Girls’ Frontline developers secure a patent for their innovative silk stocking rendering technique. Learn how MICA Team/Sunborn's technological advancement is protected.
Sunborn's Groundbreaking Silk Stocking Rendering Patent
Realistic Silk Stockings: A Patented Achievement
MICA Team/Sunborn has officially patented its unique method and device for rendering silk stockings in video games. The patent, filed in China on July 7, 2023, and granted on June 6, 2024, grants exclusive rights to this advanced object rendering technology, currently showcased in Girls’ Frontline 2: Exilium.
This patent covers both the rendering technique and the tool itself, bridging the gap between stylized and hyper-realistic silk stocking depictions. The technology goes beyond visuals, also enhancing the animation physics for a more natural look and feel. Sunborn's method successfully captures the subtle highlights and sheen of real silk, avoiding the common pitfalls of making stockings appear metallic or plastic. The process involves specialized coding, precise light reflection parameter adjustments, and meticulous color gradient refinement.
Positive Fan Reaction and Industry Implications
The news, shared on Twitter by Cleista on December 8th, has been largely well-received by Girls’ Frontline fans. Many praise Sunborn CEO Yuzhong and the artistic team for their dedication to detail and commitment to realism. However, some express concerns about the potential impact of such patents on the game industry as a whole. Despite these concerns, the overwhelming sentiment is positive, with players noting a significant improvement in the visual quality of the silk stockings compared to the previous game.
The patent's lifespan extends until July 7, 2043, effectively protecting Sunborn's technology for nearly two decades. While other companies are prevented from using this specific rendering method without permission, requests for licensing can be submitted and are subject to Sunborn's approval.
For more details on Girls’ Frontline 2: Exilium, please refer to the linked article (link not provided, as it was not present in the original text).
