Learning Objectives

By the end of this lab, you will be able to: - Distinguish between the main 2D physics body types and when to use each. - Build solid ground and walls the player cannot pass through. - Add gravity and jumping to the player. - Use Area2D to detect overlaps (e.g., the player touching a hazard or collectible).

Overview

This lab adds the physical rules of the world. You’ll give the player gravity and a jump, build a level out of static collision bodies, and set up detection zones that fire an event when the player enters them. The key distinction here is between solid collision (things you stand on and bump into) and area detection (zones that notice you without stopping you). Together these two systems cover nearly every physical interaction a 2D game needs.

Steps

  1. Add gravity to the player’s _physics_process and wire up a jump using is_on_floor().
  2. Build a level using StaticBody2D nodes (or a TileMap) with collision shapes for ground and walls.
  3. Configure collision layers and masks so the right things collide.
  4. Add an Area2D hazard and connect its body_entered signal.
  5. Trigger a response (e.g., reset position or print “hit”) when the player enters the hazard.

Key Concepts

  • StaticBody2D vs CharacterBody2D vs Area2D.
  • Gravity, is_on_floor(), and jump velocity.
  • Collision layers and masks.
  • Signals, especially body_entered / area_entered.

Deliverable / Completion Check

A playable scene where the player walks on solid ground, jumps, and triggers a detectable event when entering a hazard area. Submit the running project or a screen recording demonstrating collision and area detection.