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Combining CGI and real world assets in Computer Games.

Writer's picture: Richard AllportRichard Allport

Combining real-world models and computer-generated assets in computer games is a popular technique that enhances realism and immerses players in richly detailed environments. This approach blends physical, real-world elements with digital artistry to create engaging and believable game worlds.


Real-world models are brought into games through techniques such as Photogrammetry. This process involves taking multiple photographs of a real-world object or environment from various angles and using software to create a highly detailed 3D model. Examples include landscapes, buildings, or even small props like furniture.


3D Scanning can also be used and devices like LiDAR or structured light scanners can capture the geometry of real-world objects with incredible precision, producing 3D meshes and textures.


With Motion Capture real world human movements are captured using specialized suits with sensors. This data is applied to CG character rigs to achieve realistic animations for body movement and facial expressions.


Alternatively computer generated assets can be created by modelling with artists use software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max to design characters, props, or environments from scratch.


The textures for Computer Generated models can be created manually or derived from real-world photos and edited using tools like Photoshop or Substance Painter.


In addition simulations or advanced techniques to simulate natural phenomena (e.g., water, fire, and hair) to add realism that would be difficult to capture in real life can be used.


When integrating Real-World Models and CG the integration happens during the game development process using tools such as Game Engines like Unreal Engine or Unity and are used to combine scanned or captured real-world assets with CG creations. These engines allow for lighting, physics, and rendering adjustments to ensure the elements blend seamlessly.


Developers also use shaders and procedural materials to make real-world models look natural in the game environment. For instance, scanned rocks might need weathering effects or adjustments to match the lighting conditions in a scene.


The challenges in Combining Real-World and CG Assets can be many. Performance optimization is a factor when real-world models captured through photogrammetry or 3D scanning can have very high polygon counts, which need to be reduced without losing quality to ensure smooth gameplay, and matching lighting between real-world textures and CG environments is crucial for seamless integration.


Art Style Cohesion be another hurdle to overcome. Real-world models often appear hyper-realistic, while CG assets might follow a stylized art direction. Balancing the two is an artistic challenge.


By combining real-world models with CG, developers create immersive worlds that push the boundaries of visual fidelity while maintaining the unique creative essence of video games.


Action and Adventure game titles like The Last of Us Part II and Horizon Forbidden West use photogrammetry for realistic environments, simulation games like Flight Simulator use real-world geographic data combined with CG for lifelike landscapes, and sports and Fighting games tend to use Motion Capture technology to obtain realistic athletic movements for games like FIFA or Tekken.

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