3 Types of 3D Modeling in Mobile Games By Andrey Petravchuk Ex Technical Director at RetroStyle Games | Jan 15, 2023 Ask a Question We love modern types of 3d games for their exciting storylines and, of course, for their graphics. Specifically, the graphics get closer and closer to reality with each update. There are some 3D modeling workflows, and 3D models themselves vary between 3D game genres. However, there are some unchangeable types that we will talk about in this article. If we talk about the advantages that this kind of modeling brings to 3D isometric games, then, of course, it is the high level of quality of characters, backgrounds, and objects inside the game, that attracts more and more players. And that’s exactly what any mobile game development team or any other game development team is striving for, isn’t it? Types of 3D Modeling The diversity of 3D modeling kinds is constantly increasing, and this is due to how 3D models are utilized rather than how they are created. Well, you read that right: there is no “one size fits all” philosophy when it comes to how diverse 3D models are employed. The problem must be discussed, thus today you’ll understand the difference between 3D model creation processes – and who knows it better than one of the leading 3D art outsourcing companies? Even if you are not a 3D designer, you should grasp the many types of 3D modeling. The explanation is straightforward: you want arranged photographs to seem as beautiful as possible, thus you must understand which type works best for your projects. Sculpting for Mobile Games Sculpting moves us away from the engineering aspect of 3D modeling and into the more aesthetic side. Sculpting 3D models, like box and polygon modeling, employs vertices, faces, and edges. We use sculpting to keep the shaping process distinct from the more technical intricacies of thinking about particular parts. We have brushes instead of altering them based on selection. Based on the brush type and settings, the brush has an influence area and reshapes the geometry more organically. Sculpting is commonly employed in the creation of 3d characters, animals, and creatures in mobile games. However, it can also be used to sculpt details that would be difficult to achieve with standard box and polygon models.There are various types of 3D digital sculpting. We can sculpt the mesh as is, moving the vertices, edges, and faces around to form them according to the brush. Using this strategy, we must have a large amount of geometry available from the beginning, otherwise, we will quickly reach the limit of how much detail our geometry can carry. The following technology is known as multiple definitions. It is comparable to a subdivision surface, except that we can save the sculpt between levels of multires. We boost the multires level when we hit the limit of how much detail our geometry can hold. In this approach, we can collect more geometry as needed and save it at many ensuring quality.Dynamic topology is the next technology iteration. In Blender, at least. As we paint, this feature dynamically subdivides the model into triangles based on the zoom level or a predetermined absolute level. Simply keep sculpting, and the geometry will adapt. When we’re finished sculpting, we need to re-use the mesh. After a sculpting process, the mesh is frequently in poor condition in terms of performance and usability.We might indeed achieve a better mesh manually by using different mesh algorithms that can scan the surface of the item and apply a new mesh on the base of that as well. We frequently have to use a technique known as retopology to manually reconstruct the mesh on top of the molded objects. Polygonal Modeling Polygon modeling is a 3D modeling for games technique, remarkably related to box modeling. The distinction here is that we typically begin with a single vertex or a simple shape with no depth creating low poly models. Then we piece by piece construct our model. We frequently employ the same techniques as box modeling but in a more detailed manner. The focus here is on doing a lot more with edges and vertices. The objects we make with this approach still have hard objects, but they have more natural materials.Polygon modeling, like box modeling, frequently emphasizes the use of quads. However, many of the models we construct contain biological qualities. It could be anything from a statue to building embellishments. This technique can also be used to construct an accessory, tool, or other pieces of stuff.A subdivision surface is frequently employed here as well to smooth the geometry of the object. The tools used for box modeling and polygon modeling are essentially the same, so that makes the work process easier for polygon modelers.Polygon modeling in Maya is preferred by some game developers because it is well adapted to scanline rendering and is thus the chosen method for real-time graphic design. However, some of them use polygon modeling in 3Ds Max. So, as you can see, there is no single solution for creating high-quality 3D objects in only one of the programs. Procedural Modeling Procedural modeling has its beginnings in computer graphics approaches such as shape grammars and Lindenmayer systems or L-systems, which try to effectively define things to precisely represent them. Procedural grammars, like L-systems, are mathematical models for producing organic self-similar structures. They provide an effective technique to build several distinct objects using a small number of rules.Procedural 3D modeling functions similarly to a deformation system. The base mesh within the mesh layer is modified procedurally. This means that when the mesh is edited, editing actions are performed on top of the base layer.When the base layer is changed, the processes placed as layers on top are re-evaluated to generate results. Because mesh operations exist as layers, any specific operation can be altered using procedural modeling without affecting other operational levels. Whether you use procedural modeling in Blender or Unity, it’s important to know how to create a quality product. Advantages of Each Modeling Type The introduction of 3D technology altered gaming and other sectors. This technology enables the generation of visually distinct, realistic, and detailed material. And it has several advantages over 2D technology, especially for building games, characters, and locations. Let us not distinguish between 3D and 2D art. We will only cover the most important advantages of 3D modeling in the gaming industry, which are as follows: 1Attractiveness on the surfaceA 3D art model resembles a 2D drawing in terms of solidity, vibrancy, and color. You can also view it from other perspectives.2AccurateYou may achieve any level of detail when building 3D models, from simple sketches to accurate photos.3Adjustment easeBecause of the extensive capabilities of modern 3D modeling software, the final 3D model is simply available for additions and alterations. If necessary, you can quickly edit it.4Animation flexibilityYou can easily control 3D things because you have already modeled them in three dimensions. It is not necessary to redraw them to demonstrate a new movement. Should You Choose Sculpting? There is no definite answer to this question. Lots of game studios use Blender for sculpting game characters or other important game objects because this game art program and this type of modeling are already a couple of powers. Of course, the decision is up to you, but to make it easier, let’s look at the pros and cons of this type of modeling. ✅ Pros❌ Cons The 3D sculpture is a versatile art instrument that may be applied in a variety of sectors. Because of the versatility of sculpting tools, you can design elements that are indistinguishable from genuine ones. Significant training is necessary. A difficult process. While various tools and methods for generating models exist, sculpting has a distinct benefit. The artist does not consider the number of polygons when sculpting a model. The primary goal is to maximize the detail and realism of the manufactured product. The precision that sculpting allows you to reach is astounding. This allows the obtained models to be used for 3D printing. There are not so many categorical objections to this type of modeling. One thing that is significant and that can scare away many, not only novice 3D developers and artists, is that a difficult path of learning opens up before you. You no longer work with the constructor, where you collect parts into an object. You need to do everything to make this object look appropriate for the style of your future game. Pros and Cons of Polygonal Modeling Even the most basic types of modeling have their pros and cons. Polygonal modeling’s characteristics make it appropriate for use in situations when precision isn’t as critical as visualization. This is why animation and video game industries virtually exclusively utilize polygonal models. Let’s look at the main ones that are typical for polygonal 3D modeling. ✅ Pros❌ Cons Polygonal models are the simplest to render and visualize since hardware and software components are optimized to handle polygons. Modeling with polygons is inaccurate and involves misjudgment. Designers can use polygonal modeling to produce more original and organic-looking designs (humans, animals, etc.). Polygonal models do not scale well at all sizes. Polygonal models may be deformed and animated more naturally since they are made up of smaller components (polys and tris). Polygonal modeling takes a long time, especially for elaborate patterns. Is Procedural Modeling Really Good? When expert 3D modeling companies have problems handling large models, they turn to a type of 3D modeling called procedural 3D modeling. But is it really so good, and are there any obvious drawbacks? Using a procedural 3D modeling technique provides you with various advantages. The disadvantages of this technique may not be so obvious, but they are still there. And, don’t you think it’s better to know about it ahead of time rather than face it on the job? ✅ Pros❌ Cons Meshes can be easily modified without becoming over-lined. High computational requirement. Topological editing allows for smooth mesh modification, animation, and rigging. By adding relevant processes on top of the basic layer, the mesh can be changed. More complex software is required. Certain sections of operations can be changed without affecting the rest of the procedure. Extensive training is necessary. The procedure modeling workflow is very comparable to the deformation system operation. Conclusion When choosing the sort of 3D modeling workflow for games to use, we must consider the desired outcome. However, in most circumstances, it will be a combination. Especially if we’re setting up a scene. In some circumstances, we may have some things that require certain procedures while others need another. If you are a newbie artist, we recommend that you start with box modeling and polygon modeling because they use the same tools and are the base of all modeling. FAQ Fake What is isometric 3D modeling? Isometric 3D modeling involves creating isometric objects or environments that are designed to be viewed from a specific angle and with a fixed perspective, typically at a 45-degree angle. Is isometric 3D modeling used in mobile games? Yes, isometric 3D modeling is one of the types of 3D modeling that can be used in mobile games. What are the benefits of using isometric 3D modeling in mobile games? The benefits of using isometric 3D modeling in mobile games include creating a more immersive and visually appealing experience for players, as well as enabling developers to realize complex 3d modeling project ideas for mobile games with 3D environments and objects that are easy to navigate and interact with. Submit Rating Average rating 4.4 / 5. Vote count: 90 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 😎