RETOPOLOGY

Retopology: Unlocking new horizons in 3D artistry

Explore the creativity and precision made possible with retopology, bridging the gap between high-resolution sculpting and practical 3D assets

A computer rendering shows a pile of puppies in warm light.
A computer rendering of puppies in a pile, courtesy of Ignite Animation Studios

What is retopology?

Retopology is a process in 3D modelling in which the topology (US site) – the arrangement of vertices, edges and faces in a 3D mesh – is optimised or reworked to create a more efficient 3D model.

A computer rendering of an astronaut character is shown in vivid light.
A computer rendering of an astronaut character, courtesy of Quantillion

When is retopology used in a project?

Retopology typically occurs in the later stages of a 3D-modelling project, after creating a highly detailed model. It involves optimising and refining the mesh structure to improve efficiency and prepare the model for animation, real-time rendering or other downstream processes. This step ensures that the model’s topology is clean and well-suited for deformation and UV mapping while preserving the intricate details obtained during the sculpting and detailing phases.

In a computer rendering, a large creature lurks in the dark ocean.

A computer rendering of a large creature lurking in the dark ocean facing a diver

How do manual and automatic retopology work?

Retopology simplifies a 3D mesh while preserving important details, ensuring proper edge flow for animation (US site) and facilitating UV mapping for texturing.

Manual retopology involves restructuring a 3D model’s mesh by hand, which allows precise control over vertex placement and detail preservation, making it ideal for complex models and particularly those intended for animation. 

In contrast, automatic retopology relies on algorithms and software to generate an optimised mesh more quickly. It’s suitable for scenarios in which speed is essential but may offer less precise control over topology and detail placement. 

Some tools provide a semiautomatic approach, allowing artists to guide the automated process and strike a balance between control and efficiency. The choice between manual and automatic methods depends on the project’s specific requirements and time constraints.

Benefits of retopology

Retopology plays a vital role in achieving professional results in various creative and technical fields and offers many benefits:

Optimisation

Retopology helps create more efficient 3D models by reducing the complexity of the mesh. This results in improved performance in real-time applications, lower computational demands and faster rendering times.

 

Better topology

It enables the creation of models with cleaner and more logical mesh topology. Properly structured topology is essential for deformation during animation (US site), reducing artefacts such as stretching and distortion.

 

Detail preservation

Retopology helps artists carefully preserve and transfer high-resolution model details to the optimised mesh, ensuring that intricate features and textures are maintained.

 

UV mapping

Clean topology makes it easier to create more accurate UV maps for texturing, simplifying the process and minimising distortion on the model’s surface.

 

File-size reduction

High-resolution models can have large file sizes. Retopology reduces the number of vertices and edges, resulting in smaller file sizes, which is crucial for storage and real-time applications.

 

Improved workflow

Retopology simplifies the modelling process by separating the creative, high-detail sculpting stage from the technical optimisation stage, helping to streamline the overall workflow.

 

Autodesk software for retopology

Maya

3D animation, modelling, simulation and rendering software for film, games and TV.

Product details
3ds Max

3D modelling, animation and rendering software for games and design visualisation.

Product details
Arnold

Global illumination rendering software.

Product details

3D animation and visual effects at work

An otherworldly sandworm takes shape on a designer's computer screen.

CG SPECTRUM

3D sandworms summon new students

Leading film and video-game educator creates Dune-inspired commercial in-house with Maya.

 

See project

Image courtesy of CG Spectrum

A man views an ominous building in a scene from the short film 'The Fore-Men'

THE FORE-MEN

Optimising the 3D development pipeline

Creative media multi-hyphenate Adrian Bobb creates believable sci-fi creatures with Maya.

 

Read story

Image courtesy of Adrian Bobb

Retopology resources

See how Warner Bros. Games | Avalanche creates characters, animations and real-time cinematics with Maya.

 

See how Axis Studios uses Autodesk tools to create viral dual-cinematic trailers for a legendary trading card game.

 

See how multiple industries use 3ds Max to create captivating experiences and memorable products.

 

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about retopology

What is retopology?

Retopology is the process of re-creating or optimising the mesh structure of a 3D model, typically a high-resolution or detailed model, to improve its efficiency, performance and suitability for tasks like animation (US site), real-time rendering or 3D printing. This involves creating a new mesh topology by manually or semiautomatically placing vertices, edges and faces to achieve clean, logical and animation-friendly geometries. Retopology helps reduce polygon count, resolve issues with mesh deformations and prepare the model for texturing and other applications while preserving essential details from the original model.

What is the difference between remeshing and retopology?

Retopology creates a new, optimised mesh topology for an existing 3D model, primarily to improve performance, animation and technical aspects while preserving detail. Remeshing is a broader process of altering a 3D model’s mesh, often for purposes beyond optimisation, such as reducing polygon count, smoothing surfaces or conforming to a reference shape. While retopology focuses on specific technical and artistic goals, remeshing encompasses a wider range of mesh modifications with varied applications. The choice between the two depends on the needs and objectives of the 3D modelling task.

What is the fastest way to do retopology?

The speed of retopology can vary depending on the complexity of the model, the software or tools being used and the level of detail required. Here are some tips that can help:

  • To use retopology tools and shortcuts in your 3D software, begin by establishing core topology, focusing on critical areas, and reusing existing mesh when possible.
  • Use symmetry for symmetrical models, maintain simplicity in less detailed regions and plan your approach before starting.
  • Consider scripts and plug-ins if available, and practise to improve efficiency over time.

The fastest retopology method combines efficient techniques, tools and experience to help streamline the workflow while preserving necessary detail.