Many already thought that in the battle between 2D and 3D art, 2D graphics had given way to 3D for a long time. Indeed, 3D-effect videos promise “immersive” experience. Many people get lost in fantastic shots that take the viewer right onto the stage. In the wake of the popularity of 3D formats, rarely can anyone say anything definite about 2D. This leads to the questions that many do not ask, but everyone thinks about it to some extent:
- How does 2D differ from 3D?
- What are the advantages of 3D versus 2D?
- What graphics and effects look better in 3D than 2D?
Imagine that you are a client looking to create a powerful TV ad or an impressive game. What would you do? You will contact a concept art agency to ask professionals for help. For example, you will order to create concepts for a specific occasion. The question of which style to choose – 2D or 3D – is usually confusing for most people.
Well, this article is about 2D and 3D art to help you better understand the differences between 2D and 3D images. Go on reading to come up with a workable solution to choose for future projects.
2D Art Vs 3D Art: Key Differences
2D or two-dimensional graphics is a section of computer graphics that works with an image formed in two dimensions. This is an image with only two parameters – width and height. 2D is also called a flat image. These are the pictures familiar to us, which we drew in the art lessons or observe in an art gallery.
2D graphics can be divided into several types depending on its components:
- Vector images are built on the basis of primitive geometric shapes: square, line, triangle, etc.;
- Pixel images (rarely called bitmaps) are a collection of pixels (short for pix element, can be described as an image element);
- Fractal images consist, respectively, of fractals – particles with the same structure.
3D or three-dimensional graphics is a section of computer graphics, the object of which is an image formed in three dimensions. If you add one more coordinate to the already existing x and y axes, which go deeper into the plane, you get a 3D image (three vectors). The parameters of such an image have width, height and depth, which makes it three-dimensional.
Both graphics are widely used in the film industry and the creation of computer games, as well as any other entertainment projects. But 2D graphics have lost their positions in computer games and cinematography, which has made it possible to implement special effects in 3D that can generally be called “immersive”, giving new sensations to viewers and players.
The main difference between 2D and 3D graphics is the way they are created and displayed. In simple words, the first type uses a flat coordinate system with two vectors, the second – a three-dimensional one.
2D Art Vs 3D Art Differences
- 2D creates a two-dimensional image, 3D – three-dimensional;
- 3D is used where special effects are preferred over information content and amount of information;
- Special technology and equipment may be required to reproduce and perceive 3D;
- 2D graphics are easy to play on low power devices and simple systems;
- 3D projects and solutions are brighter and more memorable, but at the same time more expensive as compared to 2D, which can be done faster and easier.
3D Vs 2D: Which Is the Better Choice for Game Art?
It’s amazing to see how rapidly video games have evolved, especially when compared to other entertainment mediums like movies or media. The appearance of a video game is one of the determining factors for its success, second only to its playability. Some video games try to look as realistic as possible, while others focus on styling.
In fact, most games can be divided into several categories of game mechanics. Each of these categories requires the correct use of graphics for a better player experience. So,
- In tile-based games like in Tetris, you’ll see 2D graphics;
- Real-time games will need to immerse players in a 3D environment that looks quite realistic to do it.
Typically, 3D is used where special effects are important. This gives you the ability to create something new. With 3D, you can combine reality and fiction in one setting. As a result, you’ll get a real virtual reality. At the same time, do not forget about the technology and equipment that can produce these effects without hindrance.
However, 2D is an underrated style that is often overlooked as an old technology. High-quality 2D graphics will never get old. There are two main styles: “classic” 2D games: top-down (chess, checkers) or side-view (Sonic) and “isometric”, which try to simulate 3D using an isometric projection at a given angle. Developers should not underestimate the benefits of avoiding technical overlaps in maintaining a bulky 3D engine and asset pipeline.
Conclusion
Whether it’s 2D graphics or 3D graphics, it’s all the job of a game artist to create the most impressive graphics for your future games. The success formula for future 2D / 3D games consists of the following elements:
- The artistic ability of the specialist of choice;
- Their working knowledge of specialized software;
- Other conditions (design, development, marketing, etc.)
Therefore, be sure to choose the best specialists in every field. Today, you can turn to dedicated game art outsource studios to gain access to a huge pool of talent for your future project.
