High Definition Render Pipeline

The High Definition Render Pipeline (HDRP) is a scriptable render pipeline built for the Unity game engine, designed to create high-fidelity graphics for PC, console, and VR platforms. It provides advanced rendering features such as physically based lighting, high-quality post-processing effects, and support for complex materials, enabling developers to achieve cinematic-quality visuals in real-time applications.

Also known as: HDRP, High-Definition Render Pipeline, Unity HDRP, HD Render Pipeline, High Def Render Pipeline

Why learn High Definition Render Pipeline?

Developers should use HDRP when targeting platforms that support high-end graphics, such as PC, PlayStation, Xbox, or high-end VR headsets, and when visual fidelity is a priority, such as in AAA games, architectural visualizations, or film production. It is particularly valuable for projects requiring realistic lighting, shadows, and material effects that go beyond the capabilities of Unity's built-in or Universal Render Pipeline.

Learning Resources

• docs: Unity HDRP Documentation
• tutorial: Unity Learn: Introduction to HDRP
• video: Brackeys: HDRP Tutorial
• tutorial: Catlike Coding: Rendering in HDRP