Panic

Based on game build 714014 | Last updated: 2026-03-03

Overview

Panic is a behaviour node that implements a simple flee-or-scare reaction: the entity moves in a randomly chosen direction, pauses briefly, then picks a new direction and repeats. It extends BehaviourNode and integrates into the DST behaviour tree system, primarily for use by passive or non-combat creatures during high-stress events (e.g., lightning strikes, predator encounters). It directly consumes the locomotor component to drive motion.

Usage example

local inst = CreateEntity()
inst:AddComponent("locomotor")
inst:AddComponent("behaviourtree")
inst.components.behaviourtree:PushNode("panic")

Dependencies & tags

Components used: locomotor Tags: None identified.

Properties

Property	Type	Default Value	Description
waittime	number	0	Timestamp when the current movement phase ends and a new direction will be selected.

Main functions

Visit()

• Description: The core behaviour node callback executed each tick. On first visit (status == READY), it immediately selects a new direction and enters RUNNING state. On subsequent ticks, it waits until waittime has passed before selecting a new direction, and then pauses via Sleep.
• Parameters: None.
• Returns: Nothing.

PickNewDirection()

• Description: Sets a new random movement direction (0–360 degrees) and schedules the next direction change ~0.25–0.5 seconds in the future.
• Parameters: None.
• Returns: Nothing.

Events & listeners

• Pushes: None.
  (Note: The locomotor:RunInDirection call internally fires a locomote event on the entity, but Panic itself does not fire custom events.)