Unit 70 - 3D Environments for Computer Games

Notes

This unit aims to develop your understanding of and skills in creating 3D Environment models to the standard required to work in the computer games industry.

This is an advanced 3D modelling unit, focusing on the preparation of assets that will be used as

environmental models for 3D computer games. You will approach the modelling of

environments from multiple points: from the narrative (Story) perspective, the focus will be on

storytelling or thematic properties to build 3D spaces suitable for games whilst, from a ludic

perspective, the focus will be on spaces conceived purely with gameplay in mind.

Learners will develop the skills to produce work of good aesthetic quality and to prepare 3D

models for export to game-creating software.

Alongside these skills, you will develop the essential techniques for ensuring professional

standards in the management of this work.

Learning Objectives

1 Understand the technical, ludic, narrative and aesthetic considerations to be taken into account when modelling 3D environments for computer games
2 Be able to model large-scale 3D terrains and backgrounds for computer games
3 Be able to prepare 3D assets to be used as environmental details in computer games
4 Be able to apply 2D texture maps to 3D models.

Image references:

Concepts

Below are some quick concepts I created using reference to actual objects in a "world of warcraft scene"

I found that creating a conceptual mind map helped me suss out which objects I could and could not use in the finished environment.

The image below was a very quick sketch-up of how I wanted the scene to look from a certain angle.

In the image you can clearly see an archway (in this case its's an entrance to a castle or a community). The entrance visible leads to a fountain and what will also be a variety of different detailed objects.

3D Designs

By arraying the objects randomly in the scene, I am able to create a compact scene that seems accurate to the game. Below you will find a few various angles of the scene within 3DS Max's standard perspective viewport.

Originally, I planned to view the scene through the Archway/Door at, what would be, the front of the castle or kingdom.