How can I prevent users from accidentally deleting critical game files in Unity, similar to system32 protection in an OS?

Preventing Accidental Deletion of Critical Game Files in Unity

1. Implement File Permission Controls

Use platform-specific file permission APIs to restrict user access to critical game files. For example, on Windows, you can alter file attributes to make them read-only or hidden using C#:

using System.IO;
File.SetAttributes("path/to/critical/file", FileAttributes.ReadOnly | FileAttributes.Hidden);

2. Use Encrypted File Systems

Encrypt sensitive files so they can’t be deleted or altered easily by unauthorized users. Unity supports encryption libraries like AesCryptoServiceProvider:

Step into the world of gaming!

using System;
using System.IO;
using System.Security.Cryptography;
...

3. Implement Redundant Systems

Backup essential files at runtime. For example, keep a copy of critical files in a secure cloud location or use Unity’s Application.persistentDataPath for local storage backups.

4. Editor-level Protections

During development, use Unity Editor scripts to prevent deletion in the Editor environment. Customize the Editor to avoid accidental edits on critical assets.

5. Systems-based File Safety Mechanisms

Utilize systems-based holistic design to manage game assets efficiently. Design a system that automatically checks integrity at runtime, using hash verification or CRC checks.

6. User Interface Mitigations

Implement confirmation dialogs or warnings to alert users before critical deletions. Offer ‘undo’ functionality where possible.

7. Secure Game Asset Management

Incorporate secure asset management strategies and tools like asset bundles or Addressables in Unity, which can provide an additional layer of abstraction and protection.