external data layers

[geverk]

Hi,

I have been tracking for a long about the game features plugging to add new level content, something that was shown but not documented on Lyra sample.

It seems that now the way to do it is not by levels but by external data layers on the word partition.

https://portal.productboard.com/epicgames/1-unreal-engine-public-roadmap/c/1099-external-data-layers?&utm_medium=social&utm_source=starter_share

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This is a Fortnite feature that we wanted to productize for UE. Since this is experimental, it will be removed for UE 5.5 and it would be replace by a new feature called External Data Layers (Available in the Data Layers Outliner). This feature is used in Fortnite to place Content on a Layer (External Data Layer). This new layer could be injected/removed dynamically based on the state of his associated plugin. E.g. We want Wild boars in FN Season 20 and 22 but not in Season 21.

I have managed to create with the game feature plugin, a content plugin, and in that plugin add an external data layer, add it as an action, and add that external layer to the main level.

The problem is that to show that layer, I need to have the DLC active, but when active can’t be edited. So I have no clear what is wrong or how shall be the way to use this.

Right now, I’m searching for this as a way to add future content to my project as DLCs, adding new areas of gameplay in the future after the first release.

thanks

[Sajid]

When the plugin is active, you can see the external data layer, but by default its not active until saved. Save the level, and it should become active.
You still wont be able to add anything to it though. Its a quirk in Unreal for now. To get around it, select the objects you want to add to the layer and “cut” them. Then double-click the external layer to make it active. Anything you create from here onwards will be added to the external layer. You can now paste the objects you had cut earlier and they will now show up in the external data layer. Check by toggling the layer on and off. Save.

I hope that helps.