Sprite DLight - Instant normal maps for 2D graphics

[Dee]

Hey guys,

Even though I am not sure if there is already a full implementation of dynamic lighting for SFML, I know there have been some very promising experiments in this forum, particularly with the GLLight2D project.

In this context, I'd like to introduce the tool I am currently working on.
Sprite DLight generates voluminous normal maps from 2D sprites in one click, which allows for quick and easy dynamic lighting effects in 2D games. The project is currently running a pretty successful Kickstarter campaign here : http://kck.st/11fs6g5
The basic funding goal has been smashed within 17 hours and we are currently approaching the second stretch goal: a Mac version.



At the time of this post, there are 20 days left to back the project and to get in on the beta, which will start shortly after the campaign.


"Ghost Pizza", ©2010-2014 AlbertoV (DYA Games), normal map generated by Sprite DLight, dynamic lighting preview recorded in the Sprite Lamp shader

I would like to learn more about a possible integration with SFML and I appreciate any kind of feedback.


-Dennis

[Dee]

A small update: The tool will be available for Mac, the second stretch goal has been reached today.

[eXpl0it3r]

You know that I've already backed you. I'm really glad for that it's running so smoothly.

[Lo-X]

I think that tool is awesome but I still have trouble to see how to integrate the texture into the game to have te 3D effect, with a shader ?

[infinitebox]

I backed sprite lamp a long time ago. Just wondering what this adds?

[Dee]

I know, Lukas, and I appreciate that, just like your tweets

Lo-X: Yes, you need a basic bump mapping shader to integrate the normal maps.

@infinitebox:
Sprite DLight is targeted to projects with larger numbers of sprites, where you just don't have the time to draw everything by hand (for Sprite Lamp, you have to draw 2-5 lighting profiles, which can result in a better quality, but takes a lot of time).
Think of animated characters. You would just process the sprite sheet in one click, resulting in quick normal maps that are all calculated with the same settings.
So Sprite Lamp is about maximum control and making your work easier, while Sprite DLight is about doing the work for you.

[Dee]

I have just updated the project with a new feature: an animated dynamic lighting preview for sprite sheets.
To see the full update, including a video clip of the new feature, click the animation:


"Selen Run Animation", ©2014 Lunar Ray Games, animated dynamic lighting preview of the sprite sheet in Sprite DLight

[Nexus]

That looks really interesting. For a lot of your examples, the original character textures are already quite polished and sometimes even have a shading/relief effect (e.g. the pumpkin guy). Do you have an example where you start with a very "flat" texture that has no lighting or relief at all, and show how you can enhance it using Sprite DLight?

Out of interest, is your software written using OpenGL directly?

By the way, this is not a general discussion about SFML, as such the projects forum would fit better

[Dee]

Sorry if I posted in the wrong forum. I considered it a match for SFML general discussion, as I am asking about the status of dynamic lighting with SFML.

Feel free to send me any sprite you want me to test with the tool.

Sprite DLight is not using OpenGL, it doesn't use the CPU for the preview at all (which is kind of ineffective, but helps with the portability).

[Jabberwocky]

Very nice work, Dee.
Kickstarted.

[lolz123]

Hello Dee,

as I am asking about the status of dynamic lighting with SFML.

I don't know if you have seen this, but I am working on a remake of my original 2D dynamic shadows lighting system called Let There Be Light: http://en.sfml-dev.org/forums/index.php?topic=16895.0

Perhaps we can work together somehow and create the ultimate 2D lighting system! 

[DJuego]

Perhaps we can work together somehow and create the ultimate 2D lighting system! 

Boys! I am sure that something like that would attract tons of attention! The forum would collapse with the new subscriptions!! The video-game scene would change forever!!! I am sure!

DJuego

[Dee]

Thank you, Jabberwocky, I appreciate your support

lolz123, when looking into SFML and shaders, I came across GLLight2D and LTBL.
I didn't know you were working on LTBL2, though, I thought, GLLight2D would be the successor of LTBL.

Anyway, the screenshots of your remake already look amazing. I cannot wait to see more!

[Mario]

Feel free to send me any sprite you want me to test with the tool.

How about trying the SFML logo? It's rather flat, but it got that shiny courve as well as some minimal shading.

[Dee]

Wonderful idea!