Scenes, Nodes, and Scripts¶

Godot games are built using scenes, nodes, and scripts.

Understanding how these fit together is essential for: - building mechanics - organising projects - explaining how your game works

Nodes¶

A node is a single object in a game.

Examples of nodes include: - a player - an enemy - a platform - a button - a sound effect

Each node has a specific role.

Scenes¶

A scene is a collection of nodes arranged together.

Scenes are used to: - build levels - group related objects - reuse parts of your game

A scene might represent: - a level - a menu - a player character - an enemy type

Scripts¶

Scripts define behaviour.

A script: - is attached to a node - controls how that node behaves - responds to input and events

Scripts are written in GDScript.

How They Work Together¶

Scenes, nodes, and scripts work as a system:

• nodes represent objects
• scripts define behaviour
• scenes organise objects

Figure 10 — Relationship between scenes, nodes, and scripts

graph TD
    Scene --> Node1[Node]
    Scene --> Node2[Node]
    Node1 --> Script1[Script]
    Node2 --> Script2[Script]

This structure helps keep games manageable as they grow.

Why This Structure Matters¶

Using scenes and nodes correctly: - reduces complexity - avoids duplicated code - makes testing easier - improves readability

Poor organisation leads to confusion and bugs.

Explaining Your Work¶

In assessment, you may be asked to: - explain how a scene is structured - describe what a script does - justify why objects are organised a certain way

Clear structure makes explanations easier.

Looking Ahead¶

Next, you will learn: - what game mechanics are - how mechanics affect player experience - how to design mechanics intentionally

Scenes and scripts are the foundation for mechanics.

End of Scenes, Nodes, and Scripts