Geometry Nodes

Reusable procedural systems. Parametric assets. Performance-aware instancing.

When to Use

• Scatter systems (rocks, vegetation, debris)
• Parametric buildings, roads, pipes, cables
• Procedural variation without unique modeling
• Kit assembly with randomization
• Non-destructive iteration on large scenes

Workflow

Define Parameters → Build Node Tree → Create Node Group (GN_)
    → Test Variations → Bake/Instance Decision → Export Integration

Node Group Standards

• Prefix: GN_[System]_[Descriptor]
• Expose only necessary inputs (seed, density, scale range)
• Document input ranges in group name or custom properties
• Version node groups: GN_Scatter_Rocks_v02

Core Patterns

Scatter System

Mesh Surface → Distribute Points on Faces → Instance on Points
    → Randomize Rotation (Z) → Randomize Scale → Realize (optional)

Building Generator

Floor Count (input) → Repeat Mesh → Stack Instances
    → Window Cut Pattern → Material Variation → Output

Cable/Pipe Routing

Curve Input → Curve to Mesh (profile) → Subdivide → Set Material
    → Multiple curves from single path node

Rock Formation

Ico Sphere → Displace (noise) → Decimate → Instance Scatter

Randomization

Parameter	Typical Range
Scale	0.8, 1.2 (uniform or per-axis)
Rotation Z	0, 360°
Density	0.1, 2.0 per m²
Seed	Integer for reproducibility

Always expose seed as group input for art direction iteration.

Performance Rules

Scenario	Approach
Game export	Realize instances → decimate → export mesh
Background scatter	Keep instanced; limit count
Hero procedural	Bake to static mesh for engine
Viewport preview	Limit instance count attribute

Reusable Systems Library