How 3D laser scanning services are helping developers build games like Chernobylite

Quick: what makes a video game immersive? If you said 3D graphics, you’re partially right. 3D graphics are certainly necessary for an immersive gaming experience, but they’re not the only factor. Another key element is accurate and realistic models, which you can create thanks to 3D laser scanning services.

Now, as any game developer will tell you, creating accurate 3D models can be a challenging process. It often requires taking precise measurements, then translating those measurements into 3D models. This can be a time-consuming and error-prone process, which is why many developers are turning to 3D scanning services.

3D scanning services work by using lasers, sensors, and cameras to capture consecutive 3D images. The laser measures the distances between itself and objects, times how long the laser is on and turns those measurements into 3D models. Sensors track reflections to locate positions of 3D scans and cameras record 3D scans as many different images as they need to make a 3D model.

3D scanning services can be used in several industries including construction, engineering, 3D printing, archaeology, and entertainment. 3D scanning services are used by video game developers to capture 3D images of real places. These 3D images are used to create immersive worlds that look as realistic as possible. 3D scanning is becoming more accessible for indie developers.

Using 3D LASER SCANNING SERVICES to create a scary video game

One such game that can benefit from these services is the game Chernobylite.

Chernobylite is a 3D survival horror game set in the Chernobyl exclusion zone. Survivors’ tales tell of weird phenomena happening in different parts of the zone. 3D scanning services can be used to recreate a 3D model of the Chernobyl power plant and the area around it, allowing indie developers a huge advantage in realism and immersion.

In 1986, reactor 4 of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant exploded, causing a radioactive cloud to drift over Europe. The explosion and radiation release killed 31 people immediately and affected thousands more in the long term. 

The Chernobyl exclusion zone was created soon after the disaster as a 3,500 square kilometer area around the power plant that was to be avoided by humans. It’s become the setting for countless games since then.

Benefits of 3D scanning for video game development

3D scanning services can be more beneficial than traditional measurements because 3D scans are accurate and affordable once a 3D model has been done. 3D scanned models do not need to undergo several rounds of revisions, but rather an initial 3D scan can be used as a base and 3D detailing can be done on top of it. 3d laser scan services cost less than traditional measurements, save time, and provide an accurate 3D model.