File Referencing Workflows

Referencing is essentially the ability to embed a reference to one file inside another, such that the working file only contains links to other object, versus an imported copy of them. This allows the original files to be modified after being placed into t he scene, and yet be automatically updated in the working file.

Use cases include: 

• Previz with Proxy meshes 

• Animation Pipelines 

• Level Blockout 

• Any pipeline that requires simultaneous work on or with the same assets

Creating a Reference

CTRL + R 

File > Create Reference

Right Click in Outliner > Reference > Create Reference

Diamond Icon in the outliner denotes a referenced object

Animation 

File reference workflows are extremely helpful to game development pipelines as it allows Animators, Riggers, and Character artists to work simultaneously and non-destructively. Animators can use a previz rig to create early animations, while the character artist works on finalizing the character mesh and the rigger makes adjustment to the rig itself. When the final assets are ready, the previz references can be replaced with the final assets without losing any work.

Environmental Design

 File reference workflows can also be used in the world building process. Early block-outs of assets can be used as proxies when building out a level. As the assets are finalized, they can simply be reloaded or replaced in the level by the final meshes.

Benefits:

• Multi-department parallel pipeline

• Much faster file load/saves

• Iteration friendly

• More time allowed for artists

• Smaller file sizes

• Early access for animators

• Non-destructive

Tips:

• Before sending or submitting a file, you likely need to import your assets as the recipient may not have the reference files needed for your scene

• References may be reloaded, unloaded, or replaced

• References that are deleted cannot be undone