How Much Can 2D Lighting Transform a Godot Game?
Ever wonder how much 2D lighting can actually affect your Godot project visually? I'm working on a game project using Godot 4.4, and I decided to try and experiment with Godot's lighting tools to make my relatively flat looking auto-scrolling shooter, Super AxeType, pop. I'll show through my own experiments exactly how to combine Canvas Modulate, Point Light 2D, and real-time shadows to make flat 2D scenes more interesting and evocative.
I'll also cover how to keep specific elements unshaded and demonstrate how I built a custom glow effects for high-energy projectiles.
Timestamps:
00:00 - The Difference 2D Lighting Makes
01:40 - Setting up the Canvas Modulate Node
04:50 - Making Specific Assets Unshaded
05:38 - Using Point Light 2D to Cut Through Darkness
08:06 - Casting Real-Time Shadows (Light Occluder 2D)
11:15 - Custom Glow Effects & Layering
14:26 - Final Recap