Unwrapping Warhammer 40K: Black Templars Automated Orbital Sentinel

The Orbital Sentinel project was a deep dive into both the creative and technical sides of 3D modeling. My goal was to build a mechanical construct worthy of the Warhammer 40K universe — a massive, gothic-inspired defense platform that feels equal parts relic and machine. I modeled the entire structure in Plasticity, taking advantage of its precision-based workflow, and later moved to 3ds Max for a clean and efficient UV unwrap. This article showcases the finished clay renders and the final unwrapped version of the model, revealing the complete process from form to function.

The first clay render presents the Orbital Sentinel in its finalized state, highlighting the model’s silhouette and overall proportion. At this stage, I focused on making sure the design carried both mass and elegance — qualities that define Warhammer 40K’s visual language. Without any materials or textures, the model’s pure geometry stands out, emphasizing its layered armor, gothic arches, and reinforced mechanical structure.

Transitioning to 3ds Max, the next stage involved unwrapping the model for texturing. This third image showcases the UV layout, where each component of the Sentinel was carefully flattened and organized. My main focus here was achieving clean, non-overlapping UV islands while maintaining proportional scaling. This ensures that the model will texture seamlessly, preserving the crisp edges and fine detailing established during the modeling phase.

The second clay render zooms in to show the intricate surface detailing and structure of the Sentinel. This image captures the harmony between function and ornament — armored plating, recessed panels, and mechanical reinforcements all built using Plasticity’s precise modeling tools. This stage reflects my goal of making the model believable as a real construct while maintaining the ornate, almost ceremonial style typical of Imperial machinery.

The final render presents the completed UV-unwrapped version of the Orbital Sentinel, ready for texturing and look development. This view represents the bridge between design and production — where the creative modeling work transitions into the technical phase of rendering. Seeing the model in this state feels rewarding; every part is now structurally and technically ready for the next chapter: bringing it to life with materials, lighting, and the visual weight it deserves within the Warhammer 40K universe.