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Dev notes #16 - 2023-01-31
🕑 Added 2024-01-30 21:38:27 +0000 UTCNew Year, New Developments!
I hope you had a happy and productive start to the new year! With the holidays at an end, I've been diving back into the world of development. Sorry for the long delay in updates.
Workstation Upgrade
First and foremost, I'm excited to share a significant upgrade to my workstation — a second monitor! This addition has been on my radar for some time, and it's already proving to be a game-changer. With two screens, my work progresses much faster. I've had the chance to test it out in Daz and while writing code, and the results are impressive. Real-time editing of the game with a full-resolution view is super cool. Admittedly, I'm still adjusting to it in 3D programs, but I'm confident that with time, it will become second nature.
Embracing Blender: Expanding my 3D Horizons
Starting in January, I delved into beginner courses in Blender. This decision stemmed from the realization that my current tools and knowledge in the realm of 3D were no longer sufficient to bring my creative ideas to life. Let's take Ivi's tentacles and other characters, for example. Currently, they exist as separate "creatures" with their own skeletons and numerous segments. Posing them can be challenging and time-consuming, especially for dynamic scenes or interactions where characters interact with objects or hold items.
This limitation has led to instances where Ivi's tentacles had to be omitted, and some captivating scenes and moments remained unrealized. While this might not be an apparent issue now, it severely constrains the potential of future hybrids and monsters — something I'm eager to avoid.
Enter Blender, a versatile tool with features that allow me to create tentacles by simply drawing the desired trajectory with a mouse. I've already tried my hand at creating electrical cables from scratch, and the results have been promising. My next step is to integrate these creations into Daz for further testing. Keep an eye on the "dev updates" channel on my Discord server for updates on my progress.
Exploring Time-Saving Tools
Additionally, I've discovered various addons in Blender that enable the creation of procedurally generated buildings. These tools have the potential to significantly reduce development time and can be used for various purposes, such as close-up shots, aerial views (for example, in the view from a helicopter), or even interactive maps using holographic shaders. The possibilities are endless, but my previous unfamiliarity with the program hindered my progress.
By expanding my knowledge through Blender courses, I aim to leverage these tools effectively. Moreover, gaining further insights into lighting, composition, and other creative aspects will undoubtedly enhance the quality and technical precision of my renders. While some may know that I lack a formal art education, I started my 3D journey in my spare time, learning through trial and error to create visually appealing content. While this approach has proven effective for acquiring foundational skills, there comes a point where it's necessary to expand my knowledge to break through the limitations.
As I've reached that point, I'm hopeful that the courses will unlock exciting 3D capabilities, allowing us to bring you even more engaging and visually stunning experiences.
Thank you for your unwavering support, and here's to a year filled with incredible developments and creativity!
