An essential part and one of the first steps of creating a video game is creating game animation. Game animations bring characters, objects, and environments to life. They enable game developers to add personality to their games and make a more engaging gaming experience.
However, you can pick from numerous game animation types and even more animation software solutions. Moreover, there are plenty of different ways to create game animation. Therefore, we’ve selected the top five ways for you to make game animation using animation software.
Types of game animations
Several game animation types exist, each referring to different aspects of the game. For example, cutscenes are non-interactive scenes that usually play between levels and show pivotal points in the story. Cutscenes also help introduce a new plot and typically showcase impressive graphics.
Moreover, character animations include all the characters’ movements in the game. Those can be jumping, running, walking, attacking, etc. The better the character animation, the more realistic the character looks. It’s even more crucial to create an animation when a character stays still to make the game more believable.
Another type of game animation is environmental animation. As the name suggests, it sets the image and helps the game world look more realistic and exciting. These animations include trees swaying in the wind, raindrops falling, water rippling, and leaves rustling. They create a more interactive and immersive gaming experience.
The best animation software
Game developers may use various animation software to create different types of animations for their games. Ultimately, the software you choose is entirely up to you. Several factors can help you choose the best software for you. It’s essential to consider all the factors before selecting the right one.
You can pick one according to the specific type of animation you need to create since there are software tools better suitable for character animation and those better for cutscenes. Moreover, some software programs are ideal for creating 2D animation, while some specialize in 3D animation.
Additionally, your experience level may affect the animation software choice. Therefore, if you’re less experienced, you can choose a more intuitive, beginner-level animation software solution. The budget can also be a deciding factor. When choosing the right software for your game, consider your available budget.
Main differences between 2D animations and 3D animations
Understanding the differences between 2D and 3D game animations is crucial to find the best animation software for your needs.
One apparent difference is that you create 2D animations on a flat panel while you craft 3D animations, which have depth, using polygons. Moreover, 2D animations are usually easier to make and more accessible, whereas 3D animations demand more expertise and time to create them.
Furthermore, you create 2D animations by drawing each frame of the game animation. 3D animations, on the other hand, require building a 3D model and animating it in a 3D environment.
Even though these two game animations have equal usage in the game industry, both have pros and cons. Consequently, choosing which one to create is up to you, depending on the game’s requirements and proposed design.
Top 5 ways to create game animation
There are several ways to create game animation using animation software. You should choose the one that suits your specific needs for a particular game.
Below are our top five favorites. However, you can switch between them or use all five according to your specific task, type of animation, or personal preference.
- Keyframe animation
Keyframe animation includes setting several keyframes and letting the software create the in-between frames to make the animation move.
This way of creating animation is standard for developing character and environment animations in 2D games. You can also use it for 3D animation, but most professionals rely on it for 2D animation.
- Motion capture
You produce motion capture using sensors and specialized cameras to capture real-life actors or objects and transform their movement into data for digital animation. It results in more realistic animations, which you can use for character and object animations.
Because of its realistic nature, game developers commonly use motion capture for 3D animations and lifelike game designs. However, the equipment necessary for creating animation this way can be rather expensive.
- Physics-based animation
Physics-based animation uses physics and mathematics simulations to create animations that look realistic. Moreover, it makes movement and object interaction more natural.
It’s an excellent option for 3D animations for movements like water splashing or hair fluttering, making it perfect for environment and character animations. However, it requires extensive physics knowledge and can take significant time.
- Hand-drawn animation
Even though it can be very time-consuming, this traditional technique is very effective and provides unique animations. It involves drawing each frame by hand, either on paper or digitally, and putting them together to create a distinct game animation.
Game developers who decide to use this technique need to have exceptional drawing skills and a lot of time on their hands. They’ll typically use hand-drawn animation for 2D animations.
- Animation libraries
Animation libraries consist of pre-made animations that you can use for your game animations. Once you choose one, you can import and use it in the game. That can save time while providing you with quality animations for your game.
Animation libraries have many options; you can find animations for characters, environments, etc. However, they may not be customizable, so other methods may be more helpful if you need a more original or specific movement.
Conclusion
Game developers constantly have to create animations to make their games stand out. Those animations can make any game appear more realistic and engaging. You can create game animations with numerous software for this specific purpose. You can do it in many ways since various animation types and software exist. Keyframes, motion capture, physics-based and hand-drawn animations, and animation libraries are some of the most prevalent methods. Choose one that best suits your needs and current game project, and explore other approaches to hone your skills.
