3D modeling, a crucial aspect of many industries today, can be a challenging task to undertake.
This article aims to clarify why 3d art services can be so challenging, especially for beginners, and how to overcome these difficulties
Understanding the Difficulty of 3D Modeling
3D modeling is not hard in fact, it becomes difficult when you rush the process. With enough time and effort, learning 3D modeling software can be easier. However, as you get deeper into complex designs, the complexity increases and the task becomes more difficult.
One of the most challenging 3D modeling cases for a designer could be creating a highly detailed and realistic human character for a video game or a movie. Let’s break down the stages of 3d modeling:
Stages of 3D Modeling and Their Complexity
- Blocking: This is the first phase of any 3D modeling project and involves creating simple geometric shapes. It’s relatively easy for beginners.
- Detailing Shapes: This process is more advanced than blocking and requires intermediate skills. It involves turning a basic block into an intricate shape.
- Texturing: This stage can be difficult for beginners as it involves working with UV mapping and wrapping. This task is often assigned to specific texturing artists who are experts in the field.
- Rendering: Rendering is one of the toughest processes to learn due to its resource-intensive nature. A high-configuration computer unit is required to render a decent scene, and it can be time-consuming.
- Post Production: This includes tasks such as VFX and image editing for the final 3D render. It’s among the challenging jobs for beginners, but those with some knowledge of software can start getting into post-production.
The Challenges of Self-learning 3D Modeling
Learning 3D modeling on your own can be a challenge due to several factors:
- Lack of Direction: 3D modeling needs to be learned systematically. Without a proper direction, it can be confusing and hard to start.
- Volume of Learning: Mastering the use of 3D modeling software is just the beginning. You may need to learn more than 10 kinds of software, improve your art foundation, and understand the long process of next-generation modeling.
- Unawareness of Market Standards: Self-learners often don’t know the project requirements and standards, which can put them in a vulnerable position.
- Lack of Patience and Self-discipline: Self-learning requires strong self-control to persevere. Without supervision, it’s easy to lose track of your learning status.
Human 3D modeling
One of the most iconic examples of a complex 3D human game model that involved multiple artists is the character of “Joel” from the game “The Last of Us”.
Joel is one of the main characters in the game, and his design is incredibly detailed and realistic, reflecting the game’s post-apocalyptic setting and the character’s rugged, hardened personality.
Creating Joel was a collaborative effort involving several artists and designers. Here’s a brief breakdown of the process:
- Concept Artists: The initial design of Joel started with concept artists who sketched and painted the character’s look and feel. They decided on the character’s physical features, clothing, and other aesthetic elements.
- 3D Modelers: Once the concept was finalized, 3D modelers stepped in to create the character in a 3D space. They used software like Maya or ZBrush to build the character’s geometry, ensuring the model was accurate to the concept art.
- Texture Artists: After the 3D model was complete, texture artists painted the surface of the model to give it color and texture. They created the look of skin, hair, clothing, and other details.
- Riggers and Animators: Riggers created a skeleton for the model that allowed it to move. Animators then used this rig to create Joel’s movements, from walking and running to combat actions.
- Technical Artists: These artists ensured the model worked correctly within the game engine. They optimized the model to run smoothly on various hardware and worked on the shaders and lighting to make the character look realistic in the game’s environments.
- Sound Designers and Voice Actors: While not directly involved in the 3D modeling, sound designers and voice actors contributed to the character by creating the sound effects associated with Joel and providing his voice, respectively.
The collaboration resulted in a character that is not only interesting but also highly detailed and complex. This demonstrates the power of teamwork in creating complex 3D models in the gaming industry.
How to Make 3D Modeling Easier?
Choosing the right software is crucial. There are plenty of beginner-friendly 3D builders tools available. Dedicate yourself to learning one tool and start exploring its basic features.
Use resources like YouTube or paid video courses for learning. It’s also important to keep a regular schedule. Study for at least an hour a day and don’t rush the learning process.
Some of the easiest 3D software for beginners include:
- Cinema4D
- Modo
- 3DS MAX Design
These tools offer a smoother learning curve and have plenty of resources and tutorials available.
A Case Study: 3D Modeling for Mobile Games
An interesting case of 3D modeling in the mobile gaming industry comes from the game ‘Guns and Battles developed by Amrita Studio and supported by RetroStyle Games.
This game is a war adventure where the good guys battle against a collective image of the bad guys. The style of the enemies in this game is designed to resonate with the collective consciousness of the players.
RetroStyle Games, with its large animation department, was responsible for creating a set of CG trailers for ‘Guns and Battles’. Their team provided cinematic production, 3D modeling, storyboarding and previz, simulation, and VFX services. They animated characters, created environments, and ensured the characters felt at home in these environments.
For this project, the animation specialists at RetroStyle Games were provided with all the game materials. They used software like Maya and 3ds Max to bring these materials to life. Dynamic camera movement and epic soundtracks were used to create a sense of systematic thrill that everyone loves. They also paid close attention to the backgrounds and the emotions of the characters.
The first video was delivered within 16 days, and within two months, a set of four trailers was ready. These trailers serve as the primary promotional material for the mobile game. Potential users watch the trailer to get a feel of the game and quickly decide whether to play it.
This case study demonstrates the complexity and collaborative nature of 3D modeling for mobile games. It also highlights the importance of 3D modeling in creating engaging promotional materials that can enhance the player’s experience and perception of the game.
Conclusion
3D modeling can be hard, but with enough time, patience, and the right resources, it can be learned. It’s a great field to get into, and every step must be learned with proper patience.
Don’t get overloaded, follow the relevant tutorials, and you will become a skilled 3D modeler.
