Essentials for 3D Models and Optimisation for Real-Time Game Engines
Creating 3D models for real-time game engines requires a balance between visual fidelity and performance. Efficient models ensure smooth gameplay while maintaining high-quality graphics. Here are the key essentials:
Polygon Count Optimisation
Real-time engines require optimised polygon counts to run efficiently. Low-poly models with well-managed topology help reduce rendering strain. Techniques like LODs (Level of Detail) dynamically swap high-detail models for lower ones at a distance.
Proper UV Mapping and Texturing
Efficient UV unwrapping prevents texture stretching and optimises texture space usage. Using texture atlases and tiling can reduce memory usage. Game engines often support PBR (Physically Based Rendering) textures, which require efficient maps for albedo, normal, roughness, and metallic properties.
Efficient Rigging and Animation
For animated models, a well-optimised rig with a minimal but functional bone count is crucial. Excessive joints or unnecessary IK setups can impact performance. Blend shapes should also be used sparingly.
Normal Maps and Baking
Instead of excessive geometry, details can be transferred via normal maps. High-poly models are baked onto low-poly meshes, preserving detail while maintaining performance.
Real-Time Shading and Materials
Using optimised shaders and material instancing can greatly enhance performance. Avoiding complex shader graphs and excessive transparency effects ensures better rendering speeds.
Collision and Physics Optimisation
Custom collision meshes simplify physics calculations. Instead of using high-poly meshes, simplified collision proxies (boxes, spheres, capsules) are preferred.
By following these principles, 3D models can be both visually appealing and performant in real-time game engines.
