Question: Where is KinematicBody2D in Godot?

Answer

KinematicBody2D is a node type in the Godot Engine used for 2D game development. It's designed to provide a way to have objects that can move and interact with other objects within the game world while having custom collision response written by the developer without relying on the physics engine's simulation.

Here's how you can use KinematicBody2D:

1. Adding a KinematicBody2D Node: In the Godot editor, you can add a KinematicBody2D to your scene by selecting "Add Child Node" (the "+" icon) and searching for KinematicBody2D. After adding it, you attach scripts to this node to define its behavior.

2. Scripting Movement: You control the movement of a KinematicBody2D using the move_and_slide() or move_and_collide() methods in GDScript within the _physics_process(delta) function. Here's an example:

   extends KinematicBody2D
   
   var speed = 200
   var velocity = Vector2.ZERO
   
   func _physics_process(delta):
       velocity.x = Input.get_action_strength("ui_right") - Input.get_action_strength("ui_left")
       velocity.y = Input.get_action_strength("ui_down") - Input.get_action_strength("ui_up")
       velocity = velocity.normalized() * speed
       move_and_slide(velocity)

3. Detecting Collisions: After moving the body using one of the above methods, Godot provides information about collisions, available through methods such as get_slide_collision(). You can use this information to detect when and what the KinematicBody2D has collided with.

4. Setting Up Collisions: To physically interact with other nodes, a KinematicBody2D must have one or more CollisionShape2D or CollisionPolygon2D children defining its shape.

5. Finding KinematicBody2D in Code: If you need to find a reference to a KinematicBody2D node in code, you can use the get_node() function or the $ shorthand syntax if you know the node path:

   var player = get_node("Player") # assuming the node is named Player
   # or alternatively
   var player = $Player

KinematicBody2D is essential for creating controlled movements like players or certain types of enemies. It gives you full control over motion and collision response, making it a centerpiece for many types of 2D games developed in Godot.