Open source library gives Black hair in video games a much-needed makeover

By and large, Black characters in video games are stuck with poorly designed hair. When customizing an avatar, gamers can choose from a wide variety of styles for straight hair, but see Black hair relegated to basic afros, fades and cornrows.

Which is why A.M. Darke is building the industry's first free database of 3D modeled Black hairstyles. As Darke explains, "Functioning as both art practice and technological development, the Open Source Afro Hair Library seeks to address the lack of thoughtful representation of Blackness in games, virtual/augmented reality, and other 3D media."

The project called on 3D modellers to apply for a USD 1,500 stipend. Selected artists will create one character bust and nine unique hairstyles, with aesthetics and stylization prioritized over realism. The open source library is currently under development and set to launch on Juneteenth 2023.