Texturas, shaders y materiales

What is a texture in video game design?

A texture is the basic element to enhance objects in a virtual scenario. It is an image that provides information about the properties of a shader, such as the color, the roughness or smoothness of the surface, and its ability to reflect or absorb light. These textures are placed on the surface of an object, which makes it crucial to cut our model in two dimensions using the UV mapping process, allowing the textures to adhere correctly.

How do shaders work in materials?

Shaders are responsible for adding dynamic properties to materials in a video game. These properties include:

• Motion: Makes an object, such as the ocean in a game, appear to move.
• Interaction with light: Endows the material with characteristics such as diffusivity, translucency or light reflection.
• Emissive properties: Allow the object not only to receive light, but also to emit it.
• Physical interaction: Facilitates interaction between different objects, such as a sphere rolling on grass.

The integration of these properties through shaders gives rise to the concept of material in 3D design.

What is a material in 3D design?

We can imagine a material as a box containing various shader properties. This "box" generates the desired look and behavior of an object within our scenery. Materials are essential to create complex textures and visual effects, such as:

• Lava: transmits light, moves and presents a luminous emission.
• Ice: Allows light to permeate, reflect and show depth.

These effects are achieved through textures that are combined in a series of instructions handled by the game engine.

How to optimize the use of shaders and materials in a game engine?

The intensive use of shaders and complex materials can result in a high consumption of game engine resources. To avoid performance issues and maintain efficiency, it is recommended to:

• Create lightweight materials with a reduced number of instructions.
• Use visual programming to manage complex materials, making sure that the engine is not overloaded.

Practical tips and recommendations

1. Research and collect material references: Use platforms such as Pinterest to search and get inspired by different types of materials that could enrich your in-game scenarios.

2. Experiment and practice: Don't hesitate to experiment with different shaders and material compositions for innovative and unique effects.

3. Continuous optimization: Always look for ways to make your materials more efficient to ensure smooth game engine performance.

Keep in mind that material design is a constantly evolving field, so it's essential to stay up to date with the latest techniques and tools in the industry - continue to explore and hone your game design skills!