Three.js vs PlayCanvas: A Reality Check

Three.js is an open-source WebGL-based 3D graphics library developed in JavaScript. It offers high-level API for creating, displaying animated 3D computer graphics. PlayCanvas, on the other hand, is a comprehensive 3D game-development engine that allows simultaneous editing, and integrates built-in physics simulation. It’s also driven by WebGL, but specifically designed for advanced gaming applications.

Key Differences Between Three.js and PlayCanvas

• Three.js focuses on graphics rendering, while PlayCanvas supports game development with features like physics simulation, 3D audio handling, and collaborative editing.
• Three.js was initially released in 2010 while PlayCanvas was first open-sourced in 2014.
• Both support WebGL for graphics acceleration, but PlayCanvas supports WebGL 2.0 from the start; Three.js added WebGL 2.0 support in version 118.
• Three.js has MIT License, PlayCanvas offers Free, Personal, Organization plans.

What Is Three.js and Who’s It For?

Three.js, an inventive JavaScript library, is a tool of choice for creating and displaying animated 3D computer graphics in a browser environment. Its initial release was on April 24, 2010 by software gem Ricardo Cabello, and it has since been enhanced by a vast community of over 1700 contributors on Github. It delivers GPU-accelerated 3D animations, removing the need for bulky browser plugins. WebGL 2.0 is its foundation from version 118 onwards, while options for older versions continue via WebGL1Renderer class.

This trailblazing technology is geared towards tech savvies needing to create dynamic 3D animations. Its diverse offering including but not limited to multiple effects, materials, shaders and varied support options caters to different scopes. It’s a keystone for achieving immersive experiences in Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality, earning its widespread adoption.

Pros of Three.js

• Optimized for browser-based environment
• Diverse set of features
• Promotes GPU-accelerated 3D Animations without the need for plugins
• Vast community support on Github
• Supports AR & VR via WebXR

Cons of Three.js

• Steep learning curve for beginners
• Relies heavily on WebGL

What Is PlayCanvas and Who’s It For?

The open-source 3D game engine, PlayCanvas, doubles as a creation platform for interactive 3D applications. It went open source on June 4, 2014 and was later assimilated by Snap Inc. in 2017. It’s built on WebGL 1.0 and 2.0 standard, rendering it compatible with browsers supporting WebGL like Firefox, Google Chrome. Its distinguishing feature is the real-time Editor that enables multiple developers to work simultaneously.

PlayCanvas is tailored for developers and game designers pursuing the creation of games and interactive 3D applications. By presenting a collaborative, cloud-hosted platform, it fosters seamless team operations. It’s highly recommended for those seeking advanced 2D and 3D graphics, 3D animations and rigid-body physics simulations.

Pros of PlayCanvas

• Open source and supports real-time editing by multiple users
• Cloud-hosted, promotes collaboration
• Enables scripting via JavaScript
• Built on WebGL 1.0 & 2.0 for superior graphics

Cons of PlayCanvas

• Requires a PlayCanvas account and access token
• Not as comprehensive as proprietary game engines

Three.js vs PlayCanvas: Pricing

While Three.js is freely available with an MIT license, PlayCanvas offers a variety of plans, including a free option.

Three.js

Technologically progressive and formidable, Three.js is obtainable under an MIT License. Manifestly, this implies it’s free for any user, fostering economic viability in creating visually stunning 3D graphics in web environments.

PlayCanvas

PlayCanvas standouts with its tier-based pricing model. It extends a Free plan, promoting accessibility to all users. Further, it offers Personal and Organisation plans, pragmatically enhancing features and capabilities to meet diverse project requirements.

Code Examples for Three.js & PlayCanvas

Three.js

Creating a moving particle system with random colors.

const scene = new THREE.Scene();const camera = new THREE.PerspectiveCamera(75, window.innerWidth/window.innerHeight,0.1,1000);camera.position.z = 5;const renderer = new THREE.WebGLRenderer();renderer.setSize(window.innerWidth, window.innerHeight);document.body.appendChild(renderer.domElement);let particles = new THREE.Geometry();for(let p = 0; p < 10000; p++){let particle = new THREE.Vector3(Math.random()*10-5, Math.random()*10-5, Math.random()*10-5);particles.vertices.push(particle);let color = new THREE.Color(Math.random()*0xFFFFFF);particles.colors.push(color);}let pointCloudMaterial = new THREE.PointsMaterial({vertexColors: THREE.VertexColors, size: 0.1});let pointCloud = new THREE.Points(particles, pointCloudMaterial);scene.add(pointCloud);function animate(){requestAnimationFrame(animate);pointCloud.rotation.x += 0.01;pointCloud.rotation.y += 0.01;renderer.render(scene, camera);}animate();

PlayCanvas

Rotating a 3D object upon receiving user input.

pc.script.attribute('speed', 'number', 10);pc.script.create('rotator', function (app) {var Rotator = function (entity) {this.entity = entity;};Rotator.prototype = {update: function (dt) {if(app.keyboard.isPressed(pc.KEY_LEFT)){this.entity.rotateLocal(0, -this.speed * dt, 0);}if(app.keyboard.isPressed(pc.KEY_RIGHT)){this.entity.rotateLocal(0, this.speed * dt, 0);}}};return Rotator;});

Three.js vs PlayCanvas: Which to Choose?

In the arena of 3D graphics, two titans face-off: Three.js and PlayCanvas. But which platform should you build your masterpiece with? Let’s dissect this based on your context.

COMMERCIAL DEVELOPERS

For a commercial development team, with multiple simultaneous contributors, PlayCanvas, due to its real-time collaborative Editor, holds the trump card. It empowers speedy and seamless team development and no matter where you are, your entire team can make live edits.

INDIE GAME MAKERS

If you’re flying solo or part of a small team, the versatility and expansive support network of Three.js give it the edge. Fine-tuned for browser support, its GitHub community of over 1700 contributors can prove quite handy for troubleshooting.

AR/VR PIONEERS

In the realm of AR and VR, Three.js presents a robust solution. Its intrinsic support for WebXR provides a dynamic environment for creating immersive virtual reality experiences.

BEGINNERS

If you’re just venturing into the 3D world, PlayCanvas offers a gentler learning curve, with its cloud-based platform that facilitates interactive 3D applications. However, for a deeper understanding of 3D animations, Three.js could be your go-to, because of its clear focus on GPU-accelerated 3D animations.

In conclusion, no matter your objectives or team size, with clear strengths for each audience segment, your choice between Three.js and PlayCanvas should be contextually guided. Ultimately, both technologies are high caliber platforms that support the creation of captivating 3D experiences.