Game Prop Creation in 3ds Max

Explore the world of modeling and texturing game props and assets in Autodesk 3ds Max. Author Adam Crespi demonstrates how to create both small and large props, from tools to shipping containers. The course begins with cloning and instancing objects for ease of modeling and unwrapping, and segues into multiple methods of unwrapping and painting texture by hand in Adobe Photoshop. Adam looks at various plug-ins that assist with normal map generation as well as sculpting in Mudbox, a digital sculpting application that can add realism and detail to your models. Finally, the course shows how to add lights to a scene and preview the objects in-game.

Note: A familiarity of basic modeling and unwrapping techniques in 3ds Max and a working knowledge of Photoshop will help you get the most out of this course.

Topics include:
Laying out the overall form
Planning for modular textures and models
Adding the framing components
Laying out the UV coordinates
Creating bump maps
Painting diffuse textures
Setting up a library of textures
Converting bump maps to normal maps
Testing maps
Laying out a texture sheet for multiple tools
Using a high poly to low poly workflow
Baking out normals and ambient occlusion for rusty and dirty surfaces
Modeling furniture

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