Creating an Environment

[danf]

I was hoping it wouldn't come to this, but using texture mapped planes isn't looking as good as a real 3D environment would (especially when the camera moves). So I'm starting to think about building a desert from scratch. Or from reference photos anyway. I'm thinking something like the Great Plains:

 

 

There's a lot to terrain like this. Subtle rolling hills. Bluffs and Crags. Shrubs aplenty. Crackled ground.

 

I don't even know where to start with this. I tried making a displacement map but it didn't come out at all. Like, a splotch in the middle disappeared, that was it. Seems like bluffs would be easy enough to model...

 

Anyways, just starting to sort out these thoughts. Where would you start?

[Rodney]

Two words...

 

Gradient

Material

 

Example from Brian Prince

 

More examples from Brian Prince

[heyvern]

Yeah, there's no magical "easy" one button way to create natural environments but it can be done. Displacement mapping could get you close but it isn't "real" patches so characters and objects may appear to penetrate the irregular surface and might be better suited for elements in the distance or that don't require interaction from characters. Best bet is to use fairly high patch grids and push and pull the points to make an irregular surface then add other objects (stones, plants, etc) to add realism. Lighting and texturing (decals, materials) is also going to be important.

 

You may want to use images for the far distance (3D is not an issue) and use actual geometry for close up.

 

Brian Prince is one of the experts on creating realistic landscapes in AM. Be assured all those rocks and debris are actual geometry and were placed by hand.

 

-vern

[zandoriastudios]

Similar situation in this old thread of mine:

http://www.hash.com/forums/index.php?s=&am...st&p=235207