Core Techniques and Algorithms in Game Programming

Chapter 12. 3D Pipeline Overview

	“Show me how you do that trick… the one that makes me scream” – she said
	--The Cure

KEY TOPICS

• A First Look

• Fundamental Data Types

• Geometry Formats

• A Generic Graphics Pipeline

• In Closing

The advent of powerful consumer-level 3D accelerators has increased the expressive potential of games at the cost of higher development complexity. Graphics engines have evolved from simple sprite painting routines to real-time geometry processors; their complexity spiraling up to rival high-end CAD systems and military simulations.

In this new scenario, getting the graphics code right is probably the biggest challenge any development team will face. Developers must be able to create the illusion of immersion and reality at interactive ...