We asked Razed, known for his impressive Natural Vision Evolved mod for Grand Theft Auto V, for an interview by us GTABase, so here it is! Big thank you to him for accepting the offer!
1) Could you tell us about how development works in terms of NVE?
Currently there is a core team of 3 devs and we try to think of fun ideas and features to develop each month. Each of us has a unique role—whether it's 3D design, scripting or editing a variety of meta files. We've developed a lot of interesting features over the years but players are always craving for more. Occasionally, we take requests from other players and try to bring their ideas to life. I think it keeps things fun for us.
2) How long does it take to plan out and develop updates for NVE?
We try to do something new and deliver it by the end of each month. Normally, an idea can be brought to life in under a month, but complex features such as volumetric clouds can take up to a year.
3) With GTAV’s version of RAGE being aged compared to the likes of RDR2’s how did you pull off adding volumetric clouds?
It was a really long and complex process for us that everyone contributed towards. From learning how to write shader code and creating a proper 3D noise texture to coming up with a solution for world, view and projection matrices. Then integrating all of that into working with reshade via our custom plugin. There are still a few issues we need to solve with our clouds but I'm content with the progress we've made.
4) How do you plan to make RDR2 look better with Visual Redemption as it’s already such a stunning game?
I think it's quite difficult to make a beautiful game such as RDR2 look "better" but it is possible to alter the art style. We went with the latter. I tried to give the game a modern look, but kept the option to use the vanilla art style with a few visualsettings related improvements on the side.
5) What are your thoughts on FiveM acquisition and how do you think it’ll benefit FiveM in the long term?
It's wonderful to see R* communicating with modders. The FiveM acquisition is a huge step that will hopefully benefit the entire community. There will be more hands on deck which can help with improving server infrastructure or client code. I'm excited for the future here.
6) Now you’ve been working with NoPixel for FiveM, what are your future goals you want to accomplish with them?
My ultimate goal with nopixel is to continue pushing the boundaries of what can be accomplished in a roleplay server. That's what we're doing with nopixel 4.0 and will continue to do with future updates. I want players to feel like they're experiencing something entirely new and unique with a ridiculous amount of features and details that can improve the overall immersion between individuals roleplaying on the server. We have the next year planned out so stay tuned for more nopixel-related content on the way. It's only going to get crazier from here on out.
7) Now with NoPixel 4.0 how did you and the team pull off adding seamless interiors?
A lot of work went into that feature. One of our devs manually created shell cutouts of each home around various parts of the map. Another dev coded the housing editor which allows players to decorate the shell with furniture, wallpaper, lights and much more. And then some other devs created hundreds of unique props to be used within the housing editor.
8) How long have you worked on the project for?
I've been working on nopixel 4.0 for about 1.5 years. It's been a huge roller coaster since the start. I wouldn't have it any other way. The entire team is extremely talented and a pleasure to work alongside.
9) Now GTA VI’s trailer has officially been dropped by Rockstar Games, what are your initial thoughts and what are you most looking forward to?
I think GTA VI looks absolutely insane. I can't think of any other way to express what I saw in the trailer. Being from Miami myself, I've always wanted a modern-day Vice City in GTA after I saw what Rockstar did with Liberty City back in GTA IV. I'm glad we're finally getting it in an era where graphics and gameplay technology can be pushed to the extreme. Can't wait to visit the neighborhoods where I grew up. Looking forward to learning more about the game in 2024.
