Improve iteration speed of the Play Mode Scenarios

Disable domain reload

The Play Mode Scenarios are compatible with domain reload. However, the larger the project, the larger it affects the iteration time. One way to quickly improve iteration speed, is then to disable domain reload. To disable domain reload, go to Edit > Project Settings > Editor. Under Enter Play Mode settings > When entering Play Mode , select Reload Scene Only or Do not reload Domain or Scene.

Select the correct running mode parameter

Free Running Instances enable users to launch instances that are independent of the scenario execution, thereby enabling more flexible workflows and faster iteration speeds. This can be done by toggling an Instance's running mode parameter and is available for both Editor, local and remote instances.

Screen capture of the Play Mode Status window illustrating both running mode options

Running mode parameter options breakdown

The running mode parameter contains two options:

Option	Description
Scenario control	The scenario control option is the default behavior and means that the corresponding instance execution will be done through the play Mode button, in concert with the other scenario controlled instances. All the scenario controled instances will be launched and stopped simultaneously.
Manual control	The manual control option allows instances to run independently from the main scenario. Enabling fine tuning of what needs to be re-compiled and relaunched between different Play Mode events.

When to use the manual control option

This approach is beneficial when some instances require fewer updates than others, eliminating the need for full rebuilds and redeployments each time. This significantly reduces iteration time, particularly when dealing with local and remote instances that have lengthy build and deployment processes.

Changing the running mode of an Instance

Modifying the running mode is done through the Play Mode Status window (Window > Multiplayer > Play Mode Status). To launch an instance independently, either press Activate for editor instances or Run for Local/remote instances.

Note The manually controled instances are still parts of the scenario and will still appear in the Play Mode Status window. If the "streaming log" option is enabled, the logs will still be displayed in the console of the Main Editor.