Learn Displacement and Parallax Mapping for UE4

🎓 Course Title: Learn Displacement and Parallax Mapping for UE4

Headline: Create and Understand Displacement Techniques Utilizing Parallax and Tessellation Shaders in UE4

Course Description:

Embark on a comprehensive journey into the world of advanced texturing techniques within Unreal Engine 4 (UE4)! In this course, we'll deep dive into the various ways to displace textures and explore the impact of parallax mapping and tessellation shaders. You'll gain a solid understanding of how these techniques can be effectively applied in creating realistic video game environments.

🌐 Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Displacement Methods: Learn the different methods for displacing textures within UE4 and their applications.
• Pros and Cons Analysis: Evaluate each technique to determine the best approach for your projects.
• Height Map Creation: Discover various methods to create height maps, including high to low poly workflows, Photoshop, and software like Knald, Crazy Bump, and xNormal.
• Material Setup: Master the creation of displacement materials in UE4, from bump offset materials to parallax occlusion materials and tessellation.
• Node Exploration: Dive into a detailed explanation of each node used in the UE4 material editor for creating realistic materials.
• Real-time Editing: Learn how to set up an instanced material in UE4, allowing for real-time editing of your displacement material within the engine.
• Hands-On Learning: With access to source files and detailed lectures, apply what you learn directly to your projects.

Instructor Profile: Ash Thundercliffe

Ash Thundercliffe brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this course. Having spent the last three years at the intersection of art and technology in the games industry, Ash's journey has been both diverse and enriching. Starting as a lecturer at the University of Derby, he quickly transitioned to working on indie projects, honing his skills as an environment artist for both mobile and PC platforms using Unity and UDK (Unreal Development Kit).

After a fruitful stint teaching and freelancing, Ash joined the esteemed ranks at Rockstar Games, where he served as a Technical Content Artist for nearly two years. His role involved pushing the boundaries of what's possible in AAA game environments. Now back in the realm of freelance work, Ash continues to excel as an environment artist, bringing his unique perspective and expertise to each project.

Course Structure:

1. Introduction to Displacement Techniques: An overview of displacement methods and their relevance in UE4.
2. Height Map Mastery: Explore the process of creating height maps using various software and methods.
3. Material Creation Deep Dive: Step-by-step guidance on crafting displacement materials, from bump offset to parallax occlusion, and tessellation.
4. Node Navigation in UE4: Detailed walkthrough of the nodes used in the material editor.
5. Real-time Material Editing: Techniques for setting up an instanced material for dynamic, real-time editing.
6. Course Project: Apply your newfound knowledge to create a realistic environment in UE4.
7. Final Thoughts and Next Steps: Wrapping up the course with insights into further learning and professional opportunities.

Additional Resources:

• Lecture Downloads: Access all the source files, materials, and guides associated with each lesson under Section 1 / Lecture 1 for hands-on practice.
• Community Forum: Engage with fellow students and the instructor in our dedicated forum to discuss projects, share insights, and seek advice.

Embark on this transformative learning experience today and elevate your game environment design to new heights with "Learn Displacement and Parallax Mapping for UE4." 🚀

Enroll Now and Transform Your Game Environments! 🎮✨