3D Gun Models • Low-Poly

Creating High-Quality 3D Model Weapons

If these weren't stylized, but realistic 3D guns, we would probably go with CAD-soft (Fusion360) or ZBrush for the high-poly part of the pipeline. But as we needed to have clean and scalable weapon 3D models in the end, we decided to go with a Blender-based pipeline and use subdivision surface modeling. Therefore, our steps were as described below.

High-Poly Model Creation

At the initial stage of modelling our pipeline, we focus on creating a high-poly 3D model of the guns. To achieve this, we opted for a Blender-based workflow. Our main focus is on creating high-resolution, intricate gun 3D models, paying meticulous attention to detail and design elements. The software tools like Fusion360 or sculpting software like ZBrush can be used to work on the finer details and shapes of the firearms.

Low-Poly Model Conversion

To optimize the 3D models for real-time rendering, it is important to create their low-poly versions. With the use of Blender’s tools, the polygon count can be reduced while preserving the silhouette and overall shape of the high-poly models. This process ensures that the low-poly models are suitable for various performance requirements and  for a wide range of platforms.

UV Unwrapping

Once the low-poly models are in place, the next crucial step is UV unwrapping. It involves flattening the 3D geometry onto a 2D plane and preparing it for texturing. We used Blender’s UV mapping tools to create an efficient and clean UV layout. This layout serves as the foundation for applying textures accurately and seamlessly onto our simple gun 3D models, ensuring the final visuals align with the 3D surfaces.

Map Baking in Marmoset

To enhance the visual quality of our 3D gun models, we used the Marmoset toolbag to bake texture maps. Map baking includes transferring details from the high-poly to the low-poly model, such as normal maps, ambient occlusion, and curvature. It ensures the fine details are preserved, elevating the visual impact of the guns in applications.

Texture Creation in Substance Painter (4K)

The heart of the texturing process lies in Substance Painter, a powerful texturing software. Using this software, we create high-resolution (4K) texture maps, including Metallic, BaseColor, Normal, and Roughness. These textures bring our stylized guns to life, adding material properties and lighting, making them look visually convincing. 

Final Rendering

In the final leg of our pipeline, we render the textured models again in the Marmoset toolbag. Its real-time capabilities allow us to assess and visualize the guns in different lighting conditions and environments. This step provides an opportunity to fine-tune lighting, camera angles, and materials to achieve captivating visuals, making the stylized guns ready for integration into games and interactive experiences.