Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth and the Innovations of the Dragon Engine
The latest title in the franchise, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, leverages the capabilities of the Dragon Engine, a technology developed in-house by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio. This engine stands out for generating immersive urban environments with dynamic lighting and facial animations that bring characters to life. In this edition, the team has integrated visual techniques taken from engines like Unreal Engine, achieving a more vibrant and colorful representation, especially in the Hawaiian settings that serve as the central axis of the plot 🌴.
Asset Development from Scratch
Although not all tools used have been revealed, the studio confirmed that every 3D model, whether of scenarios, characters, or objects, was created from scratch using industry-standard software. Artists worked with applications like Autodesk Maya, 3ds Max, or Blender to design each component, ensuring visual coherence and leveraging the engine's capacity for real-time rendering. This method ensures that every detail, from the streets of Hawaii to the protagonists' expressions, maintains a high level of quality and realism.
Key Features of the Creation Process:- Use of professional software like Maya and Blender for 3D modeling
- Development of all assets from scratch to ensure visual coherence
- Real-time rendering that optimizes interaction with the engine
The focus on creation from scratch allows every visual element to maintain exceptional realism, even in expansive environments like Hawaii.
Technical Improvements and Setting
The updates to the Dragon Engine focus on optimizing the interaction between lights, shadows, and materials, creating an immersive atmosphere. The inspiration from engines like Unreal is evident in the handling of post-processing effects and in the color palette, which enhances the vitality of tropical environments. These improvements allow for a visually rich experience without compromising performance, maintaining the essence of the series while exploring more detailed and expansive locations.
Improved Technical Aspects:- Optimization of dynamic lighting and shadows for greater realism
- Incorporation of post-processing effects inspired by Unreal Engine
- Use of vibrant color palettes for tropical environments
Final Reflection on the Engine and Its Impact
It is ironic how, despite recreating Hawaii with such detail, the characters will probably spend more time in street fights than enjoying a cocktail on the beach. However, the engine ensures that every movement and every punch looks spectacular under the tropical sun, combining realism and action flawlessly 🌞.