Procedural generation
method in which data is created algorithmically as opposed to manually
In computing, procedural generation is a method of creating data algorithmically as opposed to manually, typically through a combination of human-generated content and algorithms coupled with computer-generated randomness and processing power. In computer graphics, it is commonly used to create textures and 3D models. In video games, it is used to automatically create large amounts of content in a game. Depending on the implementation, advantages of procedural generation can include smaller file sizes, larger amounts of content, and randomness for less predictable gameplay.
Overview
The term procedural refers to the process that computes a particular function. Fractals are geometric patterns which can often be generated procedurally. Commonplace procedural content includes textures and meshes. Sound is often also procedurally generated, and has applications in both speech synthesis as well as music. It has been used to create compositions in various genres of electronic music by artists such as Brian Eno who popularized the term "generative music".
Procedural generation was originally created as an instrument for video games, aiding in generating levels, textures and complete worlds with little human contribution.
Begin with the source’s own compact description: “Procedural generation” is method in which data is created algorithmically as opposed to manually. The dossier treats that line as a proposition to test through Procedural, generation and method, not as a finished interpretation.
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This entry incorporates text from “Procedural generation” on English Wikipedia. Contributors are listed in the page history. Text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 License. Selected authority identifiers and statements are retrieved from Wikidata under CC0; their references and qualifiers remain part of the verification path.