4J Studios, the developer behind Reforj, has introduced Rixels. These modified pixels are designed to decrease texture memory usage by 98%

4J Studios, based in Dundee, has unveiled a new technology named Rixels, designed to provide textures using considerably less memory. This innovative approach, which the company has applied to patent, could revolutionize texture management in gaming.

Rixels, or Reforj Pixels, consist of unique pixels that incorporate vector shapes, maintaining sharpness even under magnification. The 4J Studios chairman, Chris van der Kuyl, discussed this with GamesIndustry.biz, explaining that while initially using standard 512x512 textures, the increasing game size presented significant storage challenges.

In addressing this issue, van der Kuyl tasked CTO Richard Reavy with finding an alternative solution. Reavy developed Rixels, which integrate 23 distinct vector shapes. Leveraging the mathematical precision of vector graphics, Rixels remain clear regardless of size, bypassing pixelation problems, according to van der Kuyl.

Originally, the texture grids used in their Reforj game occupied 4MB of memory, but the introduction of Rixels reduced this to merely 72KB, a savings of over 98%. Van der Kuyl stated that zooming into textures with Rixels reveals crisp, beautiful vector shapes without the blur seen in other games.

Despite its straightforward concept, Rixels have not been previously utilized, which van der Kuyl finds surprising. He believes the invention fills a unique niche in the gaming industry and is eager to see how it will be embraced.

Rixels are part of 4J Studios' proprietary Elements Engine, as recently highlighted by the studio’s creative director Brian Gomez. This engine supports the creation of new sandbox games after years of adapting Minecraft for various platforms.

Rixels enable higher resolution textures with reduced memory usage

The enhanced memory efficiency provided by Rixels aids in avoiding game performance issues, enabling consistent 60 frames-per-second gameplay, which van der Kuyl believes significantly enhances player experience.

Interested in further applications, van der Kuyl is open to licensing Rixels for wider use, potentially in graphic design tools. He notes the technology's particular suitability for stylized games but is curious about other potential uses in different contexts.