Unreal Engine 5.5 has introduced many innovative features for game developers. One of the most notable is the new lighting feature called Megalights. This allows artists to use an exponential number of lights in 3D environments, achieving more realistic and dynamic visuals.
The engine also includes features aimed at improving mobile game development. It offers visualization tools for mobile UI, performance optimization for mobile devices, and enhancements to MetaSound for a better audio experience on mobile platforms.
Additionally, two experimental features have been introduced: Sparse Volume Textures (SVT) and heterogeneous volume path tracing. These enable offline quality rendering of volumetric effects like smoke and fire, in pursuit of realism.
Animation tools have been improved as well, allowing for smoother and more realistic animations. Tools to enhance character realism have also been strengthened. With these new features, Unreal Engine 5.5 is expected to open up new possibilities in game development.