MK12

This MK12 was created in 2018 for an unannounced project by Ryzin’s Zach Shertz. The MK12 SPR (Special Purpose Rifle) is a semi-automatic designated marksman rifle that was in service until 2017. While researching this gun, Zach says he learned a lot about its history, purpose, and development of the MK12, and how much it is revered. “It's a very specific list of parts, so hunting down accurate references for all the parts was half the battle.”

Textures on this weapon were created mostly clean and new, but we carefully added visual storytelling and wear and tear in very focused key areas. The magazine for example has a more dirty treatment to its weathering, while the receiver has subtle accent points of damage to show use over time. On the stock, we focused on a light and subtle texture in height for material read and very subtle dusting pass. You’ll notice quite a bit of shape buildup overall on certain areas of the weapon, all of which, again, is to add to the story of this asset. We also pride ourselves on being sure to detail hidden areas as well, in case it's seen in reload animations.

Zach especially enjoyed creating the iconic MK12 mod 0 handguard. He says, “It’s composed of some simple shapes but it really ties down the whole aesthetic of the rifle.” The most challenging part in the creative process was fitting the monolithic top rail to the upper receiver and lining it up in tandem with the rear backup iron sight and handguard. If I could redo it, I would change the fire selector to semi automatic which is more appropriate for a Special Purpose Rifle role.”

Artist: Zach Shertz
https://www.artstation.com/geno
Art Direction: Alan Van Ryzin
https://www.artstation.com/polygoo