How can you create efficient topology in ZBrush?

2 Why is topology important?

Topology is important for several reasons. First, it affects the performance and speed of your sculpting process. Having too many polygons can make your ZBrush lag or crash, especially if your computer has limited memory and processing power. Having too few polygons can make your model look blocky or pixelated, especially if you use high-resolution textures or normal maps. Second, it affects the quality and accuracy of your model. Having good topology can help you avoid artifacts, distortions, or gaps in your model, especially when you use subdivision levels, dynamic subdivision, or projection. Having bad topology can cause your model to lose details, have pinching or stretching effects, or create unwanted creases or holes. Third, it affects the compatibility and adaptability of your model. Having efficient topology can make your model easier to export, import, rig, animate, or edit in other applications, such as Maya, Blender, or Unreal Engine. Having inefficient topology can make your model harder to work with, or incompatible with certain formats, standards, or engines.

3 How to create efficient topology in ZBrush?

Creating efficient topology in ZBrush requires different methods depending on your workflow and preferences. ZRemesher is a quick and easy way to simplify and optimize your topology, but it may not always preserve the details of your model. ZSphere Retopology is a more precise and flexible method, but it takes more time and effort. ZModeler is a powerful and creative tool, but it requires more skill and experience. With ZRemesher, you can adjust the target polygon count, the adaptive size, the curve strength, and other settings to control the quality of the remeshing. You can also use ZRemesher guides to draw curves on your model. With ZSphere Retopology, you can draw ZSpheres on your model to create base meshes or skeletons. You can also use the Topology mode to edit the polygons and vertices created by the ZSpheres. With ZModeler, you can select an edge, point, or polygon on your model, then choose an action and target to perform the action. Additionally, you can use the QMesh action to extrude or delete polygons while snapping them to the surface of your model.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?