Learning Cocos2D: A Hands-On Guide to Building iOS Games with Cocos2D, Box2D, and Chipmunk

11. Intermediate Game Physics: Modeling, Racing, and Leaping

In Chapter 10, “Basic Game Physics: Adding Realism with Box2D,” you learned the basics of using the Box2D physics engine. Specifically, you learned how to create basic shapes, decorate them with sprites, and use gravity. In the process, you made your own simple puzzle game with Box2D physics!

Although the level you made is quite cool, it barely scratches the surface of what you can do with Box2D. You’re not limited to simple shapes such as squares or circles with Box2D—you can make more complicated shapes and connect multiple bodies together to create objects such as vehicles. You’re also not limited to using gravity to move your objects—you can also apply forces, impulses, and motor ...