Which should I do?

In case of building up to the full cycle with a detailed model in the end, you better start transforming the blockout into a High poly model. If the aim is to design a lightweight model for a mobile game, you might jump straight into creating Low poly after blocking-out.

Create High poly

You will need High poly on the last stage of the pipeline to transfer details from it to the Low poly model. However, creating it should take place during mesh optimization. There are three primary techniques in designing High poly model:

• Subdivision Surface(SubD) relies on dividing the original model into smaller polygons, then calculating the vertices' average position to create new, smoother surfaces.

Software: 3ds Max, Blender

• Sculpting works like a digital version of Play-Doh. This method is highly suitable for modeling soft forms or organics as it makes the mesh so dense that our model becomes smooth and stretchy. While sculpting, you can operate tens and hundreds of millions of polygons.

Software: *ZBrush, Mudbox, 3D Coat

• CAD modeling allows the creation of models with high accuracy. A formula defines each surface, so the model is smooth and easy to edit at any stage. CAD is suitable especially for solid modeling. Engineers use this method to design bridges, cars, robots, and other stuff requiring precision.

Software: AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Fusion 360

Optimize Low poly

Transforming a blockout into Low poly can be as time-consuming as creating High poly. Here is a step-by-step guide to help prioritize your actions. However, don’t hesitate to deviate as this is just one approach among many.

1. Create a backup: Save a copy of your initial model before starting the optimization process.
2. Focus on the silhouette: Remove and merge unnecessary vertices and edges while carefully maintaining the model's overall shape.
3. Eliminate hidden geometry: Delete hidden polygons and non-visible elements like backwalls to optimize the model.
4. Soften sharp angles: Add or modify geometry to smooth overly sharp angles on the silhouette, enhancing the model's visual appeal.

5. Keep hard edges intact: Be cautious when altering geometry around hard edges or creases to maintain the model's intended appearance.
6. Simplify flat objects: Remove or integrate unneeded flat objects into adjacent geometry to save polygons. Don’t worry as they will come later as textures transferred from High poly.
7. Optimize cylindrical shapes: Ensure cylinders have a multiple of four faces, adjusting the face count based on the object's size. For example, a water tower may have 48 faces, while a cup should stick with 10 or near it.

8. Arrange intersecting elements: Position intersecting elements to balance visual appeal and efficiency. Avoid too-close placements that may cause visible seams, and prevent excessive overlap that complicates texturing later.
9. Evenly distribute triangles: Avoid high-density areas and long, thin triangles. Use larger planar faces for flat surfaces to optimize the model.

What’s next?

Practice. There is no other way to fully comprehend the process without going through it several times. So, grab the blockout and keep refining it until you get the desired result.

If Low poly is sufficient, you can continue to create them from here. However, if you want to master the whole pipeline and learn to model detailed and textured 3D models, move forward with this complete guide:

0. Introduction to AAA pipeline
1. Blocking-out
2. Mesh optimization (You are here)
3. UV unwrapping
4. Baking
5. Texturing

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Based on the material by XYZ Network

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