Introduction
Gorilla3D is an addon framework for Delphi Firemonkey 3D and it's not a game engine, even though we provide more and more design time editors to make things easier.
A 3D framework and a 3D engine are both tools used for creating 3D applications, but they have different purposes and functions.
A 3D framework is a collection of software libraries, APIs, and tools that provide a set of pre-built functionalities for building 3D applications. It typically includes tools for rendering 3D graphics, managing scenes, handling user input, and implementing physics simulations. The purpose of a 3D framework is to provide developers with a foundation on which they can build custom 3D applications with ease, without having to start from scratch.
On the other hand, a 3D engine is a software tool designed specifically for creating and running 3D applications. It is a more comprehensive solution that typically includes all the features of a 3D framework, as well as additional tools for managing game assets, handling animations, and implementing complex gameplay mechanics. The purpose of a 3D engine is to provide a complete solution for creating interactive 3D experiences, such as video games or virtual reality applications.
In summary, a 3D framework provides a foundation for building 3D applications, while a 3D engine is a more comprehensive solution that includes all the tools necessary for creating fully-featured 3D applications.
First Steps
Handling Gorilla3D is quite the same as using Firemonkey 3D. The main difference is the usage of TGorillaViewport as the main component for display. You can no longer use a TViewport3D or TForm3D as basis for showing 3D content.
The reason for that is, that Gorilla3D extends functionality a lot and needs special treatment, which the default viewport do not provide (f.e. Render-Passes, Lighting-Information, Shadow-Computation, …).
But, let's start and have quick look at the basic features of Gorilla3D and how they are going to be used.