FAQs

Can I use an existing framework, pbrt, Unity, etc.?

We recommend using a good tool for your project, but it is especially important for you to specify in your proposal what your technical contributions will be if you will work on top of an existing framework or use a game engine like Unity. While we encourage you to use the final project to demonstrate your artistry or creativity, we will still expect some graphics-related technical components.

Can I make a game for my final project?

Same as above, we won’t say no in general, but it is again important that the technical work involved in the game is related to something we discussed in this course. For example, can you incorporate ray tracing methods as a way of computing projectile trajectories? Or maybe procedurally generate terrain or textures for your game? Or implement some of the animation components yourself? etc.

We highly recommend checking out our recommended game demo idea!

Can I do a machine learning project?

We’ve definitely had some great machine learning related projects in the past! However, as above, there should be some graphics related components to the project.

Please also consider the time to train your machine learning models, especially if the model is large and deep. You might want some quick turnarounds. (you should train your own model rather than using an existing pre-trained one)

How do I know if my project is too hard/too easy?

That’s the goal of submitting a project proposal! The more detailed your proposal is (planned deliverables, schedule, etc), the better TAs/instructors can provide feedback on your project. The project should be roughly twice the work of a “normal” homework (Homeworks 1-4), also scaled by the # of people in your team.

Generally, for “easier” projects, we have an expectation for more polished final results, while our expectations for more challenging or “out of the box” projects are much more flexible. In either case, you don’t need to have a perfect implementation to still get a great grade on the project! So please try to have fun, challenge yourself, or try something new!