Assets

I have started to create assets for my level by gathering wanted textures and getting them prepared for the import to UDK. In my project schedule it is said that I start the creation of my levels assets from the 4th February to the 1st April. I have managed to start creating a little earlier due to finishing the pre-production of my level before the completion date.

I have started by creating simple assets that will create the theme for my level. I have created a rocky stream, plant pot and a wooden plank with roots around. I feel that these features will help capture the theme of my level.

Some of the techniques used in my models are...

• Bump Mapping - I have added bump mapped textures to my models to add more detail to the model and to suite the look and feel of UDK. I have done this by creating normal maps for all the textures I have used.


• Specular Maps - I have also added specular maps to my models to add just the slight amount more detail, this is to ensure the end quality of my level is high.

I use Autodesk Maya for all of the models that I have created and use PhotoShop for the texturing. I sometimes use CGTextures in case I need a quick generic texture for my models. Once textured and created to my liking I then use ActorX to export my model from Maya format to UDK format. When inside UDK I import the model and the textures and create a new material linking diffuse and normal to create my detail.

I have created some UDK packages, one which is man made assets and others which are natural assets in my level. So far in natural I have made, a tree stump, vines and flowers. For the man made section of my level I have created bars for the fences around my level and a greenhouse in which players use for safe havens.

I am creating the assets now due to having set the deadline in my schedule for the 1st April, I am hoping to finish them all before that date however.