Engine version: 4.26 - 5.4

Efficient Mesh Optimization with rdLODtools (rd Tools Pro)

rdLODtools (rd Tools Pro) is a specialized Unreal Engine plugin that resides directly within the Static Mesh Editor. It is designed to help developers easily create various levels of detail, including Billboard, Planar, Cubic, TriSprite, and Impostor LODs. By running this tool over complex meshes, you can speed up rendering by significant factors. Furthermore, these LODs can maintain a thicker appearance on screen at a distance while improving overall performance.

Versatile LOD Types and Features

The plugin offers several methods for reducing geometry complexity. Billboard LODs can utilize up to 64 frames in a FlipBook, providing a full 360-degree view of a mesh using only two or four triangles. Additionally, Planar LODs can consist of 2 to 32 planes plus a top plane. For more unique geometry, Cubic LODs can be modeled to any shape, while TriSprite LODs utilize a single triangle for maximum efficiency.

Impostors provide all-around views by using the engine’s ImpostorBaker Shaders at runtime. These are primarily designed for complex materials, such as trees and tall, thin foliage that use masks or translucency. However, the creator notes that using these for other object types may produce mixed results. Therefore, it is often best to focus on reducing triangle counts for standard meshes.

Optimized Workflow and Tools

The developer has integrated several tools to accelerate the optimization process. Version 1.3 introduced context menus that allow users to change LOD details or extract LODs from meshes quickly. Moreover, version 1.44 includes a tool to create new meshes at specified reduced sizes, which helps with disk footprint optimization. These features ensure that managing complex assets remains a streamlined process.

Trees and Foliage: Ideal for tall, thin vegetation and complex masks.
Architecture: Useful for complex skyscrapers and tall buildings with mixed materials.
VRAM Balance: Tools help balance the trade-off between VRAM usage and triangle reduction.
Color Adjustment: Material instances include adjustment values for manual color matching.

Technical Requirements and Licensing

To create LODs with this plugin, Deferred Rendering must be active. If your project uses Forward Rendering, you can temporarily switch to Deferred during the creation phase. Additionally, creating Impostors requires the Impostor Baker plugin that is included with Unreal Engine. Consequently, these requirements ensure the shaders and textures are generated correctly for the final assets.

In conclusion, rdLODtools (rd Tools Pro) offers a robust solution for studio-wide performance optimization. Unlike many professional versions, the license allows for unlimited seats within a single company or studio. This makes it a scalable choice for teams working on large-scale environments and complex architectural visualizations.