ZBrush
From Oblivion Mod Wiki
| Author: | Pixologic |
| Version: | 3 |
| Last Updated: | May 2007 |
| Download(s): | Pixologic.com |
[edit] Description
ZBrush 3 gives you access to unparalleled power and control previously unknown in digital art creation software. Controls enable sculptors to create with a stylus and a tablet as intuitively as if they were using their hands on a block of clay. ZBrush further extends the creation experience, harnessing technology and providing artists with a multitude of creation-enhancing tools.
Cost: $490 USD
[edit] Example Workflow
This is an example of how this tool can be used in the creation of a 3D model. Original post by Pixhell666
[edit] Initial Model
Create a rough low- to mid-poly model using a 3D modeling tool (3DS Max, Maya, Silo, XSI, Blender, etc.).
[edit] Rough UV Layout
Rough UV layout in your 3D modeling program (or use UV Layout). This can be spread all over, not squared, etc. It's purpose is for texture/material and Map baking etc. into and out of ZBrush to other UVs or another Mesh (won't be used in game).
[edit] Export/Import to ZBrush
Detail as you want, create as many textures as you want, make the model as big and detailed as you want. 2-5 million polys can be considered normal and as high as 7-9 million. For massive models, it might be necessary to break it into pieces. It might also be necessary to break models into segments due to animation bone limits or other reasons.
[edit] The Real Mesh
In the 3D modeling tool you can now form a low poly cage to the now multi-million poly mesh or use other tools such as PolyBoost, PolySpeed, Silo and etc. These are often referred to as "Topology Tools". New UV Layouts need to be created for your new low poly mesh. Some applications even have high to low poly UV conversion/mapping tools.
[edit] Additional Maps
If additional maps are needed, you can be bake out specular color maps from your 3D modeling tool. You can bake normal, displacement, ambient occlusion and similar maps out of XSI as it delivers very good results. You can sometimes bring in baked to texture materials from ZBrush. Textures can also be painted using ZBrush (skin materials and brushes are nice and render to texture pretty well).
[edit] 2D Texturing
Anything else that is needed can be created, touched up and finished off with your favorite paint program such as Photoshop, Paint Shop Pro, MapZone, CrazyBump, GIMP, etc.
