2D VS 3D ANIMATION — PROS AND CONS

What are basic differences in 2D and 3D? 2D and 3D refers to the dimensions in a computer space. 2D is flat as it uses the horizontal x-axis and the vertical y-axis dimensions and when it is turned, it becomes a line. 3D uses the depth z-axis. 2D animation artists create frames to define a sequence that are then moved at varying speeds to create the illusion of motion. 3D or three-dimensional animation has more depth and is more realistic The texture, lighting and colour of the 3D objects are modified using software programs and it is implemented in 3D films, advertising, video and gaming.Basically, 2D animation is the earliest and traditional method of animation existing from the late 1800’s and is still preferred by traditional animators around the world for making of cartoons, animated movies and games. 3D animation is rising and gaining popularity since the late 1990’s. Modern days’ designers and gamers nowadays prefer 3d animation as it is looks more attractive, gives a realistic effect making it more interesting and engages players in the game. Let us look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of 2D and 3D animation.

2D Animation

While this is the oldest form of animation, many gamers still enjoy the cartoonish nature of 2D as 2D animation does not try to imitate real life.

Some of the advantages of 2D animation are:

• Easy controlling — It is easy to handle without any tutorials.
• Saves time — The production lead time for 2D animation is low and it is quicker to produce.
• Low production cost — It is cheaper when compared to 3D animation.
• Simple and works without complexity– 2D involves less technology and software and hence it is easier to produce when compared to 3D.
• More focus on the game play- It gives less importance to design and focuses more on the game play.

Some of the disadvantages of 2D animation are:

• It looks boring — Traditional animation can sometimes seem to be boring.
• Less demand — With the growth of 3D animation most people prefer to watch 3D animation movies as compared 2D.
• Economic reasons — In certain cases, you can create 3D animation with less money and time due to modern technology.
• Time is money — It is time consuming to create 2 dimensional based animation templates.

3D Animation

Gamers enjoy 3D animation as it gives an experience of reality. Players feel that whatever happens in the game is real as the 3D design looks, behaves and feels realistic. The gamers get to enjoy more realistic action in 3D.

Some of the advantages of 3D animation are:

• Motion communication — 3D animation has a greater and superior ability to portray movement.
• Visual appeal — 3D animation is much more appealing and realistic.
• Time is money — You can use  3D models made for a particular project for future. It helps to lower the cost of production.
• Good quality — 3D gives high quality and more gameplay compared to 2D.
• In demand — Most of the people now prefer 3D rather than 2D.

Some of the disadvantages are:

• Limited imagination
• Lack of simplicity .
• Profit & loss — In few cases the whole lot of effort, time & resources spent on a 3D project may not be as expected.