3ds Max Basics for Modeling Video Game Assets, Volume 2

Model, Rig and Animate Characters for Export to Unity or Other Game Engines
2. Auflage 2026
ISBN: 978-1-041-27398-1
Verlag: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Buch, Englisch, 448 Seiten, Format (B × H): 178 mm x 254 mm

3ds Max Basics for Modeling Video Game Assets, Volume Two builds on the foundational skills introduced in Volume One, guiding readers into the creation of fully realized 3D characters for video games. Written by veteran instructor and industry artist Bill Culbertson, this volume introduces character modeling, rigging, and animation using real-world production workflows in Autodesk 3ds Max.

Through a structured, step-by-step process, readers create characters designed for the medieval castle environment developed in Volume One. Characters are rigged using the Character Animation Toolkit (CAT), skinned using the Skin Modifier, and animated with essential in-game movements. The completed characters are then exported into the Unity game engine and integrated into a playable third-person environment.

The book features an integrated character pipeline from modeling to in-engine implementation, reinforcing learning through repetition while simulating a professional game studio pipeline—guiding readers through asset research, placeholder development, final modeling, UV mapping, and texturing using techniques such as box mapping and Quick Peel.

While instruction is presented using 3ds Max, the principles and workflows are transferable to other major 3D modeling and animation platforms. Stay current with updates, resources, and downloadable project files at 3dsMaxBasics.com—a dedicated hub for both students and instructors.

Ideal for:

- Game design, animation, and character development courses

- High school, college, and university programs

- Self-paced learners and creative technology classrooms

Key Features:

- Step-by-step introduction to character modeling, rigging, and animation

- Gradual progression of rigging concepts including linking, IK, FK, skin deformation, and vertex weighting

- Proven curriculum developed through teaching over 1,000 video game students

- Includes project files and instructions for exporting characters into Unity

This Edition Includes:

- Integrated character pipeline from modeling to in-engine implementation

- Practical animation exercises using game-ready movement cycles

- Reinforced learning through repetition and milestone-based projects

Zielgruppe

Undergraduate Advanced and Undergraduate Core

Autoren/Hrsg.

Culbertson, William

Fachgebiete

• Mathematik | Informatik EDV | Informatik Programmierung | Softwareentwicklung Spiele-Programmierung, Rendering, Animation
• Geisteswissenschaften Design Design: Allgemeines & Theorie

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Introduction, Chapter 1: Character Design, Chapter 2: Character Modeling: The Knight, Chapter 3: Rigging Basics, Chapter 4: The Warhorse Knight, Chapter 5: Character Rigging: Skin and the CAT Rig, Chapter 6: Rigging the Warhorse Knight, Chapter 7: Character Modeling: The Dragon, Chapter 8: Rigging the Dragon, Chapter 9: Character Animations, Chapter 10: Exporting the Game Engine

Über Autor(innen)

William Culbertson is an accomplished educator, designer, and creative director with over 35 years of experience in professional media production, public art, and academic instruction. He has contributed to major entertainment and toy brands including The Walt Disney Company, The Jim Henson Company, Hasbro, Sesame Workshop, Marvel Entertainment, and DC Entertainment—developing characters, directing animation, and designing interactive content across multiple platforms.

Beyond entertainment, Bill has designed international public art commissions and immersive experiences for theme parks and cruise ships, blending large-scale design with engaging storytelling. As a Professor at New England Institute of Technology, he teaches 3D modeling, animation, and game development, emphasizing collaboration, creative problem-solving, and production workflows.

He is also the creator of Pollywog Pond, an award-winning children’s television and video game series distributed by PBS, recognized for its focus on social-emotional learning and environmental education. The series has earned multiple industry awards and Emmy nominations, showcasing his dedication to meaningful, educational storytelling.