So in the world of 3-D modeling, you can model two main ways you can create objects. You can use polygons, (which are 4 sided, but sometimes more), or you can use triangles (only 3 sided).
Benefits
Polygons
Sometimes good for creating smooth curves, or filling in square holes.
easier to manipulate than triangles.
Triangles
No hidden edges (a triangle is a plan so every triangle is completely flat).
What games use for polygon count and what they render.
Drawbacks
Polygons
Can contain hidden edges.
Since in the world of modeling, everything has to be definite, you have to break a model down to it's simplest form. Triangles are that simplest form. Because each triangle is completely flat (a plane), the program you're using and the game know exactly the coordinates of the three vertices, and can draw the area inbetween. However with a polygon, you can have a 4 sided shape, that is bent in a weird way and has unexpected edges because it will eventually be broken down and split up into triangles. (Every 4 sided polygon is broken down into 2 triangles).
Triangles
Can be harder to model with
More time consuming to model with
Moral of the story:
I suggest you model with 4 sided polygons, but it is not illegal to use triangles or a mix of the two. Most of my modeling is mainly 4 sided but sometimes I have to fill in some areas with triangles. Just make sure that the 4 sided polygons are flat, and are not bent in weird ways and you should be fine. And remember to weld!
- Happy modeling!