Setting default activated plugins for new projects in Unreal Engine can help streamline your development process by ensuring that each new project starts with the exact setup you need. Here’s how you can set default activated plugins for new projects:

Method #1 – Modify DefaultEngine.ini

One effective way to ensure certain plugins are activated by default in new Unreal Engine projects is by modifying the DefaultEngine.ini file within the engine’s configuration files. Here’s the step-by-step process:

  1. Locate the Engine Configuration Directory:
    • For Unreal Engine installed via the Epic Games Launcher, you can find the configuration files under the engine’s installation directory. The path typically looks like this: /Users/Shared/Epic Games/UE_5.4/Engine/Config/
    • Note: Replace “UE_5.4” with the specific version of Unreal Engine you are using.
  2. Edit the DefaultEngine.ini File:
    • Open the DefaultEngine.ini file in a text editor.
    • To ensure a plugin is activated by default for every new project, you’ll need to add entries under the [Plugins] section of this file. If this section doesn’t exist, you can add it manually.
    • Specify each plugin you want to activate by default like this: [Plugins] +StartupPlugins="PluginName"
    • Replace "PluginName" with the actual name of the plugin you want to enable.

Method #2 – Use a Custom Project Template

Another approach is to create a custom project template that includes all the plugins you want activated by default:

  1. Create a New Project:
    • Start by creating a new project in Unreal Engine that you’ll use as your template.
  2. Configure the Project:
    • Set up the project exactly how you’d like new projects to start, including activating any desired plugins through the ‘Plugins’ menu:
      • Go to Edit > Plugins.
      • Find and enable the plugins you need. Click on ‘Enabled’ to activate each required plugin.
      • Restart the engine if prompted to apply changes.
  3. Save the Project as a Template:
    • Once the project is set up with all the necessary plugins and configurations, you can save this project as a template.
    • Go to File > Save Project as Template.
    • Enter the details for the template, such as name and description, so you can easily recognize it for future use.
  4. Create New Projects Using Your Template:
    • When starting a new project, select your custom template from the project creation window in Unreal Engine. This new project will inherit all the plugins and settings from your template.

Tips for Managing Plugins

  • Regularly Update Your Templates: As new versions of Unreal Engine are released, or as your development needs change, remember to update your custom templates and DefaultEngine.ini settings.
  • Test New Templates and Configurations: Always test a new template or configuration change with a simple project first to ensure everything works as expected without errors.

By setting up default activated plugins through these methods, you can save time and maintain consistency across all your new Unreal Engine projects.