In this tutorial, we will explore how to connect Maya to Unreal Engine using the Live Link plugin. This tool allows for real-time animation transfer from Maya to Unreal Engine, enabling users to instantly see the changes made on a character in Maya directly within Unreal. Learn how to install the plugin, set up characters, and synchronize animations between the two platforms. We will use Maya 2025 and Unreal Engine 5.3 for this example, but the process is similar for other versions.
The Live Link plugin is a powerful tool for animators working with Maya and Unreal Engine. It facilitates real-time animation transfer and optimizes the workflow between the two software. If you are an artist using Maya and Unreal, explore this tool to better integrate your animation processes.
Tutorial: How to Connect Maya to Unreal Engine with Live Link
1. Download the Live Link Plugin for Maya and Unreal Engine
The first step is to download the Live Link plugin and install it. Be cautious: a simple Google search may lead to outdated links. Many of the top results might refer to older versions of the plugin. Instead, look for the Live Link plugin for Unreal Engine directly from the official Epic Games site or find the latest version on Autodesk’s website.
2. Activate the Live Link Plugin in Maya
After downloading the plugin, ensure you activate it in Maya. Go to Maya Preferences, open the Plugin Manager, and search for “Live Link.” If the plugin is already loaded, you are ready for the next step. This procedure allows you to connect Maya to Unreal and transfer animations in real-time.
3. Prepare Characters in Unreal Engine
Before connecting the two software, we need to import characters as skeletal meshes in Unreal. For this example, we will use two characters: a Vampire and a Knight, both animated with motion capture data. Place the characters in your scene in Unreal Engine and proceed with synchronizing the animations.
4. Configure the Connection Between Maya and Unreal
To establish the connection, open Window > Virtual Production > Live Link in Unreal Engine. Select your computer from the list of available sources and connect to the Maya session. Make sure only one session of Maya is open to avoid connection errors.
5. Send Animations from Maya to Unreal
Once connected, select the character in Maya and send it to Unreal Engine, where an animation sequence will be created. This way, Unreal receives the animation data from Maya and synchronizes it in real-time. Any changes made in Maya will be instantly reflected in Unreal, allowing you to see the final result in real-time.
6. Synchronize Multiple Characters
The Live Link plugin allows synchronizing multiple characters simultaneously. After sending the characters to Unreal, you can manage the animations of both in real-time. You can modify the poses and movements of each character in Maya and view them immediately in Unreal Engine.
7. Manage Animations in Unreal
In Unreal Engine, you can create level sequences to manage animations. Ensure that the frame rates between Maya and Unreal are synchronized (e.g., 24 fps). You can add multiple characters and animations to the same sequence, improving the management of complex projects.
8. Optimize Workflow with Maya and Unreal Engine
If you’re working on complex projects, such as assets for marketing or multiple animations, Live Link allows you to view animations already lit and rendered in Unreal. This reduces review times, improving workflow efficiency. You can modify animations in Maya and instantly see the result in Unreal Engine, saving valuable time.