The Role of Animation & VFX in Video Games

Video games have evolved significantly ever since its inception. From simple pixelated 2D video games to complex open-world 3D games, animation and VFX in video games have surely come a long way. Animation and VFX are two pillars of game development. They are two of the most essential aspects that can breathe life into your mobile game idea. Though, to an average layman, both processes might seem the same, they’re different disciplines that accomplices different goals in games.

In layman’s terms, animation refers to the movement of objects and characters whereas VFX refers to immersive ness, action, and more. In the past few years, both animation and VFX have improved significantly and have become essential aspects of game development.

Whether you are developing a AAA game with realistic graphics or a simple indie game, animation and VFX can be integral in improving your game’s overall aesthetic and gaming experience.

In this article, we will explore the role of animation & VFX in video games and how they both differ from each other.

What is Animation & Its Uses?

Animation is the process of providing movement to characters in the game. Animators take objects and characters and breathe life and personality into them, allowing them to move. For the smooth functioning of player movements, animation cycles are implemented for character actions in the game. This includes everything from simply moving to running and using weapons in complex action sequences.

Animation not only represents the character’s movements but how they move. Games like Call of Duty include realistic animation to match the serious combat theme of the game. Whereas fun games like Gang Beasts have exaggerated animations to suit their comedy theme and moments.

Principles of Animation in Video Games

Animation in video games primarily adheres to the twelve basic principles of animation. One of the techniques used is anticipation, which prepares the audience for an action that’s about to happen and staging, which includes cutscenes that grasp the audience’s attention, and more.

However, some game titles intentionally go against the animation principles. For example- squash and stretch is a principle that creates a sense of weight and flexibility for characters and objects. Games like Gang Beasts feature gelatinous characters who exaggerate the squats and stretch effect. This contributes to the gameplay and helps in achieving a comedic theme in the game.

One of the major challenges of animation is implementing realistic animations. Players can easily notice discrepancies and errors, especially in lifelike animations. Moreover, players can easily spot mistakes in third-person games as they have free control and a 360-degree view of the game world.

What is VFX and Its Uses?

While animation defines the way a character moves, VFX is an essential component that adds layers of immersion to the game. Visual effects represent the weather, magic effects, climate, explosions, and more. While the animation is more inclined towards the movement of characters, VFX determines the actions and movements of the environment.

Modern AAA games use VFX to create a sense of immersion with ever-changing weather effects. Games like Elden Ring feature an open world that feels truly realistic because of its dynamic weather VFX.

VFX Gameplay Effects

VFX helps a game communicate with players in a sophisticated way. This usually includes adding colour, shape, and particle effects to the game. Attacks and combos usually have a particular particle effect and colour, illuminated objects working as pathfinders, or highlighting the weak points of enemies during combat.

Visual effects provide extra polish and flair which wouldn’t have been possible with animation alone. Modern games like Dark Souls and Sekiro would be lifeless if it wasn’t for the special VFX. In addition to communicating with the players, VFX also serves as a refining of an already spectacular game.

Final Words

In conclusion, Animation and VFX are integral aspects that add charm and flair to a video game. While animation justifies player movement, VFX refines it by adding special effects and colours to seamless animations. They both are quite different but work in harmony with each other to generate the desired results. Lastly, seamless animation transitions and visual effects can truly make your game seem realistic and lifelike.

If you are also looking for cutting-edge animation & VFX services, you can contact a Game App Development Company.