Documentation

Everything you need to get started with MeshForge

Getting Started

1. Download the MeshForge.zip file
2. In Blender, go to Edit > Preferences > Add-ons
3. Click Install... and select the downloaded ZIP file
4. Enable the addon by checking the box next to "MeshForge"
5. Find the panel in the 3D Viewport sidebar (press N if hidden) under the "MeshForge" tab

Basic Workflows

Basic Export Workflow

1. Select one or more objects in your scene
2. Choose an engine preset (Godot/Unity/Unreal) or create a custom one
3. Select your export format (FBX, GLTF/GLB, OBJ, USD, STL)
4. Click "Export" — all objects will be exported with correct naming and settings

LOD Generation

1. Select your high-poly mesh
2. Choose LOD mode:
   • Progressive Mode: Set a single scale factor (e.g., 0.5) — MeshForge calculates all levels automatically
   • Manual Mode: Define exact decimation ratios for each LOD level
3. Set number of LOD levels (typically 3-4)
4. Click "Generate LODs" — meshes will be created and named automatically (e.g., Sword_LOD0, Sword_LOD1, etc.)

Pre-configured Settings

Create Your Own

1. Configure your desired export settings
2. Click "Save Preset"
3. Name your preset
4. Access it anytime from the presets dropdown

Automatic Resizing

When enabled, MeshForge automatically resizes textures per LOD level:

• LOD0: Original resolution (e.g., 4096px)
• LOD1: 50% (2048px)
• LOD2: 25% (1024px)
• LOD3: 12.5% (512px)

Note: Normal maps are kept one quality level higher to preserve detail.

Export Options

• FBX — Industry standard, best for Unity/Unreal
• GLTF/GLB — Modern format, perfect for Godot and web
• OBJ — Universal compatibility
• USD — Pixar's Universal Scene Description
• STL — For 3D printing workflows

Pro Tips

• Apply modifiers before LOD generation for predictable results
• Use Progressive Mode for quick iteration during development
• Use Manual Mode for production when you need precise control
• Test your LODs in-engine to verify quality vs performance balance
• Name objects clearly before export — MeshForge preserves your naming