had a similar approach in that they used only a couple of dirtmap textures and the rest was done with vertex colours. I understand this was mainly done to save on level download size. Great results though.

As for my understanding of game development being narrow; I’ve been to a few Eastern countries, seen what happens there in terms of conferences, and seen what those guys choose to talk about at conferences when they come to the West. It appears to me that they have much more of a tradition of trying to keep trade secrets — Japan especially. A technical talk given by an American is, in general, totally different in style and attitude from a technical talk given by someone from Japan, and a large factor is the difference in terms of freedom of discussion and depth of information disclosed.

Your mileage may vary of course.

@a: what makes you think Sweden is an eastern country?

@Jonathan Blow: your understanding of game development outside of the states is very narrow if you think it’s only the Western world that shares game dev ideas. I wonder what’s your definition of Western, but whatever it is – it’s too narrow to make your statement even remotely true.

So are you talking about the technical limitations? artistic ability? a general style? Interesting post none the less, just not sure of the ‘problem’ you are solving :P

Have you considered implementing decals ?
They can help with unique details along with your blend shaders.

Meanwhile, the precomputed lighting pass gives us stuff that is way more interesting and subtle than what SSAO produces. (For example, SSAO is not going to give you any lighting gradient in the middle of a big flat wall… but places like that are where we see most lighting gradients in real life!)

Also thanks for the Naughty Dog GDC link. I recommend people purchase the audio that goes along with it as their art directors are simply amazing. (plus it’s only $4)

It’s great that you did find an artist you like, with plenty of experience at that, and the models (even the rough block-ins) so far are looking pretty interesting. Posts like this leave me wanting more. Whatever special visuals you do end up with, I’m excited to see it, and the fact you write stuff like this knowing it’s a long way coming is a very good sign. Such reliable thoughtfulness is refreshing and inspiring.