Epic is working closely with a partner in order to debut the first game using its new tech

Jun 12, 2012 12:11 GMT  ·  By

After presenting the stunning Unreal Engine 4 technology last week, Epic Games has now revealed that the first game powered by the new system will be launched next year.

Epic’s Unreal Engine has shaped the gaming industry this generation, as the third installment of the popular technology is used in many impressive titles, not just the ones from the studio itself.

After finally revealing Unreal Engine 4 last week, thanks to the first public demonstration of the tech, Epic Games has now revealed, through the voice of Vice President Mark Rein, that the first game powered by UE4 will be out next year.

When asked by Joystiq about the launch of the first title to use the technology, Rein said that, “I don't know. For sure something next year, I just don't know exactly when."

According to the Epic VP, the game is still in development and the studio will have to decide alongside its partner when it would be the perfect time to release the new title.

"Until we're really clear on when the game is going to be finished, when the partner wants to put in the sand and market it, we don't really have those kind of dates," he added.

Rein highlighted that the project would have to be thoroughly impressive, as the first title to use a new technology must adequately show off its features.

“It's certainly important for us to have our flagship game. That's the game for which we develop the engine. Gears of War was the game for which Unreal Engine 3 was developed, and so shipping that has a huge significance for licensees and for us. I think, for Unreal Engine 4, there'll certainly be a couple of games."

Epic Games itself is working on a few projects right now, including a PC exclusive title, so it’s possible that Unreal Engine 4 might be behind the PC game.