Rendering 2D graphics out of 3D models.

Sefi, from Square-Enix Forums, recentrly suggested that we'd use 3D engines for creating the game models (characters and objects), then render 2D images out of them. According to her, it's way easier to create stuff in 3D instead of 2D, and we could easily get a new set of pictures of an object without needing to redraw each of that objects sprites from scratch.

So, what do you think? You think we could 3D models, and then take make 2D sprites from them, or do you think it's better if we stick with just drawing the 2D sprites instead?

3d sprites only work if the game is 3d or Isometic, because those games try to look semi realistic. 2D games don't really go for realisticness.

Also I vote no, but I would be down to trying it if it was for Character or Enemies. I think there is a high chance of fail, depending on the look we are going for. It is the coloring of the renders that I think would be bad.

scrag_10 wrote:It is the coloring of the renders that I think would be bad.

I don't quite get what you mean. If we were to do that, the whole game would be modelled in 3D, and then rendered into 2D sprites.

Well one of the concerns about color, is where the black/Dark out lines go. It would be hard to get a 3d renderer to do that properly I think.

Also is this for moving characters or non moving things?

I'm not sure. At the moment, I do not know how to use any software for making 3-D graphics. It would take a few months or longer to learn how to use one. On the other hand, I will soon learn Maya, which makes 3D graphics. Once I become familiar with that, learning to use other software that makes 3D graphics should be easy.

I think the choice of 3D or 2D should be based on the capabilities of people making the game. Time would be lost when learning to use new software.

I am also considering mentioning this project to my Game Animation eXchange club in school. Some of them already know how to use Maya or other 3D graphic software. If they join in, then making the graphics with 3D software should be okay.

2D has the bonus, that it is not hard too learn, and makes it easy for people to help out.

tawna wrote:I think the choice of 3D or 2D should be based on the capabilities of people making the game. Time would be lost when learning to use new software.

I agree, that's why this pool's here, right? ^^

tawna wrote:I am also considering mentioning this project to my Game Animation eXchange club in school. Some of them already know how to use Maya or other 3D graphic software. If they join in, then making the graphics with 3D software should be okay.

Yay.

scrag_10 wrote:2D has the bonus, that it is not hard too learn, and makes it easy for people to help out.

hummm... You have a point.