I imported the TV correctly.
I applied the material correctly. But the screen stayed black.
This post is part of my daily learning journey in game development.
I’m sharing what I learn each day — the basics, the confusion, and the real progress — from the perspective of a beginner.
On Day 23 of my game development journey, I learned how video playback works in Unreal Engine using Media Player and Media Texture.
What I tried / learned today
I downloaded a TV mesh from Fab and imported it into Unreal Engine.
After placing it in the level, I checked the mesh materials to identify which material slot was used for the screen.
I learned that videos don’t work like normal textures.
Unreal uses a Media Player system for video playback.
I created a Media Player asset and enabled the option to generate a Media Texture. Then I imported a video file and linked it to the Media Player.
From the Media Player, Unreal automatically created a Media Texture. I made a new material and connected that Media Texture to the Base Color input.
After that, I applied this material to the screen material slot of the TV mesh. When I placed the TV actor in the level, I could finally see the video on the screen.
What confused me
At first, the screen stayed completely black.
I didn’t understand:
- Why the video wasn’t playing automatically
- The difference between Media Player and Media Texture
- Where exactly to assign the material on the mesh
I assumed the video would just play on its own once applied.
What worked or finally clicked
I finally understood that:
- Media Player controls the video playback
- Media Texture only displays the video output
- The video must be played, either by enabling autoplay or through Blueprint logic
Once I pressed play on the Media Player, everything worked as expected.
One lesson for beginners
- Videos don’t behave like normal textures
- Media Player plays, Media Texture displays
- Always check the correct material slot
- Autoplay or Blueprint logic is required
Slow progress — but I’m building a strong foundation.
If you’re also learning game development,
what was the first thing that confused you when you started?
See you in the next post 🎮🚀
Top comments (0)