right prefix. A = Actor-derived, U = UObject/component-derived, F = plain struct, E = enum, I = interface. The prefix must match the base class.
2. Declare the class with reflection macros. UCLASS() above the class, GENERATED_BODY() as the first line in the body, and #include "ClassName.generated.h" as the last include in the header.
3. Expose data with UPROPERTY (editor/Blueprint visibility and garbage-collection tracking) and behaviour with UFUNCTION (BlueprintCallable, etc.).
4. Create components in the constructor with CreateDefaultSubobject<T>(TEXT("Name")) and set the RootComponent.
5. Know the framework roles: AGameModeBase sets the rules + default classes; APawn/ ACharacter is the controllable body; APlayerController is the player's will; UActorComponent is reusable behaviour.
6. Add module dependencies to *.Build.cs (e.g. EnhancedInput) or unresolved-symbol link errors follow.
7. Verify by compiling (Live Coding Ctrl+Alt+F11 for function bodies; full rebuild for header/UPROPERTY changes) and checking the class/properties appear in the editor.