Overview

In this advanced 3D modeling course, you will focus on the crucial final steps of completing your medieval windmill prop and preparing it for game engine integration. You’ll start by fine-tuning structural details like the waterwheel’s central pillar and stone openings before moving on to more intricate elements like arched supports, doors, and handles. The lessons will guide you through creating wooden beams, realistic stone textures, and functional props that enhance the authenticity of your model. As you progress, the course will help you prepare your windmill for animation, with lessons on rigging and setting keyframes for moving parts such as the windmill arms, waterwheel, and other functional elements. You will explore Blender’s Eevee and Cycles render engines, learning how to present your model for a portfolio-ready render. The course wraps up with a detailed introduction to Unreal Engine 5, where you will learn how to import your model, apply materials, and ensure that it’s game-ready. By the end of the course, you will have fully completed a detailed and animated 3D medieval windmill that can be showcased in a professional portfolio or implemented into Unreal Engine 5 for game development. This course is perfect for 3D artists and game developers looking to advance their skills and create highly detailed, functional assets. This course is for intermediate to advanced 3D modelers, game designers, and artists looking to finalize complex models and integrate them into Unreal Engine 5. A good grasp of Blender and basic game asset workflows is recommended.

Syllabus

Waterwheel Turner and Stone opening

In this module, we will focus on creating two key elements: the central pillar of the waterwheel and a detailed stone opening. These features are crucial for ensuring the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your windmill. You’ll gain insights into optimizing both structural integrity and design efficiency.

How to Create Arches

In this module, we will dive into the world of arched structures and balcony supports. You'll learn how to model aesthetically striking supports and finish the balcony area with medieval detailing, adding both character and functionality to your windmill model.

Modelling the Doors and Handles

In this module, we will create detailed doors and handles for our medieval windmill. Starting with an introduction to simple door modeling, we will progress to creating stone arches and finish with advanced handle designs using curve techniques.

Creating the Main Staircase Base

In this module, we will begin constructing the windmill's main ramp and develop a base for showcasing your model. This section focuses on structural elements that not only support the windmill but also enhance its overall visual presentation for portfolio use.

Main Staircase Needs Supports

In this module, we will focus on constructing intricate support systems for the windmill’s staircase. You’ll practice advanced UV mapping and learn how to bring together various architectural elements, finishing the main staircase and completing the side of the windmill.

Laying Out the Windmill Front Wall

In this module, we will work on the front wall of the windmill, starting with grey boxing a bay window. You’ll apply stone textures to the wall and conduct a critical review of the entire model to ensure it meets quality standards.

Modelling the Complex Bay Window

In this module, we will construct the bay window for our windmill, from its frame to its glass panes. You’ll troubleshoot common glass issues and bring the entire build to completion, ready for export to Unreal Engine 5.

Creating the Windmill Base

In this module, we will focus on constructing a sturdy stone base for the windmill. You’ll learn how to ensure the building’s longevity by factoring in water exposure and designing a base that protects the structure from potential environmental damage.

Portfolio Setups Eevee and Cycles

In this module, we will set up a high-quality portfolio render of your medieval windmill, covering essential steps for achieving optimal visual output. You’ll explore the capabilities of Blender’s Eevee and Cycles render engines, learning how to make informed decisions about which renderer best suits your artistic needs.

Welcome Animations within Blender

In this module, we will introduce basic animation in Blender, focusing on animating the windmill’s key components, including the arms and waterwheel. You’ll also learn about weighting bones and setting up keyframes to bring your model to life.

Unreal Engine 5 Importing and Setup of a Game Asset

In this final module, we will import the windmill model into Unreal Engine 5. You’ll learn to create and apply materials, ensuring they look realistic in-game, and conclude by testing and finalizing your windmill as a fully functional game asset.