Packt

Fundamentals of Tower Defense Game Development

Packt

Fundamentals of Tower Defense Game Development

Included with Coursera Plus

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

6 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

6 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Develop complex enemy AI with pathfinding for Tower Defense games.

  • Implement turret placement mechanics using drag-and-drop functionality.

  • Design and code dynamic user interfaces for turret selection and upgrades.

  • Program targeting logic for turrets to handle both horizontal and vertical aiming.

Details to know

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Recently updated!

February 2026

Assessments

6 assignments

Taught in English

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There are 5 modules in this course

In this module, we will introduce you to the world of Tower Defense game development, providing an overview of the course and its goals. You will gain insights into the core mechanics that define Tower Defense games and learn how to leverage Unity to implement these features effectively. This section sets the stage for the hands-on development of your own Tower Defense game.

What's included

5 videos2 readings

In this module, we will dive into the process of building the game world by using Unity's Navigation Mesh system for AI movement. You’ll learn how to configure and control enemy agents, spawn waves of enemies, and tweak spawn limits to adjust difficulty and pacing. This section helps you create a dynamic and challenging world for your Tower Defense game.

What's included

4 videos1 assignment

In this module, we will focus on developing the key gameplay feature of placing turrets. You’ll learn how to allow players to drag and drop turrets into their desired locations, and how to implement placement restrictions to ensure a fair and balanced game. This section will give you the tools to create a responsive and intuitive turret placement system.

What's included

4 videos1 assignment

In this module, we will build a user interface that enhances player interaction with your Tower Defense game. You will learn how to integrate buttons for turret selection, develop an upgrade menu, and control its activation. This section will provide the necessary skills to create an engaging and functional UI for your game.

What's included

5 videos1 assignment

In this module, we will enhance the AI behaviors for turrets in your game. You will learn how to program turrets to detect, aim, and target enemies, both horizontally and vertically. Additionally, we’ll cover the logic to reset turrets when no enemies are present, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay. This section focuses on giving your turrets the intelligence to fight enemies autonomously.

What's included

4 videos1 reading3 assignments

Instructor

Packt - Course Instructors
Packt
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