Is it necessary to ..

[Ggd07]

Is it necessary to learn 3D modeling in order to be a good level/map designer.
Would learning the basics of 3D modeling, or prop modeling increase your experience and perspective in Level/Map designing, and is it more difficult than it to do/learn.

I am asking that, because I see difficulty making everything with brushes, and want to know what is the opinion of you guys.

I hope I do not get flamed for this.

[Woe Kitten]

I don't see why you would get flamed but I can see the debate getting quite heated. In my opinion it isn't necessary to learn 3D modeling to be good but if you want to make anything really special you will need to learn or find someone else to do the custom content for you.

[1447]

I wouldn't call it strictly necessary, but it'll certainly make your life easier if you map alot. You'll be able to create more detailed environments, because as you said, making everything with brushes can be a pain in the ass sometimes. You'll also be able to create a something exactly the way it appears in your head, as you're not held back by the standard models that comes with the Source games. I don't know how hard it is to learn though, as I never bothered learning it, but I don't think it is exceptionally difficult.

[Woe Kitten]

In my opinion the hard part isn't modelling. The hard part is getting the bastard models into game!

[staberas]

In my opinion the hard part isn't modelling. The hard part is getting the bastard models into game!

i feel your pain

[MayheM]

It is not necessary, however it reduces limitations. If you are good with brushwork alone you have to rely on models that either come with the game or have been released by someone else. However it you learn to create your own props you can make whatever you want to fulfill your vision for your map.

I have yet to learn how to make models, and the reason given above is why I want to learn.

[Psy]

For Source it is not neccessary but for everything else such as Cryengine and Unreal it's essential.

[Ggd07]

Hehe, as soon as I purchase an unreal tournament game, I want to try UnrealED..
Thanks for the posts, It is good to see some opinions and feedback by artists"".

I want to try to learn prop modeling, but I do not know if it is going to be difficult, is it similar to mapping.
Well I bet I won't learn by sitting here and whining about it:)

Better yet try for my self.
Experience is always the best answer!

Thank you guys!

Best wishes!

[Spike]

IMO it's basic to know modeling.

For Source it isn't, but Source is Source, every other engine requires modeling skills for level design

[Zipfinator]

Not for level design. Level design is creating the actual layouts and gameplay. Environmental art is where you'll model and texture assets and maybe place them in an environment. I guess this isn't that technical of a conversation, but I get annoyed when people mix them up or think they are the same.

And I agree, you should start to learn to model. The earlier you start the better.

[Ggd07]

Not for level design. Level design is creating the actual layouts and gameplay. Environmental art is where you'll model and texture assets and maybe place them in an environment. I guess this isn't that technical of a conversation, but I get annoyed when people mix them up or think they are the same.

And I agree, you should start to learn to model. The earlier you start the better.

Relax mate, nothing to get pissed about on the internet right ?
That's why I am asking, because I know they are experienced people here.
Do not get annoyed from a person you do not even know?

Ain't that right ? eh?

[joe_rogers_11155]

Relax mate, nothing to get pissed about on the internet right ?

He wasn't being a jerk, there's no harm done there.

I suggest learning to use Hammer before you learn to model. That way you can understand the general style of Source games, as well as the proportions of objects and players, etc. Modeling is a huge way to boost your abilities and your favor among the mod community. I have gotten to the point where I really need to learn modeling to expand the scope of my mod, so I would suggest you do the same for yours.

[Ggd07]

Hey, I did not say he is a jerk, I said that there is no point in getting annoyed by a person on the internet:)

And may I ask from where did you start?

I mean what is the best way to start learning, and not get your self in a hard time, by trying to learn something that is out of your skills. What is the most efficient way of learning, and what software. the free xsi ? blender ?

[saberx2]

i'd say i spend about 70% of the time spent on my maps in softimage working on props. back in the days of quake1 you could just build your chair or table or wutever outta brushes and tie it to a func_door that doesn't move. that doesn't really fly anymore, tho...

[Psy]

Hehe, as soon as I purchase an unreal tournament game, I want to try UnrealED..

You don't need an Unreal 3 game. You can use the UDK for free.