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game Intermediate 21 lessons

Shader Graph & VFX

Create stunning visual effects. Master node-based shaders, particle systems, and post-processing to make games look beautiful.

Visual Effects (VFX) make games feel juicy and polished. This course teaches the art of Tech Art using node-based Shader Graphs (Unity/Unreal). You will learn to create dissolving meshes, holographic shields, and stylized water. Master Particle Systems to create fire, smoke, and magic spells. We also cover Post-Processing effects like Bloom and Color Grading to finalize the look. Bridging the gap between code and art.

✅ 100% Free & Lifetime Access
⏱️ 5-Minute Lessons (Bite-sized learning)
🚀 21-Lesson Path (Independent modules)
📱 Mobile Friendly (Learn anywhere)
Tech Artists
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Secure Enrollment via SSL

Complete Course Syllabus

  • 1
    Shader Basics
    Textures, UVs, and the PBR lighting model.
  • 2
    Node Logic
    Math nodes, time inputs, and noise generation.
  • 3
    Transparency & Depth
    Creating water, glass, and holographic effects.
  • 4
    Particle Systems
    Emitters, curves, and sub-emitters for explosions.
  • 5
    Post-Processing
    Bloom, Vignette, and Color Grading for mood.

Estimated completion time: 21 lessons • Self-paced learning • Lifetime access

Career Outlook

Estimated Salary
$100k - $150k

Career Paths

VFX Artist $90k-$140k
Technical Artist $100k-$150k
Graphics Engineer $110k-$160k

What You Will Learn

Create dynamic materials using node-based Shader Graphs
Simulate fire, smoke, and magic using Particle Systems
Implement post-processing effects for cinematic visuals
Optimize shaders for mobile and VR performance
Design 'juicy' game feel effects like hit flashes

Skills You Will Gain

Shader Graph HLSL Concepts Particle Systems Post-Processing Technical Art

Who Is This For

Technical Artists
Indie Devs
3D Artists

Prerequisites

Game Engine Basics
Artistic Eye

Shader Graph & VFX FAQs

Coding?

No, visual nodes. But logic is similar to code.

Art skills?

Helps, but we focus on the technical implementation.

Unity or Unreal?

Concepts apply to both Shader Graph and Materials.

Optimization?

Yes, we cover overdraw and instruction counts.

Need more info?
All Reork courses are 100% free, self-paced, and fully accessible on mobile devices. No prior experience is required. Read our full Platform FAQ.

Tech Stack & Tools

Unity Shader Graph
Unreal Material Editor
Photoshop

Recommended Next Steps

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Unreal Niagara VFX

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Create next-gen visual effects. Master Unreal Engine's Niagara system to build complex particle simulations, fluids, and magic effects.

Pixel Art for Games

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Create timeless game art. Master sprites, tilesets, color palettes, and animation cycles using Aseprite.

Your Learning Path

Master This Topic, Step by Step

Go from your first step to master level. Three simple steps, all about Shader Graph & VFX.

Currently studying: Shader Graph & VFX
Step 1 · Start Here

Shader Graph & VFX Basics

Get the basics of Shader Graph & VFX right, and everything after gets easier.

5 min Free to explore
Shader Graph & VFX for Beginners
Start with the basics — just 5 easy minutes
Step 2 · Level Up

Advanced Shader Graph & VFX

Know the basics? Good. Now learn the parts of Shader Graph & VFX most people never reach.

5 min Free to explore
Advanced Shader Graph & VFX Course
Ready for more? Take the next step
Step 3 · Master Level

Master Shader Graph & VFX with AI

Use Unity Muse + ChatGPT to create game assets and mechanics. It's the fast lane to mastering Shader Graph & VFX.

5 min Free to explore
AI Game Development
Take the shortcut — let AI do the heavy lifting
Start with Step 1. Each step builds on the one before it.
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