NavMesh

Overview

A NavMesh is a component that outlines areas accessible to characters and identifies obstacles in Highrise Studio environments.

Setup Guide

Enabling and Visualizing NavMesh

• Access and Enable:

  • Open the Scene View Toolbar.
  • Use the ~ key to toggle the visibility of NavMesh AI Navigation if it's not visible.
  • Ensure "Show NavMesh" is active and Gizmos are turned on for visualization.

  

Key Components of NavMesh

Nav Mesh Surface

This is the core component for generating the NavMesh:

• Installation:
  • Attach the Nav Mesh Surface component to a GameObject.
• Configuration and Generation:
  • Adjust the settings to suit your game's environment and click Bake to create the NavMesh.

A basic template may already include this component. If absent, it needs to be added manually.

Nav Mesh Agent

Enables path following based on the NavMesh:

• Application:
  • Add the Nav Mesh Agent to any game object requiring navigational abilities.
• Customization:
  • Modify properties such as speed and pathfinding to optimize character movement.

Characters typically come with a pre-attached Nav Mesh Agent.

Nav Mesh Obstacle

Identifies non-walkable areas within the game:

• Usage:

  • Apply this component to objects that should obstruct character movement.

• Configuration:

  • Set the dimensions and form to dictate navigation paths.

  

Nav Mesh Link

Facilitates advanced pathfinding across separate NavMesh areas:

• Function:

  • Ideal for creating direct routes or alternative paths.

• Settings:

  • Adjust the properties to enable diverse navigational behaviors.

  

Nav Mesh Modifier & Nav Mesh Modifier Volume

Adjusts the NavMesh application in specific areas or volumes:

• Adjustments:

  • Use these components to refine NavMesh details in particular sections of the environment.

• Options:

  • Designate areas to be ignored or specifically included in the NavMesh.

  

Baking and Managing the NavMesh

• Finalization:
  • Set the correct parameters on the Nav Mesh Surface and click Bake to establish the walkable zones.
• Ongoing Management:
  • Re-bake the NavMesh following any changes in the scene that impact navigation.

Blue-highlighted areas depict the walkable paths for characters.

Conclusion

Implementing a NavMesh in Highrise Studio is vital for crafting responsive and intelligent environments where characters can navigate effectively. Each component contributes significantly to enhancing the navigational capabilities.