Q: Where can I get the models of the existing characters so I can build my item in context?Ī: Download this zip file which contains the reference head geometry for all the classes on the right locations. Character items/hats should match that style. Character textures are less noisy/detailed than everything else in the game.

For hats, maintain team colors, if not - neutral colors. For hats, 256x256 is usually large enough.Ī: Maintain the same texture density of other models in the world (Nothing higher res or lower res than what's next to it. Q: What resolution should my textures be?Ī: Texture sizes should not be larger than 512x512. Try to keep hats under 1,000 polygons, and weapons under 6,500. Q: What are the polycount limits on my item?Ī: Keep the polycount similar to what's already in the game. Q: I am a 3D artist, how do I get started?Ī: First, you’ll need to install the Source Developer Kit (SDK).

XSI (models, textures, skeletons, morphs, animation).

3DS-Max (models, textures, skeletons, morphs, animation).

Zbrush (detail models, morphs and textures).

Maya (models, textures, skeletons, morphs, animation).

Q: What software tool should I use to make my item?Ī: It varies depending upon the project, but this is generally what workshop contributors use:

Use a subtle vertical gradient and a subtle ambient occlusion layers multiplied over the colors.

Try and avoid full black, full white, or fully saturated colors.

Try and use flat colors that are close to the TF color family that the base game uses.

Take a look at giant size of the TF characters hands and imagine what they would build. No scales, skin pores, fabric textures, super detailed normals, etc.

TF generally has realistic proportions, with slightly exaggerated aspects to emphasize certain areas.

Hats should maintain the personality of the character (heavy's boxing Gloves, Scout's batter's helmet, etc.).

Clearly the art style has evolved over the years, but here are some guidelines that you should keep in mind as you create your items.

Nothing too modern, hyper-realistic or overly “cartoony”.

When we started, the game followed an idealized 1950’s-60’s Americana look. Q: What are some guidelines for matching TF2’s art style and improving the chances of my item getting in?Ī: This is a tricky question we grapple with daily.

There are a lot of digital art communities online with great information. Q: Where can I find good tutorials to learn 3D modeling?Ī: Search for “speed modeling” on YouTube and visit the source developer wiki.

Download a workshop item steam