Time for action – Using state detection functions

The first thing that would be handy to know is: what state are we in? We can use a function called GetStateName to find this out.

1. Let's put a PostBeginPlay function back in our AwesomeEnemy class, and use it to start a repeating timer:

   function PostBeginPlay()
   {
     SetTimer(0.5, true, 'WhatState');
   }

2. Now, let's create the WhatState function:

   function WhatState()
   {
     `log(GetStateName());
   }

3. Now we're ready to test. Compile the code and run the game, then exit and check the log:

   [0009.81] ScriptLog: Seeking
   [0010.30] ScriptLog: Seeking
   [0010.76] ScriptLog: Attacking
   [0011.25] ScriptLog: Attacking

Working great!

1. Now how can we use this to our advantage? Well, let's take a look at the material-changing functionality we're using in AwesomeEnemy. It seems a bit inconsistent with what's going on with that actor's movement. It turns blue when attacking, then back to red for seeking. However, as we added that one-second delay before it starts moving again...