Chapter 19.   Animated 3D Sprites

In this chapter, we modify the Sprite3D class of Chapter 18, correcting one of its main weaknesses: the AnimSprite3D class loads several models, which represent different poses for the sprite depending on the action it is carrying out. For instance, as the sprite moves forward, the 'standing' pose is replaced by a 'walking' pose.

The poses are further enhanced by being animated, so that walking is actually represented by a series of walking poses which are displayed one after another.

We call this succession of poses an animation sequence. Typically, a user's key press (e.g. down arrow to move forward) is translated into an animation sequence of several sprite poses.

Initially we describe the application running in a medium-size window but, at the end of the chapter, we show how to use Full-Screen Exclusive Mode (FSEM). We also explain how to modify the display mode for the monitor with FSEM.

The two images on this page shows the sprite (a "stick child") walking, and punching.

The application does not include a chasing alien sprite, scenery, or obstacles. However, these could be added by using the techniques described in Chapter 18.

Downloads

• The PDF file for the draft chapter (the old ch.11) (437 KB). Last updated: 27th Feb. 2003.
  
• Zipped Source code (124 KB).
  (Includes example models but not NCSA Portfolio.) Last updated: 16th April 2005. The book's code.
  
• NCSA Portfolio (zipped) (402 KB).
  

• Up to the Killer Game Programming in Java Index Page
• Back to Chapter 18. 3D Sprites
• On to Chapter 20. An Articulated, Moveable Figure