How do they add the outline on 3d models?

[on:]

I know how they make the 3d models, but how do they add the outline that always outlines it no matter what angle you see it from? For example, usually on a sphere if you see the outline on it from one angle, if you rotate, it will look like it has a line down the middle. How do they always keep the outline on the outside?

[Reply #1 on:]

I think it's a technique called cell shading. it's also used in some newer video games like the new zelda on the gamecube, some pc game called XIII and the upcoming futurama xbox game. i don't know how it works exactly, but it has to do something with rendering the border pixels a bit thicker. i'm not an expert on 3D rendering and can't tell you more, so you'll best look up 'cell shading' in google (or whereever) yourself.

[Reply #2 on:]

Basically, by writing/altering their rendering engine they can make it look like just about anything - 3d renderers aren't limited to 'life-like' environments and smooth gradient shading. 

[Reply #3 on:]

Yeb it's a sertain renderer. I used it when I was doing a promo for a cartoon that involved 3-D models in a 2-D environment.