rdLODtools is a UE plugin that resides in the Static Mesh Editor. It allows you to easily create Billboard, Planar, Cubic, TriSprite, and Impostor LODs. Billboard LODs can have up to 64 frames in a FlipBook, providing a full 360-degree view (or a range) of the mesh using just 2 or 4 triangles (v1.4 will support dual axis). Planar LODs can include 2–32 planes plus a top plane. Cubic LODs can be modeled to any shape, and TriSprite LODs use a single triangle. Impostors provide all-around views using the ImpostorBaker Shaders for runtime.
Note: Billboards and Impostors are primarily designed for trees and tall, thin foliage, especially when using masks or translucency—complex materials. Attempting to apply these to other object types may result in suboptimal or no performance gains. Consider reducing triangle counts and using existing materials for other mesh types.
Running rdLODtools on complex meshes can significantly improve rendering performance. These LODs also enhance the visual thickness of objects at a distance while reducing frame rates.
Note: To create LODs, Deferred Rendering must be enabled. If using Forward Rendering, switch to Deferred when creating the LODs (or create them in a separate project). To create Impostors, the Impostor Baker plugin must be enabled, which comes with the engine.
rdLODtools is most effective for the following mesh types: trees, tall and thin foliage, and complex skyscrapers or tall buildings with mixed materials.
The cost of converting meshes into Impostors or Billboards includes additional texture memory. A balance must be struck between VRAM usage and triangle reduction. Manual color adjustments are often required, which can be simplified using material instance parameters in the LODs.
2026-02-19 00:00:00-update version:rdLODtools v5.5-5.6