unreal cpp developer

Unreal Engine 5 C++ Modern Development

This skill defines strict development standards for Unreal Engine 5 C++ code. The goal is to enforce high-quality, performant Unreal Engine code that follows official recommendations.

When to Use

Use this skill when:

• Writing C++ code for Unreal Engine 5.x
• Developing gameplay systems
• Writing Actors, Components, or Subsystems
• Exposing APIs to Blueprint
• Optimizing performance
• Building reusable engine systems

Do NOT use when:

• Working with Blueprint-only logic
• Writing non-Unreal code
• Working in other engines

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Custom Project Rules

Before generating or modifying any code, you MUST first check for project-specific rules in custom_rules.md within this skill directory. If custom_rules.md exists, its rules override and take priority over any rule in this file.

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Class Templates

When asked to generate a NEW C++ class from scratch, you must use the provided templates as your starting point:

• Header Template: templates/TemplateClass.h
• Source Template: templates/TemplateClass.cpp

Never invent a new class structure if templates are provided. Always start from the templates. Substitute TEMPLATE_CLASS_NAME and YOURMODULE_API with the appropriate names.

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Core Philosophy

C++ First Architecture

Core gameplay logic should be implemented in C++ whenever possible.

Blueprints should mainly be used for:

• configuration and asset references
• UI layout and animation (UMG)
• simple event wiring and visual effects

Avoid implementing complex state machines, heavy math, or core gameplay loops purely in Blueprints.

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Modern Unreal Code Structure

Include What You Use (IWYU) & Headers

Always follow the IWYU principle to optimize compile times.

• Never include unnecessary headers.
• Use forward declarations for classes and structs in headers whenever possible.

#pragma once
#include "CoreMinimal.h"
#include "Components/ActorComponent.h"
#include "MyComponent.generated.h"

class UHealthComponent; // Forward Declaration