What does the term "Animation Blend Tree" refer to in Unity?

The term "Animation Blend Tree" in Unity refers to a method for blending multiple animations based on parameters. This is a powerful feature within the Unity Animator system that allows for smooth transitions between different animations based on values such as speed, direction, or player input.

For instance, if a character has animations for walking, running, and idling, a blend tree can help seamlessly transition between these states depending on how fast the character is moving. By utilizing blend trees, developers can create more fluid and dynamic animation behaviors which enhance the overall realism and responsiveness of characters in a game. This method is particularly useful in creating complex animation systems where multiple factors influence how animations should blend.

This functionality is core to character animation in games, allowing for a much richer player experience as characters can move more naturally without jarring cuts between different animation states.