state-machine

You can manage complex Unity AI and gameplay states by implementing a generic StateMachine<T> with an IState interface featuring Enter, Exit, Update, and FixedUpdate methods. This pattern cleanly separates state behaviors, reducing complexity and code duplication across player controllers, NPCs, and game managers.

To set up a Unity state machine for menu, gameplay, and pause states, instantiate a generic StateMachine with your owner type, register all states, and start with an initial state. This drives high-level game flow and supports nested sub-states for hierarchical FSMs.

Yes, you can use ScriptableObject-state patterns for designer-driven configuration within your Unity state machine. This allows designers to configure state behaviors and transitions directly from the Unity Inspector without modifying the underlying codebase.

The best way to structure hierarchical FSMs in Unity is using a reusable generic StateMachine<T> that tracks current and previous states. This framework supports nested sub-states, allowing you to nest state machines inside other states for complex AI behavior and high-level game management.

No, this Unity state machine pattern requires no external dependencies or components. It relies entirely on a standard IState interface and a generic StateMachine<T> class, making it a self-contained framework that integrates natively into any Unity project.

The state machine handles safe transitions by tracking current and previous states while executing dedicated Enter and Exit methods. It includes practical tips for debugging and testing, ensuring safe transitions across player controllers, NPCs, and game managers.