How to make 3D models for games

 

 

Learning to make 3D models for games can at first seem daunting. However, these key techniques will help you gain an insight into how the process works, whether you’re looking to use simple shapes to develop your own art or learn disruptive new approaches.

Box/subdivision modeling

Box, or subdivision modeling is a polygonal modeling technique. Polygons are made up of three parts: vertexes, edges and faces. Put simply, they are basic shapes such as triangles, squares or rectangles. In box modeling for gaming, these are manipulated to create anything from monsters to aliens.

The process starts with a low-resolution mesh of a simple shape, which is then refined using 3D modeling software, sculpting areas that are not required. This mesh is then subdivided to allow artists to tweak polygons and create greater detail within certain areas, meaning a model eventually resembles a planned character or object. For beginners, this is likely to be the first technique you encounter, allowing you to make simple models using appropriate software.

Contour/edge modeling

While box modeling takes a simple shape and manipulates it into a finished model, contour, or edge modeling takes a different approach. Both are polygonal techniques, but contour modeling relies on building a model piece by piece.

In practice, this means the careful placement of polygons next to each other to create art that is clear and detailed. This approach is often used when designing human faces, which can be difficult to craft using box modeling alone. Instead, artists can build a basic mesh and then add more meshes around it to achieve the finished article. The concise method of placing contours together to make lifelike models can be challenging, so it pays to watch online tutorials or undertake a course to best understand the process.

Procedural modeling

When it comes to crafting background detail such as woodland or buildings in a game, it can be time consuming to make each piece. This is where procedural modeling comes in.

Procedural models are made using algorithms rather than being made by hand. Artists can use a variety of different platforms to make them, all with the ability to manipulate key details to get the desired result. You can change settings to ensure foliage appears dense, tower blocks look dilapidated or animals seem fierce or friendly. Mastering such software means you’ll be able to create entire in-game landscapes quickly, allowing you to focus more on key characters and frontline models.

3D scanning

3D scanning is used when a game requires lots of exact, real world detail, with characters modeled on specific people. While the technique has long been used in the film industry, it is also a cornerstone of gaming, especially within titles that place people rather than fantasy characters at their core.

This method requires the use of a 3D scanner, with the results of the scan then uploaded to a computer and processed via modeling software. The results are obviously more lifelike than models made using box or contour modeling, although that’s not to say that the latter are in danger of being usurped, especially as they are used to make fantastic beasts and unique characters.

Digital sculpting

Digital sculpting has revolutionized the way in which 3D models are made. Whereas before 3D artists had to use edge or subdivision techniques to create models for games, now they can ‘sculpt’ models using dedicated software and a pen tablet or display connected to their computer.

The process, which has been compared to a sculptor using brushes to carve out clay and shape it into a specific look, requires artists to use pressure to manipulate an on-screen mesh. Pressure sensitivity of a Wacom pen allows you to sculpt precisely with the amount of pressure you desire.

The result is a faster working process and creations that have a more realistic feel.

 

Make your first model. Get started with Wacom Cintiq.

Wacom Cintiq is a great place to begin your 3D modelling adventure. Built with Wacom quality and know-how, the super-responsive pen combined with the HD high clarity screen means you can sculpt precisely with full navigational control. Working with high resolution meshes means you can craft models with superb detail. And add another dimension to your creativity.

Recommended product

Wacom Cintiq 16
Draw, design and create directly on a high resolution screen with a precise pen.

Shop Wacom Cintiq 16

더 알아보기

Improve your 3D workflow with these simple tips

Three common 3D modeling mistakes and how to avoid them

더 알아보기

영화 및 애니메이션

드로잉

디자인

Wacom의 모든 제품군 확인

펜 타블렛

응답성이 높은 패드와 정밀한 펜을 사용하여 이미지를 스케치하고 그리고 편집한 후, 화면에서 귀하의 작품을 확인할 수 있습니다.

액정 타블렛

고해상도 화면에서 정밀한 펜으로 직접 그려보고 디자인하고 만들 수 있습니다.

스마트패드

종이에 펜으로 쓰고 수기로 작성한 노트를 디지털로 변환합니다.

스타일러스

Wacom 스타일러스를 이용해 모바일 장치에 귀하의 아이디어를 기록하고 빠르게 메모할 수 있습니다.

About Wacom

Wacom’s vision is to bring people and technology closer together through natural interface technologies. This has made it the world’s leading manufacturer of interactive pen tablets and displays as well as of digital styli and solutions for saving and processing digital signatures. The advanced technology of Wacom’s intuitive input devices has been used to create some of the most exciting digital art, films, special effects, fashion and designs around the world and provides business and home users with their leading interface technology to express their personality. Founded in 1983, Wacom is a global company based in Japan (Tokyo Stock Exchange 6727) with subsidiaries and affiliate offices around the world to support marketing and distribution in over 150 countries. 

Learn more about Wacom

  1. Wacom
  2. Discover
  3. 3D 및 게임
  4. how-to-make-3d-models-for-games
Back to top
A+ A-
지원