Phaser 4 Matter Physics

Matter.js is Phaser's second built-in physics engine. Use it when Arcade Physics can't meet your needs — specifically for non-rectangular collision shapes, real physics constraints, or ragdoll-style simulations.

Arcade vs Matter — When to Use Which

Arcade Physics (default choice):

• AABB collision only: rectangles and circles
• Simple hitboxes, excellent performance
• body.blocked.down for ground detection
• Covers 95% of 2D games

Matter Physics (when you need it):

• Convex polygon shapes and complex concave bodies
• Compound bodies (multiple shapes welded together)
• Realistic constraints: hinges, springs, distance rods
• Ragdoll physics and destructible objects
• Sensor zones with physics-accurate collision events