Separate Folder for `.import` Files

[llama-nl]

Describe the project you are working on

Godot

Describe the problem or limitation you are having in your project

The .import files clutter asset folders, making it harder to find and manage real files. Like if we have 1000 image and .import file will add more 1000 files which makes find and manage harder.

Describe the feature / enhancement and how it helps to overcome the problem or limitation

Add an option to place .import files into a separate subfolder (e.g., .imports/) inside each asset folder.
It keeps the project clean and easier to browse.

Describe how your proposal will work, with code, pseudo-code, mock-ups, and/or diagrams

New folder structure may look like this:

-- assets
---- image.png
---- model.glb
-------- .imports
------------- image.png.import
------------- model.glb.import

Each asset keeps its .import file in a local .imports subfolder, not mixed with main files.

If this enhancement will not be used often, can it be worked around with a few lines of script?

No, .import file paths are handled by the engine internally.

Is there a reason why this should be core and not an add-on in the asset library?

Yes. Import system is part of core engine behavior. Add-ons can't safely change .import file locations

[Zireael07]

I believe this was already suggested?

[AThousandShips]

The .import files need to be with their files, that's how they work, moving them would defeat the purpose

They ensue you don't need any editor state to handle imports, meaning that you can safely delete .godot (or clone a repo) and not have all your import settings lost because of a crash

Related:

• Hide *.import files in the system file manager on Windows #801