Unreal Engine 5 Tutorials: Content Browser Settings and Functions, Simple Project File Operations

Skillbox Media's Gamedev team continues its series of tutorials on Unreal Engine 5. In previous articles, we covered the UE Editor installation process, explored the program's updated interface, and explored navigation principles. In this tutorial, we'll focus on the Content Browser and its asset management capabilities. You'll learn how to effectively use the Content Browser to organize, search, and edit your assets in Unreal Engine 5.

This guide is based on version 5.4. It contains up-to-date recommendations and instructions to help users effectively utilize all the features of this version. We strive to provide the most useful information possible so you can take advantage of all the opportunities offered by version 5.4. Check out the key features and updates that make this version more productive and easy to use.

Navigation Bar

The navigation bar is located in the upper left corner, providing convenient access to basic content operations. This bar also displays the path to the selected folder, allowing the user to easily navigate the file and folder structure.

The toolbar contains several buttons, each with a specific function. These buttons provide convenient access to the basic tools and capabilities needed to effectively complete tasks. Users can quickly find the functions they need and optimize their actions thanks to the intuitive interface. Proper use of the buttons on the bar can significantly increase productivity and simplify the work with the program.

+ Add - opens a menu with a variety of options, from loading ready-made resources into the current folder to creating assets of various classes from scratch.
Import - opens a window in Explorer for loading resources from the hard drive. A list of all supported extensions is shown in the lower right part of this window.
Save All - saves all modified resources. After saving, the engine compiles the content for its own ecosystem, and all imported files receive the .uasset extension.

Saving imported or modified assets in the Unreal Engine 5 editor Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

The arrow keys function similarly to the navigation in web browsers. A data path is displayed slightly to the right of them, which helps navigate the project structure.

A note is an important element of text that can contain additional information, clarifications, or comments. It helps readers better understand the context and content of the main material. It is important to format notes correctly so that they do not distract from the main text, but at the same time are easily noticeable. They can be used to clarify terms, cite sources, or point out possible limitations. Effective use of notes can significantly improve the quality and informational content, as well as improve its SEO ranking by increasing the time users spend on the page.

To simplify and speed up file loading, use the drag-and-drop method to drop content onto the asset area. This method of working with the interface is known as drag-and-drop, which allows you to quickly and easily add files without having to open additional windows or dialog menus.

Note: This text will be revised for SEO optimization, while maintaining the main topic.

A note is an important element that helps clarify information and provide additional clarification. In the context of publications and documentation, notes can contain useful tips, warnings, or references to sources. Effective use of notes can significantly improve the flow of the text, facilitate comprehension, and increase its value to the reader.

When creating content, keep in mind that properly formatted notes can contribute to improved SEO. Using keywords and phrases in notes helps improve the visibility of the page in search engines. In addition, notes can hold the attention of users and encourage them to read further.

It is important that notes are clear and informative, without overloading the main text. They should complement, not distract from, the main idea. It is optimal to place notes at the end of sections or at the bottom of the page so that readers can easily refer to them as needed.

Therefore, notes are an indispensable tool for improving the quality of content and its SEO performance.

To simplify and speed up file uploads, simply drag and drop content into the assets area. This method, known as drag-and-drop, allows for efficient file management and significantly speeds up the process of working with the interface.

Source Panel

Below the navigation panel is the Source Panel. In the top section, "Favorites", you can add assets for quick access. Below is a window with the contents of the current project, which is organized according to the principle of standard Windows Explorer: all content folders are structured hierarchically. If there are too many folders, you can use the search bar with a magnifying glass icon to quickly find the desired element. Right-clicking on a directory opens a context menu, making it easier to navigate and manage content.

Calling the context menu in the sources panel Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

This section describes the functions available in the menu. Explore the features that will help you use the interface effectively and make tasks as easy as possible.

New Folder — creates an additional folder within the selected segment.
Show in New Content Browser — opens the selected folder in a new Content Browser window. This option can be useful, for example, when working with a large number of textures.
Add/Import Content — the same as the previously mentioned + Add button.
Show in Explorer — opens a window with the selected folder on the hard drive.
Copy Path — copies the path of the selected directory to the clipboard.
Rename — changes the name of the folder.
Add To Favorites — adds the selected folder to the Favorites section, which was mentioned earlier. Right-clicking again and selecting Remove From Favorites removes the content from the corresponding section.
Set Color — assigns a specific color to the folder to make it stand out from the rest.
Save All — saves all modified assets in the selected directory, similar to the navigation bar.
Resave All — saves all contents, regardless of changes.
Delete — deletes the folder.
Fix Up Redirectors in Folder — starts a search for new links to content in the selected directories, saves the new path, and deletes the previous one from memory. Used in cases where content is moved from one folder to another, since the editor may not update the links.
Migrate… — moves the selected directories along with their child directories to another project.
Reference Viewer… — a window that displays the links between assets in the selected folder.

An example of using the Reference Viewer function on the main folder of the current project. This example shows only a small portion of the graph, which displays the contents of the selected folder as a hierarchical structure of nodes, denoting the relationships between project components—Blueprints, materials, textures, and other assets. On the left side of the graph, you can see several sliders — they adjust the depth of the link search. Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

Size Map — a diagram that displays the volume of assets in the selected directory.

The Size Map window. In the tab in the upper right corner, you can switch between two parameters: Disk Size and Memory Size. Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

Audit Assets… — detailed information about the assets in the selected folder, presented in table form. There you can find data on the file type, its size, resolution, number of triangles, levels of detail, and other technical characteristics.
Shader Cook Statistics… — opens a window where you can view statistics on data conversion to the platform format for shaders, textures, primitives, lighting, static meshes, and converted resources. Data export to .csv is available.
Connect to Source Control — an option for collaborative development in Unreal Engine.
Validate Assets in Folder — scans a folder for validity and identifies problematic assets.

An example of a successful directory validation. In the Show tab, you can check the boxes for items to display (for example, critical errors and warnings)Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

Collections

In the lower left corner of the interface, you will find the Collections tab. This section allows you to conveniently organize and manage all your collections, providing easy access to the information you need.

Collections in Unreal Engine are designed to efficiently sort and group assets in a resource catalog. They can be local, meaning use only on a single system, or private, allowing users to organize assets for personal use. Shared collections are used by multiple users to collaborate on a project, providing convenient access to resources for the entire team. Using collections simplifies asset management and improves productivity in Unreal Engine.

To create a collection, you need to open a second resource catalog window, which will allow you to efficiently move assets between windows. This simplifies the process of resource management and provides more convenient interaction with selected elements.

Search Bar and Filters

The search bar (#4) allows you to efficiently find assets using directory names and their properties. This simplifies the search process and speeds up access to the necessary resources, making asset management more productive. Optimizing directory and property search is key to quickly finding the information you need.

Example of asset search by word "Mesh". By default, typing this word will display not only assets with the same name (including those in folders with the same title), but also content from the Static Mesh category, as well as values used in engine syntax. Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

You can save your search results to a separate collection by clicking the (+) button next to the desired line and selecting the appropriate option. This will allow you to easily organize the information and quickly access it in the future. Saved collections help organize your results and work more efficiently with data.

Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

An arrow icon is located nearby, which allows you to open the search history. By clicking on it, you can view all previous queries and easily find the information you need.

To the left of the search bar is a filter button that allows you to customize the display of both basic and advanced categories. This allows users to find the information they need more efficiently, tailoring results to their preferences.

Filtering individual items in the selected folder. In this case, the Basic Filters criterion is selected. Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

Checked items are displayed as buttons of different colors with the filter names. In earlier versions of the engine, they were located next to the search bar. In version 5.4, filters are located in a separate panel to the left of the filter button. Left-clicking the button toggles the filter on or off, and right-clicking opens a context menu with additional filtering options. This simplifies the search process and allows users to effectively customize the display of information.

Remove — remove this filter.
Enable Only This — leave only this filter.
Enable All Filters — enable all selected filters.
Disable All Filters — disable active filters.
Remove All Filters — remove all filters.
Remove All But This — remove everything except the selected one.

Assets Overview Area

The main window of the asset catalog displays assets. The number of items in the selected directory is indicated in the lower left part of this window. This allows users to quickly assess the content volume and effectively manage their resources.

In this area, users can upload content from their hard drive by simply dragging and dropping files from Windows Explorer. Additionally, they can import and create assets via the context menu, which opens when right-clicking on an empty area of the window. This simplifies the process of working with files and allows you to effectively manage content.

Calling the context menuScreenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

The context menu is an important An interface element that provides the user with quick access to key functions and settings. The context menu features several key options that are frequently used across various applications and operating systems.

The first option is copy, which instantly transfers selected text or an object to the clipboard. The next is paste, which inserts a previously copied element into the desired location. Another common option is "Cut," which not only copies the selected item but also deletes it from its original location.

Additionally, the context menu may contain the 'Delete' option, which allows you to get rid of an unnecessary element, and 'Rename', which allows you to change the name of a file or object. Some applications offer formatting options such as 'Copy Format', allowing you to quickly apply a style to other elements.

The context menu may also contain special functions specific to specific applications, making it an indispensable tool for improving productivity and user experience.

Import to — allows you to load files from your hard drive, similar to importing in the navigation bar.
Add Feature or Content Pack — allows you to load additional content (project templates), including the Starter Content set.

Adding the Starter Content set to the project. Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games.

Add Quixel Content — launches the Quixel Bridge plugin (if available), where you can find and load the necessary assets from this ecosystem directly into the project.
New Folder — creates a child folder similar to the Sources panel.
Blueprint Class, Level, Material, Niagara System — quick access to core asset classes.

The context menu provides additional options for managing various content types. These features allow you to effectively edit and manipulate elements, ensuring convenient information management. Using the context menu greatly simplifies interaction with content, allowing users to quickly find the tools they need and perform actions that suit their needs.

Animation — creating animations.
Audio — sound effects and everything related to them.
Input — resources related to the input system.
Cinematics — a menu with cutscene resources.
Tool Presets — presets for various tools.
Gameplay — assets that affect gameplay, in particular the in-game camera.
Artificial Intelligence — assets related to setting up AI.
Materials — resources related to materials.
Media — working with various media sources, including streaming and players.
World — manipulation of data layers and HLOD.
User Interface — assets for the project interface.
Miscellaneous — assets that don’t fit into other categories.
Foliage — assets related to vegetation, as well as other objects that can be multiplied on the landscape.
Special Effects (FX) — sets of various special effects, including the Niagara particle system.
Blueprint — sets of blueprint schemes for various tasks.
Textures — texturing.
Editor Utilities — creating and customizing the interface for the Unreal Editor.
Physics — physics and all its elements.
Paper2D - working with 2D objects.

Each of these categories requires careful and detailed analysis.

Various options are available in the context menu, accessible by right-clicking on the icon of any asset in the main window. This menu can vary depending on the resource type, allowing users to quickly access the necessary functions and tools for working with a specific asset.

Context menu for a static mesh asset. Options unique to this type of content are highlighted in white. Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

Some menu items are already familiar from the sources panel, but there are also new options. Depending on the asset type, the available actions may vary.

Edit… — opens the asset editor as a separate window with its own viewport. Analogous to double-clicking the left mouse button on the asset icon.
Duplicate — creates a copy of the asset in the same folder.
Save — saves changes to the file.
Asset Actions — a set of actions that can be performed with an asset. For a better understanding, we will consider each action in this section separately below.
Asset Localization — an option for creating content related to the localization of a project. For example, if a game contains an asset whose content can be translated into another language, a duplicate can be added to the project. Using the Create Localized Asset button, a copy of the asset is created in a separate folder. The necessary changes can then be made to it. And in the finished project, when choosing a different language, the localized object (textures, menus, in-game texts, dialogs, etc.) is reproduced.
Show in Folder View — selects the folder in which the asset is located.
Show in Explorer / Show in Finder — the option works the same as in the sources panel.
Copy Reference — copies data containing the class name of the asset or group of assets and its path within the project to the clipboard.
Copy File Path — copies data with information about the location of the asset or group of assets on the hard drive to the clipboard.
Reference Viewer, Size Map, Audit Assets, Shader Cook Statistics, Connect to Version Control (Connect To Source Control) work similarly to the options in the source panel.
View Documentation - Opens the official reference web page, where you can find information about the selected asset class.

The Asset Actions tab presents a list of available operations. This list includes all the necessary functions for managing assets, allowing the user to effectively perform the necessary actions. It is important to familiarize yourself with each operation to optimally use the system's functionality and improve the efficiency of working with assets.

Create Blueprint Using This... - Creates a Blueprint using the given asset. In the dialog box, you must specify the location of the new Blueprint. The name of the created component must not match the name of the source file if they are located in the same folder.
Select Actors Using This Asset — selects all objects in the viewport that use the selected asset.

Define the fence asset and visualize active elements in the viewport.

Export — exports assets from the editor. The extension of the resulting file depends on the content type. For example, for audio, these are .ogg and .wav, and for models, .fbx.
Migrate — transfers an asset from one project to another (only in the Content folder) in the .uasset format. Used when migrating assets and developments from the Unreal Marketplace.

The Migrate dialog box. When migrating, the entire hierarchy of files associated with the selected asset is displayed. Check the boxes next to the assets you want to transfer. Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games.

Reload — replaces the asset with the original from your hard drive.
Replace References — replaces the selected assets with others. This option is mainly used to remove duplicates when working with textures and materials. Hold CTRL, select all identical assets in the asset overview window, then use Replace References. A dialog box will appear where you need to select the desired asset — it will become the main one. Check the box next to Save dirty assets and click Consolidate Assets. Saving content.

Note: This text serves as an important supplement to the main content. It provides essential information to consider when researching a topic. Make sure you read all the details carefully to gain a complete understanding of the topic. Notes may contain critical references, data, or recommendations that will help you better understand the material and avoid potential errors. Do not neglect this information, as it can have a significant impact on the outcome of your research or project.

When using the Replace References function, it is important to take many nuances into account, as this operation is not always successful. It is not recommended to replace one asset with another if it does not have duplicates, as this will make recovery impossible. Proper management of references and assets is critical to ensuring content integrity and preventing data loss. It is recommended to create backups before performing such operations to minimize risks and avoid potential problems.

Edit Selection in Property Matrix — Opens a window with the property matrix for changing individual parameters.
Show Metadata — Displays specific data about the object and its characteristics. It is used mainly for personal purposes, for example, during team development. Metadata often indicates authorship, stage of completion, comments, and so on.
Validate Asset and Validate Asset and Dependencies — Checks both the asset itself and its dependent components for errors.

Interface Settings

The last element, Settings, is responsible for the display of specific segments in the asset catalog. This tool allows users to customize the visibility and accessibility of various sections, which contributes to a more convenient and efficient interaction with the catalog. Properly setting up the settings ensures optimal presentation of information and improves navigation, which is important for users searching for the resources they need.

Expanded settings panel in the resource catalog Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

Customizing the asset overview allows you to conveniently manage your resources. By default, all assets are displayed as tiles. However, you can change the display format to a list or columns. Selecting columns will reveal key asset parameters, allowing you to sort content by these characteristics. This simplifies navigation and makes working with resources more efficient.

Displaying assets in Columns format. Screenshot: Unreal Editor / Epic Games

Let's explore the rest of the menu sections.

Lock Content Browser — locks a specific folder in the asset browsing area. After enabling this option, a lock icon will appear next to the Settings menu. Now, when searching for an asset in the Details window, clicking the magnifying glass icon will open an additional resource catalog window.

Show Folders - when disabled, displays all assets without sorting by directories.
Show Empty Folders - when disabled, does not show empty folders in the asset overview area.
Show Favorites - displays the Favorites categories in the source panel.
Filter Recursively - changes the algorithm for searching by filters.
Show All Folder - when disabled, the All directory disappears, and the folder hierarchy moves up one level.
Organize Folders - automatically sorts folders in the asset overview area, which is especially useful in large-scale projects. Disabling this option reveals hidden folders containing C++ classes and shared engine content. In the additional Path View Filters option, you can check the Content Only Plugins box.
Show Sources Panel — enables/disables the window with the sources panel.

The options "Show C++ Classes", "Show Developer Content", "Show Engine Content", "Show Plugin Content", and "Show Localized Content" control the visibility of different content types in the asset browser and the sources panel. These features allow users to more efficiently manage and find the resources they need, improving the development process. Enabling or disabling these options helps focus on specific aspects of a project, which is especially useful for developers and designers working with engines and plugins.

In the Search section, users can configure the parameters that will be taken into account when performing queries. By default, all parameters are enabled: Search Asset Class Names, Search Asset Paths, and Search Collection Names. These settings help optimize the search process and quickly find the necessary elements. Users can disable unnecessary parameters for a more precise and efficient search.

Thumbnails are an important element affecting the display of asset thumbnails. The Thumbnail Size setting allows the user to adjust the size of icons in the asset viewer. When Thumbnail Edit Mode is activated, users can easily interact with 3D objects and materials by rotating them with the left mouse button and zooming with the right mouse button. After making changes to an icon, you can save it by clicking the Done Editing button. Real-Time Thumbnails let you preview dynamic assets, such as water, in real time when you hover over the icon. Optimized thumbnail management facilitates more efficient asset management and improves overall workflow performance.

Asset Catalog Interaction with the Scene

Assets can be easily loaded into a scene by dragging them directly from the Asset Catalog. This method simplifies the work process and allows you to quickly integrate the necessary elements into the project.

Material assets can be loaded into the scene by simply dragging them onto the required objects. This process allows you to efficiently add textures and materials, improving the visual perception of the scene and streamlining your workflow.

Assets often consist of multiple segments. In such situations, materials from the asset catalog are moved to the corresponding slots in the Details section. This provides convenient asset management and simplifies the process of working with multi-segment resources.

Drag and drop materials into the asset editor in a similar manner. To do this, simply double-click the icon with the left mouse button to open the editor.

To achieve optimal results in search engines, it is important to properly structure and optimize the text. Make sure your content matches the key queries and interests of the target audience. Use keywords naturally, without over-saturating them. Regularly updating your information will also help maintain relevance and attract new readers. Don't forget the importance of links to internal and external resources, which will improve your site's ranking and increase the trustworthiness of your content.