After the recommendations of squall8cloud7, I started to learn using Blender and I now grasp the basics.
So, I decided to start simple and begin with modelling basic objects, which would be later incorporated in 3D fields (as I thought about remaking the sector 7 sewers, initially). Then I had the following idea:
- Since I'm a noob in 3D modelling, maybe I could focus on making simple items which would be re-usable assets, for other 3D modellers to use in their own 3D fields. I know that part of Final Fantasy VII artistic strength is to feature many screens using unique items, but it would be relevant to have objects such as cans, glass bottles, plastic bottles, cigarette packs, chairs, crates, ash trays, etc. be featured in several scenes. If needed, I could make several variations of each items with different textures/mapping. For example, making glass bottles, I could design several labels to make different kinds of beer, soda, etc.
- This idea would lead to the design of "brands", which would be relevant with the world of Final Fantasy VII. I think we could take some artistic liberties in that respect, though still referencing to this universe. For instance, there could be the "Chocobo King" beer ("Chocobo King" is a sign featured in the post-credit of Crisis Core), or the "Rocket smoke" cigarettes. Personally, I would have fun handling that.
- With the idea of designing reusable assets, I could browse the field screens and list all the objects which could be falling in this category, and make a document referencing objects/field screens. Then 3D modellers could consult this list and pick the suitable items.
- Since I'm a noob, I may need a few guidelines concerning the making of such 3D re-usable objects. More specifically, I have little idea about what would be reasonable poly counts for simple objects. I could also optimize the scale of the items so that they would be easier to use by someone else.
- There's also the issue of making "future proof" 3D models. If Team Avalanche is going to release this 3D-based graphical overhaul somewhere around 2030, perhaps we would like to make items with higher poly-counts so that we can make insane-high-res renders with future technology (1920 x 1080 is the current standard, but what of it in 15 years?). Someone else who has played Gran Turismo 5 will understand where this concern comes from.
So... that's all for this post, I'll appreciate your feedback on these ideas.