IN-GAME TIME in Godot (4.3) #3: GUI

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to create a time system in Godot 4.3, focusing on the graphical user interface (GUI) elements. This guide walks you through the design and implementation of various GUI components to effectively display in-game time.

Step 1: Understanding the Art and Design

• Begin by conceptualizing how you want your time system to look. Consider using visual elements that are easy to read and fit the aesthetic of your game.
• Explore resources such as Kenney's website for art assets and fonts that can enhance your GUI.

Step 2: Setting Up the Control Node

• Create a new Control Node in your scene. This will serve as the parent node for your GUI elements.
• Control Nodes are essential for organizing your UI components and managing their layout.

Step 3: Adding the NinePatchRect

• Add a NinePatchRect node to your Control Node.
• The NinePatchRect allows you to create scalable backgrounds for your GUI while maintaining the corners' shape, which is great for a polished look.
• Adjust the size and texture to fit your design preferences.

Step 4: Configuring the Label Settings

• Insert a Label node as a child of the NinePatchRect.
• Set the label's text to display the in-game time. For example, you might start with "00:00".
• Customize the font, color, and size in the Inspector to match your game's aesthetic.

Step 5: Implementing DayControl

• Create a new script for DayControl to manage the day-night cycle.
• Use a timer to update the time displayed on your label. Here's a simple example:

extends Node

var time_passed = 0

func _process(delta):
    time_passed += delta
    update_time_display()

func update_time_display():
    var hours = int(time_passed / 3600) % 24
    var minutes = int(time_passed / 60) % 60
    $Label.text = str(hours).pad_zeros(2) + ":" + str(minutes).pad_zeros(2)

• This code tracks time passed since the start of the game and updates the label accordingly.

Step 6: Creating ClockControl

• Similar to DayControl, create a ClockControl script.
• This script can handle the visual representation of the clock, potentially including features like a ticking animation for added realism.

Step 7: Finalizing the Layout

• Arrange your GUI elements within the Control Node to ensure everything is visually appealing and organized.
• Use the layout tools in Godot to align and distribute your elements evenly.

Step 8: Updating the GUI in Real-Time

• Ensure that the GUI updates correctly as the game progresses. This may involve connecting signals or using the _process function effectively.
• Test your implementation to confirm that the time display works as intended.

Conclusion

You have now created a functional in-game time system with a GUI in Godot 4.3. By following these steps, you can enhance your game with a dynamic time display that adds depth to the gameplay experience. For further exploration, consider integrating more features like event triggers based on time or visual changes to the environment as day transitions to night. Happy developing!