We can import static meshes into Unreal Engine from external 3D modeling applications, such as 3DS Max, Maya or Blender. Although we're using 3DS Max and Maya to illustrate this lesson's goal, you can import static meshes into Unreal Engine from any 3D modeling application with a save feature.
Before getting started: Please make sure you have access to a 3D modeling application.
Goals
The focus of this guide is to show you how to import static meshes from external 3D modeling applications.
Objectives
After going through this guide, you'll know:
- How to import static meshes into Unreal Editor from external 3D modeling applications.
- How to verify that static meshes were imported properly.
The Unreal Engine FBX import pipeline uses FBX 2020.2. Using a different version during export may result in incompatibilities.
Importing Static Meshes from External 3D Modeling Applications
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Select the mesh(es) and joints to be exported in the viewport.
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In the File menu choose Export Selection (or Export All if you want to export everything in the scene regardless of selection).
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Choose the location and name for the FBX file to export the mesh(es) to and set the appropriate options in the FBX Export dialog and then click the
button to create the FBX file containing the mesh(es).
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Select the mesh(es) and bones to be exported in the viewport.
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In the File menu, choose Export Selected (or Export All if you want to export everything in the scene regardless of selection).
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Choose the location and name for the FBX file to export the mesh(es) to and click the
button.
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Set the appropriate options in the FBX Export dialog and then click the
button to create the FBX file containing the mesh(es).
Verifying Imported Static Meshes
Double-click the imported mesh to view it in the Static Mesh Editor.
Click image for full size.
Click image for full size.
Verify that the asset imported properly by viewing the imported mesh in the Static Mesh Editor.
Now that we've reached the end of this guide, you've learned:
✓ How to import static meshes into Unreal Editor from external 3D modeling applications.
✓ How to verify that static meshes were imported properly.
