Normalmaps Query

[schwarzerHund]

Forgive my ignorance- I've not seen an explanation of this in my searches.  I note that various skinners/skins 'require' a 'normalmap' to be added to the game for their particular skins for an aircraft to be seen optimally in game.

 

- Will the game then represent all skins for that aircraft through this new normalmap?

- Will that negatively affect skins from other artists?

 

I am in a bit of a fog regarding the use of these various normalmaps- so any information would be helpful and appreciated.  Thanks!

[VBF-12_Stick-95]

Normalmaps are the underlying textures for a skin.  The reason for the need of new one is the use of higher res skins (4K) vs older ones (2K).  Either skins will work on the other level normalmap but it's best to have 4K normalmaps for 4K skins.  4K normalmaps are 21MB vs 5MB for 2K.  They do not slow down the game.

[Mitthrawnuruodo]

Normal maps add details to the models by immitating the lighting of bumps and dents. This is useful for adding panel lines, rivets, etc. Besides increasing the resolution from 2K to 4K for higher quality, custom normal maps can change small surface features.

 

A normal map used with a skin that it's not intended for can look strange, but only if changes to the faked geometry don't match. For example, a group of rivets in the normal map that does not exist in the skin will look nonsensical.

Edited January 6, 2019 by Mitthrawnuruodo

[schwarzerHund]

I appreciate the information, mates- thank you!