What is a low poly 3D model and how to create one?

What is a low poly model?

Low poly models are the result of either low poly modeling or the reduction of a high poly model.

Low poly modeling is a technique used in 3D computer graphics, animation, and games to create simplistic, stylized representations of objects or environments. It involves using a minimal number of polygons to construct models, resulting in a geometrically efficient and visually distinct style.

Why are low poly models needed and how are they used?

How to generate a low poly model in 3 simple steps

Steps to create a low poly model from a high poly model:

• Make sure a high poly 3D model is present (created from either 3D Scan, 3D Sculpting or High Poly Modeling, etc.) 
• Reduce the geometric detail by applying decimation, remeshing or retropologize the high poly model to get your low poly model 
• In case you want to enhance the quality and detail of your resulting low poly model consider normal map baking and occlusion map baking, and enhance your model with PBR materials

Different techniques to create low poly models:

• 3D mesh optimization: Process of making an input mesh more suited for a target application – typically involves the reduction of polygon count or re-defining the topology. 
• Mesh Decimation: Simplifies polygon based (tessellated) geometry by removing detail through edge collapsing or a similar approach, resulting topology is usually inherited from original topology 
• Remeshing: In general, the process of remeshing tries to compute a better discrete representation of the given underlying surface, the resulting topology is usually unrelated to original topology, examples for common remeshing techniques are shrink-wrapping or feature-preserving remeshing 
• Quad-Remeshing: Converts a mesh with arbitrary topology into one composed of quadrilateral elements. This process aims to improve the mesh's regularity, which can lead to benefits such as smoother deformations, better subdivision surfaces 
• Retopology: Process of creating a new surface topology for a 3D model while preserving its underlying shape, involves reconstructing or optimizing the topology to improve rendering performance, appearance or preparing it for animation or further editing 
• Subdivision Surface Modeling: Starts with basic mesh shapes which are progressively subdivided and smoothed to create intricate surfaces, allowing for more flexibility and topological control for 3D artists, this technique is especially useful with digital animations