How to Import a Sprite Sheet into Unity 2D

Unity can slice a regular sprite grid automatically, but the result depends on using the same frame dimensions and pivot that were used to create the sheet.

Prepare the PNG

Use a transparent PNG with equal-sized cells. Confirm the row count, column count, and frame dimensions before importing. If you are unsure, inspect it in the sprite sheet splitter.

Configure the Texture Importer

Select the PNG in the Project window and set:

• Texture Type: Sprite (2D and UI)
• Sprite Mode: Multiple
• Mesh Type: Full Rect for predictable frame bounds
• Filter Mode: Point for pixel art; Bilinear for smooth painted art
• Compression: None for crisp pixel art, or test the target platform setting

Click Sprite Editor, choose Slice, and select Grid by Cell Size. Enter the exact width and height of one frame. If the sheet has spacing or an outer margin, enter those values instead of compensating with a different cell size.

Use a stable pivot

For side-view characters, Bottom Center is a useful starting point. If the character moves around inside the cells, use a custom pivot at the same pixel coordinate on every frame. A stable pivot prevents visible shaking when the Animation Clip changes frames.

Create the animation

Select the sliced sprites in frame order and drag them into the Scene or Animation window. Unity creates an Animation Clip. Enable Loop Time for walk, run, and idle cycles, then tune Samples until the motion matches the game.

The dedicated Unity sprite sheet generator includes generation presets and an import checklist. For a new character sequence, use the AI generator, then preview the loop before importing it into the project.