Help converting game from 2d to toon rendered 3d models? (8-bit)

[Anonymous]

Hello everyone,

I am working on a small game, and it is very hard to add new content and manage server, etc; as a one man show I was wondering if I could perhaps convert my character model to 3d, and make use of all of the wonderful 3d assets out there.

I have attached a 2d gif of the current model, what would be the best way to go about this? I was hoping there might be an easier solution than what I anticipate, looking for any tips, keywords, or where to start. Thanks in advance!

I should note, I have played around with some models and tried some toon rendering, but I was never quite able to replicate that 8-bit feel.

[slimboJoe]

You need to apply an 8-bit looking texture file to a basic 3D form.  It's a little tricky since the when 2D goes from straight on to sideways, the art COMPLETELY changes.  In 3D its the same model turning 90 degrees.  In your case, you might get away with using a character form made from cubes and then mapping your 8-bit artwork onto the front, side, and back face accordingly.  Use a PNG to get a transparent area where there is no image on the cube, so you don't see the cube where there is no character art.