How to create a SpriteKit texture atlas in Xcode
A SpriteKit texture atlas is actually just a folder with the extension .atlas, but it's more efficient than loading textures individually because multiple images are stored in a single file and thus can be loaded faster. Even better, you don't need to worry about how they are placed or even orientation – you just use them as normal, and SpriteKit does the rest.
In Finder, go into your project directory (where your .swift files are), then create a new folder called assets.atlas. Now go to where you have your SpriteKit assets stored and drag them from there into your assets.atlas directory. Finally, drag your assets.atlas directory into your Xcode project so that it gets added to the build.
That's it – enjoy your efficiency improvements!
Available from iOS 7.0 – see Hacking with Swift tutorial 29
Did this solution work for you? Please pass it on!
Other people are reading…
- How to crop a sprite using SKCropNode
- How to run SKActions in a group
- How to write text using SKLabelNode
- How to find a touch's location in a node using location(in:)
- How to add physics to an SKSpriteNode
About the Swift Knowledge Base
This is part of the Swift Knowledge Base, a free, searchable collection of solutions for common iOS questions.
Get the ultimate experience
The Swift Power Pack includes my first six books for one low price, helping you jumpstart a new career in iOS development – check it out!
