3D Modeling in the Gaming Industry By Andrey Petravchuk Ex Technical Director at RetroStyle Games | Jan 25, 2023 Ask a Question The gaming industry is growing rapidly, and 3D modeling is becoming an increasingly important part of game development services. This guide will cover the basics of 3D modeling for games and how it can be used to create amazing gaming experiences.We’ll explore the advantages of 3D modeling outsourcing in the gaming industry, how to start working with 3D modeling studios, and the importance of using quality 3D models for your game. So let’s dive into this article to find answers to all of your questions and learn about all of the interesting things that the 3D modeling sphere has to offer. What Is 3D Modeling and How Does It Help in the Gaming Industry? Now let us begin with a definition of 3D modeling for games. The process of constructing three dimensions representations of an object or a surface is known as 3D modeling for games. 3D models are created using computer-based 3D modeling software, which we’ll look at in more detail in the next section.The size, form, and texture of an object can be determined throughout the 3D modeling process. To construct 3D shapes within the software, the procedure uses points, lines, and polygons.A 3D model is primarily composed of vertices that combine to create a mesh and serve as the model’s core. To adjust the shape, any point on the model can be changed. The software uses coordinate data to determine the location of each vertical and horizontal point in relation to a visual reference. Various industries employ 3D modeling for a variety of projects. There are probably many 3D modeled goods that we use without even realizing it. The possibilities with 3D modeling are limitless. It’s a truly versatile medium that can be employed in a variety of applications. But we will now talk about one of the most famous ways to use 3D modeling. Namely, the industry of computer and mobile games.Characters, sets, objects, and even entire worlds in video games are created using 3D models. Immersion is essential to every excellent game, and 3D modeling is a terrific approach to creating engaging content. 3D modeling is especially crucial in the field of virtual reality gaming, which is a very interesting industry. Virtual reality games completely immerse you in the game experience, allowing you to explore entire three-dimensional environments. The Importance of Understanding 3D Modeling vs. Rendering And while both are essential components of the 3D graphics workflow in our 3D game art outsourcing studio, they are fundamentally different processes with different goals and different outcomes. Understanding the difference between these two processes is important because they require different skill sets and tools.3D modeling for games requires an understanding of geometry, topology, and other technical aspects of 3D graphics from our artists, as well as proficiency in using 3D modeling software. Rendering, on the other hand, requires knowledge of lighting, shading, and other visual effects, as well as specialized rendering software.Effective communication and collaboration between designers, modelers, and renderers are essential to creating a final product that meets the client’s requirements and vision. Types of 3D Modeling and Services for Games You Can Outsource At RSG we offer a variety of 3D modeling and services for games that can be outsourced, depending on the specific needs of your project. Some of the most common types of 3D modeling and services for games that we provide include:Character ModelingEnvironment ModelingProp ModelingRigging and AnimationTexturing and ShadingOutsourcing these services can be a cost-effective way to bring high-quality 3D models and game design to your project. So you can outsource your 3D modeling for games. And you’ll get a dedicated art team, ensuring that you have access to the experience needed to create engaging and visually stunning games that meet your specific requirements. 3D Character Modeling for Cutting-Edge Gaming 3D modeling in the gaming industry, especially 3D character designs, is a critical component of cutting-edge gaming, as it plays a significant role in creating immersive, engaging, and visually stunning game worlds.Our model-making team, by accurately modeling the physical characteristics of characters, such as their size, shape, and weight, can ensure that characters move and interact with objects in the game world in a way that is consistent with real-world physics. This level of realism further enhances the game experience and helps to create a more immersive and believable game world. 3D Game Environment Design Modeling & Texturing The design, modeling, and texturing of game environments create a realistic and immersive experience for players, which helps to keep them engaged in the game and it is all over the importance of 3d modeling.Our team knows one of the primary advantages of 3D game environment design modeling and texturing is that it enables a realistic and visually stunning game world. This can include everything from designing realistic environments that reflect the game’s setting to creating objects and textures that add to the game’s atmosphere. Creating Detailed 3D Models for Vehicles in Games In many games, vehicles are used as weapons, tools, or means of transportation, and having a detailed 3D model of the vehicle can help players better understand how it functions and how to use it effectively. This can be especially important in military simulations or other games where vehicles play a crucial role in gameplay.A well-designed gaming 3d models can include intricate details such as realistic textures, reflections, and lighting effects that can help create a visually appealing game environment. And our creative team already has experience creating 3D models of vehicles, which can help make the game world more immersive, engaging, and believable. Creating 3D Models for Weapons in Games Swords, axes, maces melee weapons are an integral part of many games, ranging from first-person shooters to role-playing games, and creating highly detailed 3D models for these weapons is vital for an immersive gaming experience.From first-person shooters to role-playing games, melee weapons are an integral part of many games, and creating highly detailed 3D models of these weapons is essential to creating the best gaming experience.Here’s the full article: A highly detailed 3D model of the weapon is especially important in first-person shooter games, where players need to be able to quickly and accurately aim and fire their weapons. It can also help to create a sense of immersion for the player, as they feel like they are actually wielding the weapon. Game props 3D Models for Game Developers One of the primary advantages of creating 3D modeling in games and for game props is that it enables us as game developers and artists to create a more immersive and believable game world. Props can be used to create a sense of place and atmosphere, which helps to immerse the player in the game world.A well-designed prop can help to create a more realistic environment, whether it’s a plant, a piece of furniture, or a street lamp. These props as a 3D modeling for games can add to the game’s atmosphere, making the game world feel more alive and lived-in. Explore Even More 3D Modeling Related Services 1Motion CaptureThis service utilizes motion capture technology to record real-life movements and transfer them to 3D models for realistic animations.2TexturingOutsourcing texturing involves adding detailed textures, colors, and materials to 3D models to enhance their visual appearance.3Lighting and RenderingThis service focuses on creating realistic lighting effects and rendering high-quality images or videos of game assets or scenes.4Level DesignThis service focuses on designing game levels, including layouts, terrain, obstacles, and interactive elements.5Virtual Reality (VR) ModelingOutsourcing VR modeling involves creating 3D models specifically optimized for virtual reality experiences and interactions.6Augmented Reality (AR) ModelingThis service focuses on creating 3D models that can be integrated into augmented reality games or applications.7User Interface (UI) DesignOutsourcing UI game design involves creating visually appealing and user-friendly interfaces for game menus, HUDs, and interactive elements.8Particle EffectsThis service focuses on creating realistic and visually striking particle effects, such as explosions, fire, smoke, and magic spells.9Concept SculptingOutsourcing concept sculpting involves creating 3D sculptures of characters or objects using digital sculpting software for initial design exploration.10Cutscenes for 3D GamesThis service involves creating cinematic sequences and cutscenes, including camera work, character animation services, and visual effects.11Low-Poly ModelingOutsourcing low-poly modeling involves creating optimized 3D models with a lower polygon count, suitable for mobile or low-spec devices.12High-Poly ModelingThis service focuses on creating highly detailed and realistic 3D models with a high polygon count for next-gen consoles or PC games.13Photogrammetry for video gamesPhotogrammetry, a technique widely employed in video games, involves capturing multiple overlapping photographs and extracting measurements to construct intricate 3D models of objects or scenes. By harnessing the power of photogrammetry, game developers can breathe life into virtual environments, and meticulously recreating every detail.14VFX (Visual Effects)The VFX service team focuses on creating visual effects such as explosions, weather effects, particles, and simulations to enhance the visual quality of the game.15PrototypingOutsourcing prototyping involves creating quick and functional 3D models for testing game mechanics, physics, and interactions. The Advantages of 3D Modeling Outsourcing in the Gaming Industry Companies that value their time, energy, and money choose to outsource 3D modeling. Furthermore, it is the sole alternative for people who require scale and diversity of abilities. Customers are becoming more aware of this and looking for reputable 3D modeling companies. And once they discover the right partners, these companies never look back. Is it too wonderful to be true? Then consider these 5 benefits of outsourcing 3D modeling. Cost Savings Outsourcing 3D modeling in the gaming industry can result in significant cost savings. It is often cheaper to outsource 3D modeling than to hire and train in-house staff to do the same work. The advantage of an outsourcing team is that they have extensive experience with different types of modeling. To be convinced of this, you need to study their portfolio and familiarize yourself with already implemented cases. Additionally, considering the cost of 3D models can help you make an informed decision when choosing an outsourcing team. Increased Efficiency By outsourcing 3D modeling, companies can focus on core processes and tasks, while the 3D modeling is done by a third-party vendor. This can result in increased efficiency and productivity. Your team can focus on their current tasks while the 3D team is fully immersed in the development process. Access to Advanced Technology By outsourcing 3D modeling, gaming companies can access the latest technologies and software that they may not have access to in-house. This can help to improve the quality of the 3D models and increase their realism. This is a common experience among many companies. While your colleagues are engaged in marketing, PR, and preparation of other components of the game, the outsourced team will create a high-quality product. Access to Expertise Outsourcing 3D modeling to a third-party vendor can provide gaming companies with access to experienced 3D modelers and designers. This can help to ensure that the 3D models are of high quality and realistic. Especially if they provide 3D character modeling services. Faster Delivery By outsourcing 3D modeling, gaming companies can have their 3D models delivered more quickly. This can help to reduce 3D modeling for game development times and improve game launch dates. Here we have listed the main advantages of working with outsourcing companies to create 3D models for your game project. Does such cooperation have disadvantages? It all depends on how well the two teams will work together in order to receive the necessary data and feedback as they work. How 3D Modeling Impacts the Creation of Games The gaming business is continually evolving, with larger and better graphics being introduced to gamers. Any reputable game art studio will employ 3D modeling to create realistic representations of characters and animation, allowing them to make better games for the public. The experience of distinct characters made possible by 3D modeling is what current gaming uses to keep players captivated! Because of the hyper-realistic world made possible by 3D, it is simple to become addicted to a superb game.3D modeling allows game developers to create realistic and immersive gaming experiences. It enables developers to create detailed visuals and textures, making the game look and feel more realistic.Additionally, 3D modeling allows for easier and more complex game logic, animations, and physics, which can make for a more dynamic and engaging gaming experience. 3D modeling in video games can also help speed up the development process, as it allows developers to quickly create and modify assets, rather than having to create them from scratch.Modern game companies attract famous movie stars to their projects. 3D modeling specialists create real copies of famous people, placing them in the game setting. This is resonating with players and fans alike, as your favorite actor can now be your companion as you complete quests and find answers to the mysteries of the game’s plot. The Importance of Quality 3D Models for Your Game 3D gaming technology is constantly evolving. For those new to 3D modeling, there are more and more tutorials, videos, and articles to help you learn the craft. This means that the quality of the models should increase every time. So now let’s dive deeper into the issue of quality and study its important aspects. Improved visuals Pixel art is still popular, but the gaming world is moving forward at a tremendous speed. If you want your game to be exciting and unlike dozens of other games, try to create unique and impressive effects. For example, 3D modeling in Unreal Engine 5 can help you with this. Enhanced user experience Never forget that your games are played by real people. That is why it is worth taking care of setting up the UX and UI. Of course, it is not possible to create the perfect interface all at once. It is better to release a beta version of the product, test it on users, and get feedback. Convenient icons, clear lists, and colorful visualization will help players fall in love with your project. Increased engagement As we said earlier, the better your product is, the more users it will attract. High-quality 3D models are the main stage on the way to this. Optimizing 3D models for games contributes to the popularity of your game product, whether it be character portraits, objects, icons, or game environments. Increased sales Investors and gaming companies will not be able to pass by your product if it stands out on the market among other games. 3D modeling in games allows you to stand out from the crowd and be attractive to future buyers. The more distant your models, objects, and other game elements are, the more likely your game is to succeed. Tips for Utilizing 3D Modeling in the Gaming Industry The effective use of game 3D modeling in the gaming industry is not only the creation of three-dimensional and detailed figures or objects, it is also a time-consuming process that requires a lot of attention. Based on our experience, we have compiled some tips that can make your work with 3D models easier. 1Choosing the right softwareWhenever selecting the best 3D modeling software, one of the most significant factors to consider is the age of the consumers to whom the software is aimed. Designers of all ages require varied modeling tools due to the various levels of work they complete with the game 3D software they utilize. Unity, 3ds Max Design, Maya, and Blender are some of the most popular 3D modeling applications among professional game artists as well as enthusiasts and beginners in generating 3D models.2Basics of 3D modelingBefore proceeding directly to the creation of 3D gaming models, make sure that you know all the important terms and understand their meanings (polygon, mesh, vertex, face, and many others). We recommend this solution for beginners and those who are just discovering the world of game creation. You can also explore different types of 3D modeling by immersing yourself in sculpting and lighting.3Optimizing 3D modelsThe technique of lowering the file size of 3D models is known as 3D optimization. The size of 3D models is determined by two factors: geometry and texturing. Geometry refers to the 3D model’s real mesh or structure, which is made up of polygons. Textures are the images that are utilized to cover the 3D model. 1Choosing the right softwareWhenever selecting the best 3D modeling software, one of the most significant factors to consider is the age of the consumers to whom the software is aimed. Designers of all ages require varied modeling tools due to the various levels of work they complete with the game 3D software they utilize. Unity, 3ds Max Design, Maya, and Blender are some of the most popular 3D modeling applications among professional game artists as well as enthusiasts and beginners in generating 3D models.2Basics of 3D modelingBefore proceeding directly to the creation of 3D gaming models, make sure that you know all the important terms and understand their meanings (polygon, mesh, vertex, face, and many others). We recommend this solution for beginners and those who are just discovering the world of game creation. You can also explore different types of 3D modeling by immersing yourself in sculpting and lighting.3Optimizing 3D modelsThe technique of lowering the file size of 3D models is known as 3D optimization. The size of 3D models is determined by two factors: geometry and texturing. Geometry refers to the 3D model’s real mesh or structure, which is made up of polygons. Textures are the images that are utilized to cover the 3D model. Conclusion and Future of 3D Modeling in the Gaming Industry So the future of 3D modeling appears bright, as it is becoming an extremely in-demand ability across a wide range of businesses. Architecture, interior design, video game creation, film and television, and industrial design all use 3D modeling. As science progresses, the demand for skilled 3D modelers is expected to rise.3D modeling software may become even more user-friendly and capable of producing incredibly realistic and detailed 3D models in the future. Furthermore, virtual and augmented reality may play a greater role in the use of 3D models, helping individuals to engage with and explore digital worlds in a more immersive manner. Overall, the future of 3D modeling is full of prospects for individuals with the necessary skills and competence. We hope you have found answers to the questions that were asked at the beginning of this article. The path of 3D modeling cannot be called simple, but once you comprehend it, the results will impress you. FAQ: Fake Where can I find the best 3D models for design and animation? For high-quality 3D models for game developers, our 3D characters model outsourcing services are a top choice, because we offer detailed and professionally crafted models. We specialize in creating 3D characters, ensuring your game assets are unique and polished. We will streamline the development process by providing ready-to-use, high-quality 3D models for your projects and make your game as perfect as possible! How to make a 3D game in 6 steps? Creating a 3D game involves several critical steps. Here’s a concise guide:Define the Concept: Start by outlining your game’s core idea, including its genre, storyline, and primary mechanics. Establish a clear vision and set specific goals for what you want to achieve.Do the Research:Investigate similar games to understand market trends and identify what works well. Study the tools and technologies needed, such as game engines (Unity, Unreal Engine) and modeling software (Blender, Maya).Prototype:Develop a basic version of your game to test key mechanics and concepts. This phase helps you identify potential issues early and refine your ideas before full-scale development.Start Building:Begin creating the game, focusing on developing the main features first. Design and model characters, environments, and assets. Implement gameplay mechanics, animations, and user interface elements.Refine and Resolve:Continuously improve your game by refining the visuals, fixing bugs, and enhancing gameplay mechanics. Gather feedback from playtesters to identify areas needing improvement.Test Your Game:Conduct thorough testing to ensure your game runs smoothly across different platforms. Address any remaining issues, optimize performance, and ensure a polished, enjoyable experience for players.Following these steps systematically will help you create a successful 3D game. What is the game 3D modeling workflow? The 3D modeling workflow for games, also known as the 3D modeling pipeline, involves several key steps:Research and DesignStart by gathering reference materials and designing the concept of your model. This stage helps define the look and feel of the asset you’re creating.ConceptionDevelop initial sketches and conceptual designs to visualize your ideas. This phase is crucial for establishing the model’s basic structure and proportions.Blocking and SculptingCreate a basic 3D shape (blocking) and refine it with detailed sculpting. This step helps in defining the form and intricate details of the model.Retopology/OptimizationFor game-ready models, optimize the mesh to ensure it has an efficient polygon count. This step isn’t necessary for rendering purposes but is crucial for real-time applications like games.UV MappingUnwrap the 3D model to create a 2D map, allowing you to apply textures accurately. This stage prepares the model for texturing.BakingTransfer details from high-poly models to low-poly versions using techniques like normal mapping. This process ensures that the game model retains details without a high polygon count.TexturingApply textures to the model using techniques such as PBR (Physically Based Rendering), hard surface, or hand-painted methods. This step adds color, surface details, and material properties to the model.Rigging and SkinningCreate a skeleton (rig) for the model and bind the mesh to it (skinning). This allows the model to be animated and posed.LightingSet up lighting to enhance the model’s appearance. Proper lighting can significantly impact the visual quality of the model.Testing the Game-Ready Model in the EngineFinally, test the model in a game engine like Unity or Unreal Engine to ensure it performs well in real time. Submit Rating Average rating 4.8 / 5. Vote count: 20 No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post. We are sorry that this post was not useful for you! Let us improve this post! Tell us how we can improve this post? Submit Feedback ❤️ 👽 😎 🎮 👻 Get the Latest News in GameDev industry 😎