- 1). Create a model of your character. Launch Maya PLE and open the "Model Editor." Some familiarity with Maya PLE model creation is required. Create a rough outline of the torso, head, arms and legs. This will be an approximation of the character sizes. Consider this the bones of your character.
- 2). Use the "IK Joint Tool" to create joints which approximate the human body. Necks, shoulders, elbows, knees and pelvis joints will be needed for the skin to move correctly. Maya PLE has extensive tutorials on this subject and many people spend years learning how to properly utilize this software.
- 3). Animate your model. Like all video games, "Unreal Tournament 2004" has an extensive animation cycle. You can create your own animations inside of Maya PLE or import this data from a previously built character. The data inside the games character folders is typically marked under the "Animation" folder.
- 4). Texture the character. Maya PLE will allow you to apply premade textures to your model's surfaces. Highlight a surface, right-click and select "New Texture Placement." This will allow you to select the type of texture you add, which will define the look and style of your character. You can select texture that Maya PLE is loaded with or add your own which you've created or downloaded from other skinners. Repeat this until you've covered the model and created a character all your own.
- 5). Export the new character from Maya PLE to "Unreal Tournament 2004." Decide on a name for the character. When you select the export function, export the file as a ".upl". This way, "Unreal Tournament 2004" can recognize your character model and skin.
Attention to detail is key.
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