Shader and VFX creationLaajuus (5 cr)

Objective

You describe how shaders influence visual style and real-time performance.
You create basic and intermediate shaders using a node-based system.
You design stylized and realistic visual effects for games.
You implement shaders and effects within a game engine.
You learn the fundamentals of material creation
You utilise simple vector maths
You critique the aesthetic and functional role of VFX in gameplay.

Content

What are shaders and how do they control surface appearance?
How do shaders work in a game engine?
What are good base colour and metallic values for PBR textures? Why do they matter?
What are different blend modes and how are they utilised in shaders?
How do you use node-based editors, what node types exist and when and how to use them?
How to create basic shaders for general-purpose game assets?
How do you create visual effects such as fire, smoke, magic, or hit feedback?
How to use simple vector maths?
What is the role of particle systems and how are they configured?
How do you combine textures, timing, and mesh animations in VFX design?
What are basic considerations for optimising shaders across different platforms?
In what ways can shaders and effects contribute to gameplay clarity and visual storytelling?

Evaluation

Students can
a. use professional vocabulary and concepts in an expert way in different situations.
b. assess information sources critically.
c. work as team members in work-related expert duties and identify and describe the problems of the professional field.
e. choose appropriate models, methods, software and techniques according to the purpose and justify these choices.
f. promote teams’ goal-oriented operation.
g. apply critically the ethical principles of the professional field in different situations.