Do you remember the first video game on a console or PC you ever played? The first video game that was created using computer-generated imagery (CGI) is Battlezone in 1980. So how does this affect digital animation in 2022 and the future? As the leading digital animation agency, the original H2 creative agency, we discuss the advancement of computer-generated imagery and how this helps businesses and entertainment.
Do you remember the first video game on a console or PC you ever played? The first video game that was created using computer-generated imagery (CGI) is Battlezone in 1980. So how does this affect digital animation in 2022 and the future? As the leading digital animation agency, the original H2 creative agency, we discuss the advancement of computer-generated imagery and how this helps businesses and entertainment.
The meaning of CGI is simply computer-generated imagery, which can come in many forms. From the 2D styles of early video games like Pong to early 3D titles such as Street Fighter IV and Final Fantasy XIII to the super-realistic animated games we see today, like Bright Memory: Infinite and Heavenly Sword, top-of-the-range CGI can transform gameplay.
But what exactly is CGI and how does it work? When you look at CGI meaning, it refers to any static or moving image that has been created (or partly created) or enhanced by a computer system. However, the term ‘CGI’ is most commonly used to refer to 3D graphics, like those seen in movies like Avatar or games like Half-life: Alyx.
Many people are surprised to learn that computer-generated imagery usually starts with hand drawings. This allows artists to bring stories and gameplay to life before translating and optimising the visuals with computer software. Once a storyboard has been approved, photorealistic visualisations are created that give an indication of what the final product will look like.
Objects that are created with CGI are known as visual assets and, in big productions, teams of modelling artists, texture painters, shader developers, and riggers work together to create these elements.
As you might expect, animators play a major role in making CGI work. Anything that moves on-screen, from video game characters to digital farm animals, needs to be animated and a range of techniques can be used to achieve the desired effect. In digital animation, artists may use digital cut-out animation, 3D animation, motion capture, and stop motion animation to create seamless moving images.
To integrate CGI into live footage, motion tracking is used to make 3D virtual assets look completely realistic. Often, a virtual camera is created so that virtual assets can be captured at the same angle as live shots, although this is more applicable to moviemaking than video game production.
Next comes the FX animation, where artists recreate the behaviour of recognisable elements in virtual format. If there is a stream running along a grassy bank in a video game, for example, FX Animators will ensure the water ripples and flows to create a realistic depiction.
But it doesn’t stop there. To complete the project, lighting, matte paint, and rotoscoping are used before the CGI graphics are integrated into live footage via a process known as compositing.
Computer-generated imagery is commonly used in today’s video games. In fact, virtually every game you play will have been enhanced by CGI. From creating fantasy worlds to optimising characters’ features, there are endless ways that CGI can improve gameplay.
However, this isn’t the only reason that CGI has become so popular. As technology has advanced, it’s cheaper and more efficient for game developers and movie producers to use CGI. When directors want to use a live shot of London but they’re filming in America, for example, using a CGI version is more cost effective and provides faster results than flying a whole crew across the Atlantic.
At a time when gaming is enjoying worldwide popularity, every aspect of a game comes under scrutiny. Whether it’s using professional composers and songwriters to create the lyrics to video games or digital artists to build new worlds using CGI, you can expect computer-generated imagery to feature heavily in any new title you play.
Adding CGI content to your website can enhance visual interest, capture the user’s attention, and elevate your brand, providing it’s done professionally. Poor quality CGI can easily be spotted, particularly if computer-generated imagery is going to be layered with real-life footage. In contrast, high-quality CGI is barely noticeable to the viewer and enhances every aspect of the footage.
Although CGI is becoming increasingly popular, it isn’t the only way to incorporate moving images into your website. In fact, other types of digital animation can be just as effective when it comes to improving the UX and motivating potential customers, including:
Far from being old-school, 2D animation can be a great way to bring your brand to life. From cartoons and moving infographics to explainer videos and how-to checklists, 2D animation offers versatility and flexibility.
You don’t need to hire an entire Hollywood studio to incorporate 3D animation into your website. For more immersive and realistic videos, our 3D animation services deliver just what you’re looking for. From interactive online ads to 3D computer cartoons, there’s not much you can’t achieve with 3D animation.
Your company name and tagline are integral elements of your brand, but are you making the most of them? With typography animation, you can make your name more memorable and engage your target audience(s). Often used for intros and final shots, you can even combine typography animation with other types of videos for maximum impact.
If you want to combine live-action footage with animation, rotoscoping can help you to achieve your goals. Why not use an animated character to explain your products, introduce your brand, or even interact with staff members?
At H2 Creative, we offer a wide range of professional digital animation services that can take your brand to the next level. From concept creation and storyboarding to filming, postproduction, and 3D rendering, we can handle every aspect of production in accordance with your requirements.
To learn more, contact our team today on 01225 302473 or drop us a line at hello@h2.co.uk
Do you remember the first video game on a console or PC you ever played? The first video game that was created using computer-generated imagery (CGI) is Battlezone in 1980. So how does this affect digital animation in 2022 and the future? As the leading digital animation agency, the original H2 creative agency, we discuss the advancement of computer-generated imagery and how this helps businesses and entertainment.
Do you remember the first video game on a console or PC you ever played? The first video game that was created using computer-generated imagery (CGI) is Battlezone in 1980. So how does this affect digital animation in 2022 and the future? As the leading digital animation agency, the original H2 creative agency, we discuss the advancement of computer-generated imagery and how this helps businesses and entertainment.
The meaning of CGI is simply computer-generated imagery, which can come in many forms. From the 2D styles of early video games like Pong to early 3D titles such as Street Fighter IV and Final Fantasy XIII to the super-realistic animated games we see today, like Bright Memory: Infinite and Heavenly Sword, top-of-the-range CGI can transform gameplay.
But what exactly is CGI and how does it work? When you look at CGI meaning, it refers to any static or moving image that has been created (or partly created) or enhanced by a computer system. However, the term ‘CGI’ is most commonly used to refer to 3D graphics, like those seen in movies like Avatar or games like Half-life: Alyx.
Many people are surprised to learn that computer-generated imagery usually starts with hand drawings. This allows artists to bring stories and gameplay to life before translating and optimising the visuals with computer software. Once a storyboard has been approved, photorealistic visualisations are created that give an indication of what the final product will look like.
Objects that are created with CGI are known as visual assets and, in big productions, teams of modelling artists, texture painters, shader developers, and riggers work together to create these elements.
As you might expect, animators play a major role in making CGI work. Anything that moves on-screen, from video game characters to digital farm animals, needs to be animated and a range of techniques can be used to achieve the desired effect. In digital animation, artists may use digital cut-out animation, 3D animation, motion capture, and stop motion animation to create seamless moving images.
To integrate CGI into live footage, motion tracking is used to make 3D virtual assets look completely realistic. Often, a virtual camera is created so that virtual assets can be captured at the same angle as live shots, although this is more applicable to moviemaking than video game production.
Next comes the FX animation, where artists recreate the behaviour of recognisable elements in virtual format. If there is a stream running along a grassy bank in a video game, for example, FX Animators will ensure the water ripples and flows to create a realistic depiction.
But it doesn’t stop there. To complete the project, lighting, matte paint, and rotoscoping are used before the CGI graphics are integrated into live footage via a process known as compositing.
Computer-generated imagery is commonly used in today’s video games. In fact, virtually every game you play will have been enhanced by CGI. From creating fantasy worlds to optimising characters’ features, there are endless ways that CGI can improve gameplay.
However, this isn’t the only reason that CGI has become so popular. As technology has advanced, it’s cheaper and more efficient for game developers and movie producers to use CGI. When directors want to use a live shot of London but they’re filming in America, for example, using a CGI version is more cost effective and provides faster results than flying a whole crew across the Atlantic.
At a time when gaming is enjoying worldwide popularity, every aspect of a game comes under scrutiny. Whether it’s using professional composers and songwriters to create the lyrics to video games or digital artists to build new worlds using CGI, you can expect computer-generated imagery to feature heavily in any new title you play.
Adding CGI content to your website can enhance visual interest, capture the user’s attention, and elevate your brand, providing it’s done professionally. Poor quality CGI can easily be spotted, particularly if computer-generated imagery is going to be layered with real-life footage. In contrast, high-quality CGI is barely noticeable to the viewer and enhances every aspect of the footage.
Although CGI is becoming increasingly popular, it isn’t the only way to incorporate moving images into your website. In fact, other types of digital animation can be just as effective when it comes to improving the UX and motivating potential customers, including:
Far from being old-school, 2D animation can be a great way to bring your brand to life. From cartoons and moving infographics to explainer videos and how-to checklists, 2D animation offers versatility and flexibility.
You don’t need to hire an entire Hollywood studio to incorporate 3D animation into your website. For more immersive and realistic videos, our 3D animation services deliver just what you’re looking for. From interactive online ads to 3D computer cartoons, there’s not much you can’t achieve with 3D animation.
Your company name and tagline are integral elements of your brand, but are you making the most of them? With typography animation, you can make your name more memorable and engage your target audience(s). Often used for intros and final shots, you can even combine typography animation with other types of videos for maximum impact.
If you want to combine live-action footage with animation, rotoscoping can help you to achieve your goals. Why not use an animated character to explain your products, introduce your brand, or even interact with staff members?
At H2 Creative, we offer a wide range of professional digital animation services that can take your brand to the next level. From concept creation and storyboarding to filming, postproduction, and 3D rendering, we can handle every aspect of production in accordance with your requirements.
To learn more, contact our team today on 01225 302473 or drop us a line at hello@h2.co.uk
We must be mad! Rachael, Lewis and Rob are doing a sponsored wing walk in May! Rachael asked in the office one day: “Does anyone fancy doing a wing walk?”. A resounding “NO” was the reply (or something along those lines!) from everyone except Lewis and Rob. So, it was arranged and there’s no going back now!
Every year, the H2 team fundraises for local and national charities that are close to their hearts. And this initiative is in aid of Dorothy House – a local hospice that provides exceptional, personal care for people with life-limiting illnesses.
Your support to help them soar to new heights is greatly appreciated!
We’ve recently been working with innovative jewellery company Ti2 Titanium – a team of skilled designers and jewelry makers who craft each unique piece in their collection. We’ve revamped their brand, redesigned and built their website and taken bespoke photography, as well as managing their social media.
To enhance their online visibility and increase brand recognition and engagement, we’ve utilised intricate social media tactics and created compelling photo and video content. This has significantly increased their followers, reach and interaction. We’ve also streamlined their online checkout process and product customisation, gaining excellent feedback for user experience and resulting in a considerable increase in sales.
We’re looking forward to working with Ti2 Titanium more in the future!
Read full case studies below:
Ti2 – Rebrand & Website
Ti2 – Social Media
Ti2 – Photography
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