How to create a Destructible Mesh in UE4

Finished Product

What is a Destructible Mesh?

A Destructible Mesh is a static mesh that can break when it comes into contact with an object.  

Step 1. Finding a Prop

Within your game map open up “Starter Content” then double left click into “Props”. Double click any object in this category. In my case I chose the sphere.

Starter Content

Props

 Step 2. Adding a collision

In the opened window choose the “collision” tab above the “Save” tab. Once clicked choose “Add 26DOP Simplified collision”. Now save and close the window.

Collision

Step 3. Creating the destructible mesh

Right click on the mesh you just edited and choose “Create Destructible Mesh”. Once created a window should open up as shown.

Creating the Destructible Mesh

Fracturing Mesh

Step 4. Fracturing the mesh

Click “Fracture Mesh”. Once clicked you should see your mesh broken up.

Fractured Mesh

Step 5. Making the mesh destructable

Go to "Destructible Mesh" > "Default Destructible" > "Damage Parameters" and change “Impact Damage” to 1.0 and “Default Impact Depth” to 1. Keep the “Cell count” default at 25. Once done Save and close window.

Details

Step 6. Physics

Drag out the new mesh to a suitable area of the map. On the right hand column go down to “Physics” and turn on “Simulate Physics”. In the “Collision Column” below make sure “simulation generate” is ticked/turned on and “Generate Overlap” is un-ticked/turned off.

Physics

Physics details

Step 7. Simulate 

When done, make sure you have a clear view of you object. Once you are happy bring down the arrow beside “Play” and click “Simulate”.

Simulate

Step 8. Finish

Watch the destruction happen.