A 3D engine, or game engine, creates virtual environments for video games and simulations. It includes rendering for visuals, physics for object interaction, and AI for realism. Game engines streamline development by providing common gameplay elements and consistent experiences.
A three-dimensional (3D) engine, often called a game engine, is a system used for virtual computer simulations. Game engines are commonly used in video games, although other non-entertainment applications also exist. A 3D engine has several areas of functionality, which work together to create an immersive virtual environment. The rendering component of a game engine calculates the visual appearance of a scene, while a physics component determines how different objects should interact. Some engines also include features like scripting and artificial intelligence to enhance the feeling of realism.
Game engines streamline several key requirements. During the initial creation of a computer simulation or video game, a 3D engine can be used to streamline the development process. Many simulations and games have the same basic features and functionality. A 3D engine allows developers to access common gameplay elements without having to “reinvent the wheel” and build each feature from scratch.
For example, many popular games are played from a first-person perspective. While the story and characters of a new title may be different, the function of this point of view is often very similar to existing games. A pre-existing 3D engine can be used to process the visual perspective from this common viewpoint. In addition to saving development time, a built-in game engine provides gamers with a consistent and familiar interactive experience.
A common task for a 3D engine is calculating and rendering a particular scene. Game engines use mathematical models to predict how light rays would reflect off physical objects in the real world. Developers can program in-game objects to emulate certain visual characteristics and select a material such as metal or plastic. When playing the game, the engine will use these variables to simulate the reflection of light and render a scene visually accurate.
If a game includes movable objects or characters, the engine can also use math to simulate physics. The 3D engine will often contain a database of applicable physics rules. For example, a simplified rule might tell the 3D engine that unsupported objects should fall to simulate gravity. Modern engines contain very sophisticated physics capabilities, which enhance the gaming experience.
Scripting and AI programming can also be included in a game engine. These features allow developers to create characters that look like humans. Just as the physics component of an engine allows objects to behave realistically, artificial intelligence can be programmed with a character’s list of rules. An example of game engine scripting might be a computer character that follows the player through a level and provides clues or assistance based on the player’s actions.
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