• [09.12.02] How are games in Gamecask studio developed? part 1 - graphics

          This article is about techniques of developing graphics and 3D animation while developing games at Gamecask studio. The first step is concept art. It is the most important stage of working with graphics and putting enough time to it is very important. The harder we work over the concept the less we correct at modelling and rendering stages.

concept art drawing

          Once we have concept art drawings for the project, we can start modelling. There are lots of commercial programs for developing 3D objects available on the market and most of them are of Autodesk brand. They contain plenty of superb solutions and tools necessary for every graphic artist but a free Blender program does just as well. Blender has enough tools needed for modelling what makes it possible to create advanced and detailed models used in animation as well. This program is used by the majority of significant graphic artists.

3d model

          The next stage is preparation of UV map and textures. UV map is one of techniques of laping a two-dimensional picture (texture) over a 3D object. We can use several textures in one model or use a proper material from procedural textures which are available in most programs. In order to get a high quality texture it is a good idea to render a model with properly used procedural textures first and then its edition in graphic programs designed for raster graphics like Gimp or Photoshop.

preparation of UV map

          Physics-based modeling implies that object motions are governed by the laws of physics, wchich leads to physically realistic animation. Another type of animation is skeletal animation. Skeletal animation is the standard way to animate characters or mechanical objects.

model skeleton

          The last stage of graphics development is rendering. Even if the choice of graphic program is not as important as it was in the past, the choice of a proper rendering engine which allows to get an intended effect has great weight. Lightwave 3D of NewTek brand appeared to be the best choice for Gamecask studio. The choice was influenced not only by the price but by the high quality renders achieved within a quite short period of time. Lightwave makes it possible to obtain in a simple and quick way graphics suitable for today's games of casual type and to determine own style in projects being developed.

lightwave render

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