When is it Acceptable to Use 3D in a Website?

When is it Acceptable to Use 3D in a Website?

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2 min read

As a new Web Developer, it is more than exciting to finally understand how all the pieces of web development can be connected. From creating a website to designing a user-friendly interface and implementing various features, the possibilities are endless. However, it can also be overwhelming to figure out which tools and technologies to use for a project, especially when there are so many options available.

One technology that has caught my attention recently is Three Js, a JavaScript library for creating 3D animations and visualizations on the web. While it may not be heavily documented, it is relatively straightforward to use and offers a lot of potential for creating engaging and interactive experiences for users. It also doesn't need much documentation, there's very little you need to know to set up an environment. Also, because its a module that automatically adjusts to its system, I'd imagine it an enjoyable platform to program a game in. It also happens to be ubiquitous among browsers and widely used among developers, so getting questions answered shouldn't be hard.

I have been experimenting with Three Js in my own projects and have been impressed with the results. For example, in one project, I wanted to create a fireplace with a realistic-looking fire animation. I was able to use Three Js to create a 3D layer with fire-like effects and place it behind a cutout of a fireplace, creating a convincing illusion of a fire burning inside.

In another project, I wanted to create a loading page that asks for age verification before allowing access to the main website. I used Three Js to create a spinning globe with sleet effects, adding a unique and engaging touch to the loading page. The effects were easy to implement and didn't significantly impact the load times of the page, even on slower computers.

So what makes Three Js and other 3D technologies acceptable to use on websites? In my opinion, it all comes down to load times and whether the 3D elements feel like they fit within the overall design of the website. If a website is heavily reliant on 3D elements and the load times are slow or cause technical issues, it can be frustrating for users and ultimately drive them