[Guide] a few hints about performance of models

[Killjaeden]

This is a guide dealing with various aspects in Modelling for X3, concerning the impact on ingame-performance (fps and loading-time)

[ external image ]

featuring:
Smoothing Groups
Multimaterials
LODs

as always, comments and feedback appreciated. Link down or questions ? drop a note in this thread.

€dit:
How to check if my model is bloated
-Open the .bod of your model with notepad
-Crtl+F "body" you'll get right to the start of the body which is also the end of the texture block.
-Check the number behind the last MATERIAL6 entry. If that is higher then your texturecount you originally used then it is bloated.

€dit2:
Addition to Guide
UVW-splits/seams on Smooth surfaces also break the model up like different smoothing groups in X3.
If you import a ship from a bod it seems that all the UVW get broken up into single triangles.
So if you do import a model, you have to repair that first, or the model won't look rounded.

[Litcube]

Good info. Especially the Mats. Always wondered about that.

[Killjaeden]

Oh and one thing that was just recently noticed:

UVW-Seams on Smooth surfaces also break the model up like different smoothing groups in X3.

If you import a ship from a bod it seems that all the UVW get broken up into single triangles. So if you do, you have to repair that first, or the model won't look rounded.

[quantum36]

the download links for the guide don't work. Can someone please reupload.


thanks

[Killjaeden]

reupped

[quantum36]

THanks!!!!!!!


This is good information

[dertien]

Very helpful, thanks

[bluenog143]

I haven't really done any modeling but this info is too good to not download, thanks!