Make A Game Character: Pauldron Retopology in Maya

🎨 Stylized Game Character Tutorial Series – Full Pipeline in Maya, ZBrush & Substance Painter

In this video, we focus on retopologizing the pauldron (shoulder armor) of our stylized game character using Autodesk Maya.

Pauldrons are a unique challenge because they combine hard-surface forms with character deformation, sitting directly on top of the shoulder and upper arm. In this lesson, we walk through how to build clean, efficient topology that preserves the armor’s shape while remaining compatible with animation and rigging.

This video continues the retopology phase of the series and demonstrates how to approach armor pieces that need to read clearly, deform predictably, and stay game-ready.

🔍 What This Video Covers

Retopology strategies for shoulder armor

Managing edge flow around the shoulder joint

Keeping armor rigid while allowing for deformation

Clean topology for baking and texturing

Preparing accessory meshes for rigging

🛠️ Tools Used

Autodesk Maya – retopology and topology tools

ZBrush – high-poly sculpt reference

Substance Painter – texturing & baking (later in the series)

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