Creating pre-rendered sprites from 3D models is a classic technique that shaped the look of many early games, but setting up that workflow today can take a lot of time. RetroRender, a tool made by &&rew, brings that process back in a simpler and more flexible way.
You can capture your 3D models as pixel-based sprites or animations directly inside the engine, control the frame rate, and tweak the resolution to match your projectâs style.
It also includes a directional billboard shader that changes the visible sprite depending on the camera angle, making your scenes feel dynamic while keeping the pixel art aesthetic consistent.
It also includes a directional billboard shader that changes the visible sprite depending on the camera angle, making your scenes feel dynamic while keeping the pixel art aesthetic consistent.
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Main Features
- Pre-Rendered Sprites
Capture 3D models as pixel-based sprites or animations with just a few adjustments. RetroRender automates the process of rendering angles and frames, creating sprite sheets ready for 2D engines or game projects.
- Customizable Output
You can set sprite resolution, adjust frame rates, and define how animations are exported. This allows you to recreate specific styles, from classic RPG visuals to arcade-style pixel animations.
- Directional Billboard Shader
Includes a shader that automatically updates the visible sprite based on the camera angle. Itâs especially useful for giving sprites a sense of depth and movement without using real 3D models.
- Simple Integration
Import your 3D assets, tweak the render parameters, and export. The workflow avoids complex setup steps, making it easy to test different looks quickly.
đĽ The author also shared an example of how the effect looks when seen from a first-person view in-game.
Similar and Useful Tools
- Animation Baking Studio (3D to 2D): A long-standing tool for baking 3D animations to 2D sprite sheets with control over rows/columns and captures. It overlaps most with RetroRenderâs goal, but is more general-purpose and widely used.
- 3D model to 2D sprite (Transparent background): A lightweight option for capturing sprites from 3D models. Simpler than RetroRender and positioned as a utility rather than a full workflow.
- PSX Shader Kit (free); A runtime retro/PS1 look pack (dithering, wobble, etc.). Useful if you want the aesthetic on live 3D rather than baking sprites like RetroRender.
⨠RetroRender is available on the Unity Asset Store.
đ Want to learn how to make a retro-style effect like this? Check out The Unity Shaders Bible, a complete guide to understanding and creating shaders in Unity.
đ Want to learn how to make a retro-style effect like this? Check out The Unity Shaders Bible, a complete guide to understanding and creating shaders in Unity.
New 2nd Edition In Development!
We invite you to explore "The Unity Shaders Bible", a comphensive book on the concepts and fundamentals seen in this post.
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