Goal
Modernise Torn’s in-game visual assets by transitioning from static 2D imagery to dynamic 3D models while preserving performance and live platform stability.
Areas covered
Lead 3D asset strategy, phased production planning, visual graphic design, performance optimisation, lighting configuration, and seamless integration into Torn’s live web-based environment.
Outcomes
Delivered a scalable 3D production pipeline and converted over 2,000 in-game items, increasing output from 30 to 40 models per month and enhancing visual realism without impacting load times or user experience.
Insight Gained
Balance visual fidelity with strict performance constraints to achieve large-scale asset transformation in a live
With over 2,000 unique in-game items, all historically represented by static 2D images, Torn faced growing misalignment between asset quality and modern display standards. The challenge was to upgrade these assets to 3D without increasing load times, fragmenting the visual language, or disrupting a live game used by a highly engaged community.
The solution needed to support phased rollout, work across different lighting modes, and integrate seamlessly into Torn’s existing systems without impacting load times or gameplay.
Production began with the most frequently used items—particularly weapons and combat equipment—allowing immediate player exposure and feedback.
Test models were produced and validated to align on design principles, file size constraints, and performance requirements. Given Torn’s strict optimisation needs, ddx focused on balancing visual fidelity with small GLB file sizes suitable for web delivery. Close collaboration with Torn’s design team ensured a consistent visual language across all assets.
Lighting presented a key technical challenge, as Torn supports both light and dark user interface modes. ddx implemented multiple lighting configurations based on item categories to ensure visibility and clarity across all player settings. For real-world items, detailed research ensured accurate visual representation, while fictional brands were designed to enhance realism across everyday in-game objects.
The updated assets integrate seamlessly within the live environment and support modern display standards without compromising performance.
The established production pipeline allows for ongoing delivery, enabling Torn to continually refresh existing items and introduce new assets as the game evolves.
This reinforced the importance of early prototyping, category-based design rules, and close collaboration between design and engineering teams.
The project demonstrated that large-scale visual transformation is most effective when delivered incrementally, with player feedback informing refinement and consistency over time.
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