What role does the Animator component play in Unity?

The Animator component is essential in Unity for managing animations associated with GameObjects. Its primary function is to control the playback of animation clips, allowing developers to create dynamic and interactive animated visuals within their games. This includes managing the state transitions between different animations based on the parameters set by the developer, such as speed, blending, and conditions that trigger specific animations.

In the context of game development, the Animator component allows for complex animations to be orchestrated seamlessly, facilitating character movements, actions, and other visual behaviors that enhance the gaming experience. It also works in concert with the Animator Controller, which defines how animations are transitioned, enabling nuanced control over animated sequences.

Overall, understanding the role of the Animator component is crucial for artists and developers who want to create visually engaging content in Unity, making it a central feature for any animation-driven project.