In a side-scrolling platform game, what input method provides the most immediate response for direction changes?

In a side-scrolling platform game, using GetAxisRaw to handle input for direction changes ensures that players experience the most immediate response to their actions. When GetAxisRaw is invoked, it directly reads the input state, providing a value of either -1, 0, or 1 for left, no movement, or right, respectively, without any smoothing or interpolation that might occur with other methods. This method allows for instantaneous changes in direction, which is particularly important in fast-paced gameplay where precision and immediate feedback are crucial.

In contrast, GetButton and GetAxis typically apply a level of smoothing—GetButton processes input over time, and GetAxis introduces gradual transitions to create a more gradual response. While helpful for certain scenarios, such as controlling velocities or managing acceleration, they can introduce delay, which would hinder player responsiveness during critical moments. Likewise, Input.GetKeyUp registers when a specific key is released, which is not suitable for immediate direction changes since it reacts after the button is already released rather than during the action.

Thus, for fast and direct control, especially in a game environment where split-second decisions matter, GetAxisRaw is the optimal choice.