4J Studios, the developer behind Reforj, has introduced Rixels—modified pixels designed to cut texture memory requirements by 98%

4J Studios, the developer behind Reforj, has introduced a new technology termed Rixels. This innovation offers a unique method for delivering textures while requiring significantly less memory. The studio, based in Dundee, has submitted a patent application for this technology.

Rixels, meaning Reforj Pixels, are adapted pixels that incorporate a vector shape. Using vector graphics ensures that the images maintain their clarity even when magnified.

As explained by 4J Studios chairman, Chris van der Kuyl, to GamesIndustry.biz, "The Rixel was our response to a problem with texture size." The team initially used standard 512x512 textures with square pixels, but as the game expanded, space became a concern.

Chief Technology Officer Richard Reavy was tasked with devising a solution, leading to the creation of Rixels. Each Rixel contains one among 23 different vector shapes. These vector images leverage mathematical formulas, which prevents pixelation regardless of scale, according to van der Kuyl.

Initially, the grids used in the Minecraft-like game Reforj consumed 4MB of memory for 512x512 textures. However, employing Rixels, which use 20x20 square grids, reduces memory usage to just 72KB—a remarkable savings exceeding 98%.

"Now, when you zoom in, it retains its clarity," van der Kuyl notes. "The vector shapes appear clearly at any resolution. Reforj is unique in this capability, unlike other games where textures eventually get blurred upon zooming in."

The studio has filed a patent for Rixels, and van der Kuyl expresses surprise at the novelty of this method. "It's an idea that seems obvious now, but remarkably, it wasn't found elsewhere before."

The Elements Engine by 4J utilizes Rixels. As creative director Brian Gomez previously discussed with GamesIndustry.biz, the engine was designed to allow the studio to craft sandbox games after years of porting Minecraft to other platforms.

Rixels reduce memory demands, ensuring Reforj operates smoothly without sacrificing performance, van der Kuyl explains. "Typically, performance issues arise in block-based or voxel games as they grow. Our goal was to maintain a constant 60-frames-per-second rate, enhancing the player's experience."

Van der Kuyl is open to licensing discussions, considering the technology's potential applications in various domains.

"With our innovation offering something entirely new, we're open to teaming up with others, such as graphic design tool developers, who see potential uses," he states. "However, the primary goal remains developing a highly efficient gaming experience."

He acknowledges Rixels might not be universally applicable to all games. "Its importance may vary depending on whether a game is photorealistic or stylized," he adds, expressing curiosity about its uses in other fields.