T-pose
In computer animation, a T-pose, also known as a Bind Pose, is a default pose for a 3D model's skeleton before it is animated.[1]
![](../I/m/A_screenshot_of_makehuman_1.0_alpha_7.png)
Usage
The T-pose is primarily used as the default pose in animation software, which is then moved to create animations.[1][2]
Outside of being default poses in animation software, T-poses are typically used as placeholders for animations not yet completed, particularly in 3D animated video games.[3] In some motion capture software, a T-pose must be assumed by the actor in the motion capture suit before motion capturing can begin.[4]
As an Internet meme
Starting in 2010 and resurfacing in 2017 the T-pose specifically has become a widespread internet meme due to its bizarre and non sequitur appearance as a distorted music plays at the background, especially in video game glitches where there would otherwise be an animation.[5]
In a prerelease video of the game NBA Elite 11, the demo was filled with glitches, notably one unintentionally showing a T-pose in place of the proper animation for the model of player Michael Jordan.[6] Publisher EA eventually cancelled the game due to finding it unsatisfactory. NBA 2K17 later referenced this.[7]
In video games developed with the Source game engine, characters are in the T-pose as long as they are unarmed. It became popular among players in some modified game modes to spawn without a weapon and therefore be in the T-pose.
A fairly well known version of this meme typically involves a large group of people assuming the position, whilst the main theme of the popular video game franchise Halo either plays or is sung by said group of people.
The T-Pose is also an emote in the game Fortnite Battle Royale.
References
- Autodesk. "T-pose - Maya LT 2018". Autodesk Knowledge Network. Autodesk, Inc. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
- Scott-Jones, Richard. "Overwatch's highlight intros take 4 days to animate, last 5 seconds – watch it happen". PC Games N. Network N. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
- Nelson, Jr., Xalavier. "How developers create cinematics". PC Gamer. Future US, Inc. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
- Stuart, S.C. "This $2,500 Suit Simplifies Motion Capture for Filmmakers". PCMag. Ziff Davis, LLC. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
- Hathaway, Jay. "How the 'T-pose' became a meme". The Daily Dot. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
- 12/02/10 4:00pm 12/02/10 4:00pm. "How A Big Video Game Was Killed". Kotaku.com. Retrieved 2013-09-01.
- Good, Owen S. "Six years later, NBA 2K still won't let EA Sports live down the NBA Elite 'JOTARO' glitch". Polygon. Vox Media. Retrieved 16 January 2019.