Goal: To convert a 3D knight model into a game-ready model
Industry: game development
Final usage by client: For Skyrim modification and future projects using the Unreal Engine
Final usage by client: For Skyrim modification and future projects using the Unreal Engine
Project duration: December 09 2021 to Jun 28, 2022
Time to create: 27 hours
Software used: Autodesk Maya, Zbrush, Substance Painter
Link: https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/69228
Link: https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/69228
The project’s main goal is to implement additional knight models known as "Soldiers Light" for the Skyrim modification. The distinctive features of these knights include lighter armor, greater mobility, carrying capacity, and their subordination to the Crownguard and Marshal. Added to game, these Soldier Light knights create an entire faction of knights interacting with each other and reporting to the commander. In addition, the Soldier Light models will take their place within the ranks with their signature weapons and skills and perform tasks of a certain rank.
Soldier Light 2 3D-model
This section offers a unique opportunity to manipulate the three-dimensional model of Soldier Light 2 in real time, using the Sketchfab service. Additionally, we invite you to explore an exclusive gallery, which presents artistic renders showcasing various perspectives of this 3D model of Soldier Light 2.
Main weapon
The primary weapons for the Soldier Light 2 include his unique sword and shield, which share common symbols and colors. You can compare it with the Crownguard Knight's project. A Soldier Light 2 carries a spear, which he can use effectively in combat. The Soldier Light's weapons, while having below-average durability, are lightweight. This characteristic allows for quick evasion and strikes, and the model can carry more weapons.
For instance, a Crownguard can wield a spear but not a shield due to his greater weight. However, his spear can deliver powerful blows, often knocking down an opponent in one hit.
Screenshots from the Modification
Screen captures showcase the meticulous Skyrim modification by a fan, Ironin. This mod introduces 3D models of faction knights like Crownguard, Marshal, and the Warcraft 3 Footman. The Skyrim community has praised its top-notch craftsmanship, keen attention to historical accuracy, and refreshing originality.
Differences with the Soldier Light 2
It's important to note the distinctions between Soldier Light 1 and Soldier Light 2. While both are ranked similarly, can perform comparable tasks, and utilize similar weapons, their armor and coloration differ significantly.
The Soldier Light 1, seeking rank advancement, is equipped with armor similar to the Footman but more modern and with additional enhancements. The shoulder segments offer good protection, while the leg armor is less durable. Additionally, the Soldier Light 1 has fabrics with a golden hue.
The Soldier Light 2 is akin to a 'recruit.' While his shoulders have less protection, three side plates reinforce his leg armor. He shares the same gloves and boots with Soldier Light 1. However, his fabric lacks the golden hue, instead featuring white.
Armor Design
Soldier Light 2's armor design continues the respected traditional look of the armor of the Knights of Crownguard, Footman, and Marshal factions. Note that Soldier Light 2 occupies the status of a recruit, which the features of its armor consistently reflect.
Key distinctions in Soldier Light 2's armor set it apart from other knights within the faction. Notably, its shoulder elements are less bulky and lack the "tights" design on the legs. Instead, unique side plates on the legs differentiate Soldier Light 2 from Soldier Light 1.
The color palette of the armor focuses on blue and white hues. This choice of colors gives Soldier Light 2 a visually light look and emphasizes its "fresh recruit" status, reflecting its original position in the military hierarchy.
Texturing
We did the Knight's texturing using previous materials but with minor refinements. The textures of the Knight should look realistic enough. However, unlike the Knight's armor from our previous project (Footman), this Knight's appearance should be free of any indications of having received considerable damage
Low-res 3d model
Creating a retopology for the armor is quite a difficult stage. The armor is a solid-state item that requires a long process to create a retopology using TopoGun or other armor-creating applications.
We made the armor retopology according to the modern low poly principle. In this way, we made the edges of the 3D model into rounded surfaces that contain enough polygons to make the model look smooth. At the same time, we optimized unnoticeable parts of the armor to the minimum required condition. A game-ready asset has a low polygon mesh that doesn't waste triangles and can be well deformed and shaped. This part is important for displaying moving 3D models in the game without delays and compromising of quality graphics.
Project history
Here is a collection of all the screenshots we sent to the client as work updates after each working day. We collected the screenshots in sequential order of changes.
The Legend
In creating 3D models for games, it's essential to understand the legend and story of the character. This immersion encourages creative ideas and suggestions to improve the model itself. The Crownguard is one of the faction warriors, serving as the King's guard. Among the arsenal, The Crownguard Knight carries a spear with two pairs of blades, sharpened on several sides, which makes the Knight practically inaccessible in close combat. Knowing the purpose of the fictional character, in this case for a mode for Skyrim, is important. It is the basis for creating a 3D model that will look as impressive and natural as possible in the proposed universe of a computer game.
