2021.2 Tech Stream programming features

We’ve upgraded the Unity-bundled Mono version from 2018 to a more recent version. This allowed us to improve C# 8 support, enable parallel debugging, and enhance implementation quality. We now support the .NET Standard 2.1 API.

When build time scales with the scope of your changes rather than the total project size, you can save time testing your game in those crucial later stages of production. Incremental player build support is now available for Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, and WebGL.

Feature sets are a new way to efficiently add related packages to your project with one click. Gain confidence that you’re not missing any essential features to achieve a specific outcome, such as 2D or VR development.

Visual Effect (VFX) Graph is now officially supported by URP for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox. We’ve added support for rendering lit particles. You can now also receive large amounts of data via Graphics Buffers to create your own complex simulations like boids, large data rendering, fluids, hair simulation, or crowds.

We know that both iteration speeds and load times are critical when you’re creating projects targeting the web as a platform. We’ve updated to Emscripten 2.0.19 to generate smaller WebAssemblies for WebGL builds, while reducing build time during development.

Customize your build settings to reduce code output and build time with code generation for generics in the IL2CPP process. This also enables you to improve iteration speed with test builds through the revised Build Settings window.

Unity 2021.2 adds WebGL support for the SRP Batcher, enabling improved performance that’s in line with our goal of achieving parity between the Built-In Render Pipeline and URP.

Version 1.17.4 of the Addressable Asset System package allows for synchronous loading as well as the existing async process. The new Synchronous Addressables APIs are suitable for projects with very finely controlled download management.

Unity 2021.2 shortens the iteration loop between asset creation and the Editor with texture and model import optimizations and a new option to import textures and meshes in parallel.

Visualize complex search queries across multiple properties with new Table Views. The integrated search also provides a more streamlined Asset Picker experience.

New native support for the Unity Editor on Apple silicon ensures your games will run seamlessly on current and future Mac systems.

Boost your performance and visual quality on PC and consoles with HDRP’s new dynamic resolution upscalers (NVIDIA DLSS, AMD FSR and TAA Upscale), and run applications at 4K or high frame rates.