CGI-Quality said:
So, in regards to baking (and how I improved on it from 2019), I'll use my character simply known as 'Kathy'.
In 2019, I baked shaders, but my pipeline wasn't as robust (I'll explain how this pertains to Game Design in a moment). In 2020, the techniques have been modernized and refined (exactly what next gen devs will be shjowcasing in their upcoming games). So, these are some of the comparion results...
2019
2020
2019
2020
Of course, skin is the star of the show, but I also was able to streamline cloth (making for softer, more realistic looking fabric) and hair (where SSS helped the hair better absorb light, making ti look more natural). Hair and skin now have far less "sheen", creating a more natural and softer feel (just wait until you see the best characters from next gen games)!
2019
2020
Here, we have considerable improvements to the raytracing algorithm used in the eye reflections, softer eyelashes, SSS in the eyebrows, and better muscle definition of the facial bones (allowing for stronger expression). All of this is possible thanks to improved techniques and hardware that will allow you to push such detail in a much quicker fashion! Much of that "plastic" look should be gone in the 2020 image and that's what Game Designers will be improving upon as well.
2019
2020
Finally, lighting! It can make or break an image, scene, and scenario! Last year, I used a form of lighting artists simply call "Abstract". That is, lacks a focus, instead choosing rays from multiple directions to create an ambiance. In 2020, I improved on this, giving it more of a focus while allowing the scene keep its form of a "startled-horror" mood.
Of course, some people may prefer the 2019 look, because "shiny" just works, but in terms of accuracy, it is a step behind the 2020 shots. Also, this is what can be mislabeled as a "downgrade" by gamers because they lack an understanding of just what kind of changes and adjustments artists put into the work. Sure, it can sometimes be down to hardware limitation (as was the case with The Witcher III), but many times, it isn't a reduction of quality, but an adjustment to the materials.
More to come today as a final nod before Sony shows those next gen goods tomorrow!
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