3D Research – Intro to 3D

What is 3D modeling?

3D modelling is a process of creating a virtual three-dimensional model of a physical object. It is often used in many forms of creative media such as films, computer games, animation etc.

What is it used for in games?

In games modelling is very important in making a 3D environment. Everything needs to be modeled, from characters, props, items, weapons etc.

What software do people use for 3D modeling?

The most common software to be used is Autodesk Maya…*

The “pipeline”

• Low-Poly model: Every model created will start out as a basic low poly mesh. This is done to create a basic shape to make into detail later.
• High Poly Sculpting: This is the stage when the model is given a high poly mesh and sculpted to generate the texture later.
• Texturing: The texture is added to represent what the model will look like. Later the model will be reduced to low poly again in order to take up as little data on the hardware as possible.
• Animating/Coding: Now that the model is ready to be added into a game world, it can be programmed and animated. This gives the model life.
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Define: “Low-Poly”

Low-Poly is quicker way of saying “low polygon count” where the polygon count on a 3D model is small. Low Poly models are usually things that do not need excessive detail such as props.

Define: “High-Poly”

High-Poly is quicker way of saying “low polygon count” where the polygon count on a 3D model is small. High Poly models are objects that need more detail compared to other models, mainly the characters in a game.

What constraints do you face as a 3D modeller?

The four main constraints when creating 3D models when making a game are:

• Time: Creating things takes time, and games companies often set up a certain “release date”, creating everything to be as detailed as possible will consume a lot of that time.
• Art Style: Some forms of media will require a certain art style to be used to create a specific theme. This can mean purposely using low poly models. Minecraft is a prime example of limiting yourself to an art style, as everything in Minecraft is made entirely out of cubes.
• Client Needs:
• Platform limitations: Being limited by the hardware being used is also common. If your hardware cannot handle rendering a finely detailed, hi-poly model, the game will either drop frames significantly or crash entirely. As an example, Tomb Raider’s main character Lara Croft has undergone a vast evolution line of models, getting more and more detailed as hardware becomes more efficient.