Red Chases Blue Introduction

On Wednesday I was introduced to the first project for class titled “Red Chases Blue.” This is a brief that is open to interpretation.

At the moment I haven’t really decided on a concept or theme, but I do know how I want to deliver the end result. I would like to use this project to learn the basics of Unreal Engine, as I believe this is an essential piece of software for me as a games artist.

I plan to make good use of the university’s offer of a free Lynda account, to hopefully learn the following:

• The basic UI 
• Creating a simple level, importing custom assets
• Lighting the level. 

Over the next few days I will document my progress learning the software and hopefully I will meet these goals!

Introduction

Hello my name is Jonathon Ivall. I am studying an MA in Game Art and Design.


Upon completing my degree in 2015, I found employment as an architectural visualizer at the design studio Wonder Vision. During my two year employment I was required to create rendered images for clients across the architectural and product design sectors. Nearing the end of my second year at the company I felt I had reached the limit of what I could learn through creating rendered imagery alone. I decided to undertake an MA qualification in Game Art and design so I could acquire skills involving real time graphics.

I believe the visualisation industry is already beginning to move towards utilizing real time graphics within its workflow and with the advent or virtual reality, interactivity with 3D visualisation is in demand. Due to my lack of knowledge in regards to real time graphics I decided to invest in further education, so that I could build a strong knowledge of real time techniques and improve as a 3D artist.

By studying at the University of Hertfordshire I am hoping to become proficient with Unreal Engine 4, learn the key principles of working within real time game engines and create a strong portfolio by the end of the year.

 

It is my hope that by studying this degree I will be able to give myself not only the skillset required to work in the industry, but also the theoretical knowledge of where the gaming industry is heading. After all it is a constantly evolving industry. The methods that are cutting edge today, could well become obsolete as technology continues to improve.

My goal for this year is to master the following:

Substance Painter - For high quality shaders
Unreal Engine - For creating interactive levels
ZBrush - For organic shapes and characters