3D Locations For Mobile Game • Single City

We developed 3D video game locations for Single City, a unique strategy and life simulation game. Our team used an original approach to craft these environments, combining high poly 3d models and low-poly models with camera-based UV projections. 

This technique, involving the creation of 3D high poly models with low-poly modeling, allows us to create detailed environments with fewer polygons, resulting in visually rich and performance-optimized game settings. By projecting rendered 2D sprites onto low-poly models, the visuals appear pristine from a fixed perspective, which is especially effective for games like Single City, where the camera remains static.

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‍The production process consisted of:

Collaborating with A Thinking Ape Entertainment, we followed this process to ensure the 3D locations fit the game's requirements. With our expertise in 3D graphics and cutting-edge tools, we're proud of the game graphics we've developed.

Since 2016, we've collaborated with A Thinking Ape Entertainment on various projects, and our recent contribution to Single City underscores this longstanding partnership. We're confident in the game's success and look forward to further strengthening our collaboration with our esteemed partner.

The challenges of designing 3D locations for mobile games

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1. Achieving realism within constraints: Designing 3D locations for mobile games, especially when incorporating high poly modeling, presents a unique set of challenges. The goal is to achieve a level of realism that can compete with desktop games, yet within the more limited capabilities of mobile devices. High poly models offer incredible detail and depth, but they also require more processing power and memory, which are scarce resources in mobile devices. Finding a balance between visual fidelity and the technical limitations of mobile platforms is a constant struggle for designers.

2. Optimizing for diverse hardware: The creation of a 3D model high poly for a mobile game must take into account the wide range of devices on which the game will be played. Mobile devices have varying screen resolutions, processing powers, and graphic capabilities. A model that looks and performs well on a newer smartphone might not do so on an older or less advanced device. Ensuring that these detailed 3D locations render smoothly across all types of devices is a significant challenge.

3. Efficient use of resources: While striving for detail and complexity in a high poly model, designers must also be mindful of the game's overall size and performance. High poly models can quickly increase the size of the game, leading to long download times and excessive storage requirements. This can be a turn-off for users who have limited storage or internet bandwidth. Balancing the desire for detailed models with the need to keep the game’s size manageable is a key aspect of mobile game design.

4. User interface and interaction design: Unlike PC or console games, mobile games require a user interface that is suitable for touchscreens. This means that 3D locations must be designed with an interface that is intuitive and easy to navigate on a smaller screen. The challenge lies in ensuring that the high poly environment does not clutter the interface or hinder the player's ability to interact with the game elements effectively.

5. Time and budget constraints: Mobile game development, especially with detailed 3D locations, is often constrained by tight deadlines and budgets. Developing high-quality high poly modeling for a mobile game requires a significant investment of time and resources. Balancing the artistic vision with these practical constraints without compromising on quality is a common challenge faced by game developers. Efficient project management and prioritizing essential elements become crucial in such a scenario.

Designing 3D locations for mobile games at RocketBrush Studio

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At RocketBrush Studio, we successfully embraced the challenge of designing 3D locations for mobile games, a task we took to heart in our project for Single City. Our approach was a thoughtful blend of high poly and low-poly modeling, ensuring that we captured intricate details while keeping the game running smoothly on mobile devices. This balanced method was particularly effective for Single City, allowing us to create detailed and visually appealing environments that performed well across different types of mobile hardware.

Throughout the project, our focus was on striking the right balance between the rich detail of high poly models and the efficiency of low-poly modeling. This was not just about achieving aesthetic excellence; it was also crucial for ensuring optimal performance and playability on mobile platforms.

In our collaboration with A Thinking Ape Entertainment, we tailored our process to meet the specific needs of Single City. The success of this endeavour reflects our ability at RocketBrush Studio to merge artistic creativity with technical savvy, making us a reliable partner in the mobile gaming industry.

At RocketBrush Studio, we embrace these challenges to create 3D locations for mobile games that are both beautiful and functional, enhancing the overall gaming experience. For more information or collaboration inquiries, reach out to us at HELLO@ROCKETBRUSH.COM.