Hi there. Can someone explain what is the difference between OnlineServices vs OnlineSubsystem. Are they separate from each other? OnlineServices is the enhanced version of OnlineSubsystems?
Difference Between Online Subsystem (OSS) and Online Services in Unreal Engine
In Unreal Engine, both Online Subsystem (OSS) and Online Services are used for online multiplayer functionality, but they serve different purposes and operate differently.
1. Online Subsystem (OSS)
OSS is a modular system that acts as an interface for connecting to various online platforms (Steam, Epic Online Services, Xbox Live, etc.).
Key Features of OSS:
Works as a unified interface for multiple online services.
Allows easy switching between services without changing core code.
Supports sessions, matchmaking, leaderboards, achievements, and more.
Primarily used in C++ and Blueprints through the Online Subsystem API.
Examples of OSS Modules:
OnlineSubsystemNull— for local testing.OnlineSubsystemSteam— for Steam integration.OnlineSubsystemEOS— for Epic Online Services.OnlineSubsystemGoogle— for Google Play.
2. Online Services
Online Services is Epic Games’ modern cloud-based solution for multiplayer features, offering a more flexible and direct approach.
Key Features of Online Services:
Does not require complex configuration like OSS.
Can be used directly without Online Subsystem.
Provides access to Epic Online Services (EOS), including cross-platform accounts, authentication, voice chat, cloud saves, and more.
Works independently from third-party platforms (not tied to Steam, PlayStation, or Xbox).
Supports both Blueprints and C++.
Which One to Choose?
- If you need access to multiple services (Steam, PlayStation, Xbox, EOS), then OSS is the better option.
- If your project will only use Epic Online Services, then it’s easier to work with Online Services directly.
Thanks. But what is the advantage of OnlineServices over OnlineSubsystem? Does OnlineServices allow logging in with and linking external accounts?
Advantages of Online Services Over Online Subsystem
Epic Online Services (EOS) / Online Services have several key advantages over the Online Subsystem (OSS) in Unreal Engine:
1. Ease of Use
Does not require complex configuration, unlike OSS, where you need to set up providers (Steam, PSN, Xbox, etc.).
Can be used directly through the EOS SDK or API, without needing the Online Subsystem.
2. True Cross-Platform Support
Allows you to create multiplayer games without being tied to a specific platform (Steam, Xbox, PlayStation).
Players can play across different platforms thanks to the EOS unified account system.
3. Built-in Cloud Services
Cloud Saves for storing game progress.
Friends and social features (Friend System, Cross-Platform Friends).
Leaderboards, Achievements, and Stats tracking.
Voice and text chat without requiring third-party services.
4. Free to Use
EOS is completely free, unlike Steamworks, Xbox Live, and PlayStation Network, which may have restrictions or fees.
No need for paid licenses or subscriptions.
Does Online Services Allow Logging in and Linking External Accounts?
Yes, Epic Online Services (EOS) supports authentication and linking external accounts.
Authentication via Epic Accounts (login through the Epic Games Launcher).
Account linking (Steam, Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, Google, Apple, Nintendo).
Cross-platform login — players can log in on any platform and access their progress.
Conclusion:
If you need maximum cross-platform support, simple setup, and built-in services, then Online Services (EOS) is the better choice. However, if your project requires integration with specific platforms (Steam, Xbox, PSN) and custom logic, then Online Subsystem (OSS) may be more suitable.
OnlineSubsystem does work
OnlineServices does not work
That is the most important difference!!
hi. What do u mean by OnlineServices doenst work bro. Can u explain a little
Off course.
I tested OnlineServices for a few months and it is full of bugs… so simple… it does not work.
I backed to OnlineSubsystem.
When Epic fix it i will use OnlineServices… but i will never use something new from Epic again.
Is better wait a one o two years before use something new from Epic.
Never again i will be a laboratory mouse!!