3D Game Models: Trends and Predictions in the Game Industry 2023
For those who are wondering, are there any trends that players prefer when it comes to the models or graphics? The answer is yes, surprisingly enough. The gaming industry has evolved rapidly over the years, and of course, 3D game models have played a significant role in the growth of this industry. When you look back at the first-ever 3D game, it represents so much of the potential of the game industry and has become a critical aspect of game development. And now, it has made gaming more realistic and immersive than ever before. As we move forward, it is essential to explore the latest trends and predictions for 3D game models in the gaming industry. Realism is Key Technology has had a tremendous impact on the gaming industry, with advances in 3D modeling driving a never-ending demand for realistic gaming experiences. From its low-poly years until now, game developers have strived to create better 3D game models that accurately mimic real-life characters and environments. This growing demand is critical for both gamers and developers, as it drives innovation in the industry. As gamers become more sophisticated, they demand games that provide an immersive experience that accurately simulates real-life environments and characters. It has even become common knowledge within the gaming community that high-quality graphics and hardware are critical components in achieving an immersive gaming experience. As such, gamers often engage in conversations about which games have the best graphics and which consoles or hardware provide the best output. The demand for immersive gaming experiences has driven game developers to push the limits in terms of graphics and hardware. This has led to the development of cutting-edge technology, such as ray tracing, which has enabled developers to create more detailed and realistic environments and characters than ever before. With the introduction of new hardware, such as the latest graphics cards and next-gen consoles, gamers are now able to enjoy even more immersive and visually stunning gaming experiences. As gamers’ expectations continue to evolve, game developers must keep pace with the latest trends and technologies to remain competitive. We can expect the demand for high-quality graphics and hardware to remain a driving force in the gaming industry, pushing developers to create ever-more-realistic and immersive gaming experiences for players to enjoy. Cartoon vs. Manga vs. Realistic Trends in Mobile Game Graphics and Technology As we mentioned previously, realism is often at the forefront of conversations about graphics in console games. However, the mobile gaming industry has made a significant impact on the gaming community in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. With more people staying indoors, the popularity of mobile gaming continues to skyrocket, making it an important market for game developers to consider. When developing concepts for mobile games, it is crucial to understand the latest market trends. In terms of art styles, the US market is divided almost evenly between realistic and cartoony game styles. However, game developers must also consider other factors, such as gameplay mechanics and user experience, to ensure their games stand out in a crowded market. When it comes to mobile games, art style plays a critical role in user engagement. According to retrostylegames, casual and hyper-casual games typically feature cartoon art styles, whereas mid-core games tend to use realistic 3D art styles. In Japan and China, 2D manga art styles are prevalent, accounting for nearly half of the market. On the other hand, 3D graphics are the preferred choice for users in the US and Europe. Understanding these market trends can help game developers create games that appeal to their target audience and drive user engagement. 3D Scanning Technology Not too far into the future, we will soon witness a revolution in the gaming industry! As the 3D scanning technology advances, we might finally say goodbye to the tedious and time-consuming manual digital sculpting. With every passing year, LiDAR scanning technology is becoming more refined. Thanks to softwares like Polycam, we can already have a pretty seamless conversion of everyday objects into digital 3D assets, and we can only imagine the possibilities that lie ahead as this technology continues to evolve. With 3D scanning technology, game developers can create highly realistic 3D game models by scanning real-life objects and environments. This has the potential to completely transform the way game models are created, enabling a more accurate representation of real-life objects and environments in games. Play Video As you can see, the benefits of this technology are vast, including significant time and resource savings for developers. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more exciting possibilities emerging in the technology of 3D scanning itself for the gaming industry. User-Generated Content Will Become More Popular User-generated content is becoming more popular in the gaming industry, and it is predicted that this trend will continue to grow. Today, there are quite a lot of user-generated content games, User-generated content is an important component of both games since it allows users to create and share their own unique experiences within the game environment. As you have probably noticed for quite some time, there is an extensively large market for those types of games, especially among the younger generation. And with the use of 3D scanning, as previously mentioned, new and upcoming UGC games will be expected to allow players to create their own custom 3D models, characters, and environments that they can play and share with other players. This allows for a more diverse range of content in games and provides gamers with a greater level of creative control over their gaming experience. AI-generated 3D Models Recent breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (AI) in the moving-image field have been driven by competition between open-source and private models, according to Andrew Kim, a research associate at ARK Invest. Google Research and UC Berkeley have recently published research on their new text-to-3D model, DreamFusion, the same day Meta releases Make-a-Video Model. DreamFusion uses Imagen and a Neural Radiance Field to generate 2D images from different
A Closer Look at Technical Art in the Gaming Industry
The field of technical art is a fascinating and rapidly evolving discipline that has gained immense importance in the entertainment industry in recent years. Technical art involves the combination of technical skills and artistic knowledge to create and implement visual and artistic elements in various forms of media, including films, animations, and video games. As technology continues to advance, technical art is likely to become even more important in the development of the entertainment industry. Technical Art in the Game Industry Technical art plays a vital role in game development by bridging the gap between game design’s artistic and technical aspects. It encompasses several areas, including animation, rendering, lighting, and shading. Technical art is a critical component of the game development process, as it ensures the optimization of game assets and seamless functioning across various platforms. In recent years, the popularity of video games has skyrocketed, making technical art an essential field that offers exciting opportunities for individuals with a passion for both art and technology. Moreover, technical art is not only about enhancing game visuals but also about ensuring that the game runs efficiently without any issues. This requires technical artists to work closely with other game development professionals, such as programmers and artists, to ensure that the game meets the technical specifications while meeting the artistic vision. If you are interested in learning about the responsibilities of a technical artist, look no further! Technical artists in the gaming industry are responsible for creating and implementing the tools, pipelines, and processes that allow game artists to create their visions efficiently and effectively. They work closely with game designers, programmers, and artists to ensure that the game looks and performs as intended while also maintaining artistic consistency. For example, a technical artist might create custom shaders that give specific objects in the game unique textures or lighting effects. They might also optimize game assets to ensure that the game runs smoothly on a variety of hardware configurations or develop tools that allow artists to easily and efficiently create and import assets into the game engine. Technical artists must be able to communicate effectively with both artists and programmers, understand the technical requirements of the game engine, and be skilled in coding and scripting languages to bring their ideas to life. Technical artists in different companies in the gaming industry differ in terms of responsibilities and activities. Here are some activities a technical artist does: Rigging Game rigging is one of the most significant aspects of game creation that aims to breathe life into 3D models. Rigging can be defined as the process of putting a skeleton inside 3D models. This skeleton or rig allows animators to deform the mesh of the 3D model to create various poses and movements. Rigging involves several steps, including creating joints, binding the mesh to the joints, setting up controls, and creating constraints to restrict the movement of certain parts of the model, resulting in a seamless movement for the 3D models. Once completed, the process can be used to create a variety of animations, such as walking, jumping, and other complex movements. Game rigging is an essential part of the game development process as it enables developers to create dynamic and visually appealing animations that bring game characters and environments to life. It takes a combination of technical skills and artistic sense to create a functional and visually pleasing rig. Game riggers often work closely with animators to ensure the rig meets their needs and requirements. Shader Writing In game development, shader writing is an essential part of the pipeline. It involves the creation of custom code that determines how a 3D object is rendered on screen. Shaders control various aspects of the object’s appearance, including color, texture, and lighting. Technical artists use shaders to create realistic lighting, shadows, and other visual effects that make games look more lifelike. Writing shaders requires a strong understanding of programming and mathematics. While it can be challenging, the results of well-written shaders can be impressive. Shaders are used to create all kinds of effects, from the reflection of light on water to the glow of a character’s eyes. The technical artists need to work closely with the game designers and programmers to ensure that the shaders meet the game’s artistic and technical requirements. Despite the process’s complexity, shader writing makes games look so visually stunning and immersive. Maintaining Art Pipelines Technical artists are responsible for developing and maintaining game development’s art tools and pipelines. This involves working closely with programmers to design and implement tools that allow artists to create and import assets into the game engine. These tools can range from simple scripts that automate repetitive tasks to complex software packages that enable artists to create complex animations and special effects. One of the key aspects of tool development is ensuring that the tools are easy to use and integrate seamlessly with the game engine. This requires technical artists to have a deep understanding of the game engine’s architecture and programming language. They must also have strong communication skills to work with both the art and programming teams to ensure that the tools meet their needs. Maintaining art pipelines is also a critical aspect of the technical artist’s role. This involves ensuring that assets are created and imported correctly into the game engine and that they meet the required technical specifications. Technical artists are also responsible for troubleshooting and resolving issues that arise during the art pipeline, such as file format compatibility or performance issues. Conclusion In conclusion, technical art is a highly specialized field that combines artistic talent and technical knowledge to create stunning visual elements in various forms of media, including video games. Though it might vary greatly depending on the company, technical artists play a crucial role in the game development process, ensuring that the game meets its technical specifications while also maintaining artistic integrity. As the popularity of video games continues to soar, technical art is becoming an increasingly vital field
Top 7 Best 3D Game Development Tools
There have been numerous advancements in game development technology. One of the most significant advancements has been the visual shift from 2D to 3D. The shift has led to a more immersive gaming experience, with games appearing more lifelike than ever before. In modern video game development, 3D visuals have become the norm. Let’s take a closer look at the history of game development and the best 3D game development tools available today. Technology Advancement in 3D Game Development from Tens Polygons to Million Polygons One of the most significant advancements in 3D game development has been increased polygon counts. Polygons are the building blocks of 3D graphics, and the more polygons a game has, the more detailed and realistic its graphics can be. In the early days of 3D games, a game might have had only a few hundred polygons per character or object. However, as technology improved, game developers could create games with millions of polygons. Increasing polygon counts has allowed game developers to create more detailed, realistic environments and characters. Modern 3D games can have such detailed textures that they look almost photorealistic, and this level of detail would have been impossible just a few decades ago. Top 3D game development tools There are many 3D game development tools available today. However, when making a choice, you need to consider various factors, such as the visual aspects of your game, the development timeline, and your team’s proficiency level. Here are some of the best 3D game development tools available today in no particular order: 1. Unreal Engine Professional game developers widely use Unreal Engine as their game development engine. Known for its advanced graphics capabilities, Unreal Engine is an excellent option for developers looking to create intricate and realistic games. As a result, numerous AAA game developers prefer Unreal as their primary game engine. However, the steep learning curve of the software may make it challenging for novice developers to use. The latest version of Unreal Engine, version 5.2, was recently presented at the GDC 2023 conference. 2. Unity Unity game development engine is widely utilized by various game developers, from beginners to indie game developers and AAA game developers. Its reputation for being user-friendly yet still able to produce high-quality games has made it a popular choice among the community. Additionally, Unity is a versatile engine that supports multiple platforms such as PC, Mac, mobile devices, and game consoles. As of March 3, 2023, the latest version of Unity is Unity 2022.2.9. 3. CryEngine CryEngine is a game development engine known for its advanced graphics capabilities. Many AAA game developers use CryEngine to create highly detailed and visually stunning games. The engine is known for its ability to render highly detailed environments with dynamic lighting and realistic physics simulations. CryEngine also supports virtual reality (VR) development, allowing developers to create immersive VR experiences. CryEngine is also an excellent choice for developers who want to develop games that use the latest hardware technologies, such as ray tracing and real-time lighting. The latest version of CryEngine is CryEngine 5.7 LTS. 4. Blender Blender is a 3D modeling and animation tool that’s free to use. Blender is an excellent choice for developers who want to create 3D models and animations. One of the most impressive features of Blender is its powerful animation tools, which allow users to create complex animations and simulations using a variety of physics-based systems, including particles, cloth, and fluid simulations. Blender also has a built-in video editor, allowing users to edit their animations and footage directly within the software. Blender is also a great tool for indie game developers who want to create 3D games on a budget. The latest release of Blender is version 3.5. 5. Maya Maya is a 3D modeling and animation tool developed by Autodesk, Inc. Maya is known for its advanced features, such as its ability to create complex character animations. One of the most powerful features of Maya is its ability to handle large and complex scenes, making it ideal for creating detailed characters, environments, and special effects. The software also supports a wide range of file formats, allowing users to import and export models and scenes to and from other 3D software. The latest version of Maya is Maya 2023 6. 3DS Max 3DS Max is a 3D modeling and animation tool also developed by Autodesk, Inc. 3DS Max is known for its advanced modeling features, such as its ability to create realistic hair and cloth simulations. The software also includes advanced animation tools such as keyframe animation, motion paths, and crowd simulation, allowing users to create complex animations easily. 3DS Max is also a great tool for creating high-quality 3D assets that can be used in game development. The latest version of 3DS Max is 3DS Max 2023. 7. Godot Godot is an open-source, cross-platform game engine allowing developers to create 2D and 3D games using both a scripting language and a visual editor. One of Godot’s unique features is its emphasis on a node-based scene system, which allows developers to create game objects and easily manipulate them within the editor. By using this system, the development process is streamlined, making it faster for developers to create and make changes to their games. In addition to its core features, Godot has a large community of developers who contribute to the engine’s development and create plugins and extensions to enhance its functionality. This active community has helped Godot become one of the most popular open-source game engines available today. The latest version of Godot is Godot 4.0.2. Conclusion The world of 3D game development has come a long way, thanks to technological advancements and the availability of powerful game development tools. When choosing a game engine, it’s essential to consider your specific needs, such as your game’s visual requirements, the development duration, and your team’s skill level. There’s a game development tool for every need, with options like Unity, Unreal Engine, CryEngine, Blender, Maya, and many more.
The Evolution of Game Art: From Pixels to Realistic Graphics
Video games are an art form, from the gameplay and visuals to the music and sound that surrounds them. Games, from a visual perspective, are like movies and television, video games use the visual medium to explore concepts, but unlike tv and cinema, games are interactive, and you as a player have control over what you will see and where you will go within the environments. This means that everything that is possible to see in the game must be rendered and fleshed out, unlike a show where only what the director is showing you have to be made. This is why movie sets can provide visual guidance for the final cut and games can’t. Because of this, there’s a ton of work that goes into designing a game that you, as a player, may not even care to think about, but the artists probably had sleepless nights over it, just like when they worked on things like clothes and surface textures to weapons, vehicles, monsters/enemies, visual effects, and even pre-production work like storyboards and concept game art. And just like tv shows or movies, games evolved over time with new technology. Games have come a long way since the early days of pixelated graphics and rudimentary sound effects. The evolution of game art has been a long and fascinating journey, taking us from the simple, blocky visuals of the 8-bit era to the stunningly realistic graphics of modern games. Pixel Art and the 8-Bit Era Compared to our modern-day standards, game art could have been better in terms of graphics due to limited technology, and developers had to make do with what they had. This led to the creation of pixel art, a style that relied on small, square pixels to create images on the screen. It all began with the single-pixel game from the 1972 Pong, a table tennis game with two-dimensional graphics, and continued to evolve with games such as Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Super Mario Bros. Even with their limitations in graphics, their gameplay and iconic characters made them beloved by gamers around the world. As technology advanced, the graphics in games became more sophisticated. The 3D Revolution In 1999, Sega released its Dreamcast console, which marked a significant shift in the gaming industry. For the first time, 3D graphics started to resemble modern game graphics, thanks to advances in computer hardware. Games like Sonic Adventure were truly 3D, unlike the previous generation of games that used sprites. The Sega Dreamcast was ahead of its time and showcased some of the best graphics and gameplay ever seen in video games. Moreover, Dreamcast was also the first console to feature a built-in modular modem for online play. Eventually, Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft, the big three companies of today’s gaming industry, followed suit with consoles like GameCube, PlayStation 2, and Xbox. The Rise of Realistic Graphics The turn of the millennium saw the rise of realistic graphics in gaming. The evolution of game art is closely tied to the development of hardware technology that supports it, and as technology continued to advance, so too did the graphics in gaming. In each game art, every 3D model (or mesh) in a game is composed of triangles and has generally gone through several iterations of optimization to reduce its ‘polycount,’ which refers to the number of triangles (or polygons) it contains. However, during the design stage, high-poly models that contain much detail are created using 3D design tools like Max, Maya, ZBrush, and others. Such high-res models can contain more than a million polygons and cannot be deployed in-game since the renderer would choke. Nonetheless, their details are necessary to make a scene believable. Advancements such as normal mapping allow the detail of high-polygon models to be transferred to an optimized mesh linked to a normal map, giving the illusion of detail and responding to lighting. And graphic shaders, which is a programmable shaders, first introduced by the GeForce 3, transformed 3D rendering and allowed developers to write highly complex shaders. The processing power and graphic capabilities of consoles continue to contribute to the evolution of game art graphics. The PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 allowed for even greater processing power and more advanced graphics engines, enabling game artists to create more realistic visuals. The Current State of Game art In addition to the ever-growing technologies that support game art, the current generation of consoles, including the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, allow for unprecedented processing power and graphics capabilities, enabling developers to create truly breathtaking visuals. Thanks to constantly evolving advancements such as physically-based rendering (PBR), High-Dynamic Range (HDR), and Real-Time Ray Tracing allows, games are one step closer to achieving photorealistic fidelity. Game art has come a long way in just a few decades, with smooth user interfaces, advanced gameplay, faster processors, and mind-blowing video technology providing gamers with an unparalleled experience. Early arcade game developers could never have imagined the evolution of computer game graphics to the extent we see today, with virtual cities in racing games that almost match real ones down to the smallest details. Competition among major players in the gaming industry is fierce as they strive to outdo each other. But this level of competitiveness is a boon for gamers, as it ensures that the best of game graphics is yet to come. It may seem unbelievable, but further advancements in computer game graphics are expected, promising even more breathtaking visual experiences for gamers in the future. The Evolution of Gameplay Video games have constantly been evolving since their inception, with advances in technology allowing for more complex and immersive experiences. As games become more sophisticated and offer more nuanced storytelling and emotional depth, they begin to blur the lines between traditional games and other forms of media, such as movies and literature. This evolution is not necessarily a linear progression but rather a constant exploration and experimentation of what the medium can offer. With advancements in game art, achieving
Exploring What Game Development Service Has to Offer
Thanks to technological advancements and the ever-growing demand for interactive entertainment, the gaming industry has evolved significantly over the past few decades. Game development services have become essential in delivering high-quality games that captivate players worldwide. Let’s take a closer look at the various offerings of today’s game development services and the value they bring to the table. Custom Game Development One of the primary services offered by game development companies is custom game development. This involves creating games tailored to client’s unique requirements, whether they are indie developers, established studios, or businesses looking to use games for marketing or training purposes. Custom game development allows for creating games across multiple platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices, ensuring a broad reach for the final product. Custom game development can range from small indie titles to large-scale AAA games and can be created for a variety of platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices. The process of custom game development involves working closely with clients to understand their vision and goals for the game and then creating a unique design and development plan to bring that vision to life. It’s also beneficial for businesses looking to use games for marketing or training purposes. Games can be designed to promote a product or service, educate employees, or train customers on how to use a particular product. By creating custom games, businesses can engage their target audience in a more interactive and meaningful way, ultimately leading to increased brand recognition and customer loyalty. Overall, custom game development is an important service that allows clients to create unique and engaging games tailored to their specific needs and goals. Game Design and Concept Development A crucial aspect of game development is designing the game’s concept, mechanics, and overall gameplay experience. Game development services collaborate with clients to create unique and engaging game concepts, ensuring that the final product stands out in the competitive gaming market. This process involves brainstorming ideas, developing a storyline, creating characters, and designing the game world, among other tasks. Art and Animation Services Visual appeal is a significant factor in a game’s success, and game development services offer art and animation services to create stunning visuals that enhance the gaming experience. This includes 2D and 3D art, character design, environment design, and animation. These services ensure that the game’s graphics are both aesthetically pleasing and optimized for performance on various platforms. Game development service companies offer many services, but three critical aspects of game art fall within the scope of their art and animation offerings: technical art, 3D game art, and concept art. Technical Art Technical art involves creating and optimizing game assets to ensure that they work seamlessly with the game engine. Technical artists are responsible for developing tools and pipelines that streamline the game development process, making it more efficient and cost-effective. In layman’s terms, technical artists facilitate how art is made. Hence, they work closely with programmers to ensure that the game’s technical aspects are functioning correctly and that the art assets integrate seamlessly with the game engine. Technical art plays a role in creating visually appealing and technically sound games that offer a smooth gaming experience. 3D Game Art The creation of 3D models and environments is an essential aspect of 3D game art. At its core, game art encompasses all visual elements that make up a computer game, such as characters, menus, and user interfaces. It’s the game artist’s responsibility to produce these artistic components, including characters, objects, environments, animations, effects, lighting, and other visual details. To create high-quality 3D models optimized for use in games, 3D artists utilize specialized software. Their primary objective is to create visually stunning characters, objects, and environments that enhance the gaming experience. Crafting 3D game art requires extensive skill and experience to create realistic and immersive environments that players can interact with. Concept Art Concept art is another essential aspect of game art that plays a crucial role in the video game development process, particularly in the early stages. Concept artists are responsible for helping to determine the overall look and feel of the game by creating visual concepts and designs that involve creating visual representations of the game’s characters, environments, and objects. They work closely with game designers to develop a visual style and aesthetic that sets the tone for the game. Concept artists use various tools and techniques to create sketches, drawings, and paintings that convey the game’s look and feel. They help the team to visualize how the game will look and play and play a critical role in the game development process. Concept art sets the tone for the entire project and helps to guide the game’s design. A concept artist’s work continues beyond designing game elements, as they also help to establish the game’s overall artistic direction. They work with art directors to develop the game’s visual style, color palette, and other elements that will make it stand out. Game Programming and Engineering Game programming and engineering have evolved with technology. In the early days of video game history, programmers were accountable for most aspects of game development, including game design. However, as games became more complex, development teams grew significantly, and new jobs were created, which are often more specialized, particularly in larger game studios such as Ubisoft, Blizzard Entertainment, and Electronic Arts. Nowadays, Game development services employ skilled programmers and engineers to bring game design and art to life. They are responsible for creating the game’s engine, writing the code that brings a video game to life, implementing gameplay mechanics, and ensuring that the game runs smoothly. They also work on integrating third-party tools and APIs, such as physics engines, artificial intelligence, and networking solutions, on enhancing the game’s functionality. A game programmer works closely with producers and other departments, such as game designers, game artists, and sound engineers, to transform the project’s vision into a fully functional, playable game. Their responsibilities can range from dictating the speed at which a
Game Development Company: Revolutionizing Technology & Growth
The gaming industry has undergone a massive transformation over the past few decades. From simple pixelated games, it has evolved into a sophisticated world of immersive virtual experiences. This transformation has been fuelled by the rapid advancement of technology, and at the same time, the demand for a new experience in gaming has led game companies to develop new technologies and techniques to improve the gaming experience. This has led to the development of new hardware, such as specialized gaming controllers, graphics cards, and virtual reality headsets, as well as software, such as game engines and AI algorithms. The gaming industry has also contributed to the development of other fields, such as computer graphics and artificial intelligence. For example, real-time rendering techniques developed for games have been adapted for use in fields such as architecture, product design, and film production. This has enabled game development companies to create more complex and engaging games. Today, the industry offers a plethora of options, not only to gamers but also to other fellow game developers or to those seeking careers in the industry. For gamers, the options are endless. The gaming industry offers a wide variety of games that cater to different interests and preferences. From action-packed adventures to strategic simulations, there is a game for everyone. However, as the industry continues to evolve with new trends and technologies, it has a lot more to offer beyond just providing games for players or consumers. Game development companies now offer various services and products that cater to fellow game developers, aspiring game industry professionals, and other stakeholders. With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at what a game development company has to offer beyond providing games for its players or consumers. Diverse Gaming Platforms Modern game development companies cater to a wide range of platforms, including PC, consoles, mobile devices, and web browsers. This diversity allows developers to target different audiences and demographics, increasing their potential reach and revenue. PC and Console Gaming Companies like Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, and Rockstar Games continue to develop AAA titles for PC and consoles, such as PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. This high-budget, high-quality games offer rich storytelling, stunning visuals, and engaging gameplay. Mobile Gaming With the widespread adoption of smartphones, mobile gaming has become a dominant force in the industry. Companies like Supercell, King, and Tencent create popular mobile games like Clash of Clans, Candy Crush Saga, and PUBG Mobile, which offer casual and competitive gaming experiences on the go. Indie Games Independent game developers have gained prominence recently, with companies like. These indie games often offer unique experiences and artistic expressions that set them apart from mainstream games. This diversity is not limited to each platform. And if you’re a gamer yourself, you might be familiar with the word crossplay or cross-platform, where different game platforms can interact with each other, allowing players to play with each other, regardless of the platforms they use, can be played with different platforms (except for PC of course). And this technological advancement, along with other features in games, is constantly being improved. Cutting-edge Technologies Just like crossplay, today’s game development companies leverage advanced technologies to create state-of-the-art gaming experiences, and game development companies are improving technologies to support better experiences for players. Some of the most prominent technologies include: 3D graphics Although the origins of 3D graphics date back to the 1960s, video games have greatly influenced their advancement. Steve Colley, the creator of the Maze War video game, played a crucial role in the development of the Mars Exploration Rover’s 3D rendering system by repurposing his game’s code. Moreover, video games have contributed to the evolution of technological equipment. Some games necessitated a coprocessor that enhanced graphic capacity, resulting in the preservation of graphic cards in computers and improving the quality of their graphics. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) VR and AR technologies have revolutionized the gaming industry by offering immersive experiences that blur the line between the digital and physical worlds. Companies like Oculus, HTC, and Sony have developed VR headsets, while AR games like Pokémon Go have gained widespread popularity. Artificial Intelligence (AI) AI enables game developers from visual augmentation to automated level development to story-based situations and storylines. Even non-playable characters (NPCs) can be given intelligence to create more realistic and engaging games by simulating human-like behavior and decision-making. AI also helps in procedural content generation, which allows for the creation of unique and dynamic game worlds. To create realistic representations from synthetic 3D photos, the most modern AI image augmentation techniques are used. AI experts are spearheading the development of deep learning systems that can transform 3D-generated visuals into realistic images. Cloud Gaming Cloud gaming services, like Google Stadia and NVIDIA GeForce NOW, enable gamers to play high-quality games without the need for expensive hardware. Game development companies can now reach a wider audience, as games can be streamed on various devices, including smartphones and tablets. Career Opportunities and Growth The game development industry offers a wide array of career opportunities, ranging from game design and programming to art and animation. With the global gaming market revenue in the Games segment projected to reach US$396.20bn in 2023 and the number of users expected to amount to 4.33bn users by 2027, the demand for skilled professionals in the field continues to grow. Diverse Roles Game development companies require professionals with diverse skill sets, including game designers, programmers, artists, animators, sound designers, and more. Apart from technical roles, game companies need professionals in marketing to ensure that the game reaches its target audience. Project managers ensure that the game is delivered on time and within budget, while finance experts manage the company’s finances. Human resource professionals ensure that the company’s hiring processes are fair and equitable, and that the workplace is diverse and inclusive. The game industry has experienced tremendous growth in recent years and is expected to continue growing in the coming years. As such, there is a high demand
More Than Just a Game: The Real-World Applications of the Super Mario Effect
Who knew that games could help us learn? It turns out that every game involves some struggle, which is just what we need for optimal learning! Learning something new can be challenging, we need to go through that trial-and-error phase until we finally reach that amazing “aha” moment. Ever wondered why we tend to give up when faced with challenges instead of seeing them as opportunities for growth? Mark Rober’s TEDxPenn talk, “The Super Mario Effect,” explains that our approach to learning is key. In Super Mario, players are motivated to learn the game mechanics and hone their skills to save the princess rather than fear failure. The Super Mario Effect is explained as “focusing on the Princess and not the pits, to stick with a task and learn more.” There are three takeaways to apply this to feel less stressed and learn more. Reframe Your Mindset The Super Mario Effect is about turning challenges into engaging opportunities for growth. Rather than dwelling on failure, players focus on mastering each level to progress to the next. It’s a game that reframes loss as a learning experience and inspires us to keep going. Gamification can be a game-changer in our lives, according to Rober! By treating challenges as games, we can view the learning process as an enjoyable activity that we want to keep doing. In other words, gamification can help us reframe challenges and make them more engaging and motivating. Keep Your Eyes on the Prize Playing a game always ends with one thing: the prize! Even when the going gets tough, the thrill of mastering the game is just too enjoyable to pass up. Unlike real life, mistakes don’t have to be devastating in a “give it your all to win” environment. Instead, they’re like fun-sized opportunities to learn and improve for your next try. According to Rober, The Super Mario Effect is more than just having a positive attitude. Turning challenges into games and emphasizing the prize makes the process feel lighter and more empowering; it makes you think, “What worked? What didn’t? What can I learn from it? I’ll try again.” Rather than enduring, it becomes about learning and trying again. Focusing on the Prize can trick your brain into learning more. Shift Your Focus from Failure By freeing us from the fear of failure, the Super Mario Effect has revolutionized the way we approach challenges. Its core idea is to learn from mistakes without fixating on them, which means that failing to beat level one isn’t a reason to quit, but rather a chance to gain insight from errors and persist toward our goal. Gamification The Super Mario Effect is a phenomenon that describes how individuals become more motivated and engaged in tasks that are challenging and rewarding. By utilizing gamification, this concept can extend beyond gaming to various aspects of life, including education, work, and even personal development. Gamification is the incorporation of game mechanics and principles into non-game contexts. It involves applying gaming characteristics to address problems and achieve goals through various activities and procedures. It isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and it’s all about figuring out the objective and picking the right game design to achieve it! The ultimate goal of gamification is to boost interaction, collaboration, sharing, and engagement among different groups, including partners, employees, and customers. Gamification also works wonders in marketing. Enhancing engagement and experience increases user retention and acquisition through social sharing. It also promotes brand awareness, loyalty, and provides a sense of accomplishment to users. Lastly, it simplifies data gathering, providing valuable insights to businesses. Gamification can help businesses improve customer engagement and achieve marketing goals by incorporating game elements into their products or services. This leads to more enjoyable and rewarding customer experiences and drives business success. Gamification by AgateGamification isn’t just about making things more productive or efficient. It can also be fun! Incorporating game elements into non-game contexts can make mundane tasks more engaging and exciting. The examples are Agate’s gamification features. They’re helpful in onboarding users and collecting data and provide a fun and interactive experience. Let’s look closer and see how Agate has taken gamification to the next level! GoPay Indonesia designed the Suwit game to encourage users to try their P2P transfer feature, resulting in a 40% increase in daily use. Play Video Populix created a family feud-style game called Pop Quest, which motivated users to answer questions quickly and honestly, leading to better data collection. Play Video Moreover, an elementary school gamified assessment tool was developed to help students recognize their potential and receive personalized recommendations based on their needs, resulting in more accurate behavioral assessments than traditional tests. Interested to be a part of our crews? Check the vacancy list below! VACANCY LIST Position Department Contract Type [Mythic Protocol] Creature 3D Artist Art Contract Type : Project Based Details VFX Artist Art Contract Type : Regular Crew Details [Project-Based] Quality Assurance (QA) Quality Contract Type : Project Based Details UI Artist Art Contract Type : Regular Crew Details Load More
When Art Meets Technology: The World of VFX and Technical Artists
At Agate, there are many specialists in the Art Department, including 2D, 3D Character, 3D Environment, Concept, Technical artists, UI, VFX Artists, and Game Animator. Each role requires a unique blend of technical know-how and creativity to produce top-notch artwork. However, two roles in the specialist focus more on technical expertise: VFX and Technical Artist. Let’s learn more about these two roles! VFX Artist At Agate, VFX artists play a crucial role in enhancing the visual effects of games. VFX artists specialize in creating mods for games, which add an extra layer of visual appeal to the game. In addition to this, they are responsible for describing the visuals of game elements and characters’ skills. These elements range from pyro particles, fluids, lightning, explosions, and cracks. They’re responsible for creating VFX concept art by making rough sketches and conducting the RnD for its implementation in the game. This process includes setting up the VFX in the game engine, such as Unity or Unreal, which involves creating textures, shaders, and materials. The ultimate goal of VFX artists in game development is to create visuals that align with the Art Direction and Game Design. By following the directions, they can present visuals that players can easily understand and enjoy, such as character skills, environment atmosphere, visual animation, and UI icon effects. Here are the essential skills required to become a VFX artist in the game industry: Strong knowledge of Realtime VFX in games Proficiency in VFX tools used in the industry pipeline, such as Unity or Unreal game engines Expertise in 2D and 3D VFX VFX artists collaborate with other departments at Agate to bring the game’s visuals to life. They work with Art Direction and Game Design to decide on the best designs, create 2D and 3D VFX, and collaborate with Technical Artists for seamless implementation. Challenges Various VFX Art StylesThe Game Design and Art Direction teams often face Visual Art challenges, such as producing artwork in a particular style ranging from stylized to realistic genres. To tackle these challenges, artists typically utilize software tools that align with the desired art style, making their work more efficient. VFX FormIn certain situations, there may be a need for VFX to be distinct and exclusive from others. For instance, the VFX could be shaped like Hexagons, portals, or other uncommon shapes. To overcome these obstacles, artists usually craft an exclusive 3D shape by utilizing specialized software and designing a personalized shader to realize the required VFX shape. VFX Optimization in GamesWhen creating games, they are often intended for a variety of platforms. However, the challenge lies in ensuring that the VFX remains playable while maintaining its quality. This can be achieved by modifying the Particle Set Up in VFX, such as limiting the particles’ number and reducing the mesh’s poly count. Additionally, it’s essential to consider using shaders on materials to prevent excessive particle usage. Texture Atlasing can also reduce the load on the VFX particle casting process. Play Video Set Up Area of Effect from Magic Shield VFX Technical Artist In the process of game development, technical artists play a multifaceted role that encompasses various stages. Initially, they establish standards and streamlined workflows during the planning stage. They may then assist artists by creating customized tools in the asset creation and polishing stage. Additionally, technical artists may enhance graphics by utilizing shaders, lighting, and post-processing in the game engine. Finally, they must optimize the game to ensure optimal performance and a smooth playing experience. The primary objective of technical artists is to design efficient workflows that enable artists to create high-quality assets on time. They also strive to optimize game performance to provide a seamless and enjoyable gameplay experience. Furthermore, they work towards enhancing the game’s graphical quality to make it visually appealing and engaging. Here are the skills that are required to be Technical Artist in the game industry: In-depth knowledge of game engine Knowledge about 2D workflow and 3D art and tools that artist uses Artistic sense Technical artists collaborate with other roles, such as artists, tech, and designers. This collaboration is essential to understand the specific requirements, objectives, and functioning of each role and establish effective communication channels. Challenges Technical artists face the challenge of keeping pace with constantly evolving technology and ever-increasing standards. They must remain updated and adapt to the latest technological advancements to meet and exceed the growing expectations for game development. They can also address the limitations of diverse devices and platforms by implementing tiers of graphic settings that can be adjusted according to the hardware capabilities of the user. These tiers may include material and shadow quality and utilizing assets with Level of Detail (LOD) and fallback options. Previous image Next image Shader Graph Tips Although there are numerous challenges to face and various necessary skills to acquire as a VFX and Technical artist, here are some tips to help you to be better! A simple tip to become a good VFX Artist is first to understand the basic concepts of Realtime VFX and how they work in game development. Learning the workflow and pipeline tools used in the game industry, such as the software and tools used in game engines, is also important. To learn more, beginners can find courses and tutorials on the Realtime VFX forum. To become a VFX Artist, one must be willing to experiment and try new things when setting up VFX. Sharing previews of VFX creations on platforms like ArtStation, LinkedIn, or Behance can serve as an initial portfolio. To become a better technical artist, having an open mind and a willingness to learn is important. The technology and tools used in game development are constantly evolving, so staying updated and adapting to new changes is important. Developing a practical mindset can also be helpful, as it allows you to find the most effective ways to solve problems. Interested in being a part of our crews? Check out the vacancy list below! VACANCY ON ART DEPARTMENT Position
Bringing Games to Life: The Process of Game Creation
Ever wonder how your favorite games are made? Or are you eager to create your own games? Well, look no further because we have got you covered! We’ll provide a thorough process of creating a game, from scratch to life! Let’s check it out! Note: The process may vary depending on the company and game type. Creation This is the starting point of game development. This phase aims to get many potential concepts by exploring the market opportunities, game premises, game system, and theme to decide whether the concept is feasible. In this phase, the Product Manager (PM) leads while working alongside the team. IdeationThe PM’s team comprises product marketers, market researchers, and designers. They’ll conduct a study to dive into the current market landscape and identify existing problems and opportunities. This means exploring various aspects such as game premises, player demands, industry trends, and themes to comprehensively understand the market. PitchA pitch contains a selection of ideas that have been developed in the previous stage of the project. The aim is to select the best ideas and concepts to be presented to directors and senior leadership. Feasibility StudyAfter the idea has been approved by Senior Leadership and Directors, the PM and the team can move on to the next step to estimate the game’s market potential and budget. Pre-production During this phase, the PM is still in charge of validating the game design from the initial concepts of user research and trials. The main focus is to prevent major changes in the next phase, so rapid prototyping and design iterations are emphasized. Game User Research (GUR)As part of the validation process, research on the target users ensures our game concept is on the right track. In this process, scientific principles are applied to understand the player and their psychology more. PrototypingA prototype is a basic version of a game that includes its core features. The main goal of developing a prototype is to test the core gameplay mechanics and interactions through playtesting. By starting with a simple prototype, developers can gradually refine and hone their game’s focus as they continue with the prototyping and testing stage. PlaytestingPlaytesting is a step in game development to validate assumptions, gather feedback, and identify flaws. Regular iteration and playtesting can identify design flaws, usability issues, or potential roadblocks. This enables developers to make necessary adjustments early on so the game product is well-received by its intended audience. It helps to create a more polished and successful gaming experience for players. Pre-Alpha ConceptingAfter collecting data from playtesting and previous stages of game development, the next step is to create an MVP (Minimum Viable Product/Pre-Alpha) concept. This concept serves as the initial documentation, including the game design, art, and technical design documents. The MVP concept can be sold and used as a reference during production, providing a clear roadmap for developers to follow. Previous Next MVP (Minimum Viable Product) – Valthirian Arc Hero School Story 2 Production During the production stage, the game producer takes on more responsibilities. This stage has several milestones: Pre-Alpha (MVP), Alpha, and Beta. Additionally, some game developers opt for a ‘Stealth Launch,’ releasing the game under a different name and publisher to get early metrics on the players’ response and determine if it’s suitable for release. Iterative production patterns are critical during this stage and should be emphasized throughout the development phase. Pre-AlphaThe next stage of game development, commonly known as First Playable, involves creating a vertical slice build that incorporates the prototype from the previous stage and follows the specifications outlined in the technical, art design, and game design documents. The goal of this build is to create a playable version of the game that includes all of the key features. AlphaIn the Alpha stage, the game has all major features and is playable, but only about half the content is complete. During this stage, the game’s core gameplay mechanics are set, but can still be revised based on feedback from testing. The Alpha build can be later used for a stealth launch. BetaBeta is the stage when all the important components are done, and the team focuses on fixing any remaining bugs. The main goal is to ensure the game is free of any bugs that could cause problems when it’s released. At the same time, the team is getting ready for the game’s launch by creating marketing plans and arrangements for live operations. Previous Next Vertical Slide – Valthirian Arc Hero School Story 2 Product Launch This is the phase where the game is officially released to the market, and it enters the introduction stage of its product life cycle. The development team puts extra effort to ensure the game is polished and ready for a wider audience, so they’re very strict quality assurance procedures to minimize any bugs. At the same time, the PM teams up with the marketing team to promote the game. https://youtu.be/aWb32Gw5cUs Previous Next Launch Trailer – Valthirian Arc: Hero School Story Live Ops This phase aims to maintain the game’s player community by keeping them engaged. An example is by offering regular updates and organizing events, which are decided based on user feedback and analytics. This phase is linked to the growth to maturity phase of the product life cycle, and it’s managed by the PM and the live ops team. Previous Next Live Ops – Memories Previous Next Early Access Update – Valthirian Arc Hero School Story 2 Sunset At some point during game development, the product manager might need to decide if they need to shut down all operations related to the game based on factors like revenue and user numbers. After reading about the step-by-step process of game creation, are you ready to join our adventure? Check out the vacancy list below! VACANCY LIST Position Department Contract Type Game Tester Intern Quality Contract Type : Internship Details Product Management Intern Product Manager Contract Type : Internship Details Business Development Marketing Sales & Operation Contract Type : Regular Crew
Unlocking Your Potential: A Guide to Empowering Leadership
Want to know how to be an effective leader? Becoming an effective leader can be a daunting task, and trying to master all aspects of leadership alone can be challenging. Empowering leadership requires both soft skills and technical proficiency, with a focus on comprehending the team’s work and effective communication. But worry not, here are some tips for you to be empowering leaders! Create a Safe and Welcoming Space As a leader, creating a space for your team to take risks and try out new ideas without fear of being blamed is important. Rather than pointing fingers, the focus should be learning from mistakes and exploring possible solutions. Clear communication of expectations is also crucial. Leaders should be attentive to feedback from their teams, making it easy for them to discuss complex issues and seek support when needed. Empower Your Team Empowering your team boosts productivity and engagement. Encourage them to take on challenges, organize work, and improve processes. It’s important to give clear goals and context to help them understand what to achieve and why. Trust and give them a sense of ownership to enhance their commitment to their work. Learn Efficiently Stay open to new ideas and be flexible enough to change your opinion based on new information. Discussing new developments with your team before making critical decisions that could impact them is essential. This helps build trust, promotes collaboration, and ensures everyone is on the same page. Nurture Growth Team growth and development can be facilitated in several ways, such as nurturing each crew member’s skill sets, strengths, and interests. Encourage personal and professional growth by allowing your team members to explore their interests and supporting them in learning new skills that could benefit them in their current or future roles. Foster Connection & Belongings Show compassion and understanding towards your team members when communicating with them. Acknowledge their emotions and remember they’re human beings, not just resources for completing tasks. Celebrate successes and failures as a team and openly give credit where it’s due. Strive to balance personal and professional connections, as this can help foster a more supportive and collaborative work environment. Be Competent & Set Examples Take the time to think carefully about the issue at hand and the different options available. Use your knowledge and judgment to make the best decision possible. Analyze the problem, identify its root cause, and hone your problem-solving skills. Additionally, be a positive example to others, lead by example, and be open and honest. As an empowering leader, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of the technical aspects of your team’s work. While soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are important for effective leadership, technical skills are equally necessary to manage your team’s tasks effectively. A key element of technical competence is the ability to proficiently document tasks and data. Check out the tips below for more information about documentation! Effective Documentation Tips When creating documentation, it’s important to consider the target audience and the objective of the documentation. If a broad audience will read the documentation, it’s important to use language that is easy to understand for people with technical and non-technical backgrounds. The documentation should be comprehensive enough to meet the needs of more experienced individuals and easily digestible for those with less experience. Moreover, if you share the document with others, you can use online platforms such as Notion, Miro, or Figma to work together more effectively. At Agate, we mostly use Notion for documentation because it’s easy to use. Notion provides a user-friendly interface and user experience, making it beginner-friendly. Its linked databases feature lets us synchronize content across multiple pages, making it easier to filter team task views and create task dashboards. Additionally, Notion’s customizable options allow us to tailor their workspace to meet their needs, resulting in a more organized and efficient workflow. Interested to be a part of our crews? Check out the vacancy list below! VACANCY LIST Position Department Contract Type Game Tester Intern Quality Contract Type : Internship Details Product Management Intern Product Manager Contract Type : Internship Details Business Development Marketing Sales & Operation Contract Type : Regular Crew Details Outsourcing Staff Intern Studio Contract Type : Internship Details Load More
