Input System

Let's talk about the Unity Input System, helping you capture everything from keyboard taps to joystick tilts and turn them into exciting gameplay actions.

Understanding Key Methods

• Input.GetAxis;
• Input.GetButton;
• Input.GetKey.

These three methods are your primary tools for capturing user input in Unity. Let's explore their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases:

Input.GetAxis

• Purpose: reads the magnitude and direction of an axis-based input device, such as an analog joystick, keyboard keys (WASD), or mouse movement;
• Returns: a value between -1 (full negative) and 1 (full positive). 0 indicates no input, positive values represent positive movement on the axis, and negative values represent negative movement;
• Applications: useful for continuous actions like movement, steering, camera rotation, or gradual changes in intensity (e.g., accelerating a car gradually).

Example: captures left/right movement on a keyboard or joystick.

private void Update()
{
    float horizontalInput = Input.GetAxis("Horizontal");
}

Input.GetButton

• Purpose: detects whether a discrete button (e.g., keyboard spacebar, gamepad A button, touch screen tap) is being held down (true) or not (false);
• Returns: a boolean value (true or false);
• Applications: ideal for toggling actions like jumping, firing a weapon, using an ability, or activating menus.

Example: checks for the jump button being pressed.

private void Update()
{
    bool isJumping = Input.GetButton("Jump");
}

Input.GetKey

• Purpose: detects whether a specific keyboard key is being held down (true) or not (false);
• Returns: a boolean value (true or false);
• Applications: primarily used for keyboard-based controls, for actions like inventory management, hotkeys, or character abilities.

Example: checks for the Shift key being held down.

private void Update()
{
    bool isShiftPressed = Input.GetKey(KeyCode.LeftShift);
}

Choosing the Right Input Method

Choosing the correct input method is crucial for creating intuitive and responsive gameplay. Here's a quick guide:

• Use Input.GetAxis for continuous, direction-sensitive control, such as character movement or camera rotation;
• Use Input.GetButton for simple on/off toggle actions, like jumping or firing a weapon;
• Use Input.GetKey for keyboard-specific controls, ideal for actions like inventory management or activating hotkeys.

Remember:

• Efficiency: avoid calling these methods every frame unnecessarily, as it can impact performance. Instead, use conditional checks or event-based handling when possible;
• Experimentation: try different combinations and discover what works best for your game's design and target audience;

Experimenting will help you find the most intuitive and responsive controls.