A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Game Engine for Your Project

Are you ready to take your game development skills to the next level? One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right game engine. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for your project. But fear not, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of selecting the perfect game engine for your needs. From understanding the different types of engines to evaluating their features and capabilities, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s dive into the world of game engines!

Understanding the Basics of Game Engines

What is a game engine?

A game engine is a software framework that provides the necessary tools and resources for game developers to create, design, and build video games. It acts as a central hub for various aspects of game development, such as graphics rendering, physics simulation, sound processing, and scripting. The primary purpose of a game engine is to simplify the development process, streamline workflows, and improve the overall efficiency of creating games.

Game engines come in various shapes and sizes, catering to different types of projects and developers. Some are designed for indie game creators, while others are tailored for large-scale, AAA game productions. These engines offer a wide range of features, from basic 2D graphics to advanced 3D rendering, physics simulation, and multiplayer support.

When choosing a game engine for your project, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of your game, such as the target platform, genre, scale, and desired features. By understanding the fundamentals of game engines and their capabilities, you can make an informed decision that will ultimately impact the success of your project.

Why do game engines matter?

Game engines are software development platforms that provide a framework for creating video games. They offer a wide range of tools and resources to help developers design, build, and publish games more efficiently. Choosing the right game engine is crucial for any game development project as it can significantly impact the quality, performance, and overall success of the game.

There are several reasons why game engines matter:

• Saves time and effort: Game engines provide a comprehensive set of tools and resources that simplify the game development process. With a game engine, developers can create game assets, implement game mechanics, and design levels more efficiently, saving time and effort compared to building a game from scratch.
• Enhances game quality: Game engines offer a range of features that help developers create high-quality games. For example, they provide support for advanced graphics, physics simulations, and AI algorithms, enabling developers to create realistic game worlds and immersive gameplay experiences.
• Improves performance: Game engines are optimized for performance, which means they can handle complex game mechanics and large game worlds with ease. This ensures that games run smoothly and can handle high levels of player interaction, even on low-end hardware.
• Facilitates collaboration: Game engines provide a shared workspace where developers can collaborate on game design, art, and programming. This enables teams to work together more effectively, share resources, and streamline the development process.
• Facilitates publishing: Game engines provide tools for publishing and distributing games across different platforms, such as PC, consoles, and mobile devices. This makes it easier for developers to reach a wider audience and monetize their games.

In summary, game engines matter because they provide a range of tools and resources that help developers create high-quality games more efficiently. Choosing the right game engine is essential for any game development project as it can significantly impact the success of the game.

Popular game engines

Game engines have become an essential tool for game developers to create high-quality games efficiently. With the increasing popularity of game engines, there are numerous options available for developers to choose from. Some of the most popular game engines are:

1. Unity: Unity is one of the most widely used game engines for creating 2D and 3D games. It offers a wide range of features such as a visual editor, scripting API, physics engine, and a large community of developers. Unity supports multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and consoles.
2. Unreal Engine: Unreal Engine is a powerful game engine that is widely used for creating 3D games. It offers advanced features such as real-time rendering, physics simulation, and a visual scripting system. Unreal Engine also supports multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and consoles.
3. Epic Games: Epic Games is a popular game engine that is used for creating 2D and 3D games. It offers a visual editor, scripting API, physics engine, and a large community of developers. Epic Games supports multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and consoles.
4. CryEngine: CryEngine is a powerful game engine that is used for creating 3D games. It offers advanced features such as real-time rendering, physics simulation, and a visual scripting system. CryEngine also supports multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and consoles.
5. Godot: Godot is a free and open-source game engine that is used for creating 2D and 3D games. It offers a visual editor, scripting API, physics engine, and a large community of developers. Godot supports multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux.

Choosing the right game engine for your project is crucial for ensuring that your game runs smoothly and meets your desired specifications. Consider factors such as the type of game you want to create, the platforms you want to support, and the features and tools offered by each engine. By understanding the basics of game engines and exploring the popular options available, you can make an informed decision that will help you achieve your goals as a game developer.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Game Engine

Game engine features

When choosing a game engine, it is important to consider the features that are most relevant to your project. Some of the key features to consider include:

• Graphics engine: The graphics engine is responsible for rendering the game’s visuals. It is important to choose an engine that can handle the level of detail and complexity required for your project.
• Physics engine: The physics engine simulates the physical behavior of objects in the game world. It is important to choose an engine that can handle the level of complexity required for your project, such as soft body physics or rigid body dynamics.
• Sound engine: The sound engine is responsible for playing and manipulating sound effects and music in the game. It is important to choose an engine that can handle the level of complexity required for your project, such as 3D positional audio or advanced sound effects processing.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) engine: The AI engine is responsible for controlling the behavior of non-player characters (NPCs) and other elements of the game world. It is important to choose an engine that can handle the level of complexity required for your project, such as pathfinding or decision-making algorithms.
• Scripting language: The scripting language is used to add interactivity and dynamic behavior to the game. It is important to choose an engine that supports a scripting language that is easy to learn and use, and that has a large community of developers who can provide support and resources.
• Support for multiple platforms: It is important to choose an engine that can support the platforms you want to target, such as PC, console, mobile, or VR.
• Development tools: The development tools provided by the engine can greatly affect the efficiency and productivity of the development process. It is important to choose an engine that provides a comprehensive set of tools, such as a debugger, profiler, and asset manager.
• Community and ecosystem: A strong community and ecosystem around the engine can provide valuable resources, such as tutorials, forums, and libraries, that can help you to develop your game more efficiently. It is important to choose an engine that has a large and active community of developers.

Platform compatibility

When selecting a game engine for your project, it is crucial to consider platform compatibility. The platform compatibility of a game engine refers to its ability to support different platforms and devices, such as PC, consoles, mobile devices, and virtual reality (VR) devices. The following are some factors to consider when evaluating the platform compatibility of a game engine:

• Cross-platform support: The ability of a game engine to support multiple platforms is an essential factor to consider. A game engine that supports cross-platform development can save time and resources by allowing developers to create a single game that can run on multiple platforms. This is particularly important for indie developers who may not have the resources to develop separate versions of their game for each platform.
• Performance: The performance of a game engine on different platforms is another important factor to consider. A game engine that can deliver high-quality graphics and smooth gameplay on a wide range of devices is essential for creating a successful game. It is also important to consider the level of optimization required for each platform, as this can impact development time and resources.
• Developer experience: The experience of the developer team in working with a particular game engine can also impact platform compatibility. Developers who are familiar with a particular game engine may be better equipped to optimize their game for that platform, resulting in better performance and a smoother development process.
• Open source vs. proprietary: Another factor to consider is whether the game engine is open source or proprietary. Open source game engines may offer more flexibility and customization options, but may require more development expertise to optimize for specific platforms. Proprietary game engines, on the other hand, may offer more support and resources for platform compatibility, but may come with licensing fees and restrictions.

By considering these factors, developers can make an informed decision when choosing a game engine that will provide the best platform compatibility for their project.

Community support

When choosing a game engine, it’s important to consider the level of community support available. A game engine with a strong and active community can provide valuable resources, such as tutorials, forums, and a knowledge base. This can be particularly helpful for developers who are new to the engine or who are working on a project with limited resources.

In addition to providing valuable resources, a strong community can also offer support in the form of bug reports and fixes. This can be especially helpful for developers who are working on a project with limited resources, as they may not have the time or expertise to troubleshoot issues on their own.

Furthermore, a game engine with a strong community can also provide access to a range of plugins and assets, which can help developers to quickly and easily enhance their projects. This can be particularly useful for developers who are working on a tight budget or who are looking to save time on their project.

In conclusion, community support is an important factor to consider when choosing a game engine. A game engine with a strong and active community can provide valuable resources, support, and access to plugins and assets, which can help developers to create high-quality games efficiently.

Licensing and pricing

When choosing a game engine, one of the most critical factors to consider is the licensing and pricing model. The cost of the engine can vary widely, from free to several thousand dollars, depending on the features and capabilities it offers. It’s essential to choose an engine that fits within your budget while also providing the tools you need to create the game you envision.

There are several different licensing models to consider when choosing a game engine. Some engines are free and open-source, while others are proprietary and require a license fee. Some engines offer a free version with limited features, while others charge a one-time fee or a subscription fee for access to all features.

In addition to the initial cost of the engine, you should also consider any ongoing costs, such as maintenance or updates. Some engines require you to purchase updates or upgrades to access new features or keep your engine up to date. It’s important to factor these costs into your budget when choosing an engine.

When comparing engines, it’s also important to consider the value they offer. While a more expensive engine may have more features and capabilities, it may not necessarily be the best choice for your project. Conversely, a free engine may not offer the same level of support or functionality as a paid engine.

Ultimately, the licensing and pricing model of a game engine should be one of several factors you consider when choosing an engine. It’s important to choose an engine that fits within your budget while also providing the tools you need to create the game you envision.

Performance and scalability

When it comes to choosing the right game engine for your project, performance and scalability are two key factors that cannot be overlooked. Here’s what you need to know:

• Understanding Performance: Performance refers to the overall speed and responsiveness of your game. It is crucial to choose a game engine that can deliver a smooth and seamless gaming experience, especially when it comes to fast-paced games. Factors that can affect performance include frame rate, load times, and input lag.
• Choosing the Right Engine for Your Project: To ensure optimal performance, it’s important to choose a game engine that is well-suited to your project’s specific needs. For example, if you’re developing a first-person shooter game, you’ll need an engine that can handle complex physics simulations and high-quality graphics. On the other hand, if you’re developing a mobile game, you’ll need an engine that can optimize performance on lower-end devices.
• Scalability: Scalability refers to the engine’s ability to handle increasing amounts of data and complexity as your project grows. A scalable engine can handle larger levels, more characters, and more advanced gameplay mechanics as your project evolves. It’s important to choose an engine that can grow with your project, as this will save you time and resources in the long run.
• Consider the Engine’s Community and Support: Another important factor to consider is the engine’s community and support. Engines with a large and active community are more likely to have resources, tutorials, and plugins that can help you optimize performance and scalability. Additionally, many engines offer technical support and documentation to help you troubleshoot any performance issues that may arise.

In summary, when choosing a game engine, it’s crucial to consider performance and scalability. Look for an engine that can deliver a smooth and responsive gaming experience, is well-suited to your project’s specific needs, and can grow with your project. Additionally, consider the engine’s community and support to ensure you have the resources you need to optimize performance and scalability.

Ease of use and customization

When choosing a game engine, ease of use and customization are crucial factors to consider. Here are some aspects to keep in mind:

• User-friendliness: A game engine should be easy to learn and use, even for developers who are new to game development. This is important to ensure that the development process is smooth and efficient.
• Customizability: The ability to customize the game engine to suit your specific needs is also essential. You should be able to modify the engine to fit your project’s requirements, whether it’s adding new features or changing the way the engine works.
• Documentation and support: Good documentation and support are critical to ensure that you can use the game engine effectively. The engine should come with clear and comprehensive documentation that explains how to use its features and functions. Additionally, having access to a supportive community or customer service can help you resolve any issues that may arise during development.
• Integration with other tools: If you’re using other tools in your development process, such as a level editor or animation software, the game engine should be compatible with them. This will help you streamline your workflow and reduce the amount of time you spend on manual tasks.
• Scalability: As your project grows and becomes more complex, the game engine should be able to scale with it. This means that it should be able to handle larger projects and more demanding features without compromising performance or stability.

By considering these factors, you can choose a game engine that is easy to use and customize, allowing you to focus on creating a high-quality game.

Third-party integration

When selecting a game engine for your project, it is crucial to consider the third-party integration options available. This aspect can significantly impact the development process and the final product. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating third-party integration in game engines:

• API compatibility: The compatibility of the game engine’s API with your project’s requirements is a crucial factor. It is essential to ensure that the game engine can integrate with the third-party tools and services you intend to use.
• Community support: The availability of community-driven resources and support for third-party integrations can greatly enhance your development experience. Engines with active communities often provide libraries, tutorials, and forums to help developers overcome challenges during integration.
• Official support: Some game engines offer official support for specific third-party integrations. This can provide a smoother integration process and access to dedicated support from the engine’s developers.
• Documentation and resources: The quality and comprehensiveness of the documentation and resources provided by the game engine for third-party integration can significantly impact the ease of implementation. Engines with detailed guides, sample projects, and code examples can help streamline the integration process.
• Open-source nature: Engines with an open-source nature may offer more flexibility and customization options for third-party integrations. Open-source engines often have a larger community of developers contributing to the integration of various tools and services.
• Ease of integration: The ease of integrating third-party tools and services into the game engine can significantly impact development efficiency. Consider the learning curve and potential challenges associated with integrating each engine with your project’s requirements.
• Cost: Some third-party integrations may come with additional costs, such as licensing fees or subscription charges. Evaluate the financial implications of these integrations and their potential impact on your project’s budget.

By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that the game engine you choose offers the right combination of third-party integration options to meet the specific needs of your project.

Evaluating Your Project Requirements

Identifying your project’s goals and scope

Before choosing a game engine, it is essential to identify the goals and scope of your project. This involves assessing the type of game you want to create, the platform you want to release it on, and the target audience you want to reach. Here are some factors to consider when identifying your project’s goals and scope:

Genre of the Game

The genre of the game is an essential factor to consider when choosing a game engine. Different game engines are better suited for different genres. For example, Unity is a popular choice for 2D and 3D games, while Unreal Engine is ideal for first-person shooters and open-world games. It is crucial to choose an engine that is compatible with the genre of your game to ensure that you can create the desired gameplay mechanics and visual effects.

Platform of Release

Another factor to consider is the platform you want to release your game on. Different game engines are optimized for different platforms. For example, Unity supports a wide range of platforms, including PC, mobile, console, and VR, while Unreal Engine is more optimized for PC and console. It is important to choose an engine that is compatible with the platform you want to release your game on to ensure that you can optimize your game for that platform’s specific hardware and software requirements.

Target Audience

Your target audience is also an essential factor to consider when choosing a game engine. Different game engines have different levels of complexity, which can affect the level of polish and quality that you can achieve in your game. For example, Unity is more beginner-friendly and is ideal for indie developers who want to create casual games, while Unreal Engine is more complex and is ideal for AAA studios that want to create high-quality, cinematic experiences. It is important to choose an engine that is compatible with your target audience’s skill level and expectations to ensure that you can create a game that meets their needs and desires.

Assessing your team’s skillset and experience

When choosing a game engine for your project, it’s important to consider the skillset and experience of your development team. The engine you select should be compatible with the expertise of your team members to ensure a smooth development process. Here are some factors to consider when assessing your team’s skillset and experience:

1. Programming languages: Different game engines use different programming languages, such as C++, C#, or Java. Consider the experience and proficiency of your team in these languages when selecting an engine.
2. Engine complexity: Some game engines, like Unity or Unreal Engine, are more complex than others, like Godot or Ammo. Choose an engine that your team can efficiently work with, avoiding unnecessary challenges and roadblocks.
3. Experience with specific tools: Game engines often come with their own set of tools and plugins. Assess your team’s familiarity with these tools and determine if they will need additional training or resources to work effectively with the chosen engine.
4. Third-party integrations: If your project requires integration with third-party tools or services, consider the compatibility of the game engine with these systems. This may affect the overall development process and the skillset required for successful integration.
5. Community support: Engines with strong developer communities and documentation may be more beneficial for teams that are less experienced with the engine. This can provide valuable resources and assistance during the development process.
6. Customization and extensibility: Some engines are more flexible and customizable than others, allowing for greater control over the development process. Assess your team’s need for customization and whether the chosen engine will support these requirements.
7. Project scope and timeline: Consider the complexity and scope of your project when evaluating your team’s skillset and experience. An engine that is easier to work with may be more suitable for smaller or less experienced teams working on simpler projects, while more complex engines may be better suited for larger teams or more experienced developers tackling larger, more ambitious projects.

By carefully assessing your team’s skillset and experience, you can select a game engine that aligns with your development team’s capabilities and ensures a successful project outcome.

Determining your budget and timeline

When choosing a game engine for your project, it’s crucial to consider your budget and timeline. These two factors can significantly impact your decision and ultimately determine the success of your project.

• Budget: The cost of a game engine can vary greatly, and it’s essential to choose one that fits within your budget. Some game engines offer free versions with limited features, while others require a significant investment. Consider the long-term costs, such as maintenance and updates, when selecting a game engine.
• Timeline: The timeline for your project is also an essential factor to consider when choosing a game engine. Some game engines are more complex and may require more time to learn and implement, while others are more user-friendly and can be up and running quickly. Be realistic about your project’s timeline and choose a game engine that can accommodate your schedule.

By evaluating your budget and timeline, you can narrow down your options and choose a game engine that fits your project’s specific needs. It’s important to remember that the right game engine for one project may not be the best choice for another, so it’s crucial to evaluate your project requirements carefully before making a decision.

Choosing the right game engine for your project

Selecting the right game engine is a crucial step in the development process. The game engine you choose will greatly impact the final product and the development experience. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a game engine:

Game engine capabilities

Consider the specific capabilities of each game engine. What types of games can it handle? Does it support the desired platforms (PC, console, mobile, VR)? Does it have the features you need, such as physics engines, animation tools, and scripting support? Research the game engine’s track record and success stories in similar projects to get a sense of its capabilities.

Ease of use and learning curve

Assess the ease of use and learning curve for each game engine. How difficult is it to learn and use? Are there extensive documentation and resources available? Will the development team be able to quickly become proficient in the engine? Consider the time and effort required to become proficient in the engine, as this will impact the development timeline and budget.

Integration with existing tools and technology

Consider whether the game engine integrates well with your existing tools and technology. Will it work seamlessly with your pipeline and workflows? Are there any compatibility issues or additional work required to integrate the engine with your existing tools?

Community and support

Evaluate the community and support for each game engine. Are there active forums, user groups, and online resources? Is there a strong developer community that can provide assistance and guidance? Consider the level of support and resources available, as this can greatly impact the development experience.

Cost and licensing

Finally, consider the cost and licensing of each game engine. What are the upfront and ongoing costs? Are there any royalties or revenue sharing requirements? Consider the long-term financial impact of the game engine on your project.

By considering these key factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the right game engine for your project.

Recap of key factors to consider

When choosing the right game engine for your project, it is crucial to consider several key factors that will help you make an informed decision. These factors include:

• Target platform: What platform are you planning to develop your game for? Different game engines are better suited for different platforms, so it’s important to choose one that supports your target platform.
• Game genre: The genre of your game can also influence your choice of game engine. For example, engines like Unity and Unreal Engine are more suited for 3D games, while engines like RenPy and Adventure Game Studio are better for visual novels and text-based games.
• Engine features: Consider the features that are included in each engine. Some engines may have more advanced physics engines, while others may have better support for 2D graphics. Think about what features are important for your project and choose an engine that supports those features.
• Community support: A strong community can be a valuable resource when developing a game. Consider the level of community support for each engine, including documentation, forums, and online resources.
• Learning curve: Consider how easy or difficult it will be to learn the engine. Some engines may have steeper learning curves than others, so it’s important to choose one that you feel comfortable working with.
• Cost: Finally, consider the cost of each engine. Some engines may be free to use, while others may require a licensing fee. Additionally, some engines may have additional costs for certain features or services.

By considering these key factors, you can narrow down your options and choose the game engine that best fits your project requirements.

The importance of choosing the right game engine

Choosing the right game engine is crucial for the success of your project. It can significantly impact the development process, the quality of the final product, and the overall experience of the player. The game engine you choose will determine the features and functionality available to you, as well as the level of control you have over the development process.

Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating the importance of choosing the right game engine:

• Compatibility: The game engine you choose should be compatible with the platform you plan to develop for. For example, if you plan to develop for PC, you may want to consider an engine like Unity or Unreal Engine, which are both widely used and supported on that platform.
• Features: Different game engines offer different features and functionality. Some may have advanced physics engines, while others may have more robust animation tools. Consider what features are important for your project and which engines offer them.
• Community support: A strong community of developers can be invaluable when it comes to troubleshooting and finding solutions to common problems. Engines with large communities, such as Unity and Unreal Engine, may offer more support and resources.
• Ease of use: Some engines may be more user-friendly than others, which can impact the learning curve for new developers. Consider how easy the engine is to learn and use, especially if you are working with a small team or on a tight deadline.
• Cost: Game engines can range in cost from free to several thousand dollars. Consider your budget and whether the cost of the engine is justified by the features and functionality it offers.

Overall, choosing the right game engine is a critical decision that can impact the success of your project. By considering the factors outlined above, you can make an informed decision that will set your project up for success.

Resources for further learning

If you’re new to game development, choosing the right game engine can be a daunting task. There are many different engines available, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. To make an informed decision, it’s important to understand the basics of game engines and the factors that can affect your project’s success. Here are some resources that can help you learn more about game engines and their features:

• Game Engine Design Patterns: Engaging Virtual Environments with Java: This book provides an in-depth look at the design patterns used in game engines, and how they can be used to create immersive virtual environments.
• Game Engine Architecture: An Introduction: This website provides a comprehensive introduction to the architecture of game engines, including the various components and how they interact with each other.
• The Game Engine Black Book: The Art, Science, and Business of Engaging Games: This book covers the technical and creative aspects of game engines, including how to design and implement gameplay mechanics, and how to manage a team of developers.
• [Unity Tutorials: Unity is a popular game engine used for creating 2D and 3D games. The official Unity website offers a variety of tutorials and resources for beginners and advanced users alike, including tutorials on topics such as physics, animation, and AI.
• [Unreal Engine Documentation: Unreal Engine is a powerful game engine used for creating high-end 3D games. The official Unreal Engine website offers comprehensive documentation on all aspects of the engine, including the Blueprint visual scripting system, physics, and animation.
• [Epic Games’ Unreal Engine 4 Documentation: This website provides a wealth of information on Unreal Engine 4, including tutorials, documentation, and a vibrant community of developers sharing their knowledge and experience.
• [Gamasutra: Gamasutra is a website dedicated to game development, featuring news, features, and in-depth articles on a variety of topics related to game engines and game design.
• [Game Developer Magazine: Game Developer Magazine is a monthly publication that covers all aspects of game development, including game engines, tools, and techniques.
• [GitHub: GitHub is a platform for hosting and sharing code, and it is a great resource for finding open-source game engine projects and contributing to them.
• [Reddit: Reddit is a community-driven platform where users can share information and discuss a variety of topics related to game engines and game development. The r/gamedev subreddit is a great place to start for finding resources and connecting with other developers.

By using these resources, you can gain a better understanding of the features and capabilities of different game engines, and make an informed decision about which engine is best suited for your project’s needs.

FAQs

1. What is a game engine?

A game engine is a software development framework used to create video games. It provides developers with a set of tools and features to design, develop, and publish games for various platforms. Game engines typically include features such as graphics rendering, physics simulation, artificial intelligence, animation, and sound processing.

2. What factors should I consider when choosing a game engine?

When choosing a game engine, consider factors such as the engine’s features, ease of use, community support, cost, platform compatibility, and performance. It’s essential to choose an engine that fits your project’s requirements and skill level.

3. What are the most popular game engines?

The most popular game engines include Unity, Unreal Engine, Godot, and CryEngine. Each engine has its strengths and weaknesses, so it’s essential to research and compare them before making a decision.

4. Is it necessary to have programming skills to use a game engine?

Most game engines require some programming knowledge, but there are also visual scripting tools available that allow you to create games without coding. However, having programming skills can be helpful when working with more complex features and optimizing performance.

5. Can I use a game engine for multiple platforms?

Many game engines support multiple platforms, such as PC, consoles, mobile devices, and VR/AR devices. Before choosing an engine, research its compatibility with your target platforms to ensure it can support your project’s requirements.

6. How much does it cost to use a game engine?

Some game engines offer free versions with limited features, while others require a paid license. Licensing fees can vary depending on the engine’s features and the revenue generated by the game. Be sure to research the pricing structure and licensing terms before committing to an engine.

7. How can I learn to use a game engine?

Most game engines provide documentation, tutorials, and online resources to help you learn how to use them. There are also many online courses, workshops, and communities dedicated to teaching game development with specific engines. It’s essential to invest time in learning the engine to maximize its potential for your project.

choosing a game engine is easy, actually