Modeling and 3D printing of the most iconic object in a video game
Have you ever imagined a magic item from your favorite video game coming true? That is exactly what we did with the Lumifaro, the most representative object of the Nébula video game by the illustrator and concept artist Alba Álvarez. In this article we tell you about how we prepared a 3D model of the Lumifaro and produced a replica with our 3D printer. We also created a 3D animation to give light to this element with such prominence. In addition, we will talk about the uses and applications of 3D printing of physical objects to promote digital products. Would you like to discover how we did it?
The product: Lumifaro
Alba Álvarez is an illustrator and conceptual artist. She created a beautiful concept for her video game, Nebula, which you can see on her website.
In the game, the main character carries a Lumifaro, a magical item. It is the most representative object in the game and Alba thought of creating a physical replica to use it as a catchy visual claim at events, fairs, etc. and attract attention to her game.
And it couldn't sound like a more brilliant idea!
Model preparation: 3D model creation process
To create the 3D model of the Lumifaro, we used as a base the sketches and some previous 3D models that Alba provided us with. Alba wanted the item to have an old and worn look, so we kept this in mind throughout the process.
The object has a repeating circular geometry, so we decided to model a section and then repeat it to create the full object. This allowed us to model each section in great detail and be more efficient in the process.
Once we completed the object's section, we added some detail and deformation to give it its own character and make it better fit the artist's vision. For example, we added some scratches and cracks to it to make it look like an old, worn item.
3D printing of the item
Once we had the 3D model finished, it was time to print the Lumifaro. Alba wanted the object to have a small light inside in order to create the full Lumifaro effect. This added an extra challenge to the project.
We had to add a hole to be able to run some wires through. We also had to design a thread to print the object in two parts that coil one on top of the other to enable lights installation and replacement.
For 3D printing we used our 3D printer and white PLA filament as printing material.
Uses and applications
The 3D printed Lumifaro we created for Alba is a great way to promote her game, Nebula. By having a physical replica of the most representative item in the game, Alba can display it at events, fairs, and presentations to attract the audience's attention and make her game memorable.
3D printing of objects like the Lumifaro can have many applications in the world of digital products. For example, in the gaming industry, 3D printed items can be used as exclusive rewards for fans, or as limited edition items to incentivize the purchase of a game or related product.
Overall, 3D printing digital items for physical display can be an effective way to promote digital products and make them more visible and prominent in an increasingly information-saturated world.
The Lumifaro is a perfect example of how 3D printing can be used to create unique and attractive objects that help highlight a particular digital product.