3ds Max Basics for Modeling Video Game Assets, Volume 2 : Model, Rig and Animate Characters for Export to Unity or Other Game Engines

3ds Max Basics for Modeling Video Game Assets, Volume 2 builds on foundational skills introduced in Volume 1, guiding readers into the creation of fully realized 3D characters. Written by Bill Culbertson, this volume introduces character modeling, rigging, and animation using real-world production workflows in Autodesk 3ds Max.

3ds Max Basics for Modeling Video Game Assets, Volume Two builds on the foundational skills introduced in Volume One, guiding readers into the creation of fully realized 3D characters for video games. Written by veteran instructor and industry artist Bill Culbertson, this volume introduces character modeling, rigging, and animation using real-world production workflows in Autodesk 3ds Max. Through a structured, step-by-step process, readers create characters designed for the medieval castle environment developed in Volume One. Characters are rigged using the Character Animation Toolkit (CAT), skinned using the Skin Modifier, and animated with essential in-game movements. The completed characters are then exported into the Unity game engine and integrated into a playable third-person environment. The book features an integrated character pipeline from modeling to in-engine implementation, reinforcing learning through repetition while simulating a professional game studio pipeline—guiding readers through asset research, placeholder development, final modeling, UV mapping, and texturing using techniques such as box mapping and Quick Peel. While instruction is presented using 3ds Max, the principles and workflows are transferable to other major 3D modeling and animation platforms. Stay current with updates, resources, and downloadable project files at 3dsMaxBasics.com—a dedicated hub for both students and instructors. Ideal for:Game design, animation, and character development coursesHigh school, college, and university programsSelf-paced learners and creative technology classroomsKey Features:Step-by-step introduction to character modeling, rigging, and animationGradual progression of rigging concepts including linking, IK, FK, skin deformation, and vertex weightingProven curriculum developed through teaching over 1,000 video game studentsIncludes project files and instructions for exporting characters into UnityThis Edition Includes:Integrated character pipeline from modeling to in-engine implementationPractical animation exercises using game-ready movement cyclesReinforced learning through repetition and milestone-based projects