Course Title: Learn How to Craft Game Effects using Houdini & UE4

Headline: A Guide for Experienced Film VFX Artists Transitioning into Real-Time Graphics

Dive into the World of Interactive Visual Effects

Are you an experienced film VFX artist looking to expand your skill set into real-time graphics? Join us in this 45-Minute Lecture - originally presented to the Vancouver Houdini User Group in August 2016 - where Stephen Tucker guides you through the transition from feature films to interactive media. This talk is tailored for those well-versed in film VFX workflows and specifically those utilizing Houdini.

Course Overview:

This comprehensive guide is designed to bridge the gap between traditional film VFX and the demands of real-time game environments. Learn how to adapt your artistic vision without losing the quality of your effects, even when working within the constraints of current game platforms.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Real-Time Limitations: Get to grips with the differences between film and real-time graphics, particularly the importance of lightweight visuals in games.
• Optimization Techniques: Discover how to optimize your effects for game engines using techniques like sprite sheets, texture packing, particle trimming, and GPU-handled transformations.
• Transition Strategies: Explore the transition from film VFX to real-time graphics with a focus on Houdini 15.5.523 and Unreal Engine 4.12.5.

What You'll Learn:

🔥 Crafting Game Effects: This course will not just teach you how to make pretty effects, but how to craft visually stunning game effects that are also performant.

• Conceptual Introduction: Get introduced to key concepts such as vertex animation and the power of two dimensions in a way that aligns with your film VFX experience.
• Houdini & UE4 Workflow: Learn how to leverage Houdini's powerful simulation engine alongside Unreal Engine 4 for real-time applications.
• Performance Considerations: Understand the importance of creating effects that are both visually impressive and performant on game hardware.

Course Features:

🎓 Real-World Applications: This course is not just theoretical; it includes practical examples from Houdini 15.5.523 and UE4.12.5 that you can study further at your own pace.

• Expert Insights: Gain insights from Stephen Tucker, an industry expert with a wealth of knowledge in both film and game VFX.
• Interactive Learning: Engage with the material by following along with real examples and applying the concepts to your own projects.
• Downloadable Assets: Access to example files from the lecture allows you to dissect, study, and learn how the effects are created.

Why Take This Course?

If you're an experienced film VFX artist looking to cross over into the realm of real-time graphics for games, this course is your stepping stone. It's designed to introduce you to the necessary workflow adjustments and performance considerations in a way that complements your existing expertise.

Who Should Take This Course?

• Film VFX Artists: If you're accustomed to working with Houdini on feature films and want to explore the game industry, this course is for you.
• Game Developers: For those interested in incorporating high-quality film VFX techniques into their game projects.
• Aspiring Real-Time Artists: If you're looking to transition from film to real-time graphics, this guide will help you understand the nuances of optimizing your work for game engines.

Final Thoughts:

Embark on a journey to expand your VFX skill set and explore the exciting world of interactive media with this expertly crafted course by Stephen Tucker. Whether you're looking to innovate within the film industry or leap into the realm of games, this lecture provides an essential roadmap for your creative evolution.

Enroll now and take your first step towards becoming a versatile VFX artist in both film and real-time graphics! 🚀