Updating a Game’s Graphics from 2D Sprites to 3D Models

Abstract

The goal of this thesis was to go through the author’s own work when recreating 3D models for the game “Spooky’s Jumpscare Mansion: HD Renovation” created by Albino Moose Games and comparing it to the possible techniques used in another game’s remake, in order to define what concepts to keep in mind when recreating existing assets, as well as to find out what issues may arise in doing so. The thesis includes explanations for some basic concepts within 3D modelling, and looked into what difficulties may arise from remaking a game’s assets. Afterwards it analysed assets from the game “System Shock: Enhanced Edition” and its remake both published by Nightdive Studios and compared them in order to figure out the artists’ intent when recreating assets. These results were then compared to the author’s own work, to see if similar techniques had been used. The outcome of this was that both the author and the developers of System Shock’s remake had kept similar things in mind when recreating assets, and that there are numerous matters to keep in mind when recreating 2D assets into 3D, such as shapes and silhouettes, polygon count and topology, and animation.