3DS MAX for Games - Module I

Why should I take 3DS MAX for Games - Module I course?

This course will introduce you to fundamental modeling techniques for games and other multimedia applications using the 3D Studio MAX software. Course content will focus on developing core modeling skills, modifier usage, and polygonal modeling principles. Some tutorials will focus on skills that will immediately transfer towards building in-game assets (exportable to a game engine). Other tutorials will build toward game asset creation and, while not immediately exportable to games directly, they will help you understand the basic concepts of model creation. In either case, the goal of the course is to help you learn how to create game models using the modeling tool.

What will I learn if I take this course?

You will learn how to use basic components of the 3DS MAX software to create multi- object models.

The lessons cover the following topics:

• Conceptualizing 3D coordinate systems.
• How to construct 3D models using various tools.
• Understanding the basic skills of box modeling.
• Designing various texture types and applying textures using UVW coordinates.
• Understanding the processes in which modifiers and manipulators work within a 3D environment.
• How to render a scene.

  NB:

For more detailed information on the topics covered by this course offering, please download and review the 3DS1 Lesson Plan.
(To view this PDF, you will need to ensure that you have installed the free Acrobat Reader 7.0 or above.)

Who should take the course?

This course is highly recommended for those wishing to pursue a career in art and/or animation for games, particular if you are just getting started. It is designed to make learning the fundamentals of game modeling fun while still covering a large variety of required techniques. This course is also an excellent choice for students pursuing a programming track who want to learn more about how to create assets for their own projects. Basically, anyone who wishes to explore the techniques of building models in a 3D environment will benefit from this course.

What are the prerequisites to understanding the course material?

Rudimentary knowledge of Microsoft™ Word (or compatible) software is required. You should also be comfortable moving through the Microsoft™ Windows desktop environment. Some experience with Photoshop™ would also be beneficial but is not required.

What materials are necessary to complete the course?

• You will need the 3D Studio MAX™ software (version 8 or higher recommended). MAX will only run in Microsoft™ Windows (2000, XP). All Game Institute 3ds Max™ courses now include the option to purchase a copy of the 3ds Max™ 9 software, complete with a 1 year student license for only $170!. To include a copy of the 3ds Max™ 9 license and software with your purchase, simply follow the instructions during the checkout process. Create stunning 3D objects, characters and scenery for your games using cutting edge technology from the industry leaders in the field of 3D modeling and rendering.
  
  
• Adobe Photoshop™ (7.0, CS, CS2, and CS3) is also recommended.
  
  
• This course also includes a number of optional weekly reading assignments from the textbook "Autodesk 3DS MAX 8 Revealed" by Dutton and Doran. (ISBN: 0-619-27343-7). While not required, it is strongly recommended that you purchase a copy of this book to get the best experience possible from the course. This textbook can be purchased during the course checkout process if you would like us to ship the textbook direct to you, or can be purchased separately from an alternative outlet (such as Amazon).