How can sprites be layered to achieve complex visual effects?

Layering sprites is a technique used to create depth and complexity in visual compositions. By stacking sprites in different orders, one can determine which ones appear in front of or behind others in the display. This is reminiscent of traditional artwork where different elements can be placed in front of or behind each other, resulting in a more engaging scene.

When sprites are layered correctly, it can enhance the visual storytelling or the gameplay experience by creating a sense of space and perspective. For example, if you have a character sprite as the main focus in front of the background, you can also add other elements like trees or building sprites behind them, which can give the illusion of a multi-dimensional world.

The other options, such as changing colors dynamically, increasing sizes, or animating them differently, do contribute to visual effects but do not directly influence their positioning in relation to one another in the layering context. Instead, these methods usually enhance the appearance or movement of a single sprite rather than the overall spatial relationships between multiple sprites.