Java 3D

Chapter 14. Introducing Java 3D

The next 15 chapters will be about programming 3D games using Java 3D, Java's scene graph API. A scene graph makes 3D programming easier for novices (and for experienced programmers) because it emphasizes scene design, rather than rendering, by hiding the graphics pipeline. The scene graph supports complex graphical elements such as 3D geometries, lighting modes, picking, and collision detection. Java 3D is a scene graph API.

I'll summarize the main elements of Java 3D in this chapter, leaving program examples aside for the moment. Then, as in Chapter 1, I'll examine Java 3D's suitability for games programming by considering the criticisms leveled against it.