Artdink Talks PS2
Posted by @ 1:09 PM, EST
Core scored an interview with Artdink, they guys behind ATrain6.
Here’s a slice:

"What unique aspects are being added to the PlayStation2 version of A6?

Sato-san: On the original PlayStation the semitransparent functions were basic, and only allowed us to make one piece of a polygon semitransparent. On the PlayStation2 we're able to change the level of transparency. For example, we can make 1% of an image semitransparent or use a graduated system of transparency. So, therefore we can have varying levels of transparency for an object. In A6 the buildings become semitransparent as the camera goes by. This isn't being done using fogging techniques, we're actually increasing the level of transparency.

Can you explain this more, and how it's being used?

Sato-san: Okay, imagine you're looking at one polygon. Parts of the polygon will appear 50% semitransparent, while other parts will be only 15% semitransparent. We can actually change the level of transparency from pixel to pixel, or point to point.

Impressive. Some of the reflections and other graphical effects look incredible too.

Sato-san: Things like window reflections are semitransparent also. That's something totally impossible on other systems. Until now we've basically had to make a window using 1 polygon. Then we needed a vast number of polygons just to create a building. In fact, if we wanted to make some of the buildings in A6 on other systems we'd need- to use about 10,000 polygons."
Full interview