What is "SerializeField" in Unity?

In Unity, [SerializeField] attribute is used to make the private variables accessible within the Unity editor without making them public. It helps maintain encapsulationA way to restrict the direct access to some components of the objects. by allowing the convenient adjustment of properties of the GameObjects.

How to use [SerializeField]

Given below is a detailed explanation on using [SerializeField].

Declare the variable

  • Define the private variable which you want to make visible in the editor.

Apply the attribute

  • Place the [SerializeField] above the variable declaration.

Adjust the value in editor

  • Save the C# script

    • The variable appears in the Unity editor.

    • You can modify the value of the variable here.

Syntax

[SerializeField]
// The value can be modified in the editor now. 
private int value = 10;

Here,

  • Line 1: It uses the [SerializeField] attribute before declaring a private variable.

  • Line 2: A private variable of type int is declared and initialized with a value of 10 here.

    • It is the basic syntax of declaring a private variable to make it accessible in the editor.

Note:

  • You can use the [SerializeField] attribute with the public variables, but it is redundant.

    • Public variables are already visible and editable in the editor.

    • Adding the [SerializeField] will not change the behavior of the variable.

  • You can use [SerializeField] attribute with the private variables to make them visible in the editor.

    • Making the variable type private ensures encapsulation.

Why use [SerializeField]?

The [SerializeField] in Unity is a helpful tool for various reasons explained below.

  • Visibility: You can inspect and modify the private variables at runtime. It allows you to quickly test the values and check the behavior of the objects.

  • Tweak values: Certain values need adjustment in the debugging process. Using [SerializeField] allows you to modify the values directly in the editor, even while the game is running. It allows you to see the live effects of changes you make.

  • Maintain encapsulation: By making the variables private, you ensure that it can only be modified within its class. It prevents the modifications of the variables from other parts/scripts of your code, maintaining encapsulation.

Value variable with [SteralizeField] used in the C# script
1 of 2

Note: In slide 2, the value variable is not accessible as it is used without [SerializeField].

Sample project

In the sample project, the changeText variable is set to use [SerializeField] and is declared private. Using [SerializeField] allows you to change the text during the runtime as shown below.

Note: Notice the inspector in the right side of the video to see live changes.

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