3D model: Difference between revisions

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{{mergeto|MDL}}
[[Image:Xsimodtool-workspace.jpg|thumb|A model being edited in the [[XSI Mod Tool]].]]
[[Image:Xsimodtool-workspace.jpg|thumb|A model being edited in the [[XSI Mod Tool]].]]


A '''model''' is a collection of [[Wikipedia:Point (geometry)|points]], or "[[vertex]]es", that form a 3D shape, or "[[mesh]]". The gaps between the points are usually filled with [[Wikipedia:Polygon (computer graphics)|polygons]], and these polygons are usually covered with a [[material]].
'''World Models''' are used in Hammer as ''pre-compiled'' world objects, as opposed to [[Brushes]] which are compiled during the map compile ([[vbsp|VBSP]]). Hammer cannot edit Models. It can only place them, by tying them to entities such as prop_static, prop_physics, prop_dynamic, etc. npc_type, weapon_type and item_type entities usually use preset worldmodels (to ensure recognisable consistency in game).


Models are used for almost everything in Source that isn't a part of the [[Worldspawn|world]]. NPCs, physics objects, guns, and even some buildings, to name but a few examples, are all models.
'''View Models''' are specially animated and optimised models used for "player usable" weapons and hand tools.


Models are created with programs external to the Source SDK; Valve recommend the [[XSI Mod Tool]], but there are other options. The Source SDK tool "[[Compiling Models|studiomdl]]" is used to convert the external program's files to the [[MDL|.mdl]] format that Source understands.
Valve's Source Models were created and edited with [[XSI Mod Tool]], which, although not bundled with the [[Source SDK]] tools, is free to download from [[XSI Mod Tool|XSI's website]]. Other [[model editor]]s that can export models in [[SMD]] format can also be used to work with Source Models. (See [[Compiling Models]].)


== Why use a model? ==
== Why use a model? ==

Revision as of 11:20, 5 April 2008

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A model being edited in the XSI Mod Tool.

World Models are used in Hammer as pre-compiled world objects, as opposed to Brushes which are compiled during the map compile (VBSP). Hammer cannot edit Models. It can only place them, by tying them to entities such as prop_static, prop_physics, prop_dynamic, etc. npc_type, weapon_type and item_type entities usually use preset worldmodels (to ensure recognisable consistency in game).

View Models are specially animated and optimised models used for "player usable" weapons and hand tools.

Valve's Source Models were created and edited with XSI Mod Tool, which, although not bundled with the Source SDK tools, is free to download from XSI's website. Other model editors that can export models in SMD format can also be used to work with Source Models. (See Compiling Models.)

Why use a model?

A Half-Life 2 scene consisting entirely of different models.
Detail
The concentration of vertexes on a model is many, many times higher than on a world brush.
Skeletal animation
Detailed, efficient, believable animation can be achieved with a model. Walking, talking, running, jumping!
Dynamism
Unless specifically made to behave otherwise, a model's position, lighting, state and motion are all completely dynamic. They can go anywhere and do anything.

See also