Data Shard Plugin

Overview

DataShard is a flexible, type-safe data sharing system designed to simplify how you handle game state throughout your Unreal Engine project. Whether you're building a small indie game or a massive AAA title, DataShard provides a robust foundation for all your data management needs.

Key Features

Type-Safe Data Storage

Store and share any Unreal-compatible data type with complete type safety. No more casting errors or runtime crashes from improper data handling.

Blueprint-Ready Integration

Seamlessly create, access, and modify data from both C++ and Blueprints with a comprehensive API designed for developers at all experience levels.

Object-Based Data Association

Attach data directly to your game actors or objects with intuitive key-based access that maintains proper object relationships.

Intelligent Reference Counting

Automatic cleanup through smart reference counting ensures your game remains memory efficient, even with complex data relationships.

Real-Time Change Notifications

Subscribe to data changes through a powerful event system that keeps your game systems in sync without complex wiring.

Robust Debugging Tools

Visualize data connections and values with built-in debug windows that make tracking down data-related issues a breeze.

Perfect For

• Game State Management: Create a centralized state system that multiple gameplay systems can access without tight coupling
• UI & Gameplay Communication: Establish clean data flow between your HUD elements and gameplay systems
• Actor Communication: Allow different actors to share data without direct references or complex dependency chains
• Save Game Systems: Build robust save/load systems with built-in type safety and organized data structures
• Event-Driven Gameplay: Create responsive, event-driven gameplay using the built-in notification system

How It Works

DataShard is built on three core principles:

1. Key-Based Access

Each piece of data is associated with a unique key that combines an owner object (typically an Actor) and a string identifier. This creates a clear ownership model while maintaining flexibility.

2. Type-Safe Data Storage

DataShard leverages Unreal's property system to ensure complete type safety when storing and retrieving data. The system validates property types to prevent runtime errors.

3. Reference Counting & Lifecycle Management

The system automatically tracks references to data and cleans up when all references are removed. This prevents memory leaks and ensures proper resource management.

Why Choose DataShard ?

• Simplified Architecture: Replace cumbersome game state management with an elegant, centralized solution that scales with your project
• Reduced Development Time: Stop writing repetitive boilerplate code for data passing between systems and actors
• Improved Stability: Eliminate an entire class of common bugs related to improper data handling and object lifetime management
• Future-Proof Design: Built with Unreal Engine's architecture in mind, DataShard integrates perfectly with the engine's subsystem framework

Getting Started

DataShard integrates seamlessly with your existing Unreal Engine project. Simply install the plugin, create your first DataShard in minutes, and experience a new level of data management freedom.

Blueprint Tutorial

C++ Tutorial

Don't let data management complexity hold your game back. Invest in DataShard today and focus on what matters - creating amazing gameplay experiences!