Roblox Corporation is in the process of claiming a patent that would enable Roblox users to generate 3D models from 2D images.
Roblox is the name of a creative sandbox game that allows people of all ages to build their own ideas with programming tools. Thanks to a memetic status and rapidly developing a user base, it has recently overtaken Activation Blizzard as the most prolific gaming company.
Creativity and artistic vision are heavily indulged in Roblox thanks to Studio tools, meaning that the only limitation is the user’s imagination. With each new update, more technical upgrades are provided, and it is rumoured that a future update will benefit users greatly who struggle to re-create 3D models and assets in-game.
This information came about from a patent filed by the Roblox Corporation, which hints at a new way of implementing 2D images to generate images. The process relies on a 2D image being uploaded to the game’s “machine learning model,” which will then facilitate a three-dimensional wireframe mesh to replicate the item. After that mesh is reshaped and deformed to match the 2D lines, a texture is also generated and wrapped around the mesh to complete a 3D model and asset that can be manipulated in Roblox Studio. This will allow gamers to have an easier time building their own games in Roblox now that features can be uploaded directly into the software rather than relying on creating crude assets.
Currently, Roblox features many game genres such as horror, which get millions of players every month. Some of the most popular games include RPGs, tycoons, obstacle courses, or “obbys.” However, with the current game creation tools in place, lots of time and tutorials are required to help new gamers. Assets can be made and shared between players, but building a unique world relies on an individual’s patience to craft their own assets. Therefore, the addition of a “scan and print” 3D creation tool will speed up the process and likely lead to plenty more Roblox users feeling motivated to build their dream game.
If Roblox Corporation does decide to use this software, it is presently unclear how much this will be monitored by its moderators. The ability to scan in 2D images with unchecked restrictions in place potentially means that illicit and shock images could be inserted into games without detection. This could negatively affect users, especially younger players, so soon after a recent viral video claimed Roblox is unsuitable for children.
Roblox Corporation has sued Terms of Service violators in the past, and the unpredictable human element that can come with using this impressive software means it could be a long time before players see any of this technology in-game. However, the ownership of helpful development tools leaves Roblox fans in hope of a very useful design tool entering their creative worlds in the future.
