What are some effective lighting techniques used in video games?

What are some effective lighting techniques used in video games?

Some effective lighting techniques include dynamic lighting, baked lighting, and global illumination. Each has its own advantages.

Can you explain dynamic lighting and how it impacts gameplay?

Dynamic lighting changes in real-time based on player actions, enhancing immersion and realism. It can affect visibility and mood.

What about baked lighting? When should it be used?

Baked lighting is pre-calculated and stored in textures, which is great for static environments. It improves performance but lacks real-time changes.

How does global illumination differ from other techniques?

Global illumination simulates how light bounces off surfaces, creating more realistic lighting. It's computationally intensive but enhances realism.

What are some tools or engines that support these techniques?

Popular engines like Unreal Engine and Unity support these lighting techniques, offering tools for both dynamic and baked lighting.