scriptable-objects

ScriptableObject Architecture

ScriptableObjects (SOs) are Unity's most powerful architectural tool. They are asset-based data containers that live outside scenes, enabling data-driven design, loose coupling, and designer-friendly workflows.

Pattern 1: Data Container

The simplest and most common use — define game data as assets.

[CreateAssetMenu(fileName = "NewWeapon", menuName = "Game/Weapon Definition")]
public sealed class WeaponDefinition : ScriptableObject
{
    [Header("Identity")]
    [SerializeField] private string _displayName;
    [SerializeField] private Sprite _icon;
    [TextArea]
    [SerializeField] private string _description;

    [Header("Stats")]
    [SerializeField] private float _damage = 10f;
    [SerializeField] private float _fireRate = 0.5f;
    [SerializeField] private int _ammoCapacity = 30;
    [SerializeField] private GameObject _prefab;

    public string DisplayName => _displayName;
    public Sprite Icon => _icon;
    public float Damage => _damage;
    public float FireRate => _fireRate;
    public int AmmoCapacity => _ammoCapacity;
    public GameObject Prefab => _prefab;
}

Use for: Items, abilities, enemy configs, level data, audio events, UI themes.

Pattern 2: Event Channel

Zero-coupling communication between systems. No direct references needed.

[CreateAssetMenu(fileName = "NewVoidEvent", menuName = "Events/Void Event")]
public sealed class VoidEventChannel : ScriptableObject
{
    private System.Action _onRaised;

    public void Raise()
    {
        _onRaised?.Invoke();
    }

    public void Subscribe(System.Action listener)
    {
        _onRaised += listener;
    }

    public void Unsubscribe(System.Action listener)
    {
        _onRaised -= listener;
    }
}

// Generic version for typed events
[CreateAssetMenu(fileName = "NewIntEvent", menuName = "Events/Int Event")]
public sealed class IntEventChannel : ScriptableObject
{
    private System.Action<int> _onRaised;

    public void Raise(int value) => _onRaised?.Invoke(value);
    public void Subscribe(System.Action<int> listener) => _onRaised += listener;
    public void Unsubscribe(System.Action<int> listener) => _onRaised -= listener;
}