[stefan_bobev]

One of the things I think goes a little underappreciated about Unreal is the fact that everyone gets the source code. Interested in how Nanite or Lumen work? The source is right there! With all the comments (or lack of), with all the debug statements and branches that can be used to diagnose the behaviour of the system.

Often while developing, I dive into the source of the engine to understand how exactly some low level system works. I also blatantly copy all the complex UI widgets available in the editor when I want to extend them/make custom ones for my games (I hate UI programming). This is invaluable for teaching the next generation of engine developers imo.

[gentleman11]

True, but does it expose you to liability if you later do engine dev work elsewhere? Actually curious how that works

[zarzavat]

Only if they have patented the algorithms and I seriously doubt Epic sees a future for itself as a parent troll.