> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://info.kaedim3d.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://info.kaedim3d.com/features/game-ready-pipeline.md).
# Game-Ready Pipeline
The Game-ready pipeline outputs 3D assets that are textured, rigged, and optimised. The pipeline consists of six stages and ensures a final output that is ready to be integrated directly into your games or projects.
### High Poly Geometry
**What it is:**
* The creation of a highly detailed 3D model with up to millions of polygons. Captures intricate surface details like wrinkles, pores, or fine textures.
**Why it's important:**
* Provides a detailed source for generating texture maps (e.g., normal maps, displacement maps) to retain high-quality visual detail in lower-poly, optimised models.
### Optimised Geometry
**What it is:**
* Simplifies the high-poly model into a version with significantly fewer polygons. Focuses on maintaining the silhouette and essential details while reducing computational load.
**Why it's important:**
* Optimised geometry ensures the asset is lightweight and suitable for real-time rendering in games, improving performance.
* A lower polygon count is critical for maintaining frame rates, especially in modern games that require rendering multiple complex assets simultaneously.
### UV Unwrapping
**What it is:**
* A 2D representation of a 3D model's surface (UV map) for applying textures. This involves "unfolding" the model so that texture coordinates can be assigned correctly.
**Why it's important:**
* Allows textures and materials to be applied accurately to the 3D surface.
* Essential for avoiding texture stretching, seams, or misalignment in the final model.
* A good UV layout maximises texture resolution and minimises wasted UV space, improving visual quality.
### Texture
**What it is:**
* The process of applying colours, materials, and surface details to the model using texture maps (e.g., diffuse, normal, roughness, metallic, etc.).
**Why it's important:**
* Defines the look and feel of the asset (e.g., weathered metal, soft fabric, glossy plastic).
* Enhances visual realism or stylistic appeal.
* Proper texturing ensures the model integrates seamlessly into the game’s artistic direction and environment.
### Rigging
**What it is:**
* A skeletal structure (rig) and control system for the model, allowing it to be animated. Includes adding bones, joints, and weight painting.
**Why it's important:**
* Enables movement and deformation of the model for animations (e.g., character walking, a tree swaying, a vehicle's suspension).
* A good rig ensures animations are smooth, natural, and free from distortions.
* Crucial for interactive elements in games, as it brings the asset to life.
### Levels of Detail (LODs)
**What it is:**
* The creation of multiple versions of the same model at varying levels of detail. For instance, LOD0 is the highest quality, while LOD3 might be a very simplified version.
**Why it's important:**
* Optimises performance by displaying lower-detail models when the asset is far from the camera.
* Reduces rendering workload without noticeable loss of quality during gameplay.
* Ensures consistent performance across different hardware capabilities.