Maya: Possible to create low res copy of model while maintaining UVs/Textures?

justifun

I have a high res version of a character and the client wants LOD's made of it after the fact that its been uv'd and textured. Is it possible to create a lower resolution version of the model without having to re UV and re texture the model?

I've tried deleting non UV edges of the high res to cut down the polycount, but im getting some wierd surface issues.

CheeseOnToast

Yes, it's possible. Deleting edge loops, or better yet, collapsing edge rings are the main ways to reduce polycount. You will get some texture distortions and normal maps won't look exactly right, but it doesn't matter at the distances the LODs will be seen at.

justifun

What do you mean by collapsing edge rings? Have heard that one before. Or maybe, but by a different name.

respawnrt