Confrontation or co-existence? Competition is what has always been driving the gaming industry yet when it comes to the two fundamental types of game animation, we dare to say both flat and 3D animation can exist simultaneously offering unique advantages.
So there’s no tough battle between 2D and 3D worlds - just a peaceful coexistence? We’ll figure everything out in this article - define the pros and cons of each animation type and then see whether one of them runs the show indeed.
But first things first
Talking about mobile games development, what’s actually the role of animation?
Animation plays a crucial role in the success of video games. It brings characters to life, adds depth to the game's environment, and enhances the overall gameplay experience. In fact, it is often the animation that sets a game apart from its competitors.
One of the primary benefits of animation in video games is that it makes the game world more immersive. When a character moves, jumps, or attacks, the animation adds realism and weight to their actions. This allows players to become more invested in the game, as they can more easily connect with the characters and their surroundings.
Animation is also essential in conveying information to the player, revealing the characters’ emotions, intentions, and abilities.
Another good advantage of animation in video games is that it can enhance the game's visual appeal. Smooth, fluid animations can make a game more aesthetically pleasing, and can even help to mask technical limitations or graphical shortcomings.
2D or 3D animation?
There’s neither a better nor a worse one. Each animation type has its own distinctive features and therefore has its own niche in mobile games development. That is why comparing 2D and 3D animation is quite a challenging task as they are contrasting in almost every aspect.
Deciding whether 2D animation or 3D animation is better for video games depends on the type of game, the game's target audience, and the game's overall style.
2D animation is best suited for games that have a more traditional, hand-drawn look, such as platformers or 2D RPGs. 2D animation can offer a greater degree of artistic control over the game's visuals and allows for more creative freedom in terms of character design and environment. It is also typically less resource-intensive, meaning that games with 2D animation can run on lower-end hardware or mobile devices.
On the other hand, 3D animation is ideal for games that require a more realistic or immersive look, such as first-person shooters or open-world games. 3D animation allows for more dynamic camera angles, more detailed character models, and more complex environments. Besides, 3D animation can offer greater flexibility in terms of customization, as players can often adjust the appearance of their character or avatar.
Should a mobile games developer choose one type for a game? Not really. As we’ve already mentioned, both animation types have equal rights to exist and can even cross in game projects. Many games use a combination of both 2D and 3D animation techniques to create a unique style that suits their gameplay and narrative.
Busting the myth: 2D is dead
While 3D animation has become more prevalent in recent years, 2D animation continues to be used in a wide range of video games. In fact, many successful and critically acclaimed video games such as Hollow Knight, Cuphead, and Ori and the Will of the Wisps still make use of 2D animation.
There are several reasons why 2D animation remains relevant. For one, 2D animation offers a distinct aesthetic that cannot be replicated with 3D animation. 2D animation also tends to be less resource-intensive, making it a more viable option for indie developers or smaller studios with limited resources. Additionally, 2D animation can offer greater flexibility in terms of style and tone, allowing for a wider range of creative expression.
It's true that 3D animation has gained massive popularity in mobile games developemnt. However, this doesn't mean that 2D animation is dead or obsolete. Both 2D and 3D animation have their strengths and weaknesses, and the decision to use one or the other ultimately depends on the needs and goals of the project.
Which one is easier to create?
The difficulty of creating 2D or 3D animation depends on several factors, including the artist's skill level, the complexity of the animation, and the software used to create the animation.
Generally speaking, 2D animation can be easier to create than 3D animation, particularly for beginners or those with limited experience. 2D animation requires fewer technical skills and can often be created using simple drawing software, such as Adobe Flash or Toon Boom.
Moreover, 2D animation typically involves fewer steps than 3D animation, as the artist only needs to create two-dimensional images and then sequence them together to create the animation.
As for 3D animation, it can be more technically demanding and time-consuming. Creating a breathtaking 3D game world requires more extensive knowledge of 3D modeling, rigging, and animation software, as well as more powerful hardware to handle the rendering process.
That being said, both 2D and 3D animation require a significant amount of skill and practice to create high-quality animations. While 2D animation may be easier to start with, mastering either technique takes time and dedication. After all, there’s no simpler one - it all depends mostly on the expectations and the desired outcome.
Which type is more affordable?
The cost of 2D and 3D animation can vary depending on several factors.
2D animation has been always considered to be cheaper than 3D animation because it requires less sophisticated software and equipment, and it can be produced more quickly. However, as technology has advanced, the cost difference between the two has become less significant.
Today, the cost of 2D and 3D animation is more likely to be influenced by the complexity of the project, the quality of the animation, and the experience and skill level of the animators involved.
For example, a simple 2D animation may be less expensive than a complex 3D animation, while a high-quality 2D animation with detailed backgrounds and character design may be more pricey than a lower-quality 3D animation.
In general, both 2D and 3D animation can be expensive, and the cost will depend on the specific project requirements. It's important to work with experienced mobile games art service professionals and to have a clear understanding of the project scope and budget to ensure that you get the best quality animation for your money.
Let’s sum up
As video games continue to evolve, animation will remain a critical aspect of game design and development.
Now you know all the advantages as well as drawbacks of the two basic types of animation used for mobile games creation. Which one to select? It’s up to you. Take into account your project’s specifications, your target audience’s preferences, and your key objectives to make the right decision.
Find it difficult to select the best option for your project? Don’t worry - we are here to help you out!
As not only seasoned game developers but passionate gaming fans, we know everything about mobile games creation.
HitBerry Games is a mobile app development studio that has deep expertise and prolonged experience in mobile games creation. Our mobile games development studio brings together high-skilled and dedicated talents in lucrative and entertaining mobile games creation. We provide mobile games outsourcing development to enhance your in-house team as well as full-cycle mobile games development services for enterprises and start-ups.
In terms of each project, we use top-notch technology and apply creative vision and prolonged experience to deliver stunning mobile games that stand out from the competition.
Contact us now and let’s create branded games jointly!