ICTGAM409
Create 3-D characters for interactive games


Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to design and build 3-D characters for commercial games.

It applies to individuals who support the design, development and implementation of the 3D characters of digital games, as part of a larger development team.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Research and analyse the characters

1.1 Determine and agree on the style of characters, according to the client requirements

1.2 Determine and agree on, the character type and profile

1.3 Determine and agree on, the character role and name

1.4 Determine and agree on, the character animations required for implementation into game systems

1.5 Compare the animations with the analysis criteria

2. Design the characters

2.1 Develop a concept illustration for the character

2.2 Conduct focus testing of the concept illustration with the client, and with representatives of the target market audience

2.3 Develop character schematics based on feedback, and submit to the client for approval

3. Develop the character models

3.1 Construct a 3-D character model on a turntable, based on the character schematics

3.2 Construct 3-D costumes, tools and accessories for the character model

3.3 Shade, texture and light, the completed character model

3.4 Implement joints, vertex weighting and character rig, to a 3-D character model

3.5 Develop animation blocking and in-betweens, in consultation with animation personnel for their approval

3.6 Compare the 3-D models and animations to the original concept illustration, for verification of quality and conformity to the brief

3.7 Submit to the client for approval

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

develop and realise the characters for games, using 2-D and 3-D software applications

develop character designs that comply with the games design brief, and the client requirements

develop the character designs

test responses to the character designs for aesthetic suitability with the intended audience, and act on the feedback.

Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.


Evidence of Knowledge

To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:

outline the features of 3-D software packages used to create 3-D character models for games

interpret the game design briefs

discuss the methods of 3-D character modelling, within the technical parameters and constraints of game development

discuss the technical limitations for the creation of 3-D character models for games.


Assessment Conditions

Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the game development field of work, and include access to:

computer hardware and software

games engines

file storage

character reference materials, such as models, illustrations, art and design books, and character photographs

a range of state-of-the-art games, across all platforms and genres

a range of the latest consoles and hand-held game devices

the internet for research purposes.

Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements.


Foundation Skills

This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.

Skill

Performance Criteria

Description

Reading

1.1, 1.5, 2.3

Identifies and interprets design briefs, and related technical documentation, containing complex animation-specific terminology and acronyms

Interprets and comprehends computer-generated text, diagrams, icons, symbols, numbers and letters necessary to use 3-D animation software

Writing

2.2

Uses plain English and appropriate questioning strategies, avoiding loaded or leading questions, when developing documentation for focus testing

Oral Communication

1.1, 1.2, 2.2, 2.3, 3.6

Employs effective listening and questioning techniques to obtain information

Participates in a verbal exchange of ideas and solutions, using plain English and 3-D animation terminology, summarising the main points to ensure understanding

Numeracy

1.4, 2.1, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5

Uses whole numbers, decimals and percentages relevant to measurement, font size, scale, ratio, coordinates, colour, shading and other attributes/variables, in the development of the animations

Interact with others

1.1-1.3, 2.2

Cooperates with others as part of familiar routine activities, to confirm agreement

Get the work done

1.1-1.5, 2.1-2.3, 3.1-3.7

Makes decisions and implements procedures for both routine and non-routine tasks, using formal decision-making processes

Plans, organises and completes work, according to the defined requirements and schedules

Uses creativity and initiative in character design

Uses digital systems and tools proficiently to complete required tasks


Sectors

Game development