Report: Unreal Engine 4 to be revealed in 2012

Epic Games is working on Unreal Engine 4, and may even be ready to debut it this year, according to Epic vice president Mark Rein.

A first look at the engine this year would come well ahead of a planned 2014 launch for the updated tech. However, Epic's Mike Capps said he wanted UE4 to be ready day one of the next console generation.

"People are going to be shocked later this year when they see Unreal Engine 4 and how much more profound an effect it will have," Rein told G4. He didn't give more detail on when we could expect it, but a trade show like E3 seems the most likely candidate.

By showcasing a UE4 tech demo this year, it will give Epic ample time to show off the engine's new features for interested third parties. Shacknews has contacted Epic Games regarding the report, and will update as more information becomes available.