Arknights: Endfield Pushes Unity to the Limit for 3D Character Models
Hypergryph reveals extreme graphics optimization for the series’ first full 3D game
Hypergryph recently shared behind-the-scenes details of Arknights: Endfield, confirming that the development team extensively modified the Unity engine to handle extreme graphics demands. The game, a 3D spinoff of the 2019 Arknights mobile title, features character models with 80,000–100,000 polygons each double the count from the original mobile version and fully dynamic lighting across the scene. This marks a major challenge for the team as they push Unity beyond its standard configuration to create the series’ first full 3D game.
Graphics and Engine Optimization
Arknights: Endfield transforms the tower defense gameplay of Arknights into a strategic action RPG in full 3D. While Hypergryph has experience with 3D animation, building a full game with these demands required near-total reworking of Unity’s rendering structure. Characters, machinery, and environmental assets had to be rendered simultaneously, forcing the team to optimize Unity’s Entity Component System (ECS) for faster data management and adjust Graphics APIs for high performance. Custom shaders were developed to handle dynamic shadows at near, mid, and far distances while ensuring cross-platform compatibility.
Game World and Mechanics
Set on the perilous planet Talos-II, players explore uncharted territories of the Habitable Band colony and uncover mysteries with Endfield Industries. Arknights: Endfield offers new gameplay mechanics, including party-based exploration, real-time combat, and a narrative-driven experience that stands apart from previous Arknights games. Players will navigate a dangerous environment, encounter varied enemies, and engage in tactical battles that blend strategy with real-time action.
The game is planned for PC release first, with mobile versions expected in the future. Arknights: Endfield aims to deliver a high-fidelity, immersive 3D experience while retaining the franchise’s signature storytelling and characters.
