\C020202Normal Maps\C484848 are used in environments where low-polygon-resolution models are needed (such as animation). They mimic high-resolution details by conveying data about surface normals to the renderer; this requires fewer processor resources since the maps are of a higher pixel resolution than the mesh's polygon resolution.

ZBrush neither requires normal maps for fast rendering, nor renders their effects on meshes. For polymeshes intended for export, ZBrush provides simple, yet comprehensive, features for generating normal maps.

This guide describes the steps for importing a low-res model and generating a high-resolution normal map for it. Note that the steps are very similar to those for generating displacement maps, as described in another guide.
