Our latest find is a 3D animator's "remaster" of Blizzard's legendary Warcraft III cinematic intro from 2002. Alireza Akhbariarabani created entirely new models using the same 3D modelling software that Blizzard Entertainment used 15 years ago, and the result is epic.
A Tribute to a Classic - Warcraft III Opening Remaster - YouTube
Alireza Akhbariarabani is a senior generalist and 3D Animator, and a big fan of Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos. As a tribute to the 2002 fantasy real-time strategy game, the creative spent six months working part time on this side project, using Autodesk's 3ds Max alongside ZBrush, Houdini, Adobe Substance 3D Painter, Terragen, Arnold, Ornatrix, and Nuke.
"The Warcraft III opening cinematic was a defining moment for me," Alireza wrote on YouTube. "When I first saw it, I was captivated by its storytelling, atmosphere, and artistry. It left such a lasting impression that I dreamed of one day remastering it myself. I finally started that journey, not just as a tribute to the incredibly talented team behind the original, but as a way to challenge myself."
The work remains very faithful to the original while showing how graphics have advanced. Fans are blown away by the dedication to the task. "The Reforged we deserved, but only get a glimpse of," one person commented. "The Use of Iroquin's footman models from skyrim is just perfection," was another opinion. Check out the original below for comparison.
Alireza has also shared a video breakdown showing the whole process involved in creating the project, from modeling and texturing in 3ds Max and ZBrush to rigging, grooming, CFX, and rendering.
Joe is a regular freelance journalist and editor at Creative Bloq. He writes news, features and buying guides and keeps track of the best equipment and software for creatives, from video editing programs to monitors and accessories. A veteran news writer and photographer, he now works as a project manager at the London and Buenos Aires-based design, production and branding agency Hermana Creatives. There he manages a team of designers, photographers and video editors who specialise in producing visual content and design assets for the hospitality sector. He also dances Argentine tango.
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