The Relationships Between 3D Computer Game Elements

Understand the relationships between 3D computer game elements

-Dynamic elements in game engines: animated assets, player characters, NPC, objects, entities (pickups), doorways

.A dynamic element of a game is one that is kinetic; it moves around or can be moved if the protagonist or another character interacts with it. This also includes assets that have animated textures for example a television, scanning devices or a disco floor; this is simply a flat surface with a video/flick book texture. A dynamic element is changeable is some way of not interact able.

.A dynamic elements could also be another character, whether they are there as an ally, opponent, friend or passerby. A character could embody itself in any form whether that’s an animal or humanoid/human creature. This could also be an opponent which you interact with in a different way and could affect game rules in terms of scoring or health etc.

.Using dynamic objects in a game more often than not involve solving a problem if not they are simply there to make an environment more realistic.

.Dynamic elements are usually obligatory to completing a problem and/or completing the game.

-trigger objects

-animated models

-player character / NPC

-pickups – ammo health packs etc.

-maps

-water

-snow

-vehicles

-physics

-particles

-magic

Blood

Lighting

 

- Static elements (3D models): environment architecture, foliage, buildings, unmovable assets,

. A static element is one that cannot be affected, in terms of game play it is something in the environment or is the environment itself and can’t be interacted with. These parts of games are extremely necessary as they usually set the scene and create a scenario.

.A lot of indie games consist of a dominantly static environment and where the main character/protagonist uses few mechanics and choice of movements to solve puzzles and conquer obstacles. For example ‘Thomas was Alone’ uses very simple mechanics to complete the game however is still very captivating and entertaining.

.Foliage is a great example of how static elements are needed to set a scene. Trees bushes and grass are not usually required to be interacted with.

-buildings

Foliage

Vehicles

Floor

Statues

Rocks

Edge of map

 

-Relationships between game elements: game rules, balancing game play, ending conditions (win/lose), how 3D elements relate to one another in a computer game.

.Dynamic and static elements combine to make a fluid environment in which all the necessary things are able to be interacted with.

.The combination and balance of both static and dynamic elements usually increases the complexity of the game. The more interactive elements in a game generally the more realistic and complicated it will become.

.Completing/ winning a game may involve a specific sequence of movements which involves a blend of both dynamic and static elements to signify an illusion of choice, but at the same time directing the player to a series of movements which will complete a task.

-consequenses / changes in gameplay