File Extensions

Raster file formats

JPEG - This is one of the main graphic formats used. These are compressed and use both 8 bit greyscale to 24 bit colour.

PNG - Clear background, portable network graphics.

BMP - This file format is also known as a bitmap image file.

TGA - A TGA is also refered to as a TARGA. These raster image formats are created by Truevision Inc.


Vector file formats

PSD - These are file formats from photoshop which can be re-worked on and edited at a later date. Programes which use it can handle both vector and raster images.

AI - This file format is used for adobe illustrator artwork.

DXF - This is a file format used for AutoCAD developed by autodesk.

Raster and Vector Graphics

Raster Graphics
Raster images are made up of different coloured pixels.
Larger than Vector graphics.
Raster graphics lose qulity the more they are zoomed in or enlarged.
Most images taken on digital camers are raster graphics.

Vector Graphics
Vector images are made up of lines and curves.
Smaller size than raster graphics.
Vector graphics do not lose quality when they are enlarged.
A big use of vector graphics is for fonts. an example of this would be zooming into the text on your web browser, the text will not become blurred.

What is a pixel?

Also known as Picture element.
A pixel is a physical point in a raster image.
A pixel is a single block of colour. These blocks are put together to create images. The co-ordinates and colour is determined based on the display.
The more pixels there are in a smaller amount of space, the higher the image quality (resolution) will be.

Artistic styles

-Photo Realistic-
These games are realistic and accurate to human standards. Good photo realistic games will incorporate reflections and good realistic shadows.
Here is an example of the game operation flashpoint.

(Non Photo Realistic)

-Cell Shading-
These games are cartoon based and use a lot of lines and geometric shapes just like in cartoons.
Here is an example of the ps2 game Cell Damage.

-Abstract-
Abstract games do not stive to be realistic and are very graphically abstract.
Games that are different and don't fall into the other categories genrally fall into the abstract catergory.
This example is the game limbo. This game shows a very strong abstract style.

-Exaggerate-
Anime drawing style usually fits into this category. Features in this style of game are exagerated for example; the size of the characters eyes.
This example is Naruto Generations. The style of the game is close to the actual anime series graphics.

 

Types of computer game graphics

Background art-

Background art is art seen in the distance. It is usually a stationary 2d image plane which is not in focus. 

Texture art –

Texture art is the mapping a 2d image around a 3d model, the 2d image textures can be created from scratch.

The textures contribute to 99% of the visual experience of the game.

Concept art –

Concept art is usually created at the planning stage, Concept are will help companies save money and time, One of the most common uses are in character and product design.
Concept art is created in various ways, the main way being by hand with pencil and paper. Concept art can be created digitally with a graphics tablet.

Pixel art –

Pixel art is common in 8 or 16 bit games, some examples are Scott pilgrim, Mario and habbo. Used as isometric and none isometric. Basic mobile games us pixel art as phones don’t have as much memory.
This type of art is usually simple and block colored.

Interface graphics –

HUD's, menus and health bars are examples of interface graphics. The graphics are usually created on Photoshop or other similar programs used to create 2d graphics,
HUDs are usually basic grapics designed to be clear and informative.

Print media art –

Used on media such as box art, posters, billboards and merchandise.

Not only used for games but for dvds, cd ect.

Its main purpose is to look appealing to help advertise and draw in the desired target audience.

Mainly developed via printing

Can be seen online as advertisements so not always developed via printing.