RPGDX > Forums > Off Topic > Thinking about changing focus for a while...

BigManJones · Scholar Joined: 22 Mar 2003 Posts: 196

After reading this thread and the millions just like it really gets me thinking. The block to getting any project off the ground is the art assets. We've all faced it. Some of us are good pixel artists, but most of us aren't. I have an interest in 3d character animation and I've played with MS3d a little. I have a couple of ideas for rpgs that I think would be really neat, but would require alot of 3d models. Maybe I should concentrate on really learning MS3D or GMax or something and then look for a programmer with an engine if I ever reach that point.

Has anyone else ever thought about this? It would be more of a 'indie developer' route as opposed to 'indie programmer' only route I suppose.

Rainer Deyke · Demon Hunter Joined: 05 Jun 2002 Posts: 672

Getting good graphics for my games was always my biggest obstacle. Mostly because I suck at people skills, so I ended up doing everything myself. I consider myself a good game designer and a great programmer, but I'm an atrocious artist.

(BTW, why does everybody want to do 3D? It had novelty value in the 90s, but now it's just an annoying and ugly. Except for first person. I understand the appeal of first person. But third person 3D? Why trade in beautiful hand-drawn backgrounds for ugly polygon models? Is it because it's easier and the standards are lower? Don't mind me, I'm just rambling.)

LeoDraco · Posted: Mon Sep 01, 2003 6:11 am Post subject:

I think it's due more to the fact that things are easier to render. You can rotate around "ugly polygon's" with ease, whereas you would have to draw sprites for rotation. You can model systems (complecated mechas, buildings, vehicles) easier in a 3d system than in 2d. You can swap "clothing" on 3d characters with relative ease. Things can usually be larger. They preform more true to life in movement. Etc.
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dak246 · Posted: Mon Sep 01, 2003 8:17 am Post subject:

When it comes to rpg's ill take 2d over anything...especially if im programming it...and ESPECIALLY if im the one programming the engine from scratch. Theres just somthing about 3d rpgs that isnt right...
Oh well...just my opinion.

In response to the original post...Art is and always will be the limiting factor to the production of a game. It took me a year to find a dedicated and skilled pixel artist. I myself am a terrible artist. It usually seems that one is either techincal minded or artistically minded. Its sad though...i have great ideas and visions, but i cant transform them into art. Becoming an indie developer rather than just an indie programmer is a perfect way to increase the chances that you'll finish your project.

BigManJones · Scholar Joined: 22 Mar 2003 Posts: 196

I agree about the lack of soul in 3d gfx, Rainier hit it on the head. But LeoDraco is right too; its easier. Could you imagine the thousands of hours it would take to do all of the character animation in a game like Baldurs Gate by hand? So I think 3d has its place, but 2d pixel art is definitly experiencing a comeback with the gba and mobile devices and all.

Ironshanks · Posted: Mon Sep 01, 2003 4:45 pm Post subject:

I say go for it. If you dedicate some time to learn a new skill set, well, you'll always find ways to use it.
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PoV · Posted: Thu Sep 04, 2003 4:59 am Post subject: