For this book, we’ll make use of three main pieces of software: Unity Hub, Unity Editor, and an Integrated Development Environment (IDE). An IDE is basically a very smart text editor. When configured for Unity and C#, it will check your coding for errors and highlight those for you.

The Unity Hub is available from Unity’s website. Unity will require that you create an account. For most beginners, select the Free plan. The Unity Hub download is located at https://unity.com/download.

The Unity Editor is most conveniently installed through the Unity Hub. That process is described in this chapter. Though it is possible to download the Editor directly from Unity’s website, it is not recommended. The Editor must be installed in a location that the Unity Hub searches.

Finally, you need an IDE. A popular choice is Microsoft Visual Studio. When you install an Editor through the Unity Hub, Visual Studio is an available option. You can download...

In this section, we delve into the intricacies of the Unity3D interface, an essential component for any game developer. We’ll start with an introduction to the Unity Hub, your centralized gateway for managing Unity projects and installations. From there, we’ll explore the Unity Editor, breaking down its layout and key functionalities. You’ll learn how to navigate through different windows and panels, customize the workspace to suit your workflow, and utilize essential tools like the Scene and Game views.

Figure 1.1 – Unity Hub – starting point each time you open Unity

Projects windows show available projects. Selecting a project will open the project and its assigned Unity Editor.

Having explored the Unity software interface, let’s now move on to installing Unity.

Installing Unity

When installing Unity Hub and the Unity Editor, it’s crucial to first check the current system...

In this section, we embark on a practical journey through Unity’s core functionalities, beginning with the crucial step of starting a new project. This foundational process sets the stage for what follows: a comprehensive exploration of the Editor’s screen layout. By understanding how to initiate projects and navigate the Editor’s interface, we equip ourselves with the essential skills needed to bring our game development ideas to life.

To start a new project in Unity Hub, follow along with these steps:

1. Click New Project.

Figure 1.4 – Unity Hub Projects window

Click the New Project button in the upper-right corner. This opens the next screen where you initially configure the new project.

2. Then, choose an Editor Version number and select a template such as 3D Core for beginners.

Figure 1.5 – Unity Hub New project window

The box at the top...

Creating your first C# script is a crucial step in your Unity journey, introducing you to the essential scripting that animates your game’s elements. This isn’t just a one-off task; it’s a core skill you’ll use regularly to craft behaviors and interactions in your game. Mastering this early on opens the door to transforming your creative visions into dynamic, interactive realities.

To create a folder and a C# script in Unity, follow these steps in the Project window’s Assets folder.

First, create a Scripts folder by following these steps:

1. In the Project window, locate the Assets folder.
2. Right-click and choose Create | Folder, naming it Scripts for script file organization.

Then, to create a C# script, follow these steps:

1. Select the Scripts folder.
2. Right-click and select Create | C# Script, renaming the default NewBehaviourScript to your desired name, such as MyFirstScript.

Note

Unity...

Welcome to our in-depth exploration of programming fundamentals within Unity3D, focusing on leveraging C# for game development. This section introduces the core concepts and structures of C#, starting with data types and variables.

As we progress, we’ll dive into control structures, functions, and methods, uncovering how to control the flow of your game, execute code blocks, and encapsulate functionality for reuse and clarity. Understanding these elements is crucial for scripting game logic.

This section aims to briefly explore C#, familiarizing you with basic programming elements. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your C# prowess in Unity3D, this journey will equip you with the skills necessary for advanced game development. Let’s embark on this transformative path, where your creative ideas become tangible realities in the world of gaming.

Utilizing C# data types for creative game development

In C#, data types such...

This chapter served as an introduction to Unity and C# for game development, emphasizing the learning process. It guided beginners through setting up Unity, including installing Unity Hub and the Unity Editor, and choosing the right version and IDE for their projects. The chapter provided a walk-through of the Unity Editor, explaining key components such as the Hierarchy, Scene, Inspector, and Project windows, essential for organizing and managing game development projects.

Creating a C# script was highlighted as a fundamental skill, with step-by-step instructions on how to set up a Scripts folder and write your first script. This laid the groundwork for more advanced topics in game programming.

The chapter then introduced basic C# concepts crucial for game development, such as data types, variables, control structures, functions, and methods. These concepts form the foundation of scripting in Unity, enabling you to start bringing your game ideas to life. Through practical...