Nuendo vs Reactional Engine
Nuendo
steinberg.netReactional Engine
reactionalmusic.comSide by side
| Figure | Nuendo | Reactional Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | Free |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | — | Yes |
| iOS | — | Yes |
| Android | — | Yes |
| API | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 4 | 2 |
| Spec score · Game Audio Middleware | 8.3 (#8) | 7.8 (#14) |
| Downloads | Steinberg recommends using Steinberg Download Assistant to download and install Nuendo 15 and related utilities. | Binaries for Windows and macOS are available through the Reactional Platform. |
| Purpose | Steinberg describes Nuendo as an audio post-production solution for film, TV, game audio, and immersive sound professionals. | Reactional Engine is a framework for generating interactive music note by note in games and reacting to gameplay in real time. |
| Support | Nuendo 15 is available through Steinberg's downloads page, which provides general information and installation utilities. | The engine page links to integration support and documentation; the pricing table lists Forum + Discord for Free and dedicated contact for Studio. |
Plans
Nuendo
- Nuendo 15 Full VersionPriced on request
- Nuendo 15 CrossgradePriced on request
- Nuendo 15 Crossgrade$799.99, paid once
- Nuendo 15 Full version$999.99, paid once
In their own words
Reactional Engine
Reactional Engine is a framework for generating music note by note in games and changing it as gameplay unfolds. It uses virtual instruments rather than loop-based systems, with controls for key, scale, tempo, and instrumentation. The engine can interpolate, modulate, improvise, and randomize musical elements. It can analyze commercial tracks for tempo and harmony to synchronize generated music and support transitions between generated and commercial material. Unity and Unreal Engine integrations are available; Wwise and FMOD integrations are described, while Godot is listed as coming soon. Runtime targets include Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, WebGL, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. API examples cover transport controls, musical settings, stinger triggers, and callbacks for bars, beats, and notes. Windows and macOS binaries are available through the Reactional Platform. Developers can test any track for free and pay on release. Commercial music licensing is described with worldwide perpetual rights, and interactive themes start at $75 per track. Pricing is on request for Studio; Free access is listed at free.