Model (computer games)

A model is a fully-3D computer graphic, polygonal object or character used in computer and video games.

3d character models are jointed posable figures which can be posed like a marionette puppet or action figure, but they are in a posing and animation program in the computer. The user can pose the figure and then take a single frame non-moving 'photo' 2D bitmap by clicking the rendering icon. The 3D model can also be animated.

Programs that can make 3D models include Blender (free of charge), 3D Studio Max, Maya, MilkShape 3D and LightWave.

Collections of hundreds to thousands of 3D models on CD, often royalty free, are for sale. These models include different types of people, animals, objects, plants, rocks, tools, furniture, buildings, landscapes, historical objects, cartoon characters, monsters, science fiction objects, medieval fantasy objects, etc. A person who buys such a CD can import these posable ready-made models into their computer animation program.

Some artists create original 3D models and sell them individually on websites. [1] They are often bought by animators or game designers. The artist keeps copywright ownership of the 3D model. The buyer is allowed to use the 3D models in private single frame scenes, games, or animaton. The buyer is not allowed to sell what the buyer creates with the 3D models belonging to the artist. Most artists are willing to let the buyer sell it if the artist is paid more (an amount quoted by the artist via e-mail or phone) and the artist's name appears signed at the bottom of a single frame picture, or in the credits of the game or animation.

See also:

• 3D model
• 3D modeler
• Wire frame model
• Texture

External links

• 3DValley.com, free 3D art resource