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Arte 3D y animación en videojuegos

Enric Martí Gòdia and Pere Nolla Rodríguez

VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL

En este curso abordamos los aspectos artísticos de la creación del videojuego. Para ello, proporcionaremos conocimientos y pautas sobre cómo diseñar la parte artística de un videojuego. Esto incluye diferentes aspectos. Desde la creación de entornos, al diseño de personajes, movimientos e incluso música. Todo el proceso buscará una coherencia que permita transmitir al jugador la experiencia que espera. Para definir y comprender mejor los conceptos se usan, como en el resto de cursos del Programa Especializado, ejemplos y referentes de videojuegos.

IMPORTANTE

VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL

IMPORTANTE

En breve el curso dispondrá de subtítulos en inglés.

__________

ENGLISH VERSION

In this course we will talk on the video game's creation artistic aspects. In aim to do so, we will provide knowledge and guidelines on how to design a video game's artistic part. This includes different aspects. From the environments creation, to the characters' design, movement and even music. All this process will look for a cohesion which will allow us to give the desired experience to the player. To properly define and understand the concepts we will use -as in the other courses inside the Specialized Program- examples and video game referents.

IMPORTANT

English subtitles will be soon available.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introducción al arte en videojuegos

En este primer módulo se dará una introducción al papel del arte en los videojuegos. Hablaremos sobre su importancia, sobre la dirección de arte, y sobre el perfil del artista. También comentaremos aspectos relacionados con la creatividad, además de situar la creación de arte dentro del proceso de desarrollo de un videojuego. Posteriormente entraremos a analizar diferentes tipos específicos de arte (conceptual y arte 2D), para finalmente empezar ya a centrarnos en el arte 3D con una primera toma de contacto con el 3ds Max y el modelado 3D.

Modelado y texturizado

En este módulo seguiremos de lleno en los elementos del arte 3D. Modelaremos elementos más complejos, e introduciremos los diferentes tipos de materiales. Presentaremos las texturas, explicando qué son, como se generan y como mapearlas de manera adecuada. Finalmente, comentaremos las técnicas de normal map y specular map, para conseguir más detalle sin gastar recursos.

Exportación al motor y animación

En este módulo introduciremos la herramienta de Unity, que nos permitirá ver como se exportan los elementos de arte a un motor de un videojuego, y como deben configurarse para que luzcan adecuadamente. Posteriormente nos ocuparemos de la creación de personajes, incluyendo la creación del sistema de huesos y de sus animaciones. Finalmente, volveremos a Unity para exportar el personaje y las animaciones.

Iluminación, interfaz y efectos

En este módulo trataremos en detalle la iluminación, primero con una introducción básica, y después viendo los diferentes métodos para representarla: Tiempo real y mapas de luz. Veremos también como sacar los mapas de luz, tanto en Unity como en 3ds Max. Posteriormente, hablaremos del uso de las partículas para simular elementos de gran complejidad orgánica como fuego, explosiones o humo. También comentaremos aspectos artísticos de la interfaz de usuario, y veremos los efectos de posprocesado más relevantes. Finalmente, analizaremos el papel artístico de la música y el sonido dentro de la creación de videojuegos.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores a wide range of artistic components, from foundational concepts to advanced techniques, in video game creation

Provides detailed and hands-on guidance through the entire process of video game art design, from initial concepts to final implementation

Practical approach with a focus on modeling and texturing for 3D game development using industry-standard software such as 3ds Max

Covers topics such as lighting, user interface design, and special effects, providing a thorough understanding of the technical and artistic aspects of game development

Led by experienced instructors with expertise in video game art, ensuring real-world knowledge and industry insights

Taught in Spanish, limiting accessibility for non-Spanish speakers

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Reviews summary

Highly recommended intro to 3d art for video games

This course provides a thorough introduction to the artistic aspects of video game creation. Students appreciate the clear explanations from the experienced instructors and comprehensive coverage of the subject. While some technical details are lacking, the course serves as a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing 3D art for video games.

Comprehensive coverage of the subject

"... muy buena la plataforma"

"Curso muy completo..."

Clear explanations from experienced instructors

"El profesor explica muy bien..."

"Lenguaje claro y simple..."

Highly recommended for beginners

"Excelente curso, todo muy bien explicado..."

"excelente curso introductorio..."

Some technical details are lacking

"... un curso bastante completo y explicativo ..."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Arte 3D y animación en videojuegos with these activities:

Review computer graphics concepts

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Brush up on basic computer graphics principles to strengthen foundational understanding before starting the course.

Browse courses on Computer Graphics

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Revisit introductory computer graphics textbooks or online resources.
Complete practice exercises or quizzes to test your understanding.
Review notes or materials from previous computer graphics courses.

Follow online tutorials for modeling and texturing in 3ds Max

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Enhance your practical skills by following structured tutorials that guide you through the process of creating 3D models and applying textures.

Browse courses on 3D Modeling

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Identify reputable online platforms or instructors providing tutorials.
Choose tutorials that align with your skill level and course objectives.
Follow the tutorials step-by-step, creating your own models and textures.
Experiment with different techniques and styles to refine your abilities.

Complete 3D modeling exercises with increasing complexity

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Reinforce your modeling skills by completing a series of exercises that gradually increase in complexity, challenging you to create more intricate and realistic models.

Browse courses on 3D Modeling

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Find online exercise platforms or textbooks that provide step-by-step instructions.
Start with basic shapes and gradually progress to more complex models.
Pay attention to proper topology and polygon flow.
Experiment with different modeling techniques and software tools.

Four other activities

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Attend industry events and meetups related to game art and 3D graphics

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Expand your professional network and stay informed about industry trends by attending events where you can connect with other artists, game developers, and potential employers.

Browse courses on Networking

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Research upcoming events in your area or online.
Register for events that align with your interests and career goals.
Prepare an elevator pitch to introduce yourself and your work.
Attend sessions, engage in discussions, and connect with attendees.

Develop a portfolio website showcasing your 3D art

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Create a professional online presence by building a portfolio website that highlights your best 3D models and demonstrates your skills to potential employers or clients.

Browse courses on Portfolio Development

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Choose a website builder or platform that suits your needs.
Design a visually appealing layout and user interface.
Showcase your best 3D models with high-quality images and descriptions.
Include other relevant content, such as a bio, contact information, and social media links.

Create a 3D model of your own game character or environment

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Challenge yourself by embarking on a project that requires you to apply the skills and knowledge gained in the course to create a complete 3D model of your own design.

Browse courses on 3D Modeling

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Brainstorm ideas and develop a concept for your character or environment.
Gather reference materials and conduct research.
Create a base mesh and refine the model's shape and proportions.
Apply textures, materials, and lighting to enhance the realism of your model.
Rig and animate your character (if applicable) to bring it to life.

Design a game level that showcases your understanding of 3D art principles

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Put your skills to the test by creating a fully realized game level that demonstrates your mastery of 3D modeling, texturing, lighting, and composition.

Browse courses on Level Design

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Plan the layout and structure of your game level.
Create 3D models for the environment, objects, and characters.
Apply textures, materials, and lighting to enhance the visual appeal and atmosphere of the level.
Implement gameplay elements and mechanics.
Test and iterate on your level to ensure a polished and engaging experience.

Career center

Learners who complete Arte 3D y animación en videojuegos will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

3D Artist

3D Artists use their knowledge of three-dimensional modeling and animation to create virtual worlds, characters, and objects for video games. They collaborate with other artists and developers to bring the game's artistic vision to life. This course may be useful as it introduces learners to the basics of 3D modeling, texturing, and animation. This foundation can be applied to the creation of video game assets.

See salaries and explore the career path for 3D Artist

Modeler

Modelers are responsible for creating the 3D models used in video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to bring the game's vision to life. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Modeler. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of 3D modeling, as well as practical experience in creating models for video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Modeler

Material Artist

Material Artists are responsible for creating the materials and textures used in video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to bring the game's vision to life. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Material Artist. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of materials and textures, as well as practical experience in creating materials for video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Material Artist

Animator

Animators are responsible for bringing characters and objects to life in video games. They use their knowledge of movement and anatomy to create realistic and engaging animations. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as an animator. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of animation, as well as practical experience in creating 3D animations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Animator

Game Designer

Game Designers are responsible for designing the overall gameplay and mechanics of video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to bring the game's vision to life. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Game Designer. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of game design, as well as practical experience in designing video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Designer

Visual Effects Artist

Visual Effects Artists are responsible for creating the visual effects used in video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to bring the game's vision to life. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Visual Effects Artist. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of visual effects, as well as practical experience in creating visual effects for video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Visual Effects Artist

Concept Artist

Concept Artists are responsible for creating the initial designs for characters, environments, and objects in video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to bring the game's artistic vision to life. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Concept Artist. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of art and design, as well as practical experience in creating concept art for video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Concept Artist

Texture Artist

Texture Artists are responsible for creating the textures used in video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to bring the game's vision to life. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Texture Artist. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of texturing, as well as practical experience in creating textures for video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Texture Artist

Lighting Artist

Lighting Artists are responsible for creating the lighting and visual effects in video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to bring the game's vision to life. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Lighting Artist. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of lighting and visual effects, as well as practical experience in creating lighting for video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lighting Artist

Rigger

Riggers are responsible for creating the skeletons and rigs used to animate characters in video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to bring the game's vision to life. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Rigger. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of rigging, as well as practical experience in creating rigs for video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Rigger

Level Designer

Level Designers are responsible for creating the levels and environments in video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to bring the game's vision to life. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Level Designer. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of level design, as well as practical experience in creating levels for video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Level Designer

UI Artist

UI Artists are responsible for creating the user interface for video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to ensure that the interface is user-friendly and visually appealing. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a UI Artist. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of user interface design, as well as practical experience in creating user interfaces for video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for UI Artist

Technical Artist

Technical Artists are responsible for creating the tools and techniques used to develop video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to ensure that the game is efficient and runs smoothly. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Technical Artist. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of computer graphics, as well as practical experience in creating tools and techniques for video game development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Artist

Writer

Writers are responsible for creating the story and dialogue for video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to bring the game's vision to life. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Writer. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of storytelling and dialogue writing, as well as practical experience in writing for video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Writer

Producer

Producers are responsible for overseeing the development of video games. They work closely with other artists and developers to ensure that the game is completed on time and within budget. This course may be useful for those interested in a career as a Producer. It provides a solid foundation in the principles of project management, as well as practical experience in managing the development of video games.

See salaries and explore the career path for Producer

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Arte 3D y animación en videojuegos.

Game Engine Architecture, Third Edition

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Must-read for anyone who wants to understand how game engines work. It covers everything from the basics of graphics and physics to the more advanced topics of networking and AI.

(English) Game Engine Architecture, Third Edition

Hardcover

$$$

(English) Game Engine Architecture, Third Edition

Kindle Edition

The Art of Game Design

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Classic in the field of game design. It provides a comprehensive overview of the art of game design, covering everything from the initial concept to the final product.

(English) The Art of Game Design: A Book of Lenses, Third...

Arte 3D y animación en videojuegos

What's inside

Syllabus

Good to know

Save this course

Reviews summary

Highly recommended intro to 3d art for video games

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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