Mathematics for 3d Game Programming and Computer Graphics (Game Development Series)

This book illustrates the mathematical concepts that a game developer would need to develop a professional-quality 3D engine. Although the book is geared toward applications in game development, many of the topics appeal to general interests in 3D graphics. It starts at a fairly basic level in areas such as vector geometry and linear algebra, and then progresses to more advanced topics in 3D programming such as illumination and visibility determination. Particular attention is given to derivations of key results, ensuring that the reader is not forced to endure gaps in the theory. The book assumes a working knowledge of trigonometry and calculus, but also includes sections that review the important tools used from these disciplines, such as trigonometric identities, differential equations, and the Taylor series.

Key Features:

* Concentrates on key mathematical topics for programming 3D game engines

* Discusses applications in the context of the OpenGL architecture due to its cross-platform nature and long-standing industry acceptance. Makes references to modern 3D hardware such as GeForce 3 from Nvidia

* Selected topics include Quaternions, Homogeneous Coordinates, Ray Tracing, Bump Mapping, Portal Systems, Polygonal Techniques, Shadows, and Physics

* Includes exercise sets for use as a textbook

Eric Lengyel is a Senior Software Engineer at the 3DO Company in Redwood City, CA. He holds an MS in Mathematics from Virginia Tech and has written several articles for industry periodicals including gamasutra.com. He is also the area editor in geometry management for Game Programming Gems 2.