Render pipelines in Unity allow developers to create custom rendering effects for their games and applications. They can be used to achieve a wide variety of visual styles, from photorealistic to stylized.
Standard Render Pipeline
The standard render pipeline is the default rendering workflow in Unity. It provides a simple and efficient way to render 3D objects in the scene. The standard render pipeline uses a combination of shaders, which are small programs that define how objects are rendered. It supports multiple lighting models, including directional, point, and spotlights.
URP (Universal Render Pipeline)
The universal render pipeline is a more advanced rendering workflow that provides greater flexibility than the standard render pipeline. It uses a modular architecture that allows developers to create custom rendering effects by combining different shader components. The URP supports multiple lighting models, including HDRP.
LRP (Lightmap Render Pipeline)
The lightmap render pipeline is designed for creating 2D games and applications that require pre-rendered images. It allows developers to create lightmaps, which are texture files that store pre-computed lighting information. The LRP supports multiple lighting models, including baked and real-time lighting.
VP (Volumetric Pipeline)
The volumetric pipeline is designed for creating realistic atmospheric effects, such as fog and mist. It uses a combination of shaders to simulate the way light interacts with particles in the atmosphere. The VP supports multiple lighting models, including global illumination.
HDRP (High Dynamic Range Pipeline)
The high dynamic range pipeline is designed for creating games and applications that require enhanced color accuracy and contrast. It uses a technique called tone mapping to adjust the brightness and contrast of the scene. The HDRP supports multiple lighting models, including baked and real-time lighting.
Summary
Unity’s built-in render pipeline assets provide developers with a wide variety of rendering workflows that can be easily customized to suit their needs. Whether you are creating a 2D game or a photorealistic 3D application, Unity has a render pipeline asset that can help you achieve the visual style you desire. By understanding the different types of render pipelines and how they work, developers can create stunning visuals that engage and captivate their audiences.