Sprites

2D Sprites are images created with pixels in a two dimensional form. Often these are in game characters however they can also be lettering or any other moving objects within a game. Graphically they are flat looking and very basic in appearance. Below is an example of a 2D character sprite.

 

Before true 3D graphics were invented in games 3D sprites were invented. These are similar to 2D sprites however they are made to look 3D by creating them in an isometric way rather than just flat. Instead of being used to create only characters and moving objects within the game 3D sprites were often used to create the scenery within a game as well. Graphically 3D sprites look more realistic than 2D sprites however they are also created in the same way so still create a fairly basic appearance. Below is a picture of Sims City 3000 which used 3D sprites to create the graphics within the game.