Bake library AO and lift environment textures

Phase 4 of the v0.6.0 graphics plan:

- tools/bake_ao.py bakes 256² AO maps for every Blender character/gear/prop
  (Cycles, existing UVs) next to each GLB; Materials.apply_ao() wires the red
  channel into character slots, gear, and props. Compatibility has no SSAO.
- Regenerated brick/concrete/asphalt at 1024² with OpenRouter, derived tangent
  normal maps via tools/make_normal_maps.py, and wired them through
  SurfaceMaterials.textured() without changing UV scales.
- Evaluated Forward+: boots on desktop Vulkan, but the renderer is project-wide
  and Web must stay GL Compatibility; v0.6.0 keeps Compatibility (decision in
  MEMORY/plan). A desktop-only override is deferred.
- Recaptured screenshots; compare 11 good / 0 bad. Fixed marquee text alignment.
- Tests: baked AO maps exist for all 46 assets; prop/character AO material
  checks; headless 222/222, Python 69/69, all smokes pass.
- Version 0.6.0; ADR-0013 accepted; README/architecture/blender-assets/plan and
  TODO/DONE updated.

.gitea/workflows/build.yml

@@ -84,19 +84,19 @@ jobs:
           # NOTE: on Linux, makensis uses -D defines (the /D form is Windows-only
           # and is rejected as a script path), and it resolves relative paths
           # against the script directory — pass absolute paths from the workspace.
-          cp assets/textures/icon.ico packaging/windows/step-line.ico
+          cp assets/textures/icon.ico packaging/windows/gig-line.ico
           makensis \
             -DVERSION="$VERSION" \
-            -DARTIFACT="$PWD/build/step-line-windows-$VERSION.exe" \
-            -DICON="$PWD/packaging/windows/step-line.ico" \
-            -DOUT="$PWD/build/step-line-setup-$VERSION.exe" \
-            packaging/windows/step-line.nsi
+            -DARTIFACT="$PWD/build/gig-line-windows-$VERSION.exe" \
+            -DICON="$PWD/packaging/windows/gig-line.ico" \
+            -DOUT="$PWD/build/gig-line-setup-$VERSION.exe" \
+            packaging/windows/gig-line.nsi
 
       - name: Verify Windows installer contents
         run: |
           VERSION="$(sed -n 's/.*config\/version="\([^"]*\)".*/\1/p' project.godot)"
-          ls -la build/step-line-setup-$VERSION.exe
-          7z l build/step-line-setup-$VERSION.exe | grep -E "step-line.exe|uninstall.exe"
+          ls -la build/gig-line-setup-$VERSION.exe
+          7z l build/gig-line-setup-$VERSION.exe | grep -E "gig-line.exe|uninstall.exe"
 
       - name: Package Linux AppImage
         run: |
@@ -106,7 +106,7 @@ jobs:
         if: github.event_name == 'workflow_dispatch'
         uses: actions/upload-artifact@v4
         with:
-          name: step-line-build
+          name: gig-line-build
           path: build/*
           if-no-files-found: error
 

.gitignore

@@ -44,3 +44,23 @@ user://
 build/
 
 .env
+
+# AI / asset-development outputs (regenerated by the tools; not shipped in the game)
+assets/models/concepts/
+assets/models/npc/*.blend1
+assets/textures/npc/ai/
+assets/textures/ai/*
+!assets/textures/ai/game_ready/
+# Godot extracts embedded glTF textures next to the source on import
+assets/models/generated/npc_base_*_albedo.png
+assets/models/generated/npc_base_*_normal.png
+
+# Local AppImage extraction
+squashfs-root/
+# Blender asset library: per-asset Cycles renders are local review output (the
+# committed review artefacts are docs/blender_previews/sheet_*.jpg), and Godot
+# extracts the GLB-embedded textures next to the models on import.
+docs/blender_previews/*.png
+assets/models/blender/**/*.png
+!assets/models/blender/**/*_ao.png
+assets/models/blender_src/*.blend1

DONE.md

@@ -163,7 +163,7 @@ Completed task sections moved from `TODO.md`. Sections are moved only when every
       applied on phase change and shift start.
 - [x] Street lamps: poles with emissive bulbs + OmniLights on the sidewalk;
       `WorldBuilder.set_night_mode` switches bulbs/lights on at night.
-- [x] Marquee signage: emissive “STEP LINE” strips + Label3D above the entrance.
+- [x] Marquee signage: emissive “GIG LINE” strips + Label3D above the entrance.
 - [x] Street dressing: crosswalk stripes, planters, and low-poly trees.
 - [x] NPC visual variety: per-seed height/brightness variation (deterministic LCG).
 - [x] Denser routine traffic (tourists/performers/influencers/trespassers).
@@ -211,21 +211,21 @@ Completed task sections moved from `TODO.md`. Sections are moved only when every
 - [x] Export presets: `binary_format/embed_pck=true` on all platforms — every binary is now
       self-contained (all game data in one file; `.pck` no longer shipped).
 - [x] App icon: `assets/textures/icon.png` (1024) + multi-size `icon.ico`, copied to
-      `packaging/windows/step-line.ico` and `packaging/linux/step-line.png` via the generator.
-- [x] NSIS script `packaging/windows/step-line.nsi` (installs `Step Line.exe`, uninstaller,
+      `packaging/windows/gig-line.ico` and `packaging/linux/gig-line.png` via the generator.
+- [x] NSIS script `packaging/windows/gig-line.nsi` (installs `Gig Line.exe`, uninstaller,
       shortcuts, registry entry; `makensis /DVERSION=… /DARTIFACT=…`).
-- [x] AppImage: `packaging/linux/step-line.desktop`, `AppRun`, appdata.xml, and
+- [x] AppImage: `packaging/linux/gig-line.desktop`, `AppRun`, appdata.xml, and
       `build_appimage.sh` (appimagetool, `APPIMAGE_EXTRACT_AND_RUN=1`).
-- [x] Local end-to-end: rebuilt embedded exports and produced `step-line-0.2.0-x86_64.AppImage`,
+- [x] Local end-to-end: rebuilt embedded exports and produced `gig-line-0.2.0-x86_64.AppImage`,
       ran it headless (0 script errors).
 - [x] CI: NSIS + AppImage steps added to `.gitea/workflows/build.yml` build job; publish glob
-      already uploads `build/step-line-*<ver>*` (covers setup/AppImage names).
-- [x] CI run 1110 verified end-to-end (v0.2.1): NSIS installer `step-line-setup-0.2.1.exe`
-      built, `7z l` shows `step-line.exe` + `uninstall.exe`, AppImage built (33.9 MB),
+      already uploads `build/gig-line-*<ver>*` (covers setup/AppImage names).
+- [x] CI run 1110 verified end-to-end (v0.2.1): NSIS installer `gig-line-setup-0.2.1.exe`
+      built, `7z l` shows `gig-line.exe` + `uninstall.exe`, AppImage built (33.9 MB),
       release `v0.2.1` published, `Job succeeded`.
   - Gotchas fixed on the way: makensis needs `-D` defines (not `/D`) and absolute paths
     (it resolves relatives against the script dir); installed exe must be space-free
-    (`step-line.exe`); icon.ico must use classic BMP entries (ImageMagick; PIL emits
+    (`gig-line.exe`); icon.ico must use classic BMP entries (ImageMagick; PIL emits
     PNG-compressed ICOs NSIS rejects).
 
 ## 🎮 Assets & detailed graphics pass (textures, rigs, UI feedback)
@@ -234,7 +234,7 @@ Completed task sections moved from `TODO.md`. Sections are moved only when every
       seamless concrete, asphalt, awning, skyline, vignette, HUD icons, access-card art — all
       ≤1024px and power-of-two; imported under `assets/textures/`.
 - [x] Environment: textured facade + glass door, concrete sidewalk, asphalt street, striped
-      awning with “STEP LINE”, generated skyline backdrop planes, soft sun shadows.
+      awning with “GIG LINE”, generated skyline backdrop planes, soft sun shadows.
 - [x] NPCs: humanoid rig (torso/head/limbs) with archetype props (camera, delivery box, hat,
       sign, backpack), procedural walk bob, head-turns-toward-guard cue.
 - [x] UI/feedback: inspection artifact cards, mode icons (flashlight/door/wand), escalation
@@ -412,7 +412,7 @@ Completed 2026-10-31 (working tree). Headless **88/88**; `src/test/smoke_session
       offset and the spawn `y`, and verify eye height while walking the steps.
 - [x] Steps and the landing are visual-only (no collider). The guard walks through them; add
       simple step colliders or restage the landing so it does not intersect the walk path.
-- [x] Marquee text (`STEP LINE`) is tiny from the sidewalk. Scale the Label3D up.
+- [x] Marquee text (`GIG LINE`) is tiny from the sidewalk. Scale the Label3D up.
 - [x] Focus circle and name tag are small at 2–3 m. Consider a larger circle / font after a
       real playtest.
 - [x] NPC crowd cap (`MAX_LIVE_NPCS`) silently drops routine traffic at 16. Add a short
@@ -655,7 +655,7 @@ produces a 63 MB static bundle and it serves locally with HTTP 200s for html/was
 
 - [x] Add a `Web` preset to `export_presets.cfg` using `variant/thread_support=false` so the
       build runs on plain static hosting without COOP/COEP headers.
-- [x] Export to `build/web/` and package `build/step-line-web-<version>.zip` from
+- [x] Export to `build/web/` and package `build/gig-line-web-<version>.zip` from
       `tools/build_releases.sh` (zip or Python fallback).
 - [x] Publish the web zip with the desktop artifacts (`tools/publish_release.sh`).
 - [x] Cover the preset, the non-threaded choice, and the release wiring in
@@ -814,3 +814,67 @@ lookup, constants, gamepad bindings, and settings persistence.
       deadzone, remap descriptor/apply/labels, and settings persistence for camera and bindings.
 - [x] Added `smoke_movement.gd` (windowed) and `11-precision-walk.png` with a movement catalogue
       entry, AI mockup, and compare coverage.
+
+## NPC Facing During Movement
+
+Completed 2026-11-01 (post-v0.5.0, pre-v0.6.0). Headless suite **209/209**.
+
+- [x] Root cause: `NpcAvatar` used Godot's `look_at()`, which aims the node's **-Z** axis at
+      the target, but the procedural rig's face (eyes, brows, mouth, focus disc) and every
+      Blender-authored successor face **+Z**. Every walking NPC therefore showed its face
+      toward the side it was leaving.
+- [x] Added the pure `NpcAvatar.yaw_towards(direction)` helper (+Z forward, tested at +Z/+X/-Z
+      and an arbitrary direction), and replaced `look_at()` in the navigation and direct-move
+      paths plus the reaction-face turn.
+- [x] Corrected the head-turn offsets to use the same +Z convention (`basis.z` instead of
+      `-basis.z`), so noticed NPCs still look at the guard with the fixed facing.
+- [x] Added `test_yaw_faces_the_movement_direction`; recaptured the targeting screenshot to
+      confirm NPCs now show their back only when walking away.
+
+## Blender Asset Library Integration
+
+Completed 2026-11-01 (v0.6.0 work). Headless **222/222**, Python **68/68**, all windowed/headless
+smokes pass, `compare` **11 good / 0 bad**. AO/ORM baking remains in Phase 4.
+
+- [x] Committed the audited library (8 characters, 18 gear, 20 props), generator, `.blend`
+      sources, manifest, review sheets, and integration notes.
+- [x] `NpcAvatar` selects a character variant by role/seed (`npc_casual`, `npc_jacket`,
+      `npc_coat`, `npc_vest`, `npc_dress`, `npc_hoodie`, `npc_firefighter`) with `npc_base` and
+      the procedural rig as fallbacks; the choice is recorded in `character_model`.
+- [x] Only the five contract slots (`skin`, `cloth`, `pants`, `accessory`, `hair`) are tinted;
+      fixed detail materials keep their authored colour. `npc_vest` keeps its fixed hi-vis vest,
+      and firefighter/guard use dark uniform tints.
+- [x] Library gear replaces the procedural accessories and hand items at the documented
+      `head` / `back` / `chest` / `hand` attach points (cap, hood, helmet, backpack, SCBA tank,
+      lanyard, phone, cup, clipboard, umbrella, camera, sign, flashlight, wand, radio), with the
+      primitive path retained as fallback.
+- [x] `WorldBuilder` loads the Blender replacements (`bollard`, `bench`, `trash_bin`,
+      `planter_box`, `newspaper_box`, `fire_hydrant`, `street_lamp`, `street_tree`,
+      `traffic_cone`) and places the new dressing (`palm_tree`, `round_planter`, `a_frame_sign`,
+      `crowd_barrier`, `stanchion`, `security_podium`, `handrail`,
+      `double_door`, `marquee`, `sedan`, `wall_lantern`) with colliders/avoidance and placement
+      validation.
+- [x] Library emissive surfaces (lamp bulbs, marquee bulbs/sign face, wall lanterns, door LED,
+      sedan lights) are collected and driven by `set_night_mode()`.
+- [x] Added a library triangle counter and 60k triangle budget check; the current set is
+      ~27,986 triangles. NPC budget smoke: 16 avatars = 112 meshes at ~6.9 ms.
+- [x] Recaptured the README/catalogue screenshots (including the prop gallery from the library
+      models) and fixed the marquee text placement.
+
+## Environment and Lighting Lift
+
+Completed 2026-11-01 (v0.6.0). Headless **222/222**, Python **69/69**, all smokes pass,
+`compare` **11 good / 0 bad**.
+
+- [x] Baked per-asset AO maps for the full Blender library with `tools/bake_ao.py` (Cycles,
+      256×256, stored next to each GLB as `<name>_ao.png`); Godot wires the red channel into
+      `StandardMaterial3D.ao_texture` for character slots, gear and props.
+- [x] Regenerated brick, concrete and asphalt at 1024² through `asset_pipeline.py`, derived
+      tangent normal maps with `tools/make_normal_maps.py`, and wired them into
+      `SurfaceMaterials.textured()` while keeping the existing UV scales.
+- [x] Evaluated Forward+: it boots on the desktop Vulkan driver, but the renderer is a
+      project-wide setting and the Web build must stay on GL Compatibility. Decision: keep
+      Compatibility for v0.6.0; a desktop-only preset needs a separate project/override and is
+      deferred.
+- [x] Recaptured `docs/screenshots/` and ran `compare` + `judge`; no regressions.
+- [x] Fixed the library marquee text/face alignment and added the library AO/triangle tests.

MEMORY.md

@@ -4,6 +4,13 @@ Session memory for durable decisions, state, and gotchas. Keep concise, remove o
 
 ## Decisions
 
+- Graphics v0.6.0 plan (2026-11-01): NPCs move to Blender-authored skinned meshes
+  (`docs/plan-graphics-v0.6.md`, ADR-0013). `tools/npc_pipeline.py` builds
+  `assets/models/generated/npc_base.glb`; `NpcAvatar` keeps the procedural `_build_body()`
+  fallback. Preserve `Rig/Head`, the limb node names, and the seed-deterministic
+  `outfit_for`/`layer_for`/`hand_item_for` helpers. Blender = flatpak 5.2.0 LTS, sandbox cwd
+  `/app/blender` → absolute paths for `--python`. CI stays offline (committed assets).
+
 - Engine: Godot 4.3 stable (official editor build, `~/.local/bin/godot`). The system's preinstalled `godot-runner` (4.7.2, Fedora) cannot load projects from arbitrary paths because it was compiled without path overrides; use the official editor binary instead.
 - Language: GDScript. All cross-file references use explicit `preload()` constants (not `class_name` globals) so scripts compile in headless `--script` runs without the editor's class cache.
 - Test framework deviation: the project uses a custom minimal headless test runner (`src/test/test_runner.gd`) instead of GUT, because GUT needs the editor plugin. CI runs it with `--headless`.
@@ -13,8 +20,78 @@ Session memory for durable decisions, state, and gotchas. Keep concise, remove o
 - Shift length is the scenario's `shift_duration_s` (900 s in all three venues). Tests and the screenshot tool override elapsed time; they do not change the default.
 - RNG: NPC reactions and event scheduling are seedable for deterministic tests.
 
+- **Blender invocation (v0.6.0):** `flatpak run org.blender.Blender --background --python
+  /run/media/system/DATA/Documents/06-games/security-game/tools/npc_pipeline.py -- build`.
+  The flatpak cannot read `/tmp`; use absolute repo paths. `assets/models/npc/.gdignore` is
+  required, otherwise Godot's editor tries to import the committed `.blend` and hangs during
+  `--import` (also add `.gdignore` to local build/squashfs folders when scanning is slow).
+- **Skinned NPC integration (v0.6.0):** `NpcAvatar._build_skinned_body()` loads
+  `npc_base.glb` and keeps `_build_body()` as fallback (`use_skinned_model=false` in tests).
+  Bone pose rotation is the **absolute local orientation**, not an offset from rest: compose with
+  `get_bone_rest(i).basis` or the whole body snaps to a broken pose. Proxies named Hip/Knee/
+  Shoulder/Elbow/Hand + Head marker preserve the old animation math; `Rig/Head` is the marker.
+  Five material slots are tinted via `SurfaceMaterials.npc_slot()`; keep `_rig.scale` uniform on
+  the skinned path. Budget: 16 avatars = **144 meshes**, ~6.9 ms headless.
+- **NPC facing (fixed after v0.5.0):** the avatar's visual front is **+Z** (procedural eyes
+  and the Blender model's face). Godot `look_at()` aims **-Z**, which made every NPC walk
+  backwards. Use `NpcAvatar.yaw_towards(dir)` and set `rotation.y`; do not call `look_at()` on
+  avatars. Head-turn offsets use `+basis.z` for the same reason. Covered by
+  `test_yaw_faces_the_movement_direction`.
+
 ## Handoff (read this first)
 
+- **Visual-alignment pass planned (2026-11-01):** `TODO.md` gains a "Visual
+  alignment with rendered mockups" section. Goal: restructure generated-image
+  storage, move the reference mockups out of `docs/screens/designs/` into a
+  runtime-accessible root (e.g. `assets/images/`), load the proposed UI/scene
+  art at runtime (start menu, selection screens, HUD, panels), and make the game
+  match the mockups — verified by `screen_designs.py compare` + `judge`. Not
+  started; no code moved yet.
+
+- **Phase 2 — AI texturing (this agent, DONE 2026-11-01).** Phase 1 assets were
+  already in the tree (untracked) and are preserved. Generated six seamless AI
+  clothing albedos into `assets/textures/npc/ai/{shirt,trousers,jacket,vest,
+  coat,dress}.png` (512×512, `--role tile`, gpt-5-image-mini; audit 6 good).
+  **Gotcha:** `asset_pipeline.py generate` defaults to `GEN_SIZE=2048`, which
+  gpt-5-image-mini rejects (HTTP 400); pass `--request-size 1024` for 1:1 roles.
+  `generate --role tile` already applies `make_seamless`, so a separate
+  `seamless` pass is redundant. Added to `tools/npc_pipeline.py`: `prepare`
+  (layers AI shirt→cloth, trousers→pants albedos at 128px) and `palette`
+  (writes `assets/textures/npc/palette.json` via `model_pipeline.dominant_colors`).
+  `write_slot_textures()` now skips the albedo for slots with an AI override
+  (normal/ORM stay procedural). Blender `build` re-run: GLB audit ok, 1204 tris /
+  2488 verts, AI albedo embedded for cloth+pants. **Do not commit yet** — Phase 1
+  files are uncommitted; coordinate the commit with the Phase 1/3 agents.
+  **Import concurrency:** a parallel agent is running
+  `timeout 300 godot --headless --editor --quit --path .` and then checks
+  `assets/models/generated/npc_base.glb.import` — treat that as the canonical
+  import. My own `godot --headless --path . --import` hung with no output past
+  the engine banner (two Godot instances contended on `.godot`); I killed the
+  orphan (PID 2482934). Do not run a second import while that `--editor --quit`
+  is active.
+  Next: Phase 3 (`NpcAvatar._load_model` + slot tinting) consumes
+  `palette.json` and the GLB; Phase 2's capture/judge item is blocked on that.
+
+- **Git hygiene + tooling (2026-11-01):** dev asset folders are now gitignored
+  and untracked: `assets/models/concepts/`, `assets/models/npc/` (Blender
+  sources), `assets/textures/npc/ai/` (raw AI fabrics), and the raw
+  `assets/textures/ai/*` outputs (only `assets/textures/ai/game_ready/` stays).
+  Kept in the repo: `assets/textures/npc/*_{albedo,normal,orm}.png` +
+  `palette.json`, `assets/models/generated/*` (props + npc_base.glb), and the
+  authored `assets/textures/*` set. `tools/asset_pipeline.py generate` gained
+  `--variants N` — generates N alternatives saved as `<stem>-1..N.png` (N=1
+  keeps the unsuffixed path). Python tooling tests still pass (exit 0).
+
+- **Screenshots + docs (2026-11-01):** regenerated the eleven README captures
+  (`capture_screenshots.gd` + `capture_prop_gallery.gd`) — ten changed, the
+  prop gallery is byte-identical (props unchanged). README gained an NPC
+  character-model subsection, a "Confirmed game assets" section (linked
+  `game_ready` textures, generated models, NPC maps), and refreshed
+  dev-status / not-yet lines; `docs/architecture.md` Level 2 now lists
+  `npc_pipeline.py` + `asset_pipeline.py` and the confirmed-asset locations.
+  **Foreign, left uncommitted:** a TODO section "Bug Fix NPCs walking backwards"
+  from another agent — do not touch or commit it.
+
 - Repo: `/run/media/system/DATA/Documents/06-games/security-game` (also reachable at
   `/var/home/zwitschi/Documents/06-games/security-game`). Godot: `~/.local/bin/godot` (4.3.stable).
   Tests: `godot --headless --path . --script res://src/test/test_runner.gd` → **177/177**.
@@ -29,7 +106,7 @@ Session memory for durable decisions, state, and gotchas. Keep concise, remove o
   aim-free selection with wheel cycling and Shift precision walk (ADR-0011/0012), and a **Web**
   export target. `export_presets.cfg` gains a `Web` preset with `variant/thread_support=false`
   (static hosting, no COOP/COEP); `tools/build_releases.sh` exports `build/web/` and zips it to
-  `build/step-line-web-<ver>.zip`, and `publish_release.sh` uploads it. Covered by
+  `build/gig-line-web-<ver>.zip`, and `publish_release.sh` uploads it. Covered by
   `src/test/tests/test_web_export.gd`.
 - **Prop atlas (v0.3.1):** `model_pipeline.atlas_for()` builds a per-prop power-of-two PNG with
   one 8×8 cell per palette role, plus a metallic/roughness atlas (G=roughness, B=metallic). The
@@ -52,6 +129,33 @@ Session memory for durable decisions, state, and gotchas. Keep concise, remove o
   flat plane, so avoidance (not a baked mesh) routes guests around props. Placements live in
   `PROP_PLACEMENTS` with `placement_problems()` validation; variants come from `variant_for(index)`.
   `smoke_props.gd` must be windowed because the guard reads captured-mouse input.
+- **Blender asset library (v0.6.0, integrated 2026-11-01):**
+  `tools/blender_assets.py` (`build`/`render` in Blender; `audit`/`sheet`/`list` stdlib) writes
+  `assets/models/blender/{npc,npc_gear,props}/*.glb`, `manifest.json` (integration source of
+  truth), sources in `assets/models/blender_src/` (`.gdignore`d), and review sheets
+  `docs/blender_previews/sheet_*.jpg` (per-asset PNG renders are gitignored). 8 characters, 18
+  gear, 20 props; notes in `docs/blender-assets.md`. Characters are drop-in for `npc_base`
+  (same mesh node name, bones at the same rest positions, five tint slots) and stay under the
+  6000/4000 budget only because of body decimation (0.36) + `smart_project` at 80°: glTF vertex
+  count includes UV-seam splits, so extra beveled detail quickly breaks 4000.
+  **Gotchas:** `bisect_plane` and thin bevels leave zero-area triangles (Godot warns "non-finite
+  normal in LOD generation"); `_clean()` + a weld after bisect fix it, and the audit rejects them.
+  Fixed-colour detail materials carry a 4×4 texture because `_apply_outfit_materials()` sets
+  `albedo_color = WHITE` on unknown slots. Cycles CPU render ≈ 3 s/asset; Godot import of the
+  library is clean.
+  **Integration:** `NpcAvatar.character_model_for()` selects a variant by role/seed; only the
+  five contract slots are tinted (detail materials untouched; `npc_vest` keeps its fixed hivis
+  vest, firefighter/guard get dark uniform tints). Gear is attached at head/back/chest/hand and
+  falls back to primitives; `npc_hoodie` skips the extra hood gear. `WorldBuilder` prefers
+  `assets/models/blender/props/` for the six replacements and the new street dressing, fits the
+  same colliders/obstacles, and collects library emissives for `set_night_mode()`.
+  `LIBRARY_TRIANGLE_BUDGET` = 60k (current ~27,986). Library props are excluded from
+  `PROP_PLACEMENTS` only when they need dedicated slots (door/marquee/sedan/handrail/lantern).
+- **v0.6.0 environment pass:** `tools/bake_ao.py` bakes 256² AO maps per library asset
+  (`<name>_ao.png`, red channel) and `Materials.apply_ao()`/`SurfaceMaterials` wire them in;
+  `tools/make_normal_maps.py` derives tangent normals for the 1024² brick/concrete/asphalt
+  textures. Forward+ boots on desktop but is rejected for v0.6.0 (project-wide renderer, Web
+  must stay GL Compatibility). Headless 222/222, Python 69/69.
 - **Prop pipeline (done):** audit enforces 400 tris / 600 verts, ground contact, UV range, no
   degenerate tris, one material. `capture_prop_gallery.gd` writes `10-prop-gallery.png` (3x2 studio
   line-up, back row on a platform) and the `prop_gallery` catalogue entry compares it.
@@ -295,7 +399,7 @@ Session memory for durable decisions, state, and gotchas. Keep concise, remove o
   and published — installers/AppImage are on the releases page. Releasing = bump version → tag → push.
 - NSIS gotchas (validated in a local ubuntu:24.04 docker repro): makensis uses `-D` defines
   (never `/D`), resolves relative `-DICON`/`-DARTIFACT` against the **script directory** so CI
-  passes `$PWD`-absolute paths; installed exe must be space-free (`step-line.exe`); ICO must be
+  passes `$PWD`-absolute paths; installed exe must be space-free (`gig-line.exe`); ICO must be
   classic BMP entries (ImageMagick `icon:auto-resize=48,32,16`; PIL emits PNG-compressed ICOs NSIS
   cannot load).
 - appimagetool runs system `appstreamcli` if present (strict, exit 3 on warnings) — project

PLAN.md

@@ -1,4 +1,4 @@
-# Game Plan: Step Line
+# Game Plan: Gig Line
 
 ## Premise
 
@@ -399,6 +399,27 @@ The studio also has authorized guests and staff. They must either be recognized
 - Someone presents a counterfeit wristband or credential.
 - A violent threat appears during a crowded arrival, requiring the player to protect the entrance while calling for assistance.
 
+---
+
+## Visual Quality Direction
+
+The game prioritizes readable, well-lit, low-poly presentation over realism (GL Compatibility
+renderer). The v0.6.0 visual pass moves presentation to a **Blender-authored asset library**:
+skinned NPC character variants, head/back/chest/hand gear, and street/venue props, all carrying
+baked albedo/normal/AO/ORM maps. A generator (`tools/blender_assets.py`) and manifest
+(`assets/models/blender/manifest.json`) keep the assets reproducible; the game selects variants
+by NPC role/outfit and keeps the procedural rig and primitive props as offline fallbacks. The
+existing AI tools remain the source of art direction for fabric textures, palettes, and the
+screen-design compare/judge gate.
+
+The library targets 8 character variants (casual, jacket, coat, vest, dress, hoodie, firefighter,
+guard), 18 gear pieces, and 20 props — including replacements for the current generated street
+furniture, lamps, trees, doors, marquee, and a venue car. Integration must preserve the
+`Rig/Head` focus anchor, seed-driven outfit determinism, collider/navigation footprints, and the
+frame budget measured by `smoke_npc_budget.gd`. See
+[`docs/plan-graphics-v0.6.md`](docs/plan-graphics-v0.6.md) and
+[ADR-0013](docs/adr/0013-blender-authored-npc-characters.md).
+
 The scenario should test the player’s ability to distinguish ordinary Hollywood Boulevard activity from a genuine security problem. The best solution is usually a simple gesture, clear direction, or credential check rather than immediate escalation.
 
 Future venues can reuse this structure while changing the rules, equipment, staff roles, and types of access decisions.

README.md

@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
-# Step Line
+# Gig Line
 
-Step Line is a workplace security simulation about observation, communication, access verification, and proportionate escalation. The player works security at public-facing venues around Hollywood Boulevard, managing stairs, entrances, crowds, guests, staff, and occasional serious threats.
+Gig Line is a workplace security simulation about observation, communication, access verification, and proportionate escalation. The player works security at public-facing venues around Hollywood Boulevard, managing stairs, entrances, crowds, guests, staff, and occasional serious threats.
 
 The central design goal is simple:
 
@@ -23,19 +23,19 @@ The central design goal is simple:
 
 | Platform | Package |
 | --- | --- |
-| **Windows — installer** | [`step-line-setup-<ver>.exe`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · contains all game data, shortcuts + uninstaller |
-| **Windows — portable** | [`step-line-windows-<ver>.exe`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · 64-bit, no install needed |
-| **Linux — AppImage** | [`step-line-<ver>-x86_64.AppImage`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · single file, `chmod +x` and run |
-| **Linux — portable** | [`step-line-linux-<ver>.x86_64`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · 64-bit, `chmod +x` and run |
-| **macOS** | [`step-line-macos-<ver>.zip`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · unsigned build, quarantine note below |
-| **Web (browser)** | [`step-line-web-<ver>.zip`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · unzip and serve the folder from any static host (no special headers) |
+| **Windows — installer** | [`gig-line-setup-<ver>.exe`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · contains all game data, shortcuts + uninstaller |
+| **Windows — portable** | [`gig-line-windows-<ver>.exe`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · 64-bit, no install needed |
+| **Linux — AppImage** | [`gig-line-<ver>-x86_64.AppImage`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · single file, `chmod +x` and run |
+| **Linux — portable** | [`gig-line-linux-<ver>.x86_64`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · 64-bit, `chmod +x` and run |
+| **macOS** | [`gig-line-macos-<ver>.zip`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · unsigned build, quarantine note below |
+| **Web (browser)** | [`gig-line-web-<ver>.zip`](https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases) · unzip and serve the folder from any static host (no special headers) |
 
 **All releases:** <https://git.allucanget.biz/zwitschi/security-game/releases>
 
 > Downloads are public (no sign-in required) since the host's instance-wide
 > `REQUIRE_SIGNIN_VIEW` was disabled on 2026-10-31.
 >
-> **Latest: v0.5.0** — articulated NPC characters with LOD and idle behaviour, plus movement feel, gamepad support, and key remapping.
+> **Latest: v0.6.0** — Blender-authored character/gear/prop library with baked AO, higher-resolution environment textures, and phase-driven library props.
 > Releases are built automatically when a `vX.Y.Z` tag is pushed
 > (see [`docs/RELEASING.md`](docs/RELEASING.md)); manual builds use
 > `./tools/build_releases.sh`. Installer/AppImage packaging runs in the same pipeline
@@ -45,7 +45,7 @@ The central design goal is simple:
 > the page and tag URLs are public.
 >
 > macOS builds are unsigned: right-click → Open, or clear the quarantine with
-> `xattr -dr com.apple.quarantine step-line-macos.zip`. Build instructions and
+> `xattr -dr com.apple.quarantine gig-line-macos.zip`. Build instructions and
 > the release pipeline live in [`docs/RELEASING.md`](docs/RELEASING.md).
 
 If you are here to develop or test locally instead of downloading, jump to
@@ -144,7 +144,7 @@ The architecture maps onto Godot 4 nodes, scenes, and custom resources as descri
 - **NPC behavior:** Custom lightweight finite state machines driven by `NpcProfile` resources
 - **UI and audio:** Godot `Control` nodes, themes, audio buses, and `AudioStreamPlayer` nodes
 - **Art assets:** authored PNGs and the in-game generated set in `assets/textures/ai/game_ready/`; street-furniture models in `assets/models/generated/` build from `tools/model_pipeline.py`; structural geometry stays procedural (`WorldBuilder`). The legacy `tools/generate_textures.py --ai` batch remains available.
-- **Asset tooling:** `tools/asset_pipeline.py` generates role-aware assets through OpenRouter and provides crop, resize, seamless-tile, and image-audit commands, including gameplay screenshot checks. `tools/model_pipeline.py` builds and audits the prop `.glb` models.
+- **Asset tooling:** `tools/asset_pipeline.py` generates role-aware assets through OpenRouter (`--variants N` produces alternative images) and provides crop, resize, seamless-tile, and image-audit commands, including gameplay screenshot checks. `tools/model_pipeline.py` builds and audits the street-prop `.glb` models; `tools/npc_pipeline.py` builds and audits the skinned NPC base model.
 - **Testing:** GUT (Godot Unit Test) in headless mode
 - **Source control:** git on a Gitea host with Gitea Actions (`.gitea/workflows/build.yml`) for headless tests and desktop release builds
 - **Targets:** Windows, Linux, and macOS desktop first; web later
@@ -221,6 +221,89 @@ Surface materials share one definition in `src/game/materials.gd`: named
 roughness/metallic profiles per surface, plus the environment tune-up (ACES
 tonemapping, glow, fog, colour grading) that the phase lighting applies.
 
+### NPC character model
+
+NPCs are moving from the procedural capsule rig to a skinned, UV-mapped base
+character authored in Blender ([ADR-0013](docs/adr/0013-blender-authored-npc-characters.md)).
+`tools/npc_pipeline.py` builds `assets/models/generated/npc_base.glb` plus the
+per-slot material maps. `NpcAvatar` instantiates that skinned model, tints its
+five material slots from the seed-driven outfit, and drives the bones from the
+existing animation code; the procedural rig remains the offline fallback (see
+the [graphics plan](docs/plan-graphics-v0.6.md)).
+
+```bash
+# Print the frozen contract (slots, bone names, triangle budget)
+python3 tools/npc_pipeline.py list
+
+# Rebuild the skinned base mesh + neutral maps in Blender and validate it
+flatpak run org.blender.Blender --background --python "$PWD/tools/npc_pipeline.py" -- build
+python3 tools/npc_pipeline.py audit
+
+# Layer the AI clothing albedos (shirt/trousers) over the procedural weave, and
+# derive per-fabric outfit colours for the avatar palette
+python3 tools/npc_pipeline.py prepare
+python3 tools/npc_pipeline.py palette
+```
+
+`prepare` resizes the AI fabric tiles (kept locally in `assets/textures/npc/ai/`,
+which is gitignored) onto the `cloth`/`pants` albedos; `build` bakes them into the
+`.glb` and regenerates the procedural normal + packed ORM maps. `palette` writes
+`assets/textures/npc/palette.json` using `model_pipeline.dominant_colors`.
+
+### Blender asset library (loaded by the game)
+
+`tools/blender_assets.py` models a larger library procedurally in Blender for the
+v0.6.0 integration: **8 skinned NPC characters** (casual, jacket, coat, hi-vis vest,
+dress, hoodie, firefighter, guard), each a drop-in for `npc_base.glb` (same bones,
+joint positions and tint slots); **18 gear pieces** authored at head/hand/back/chest
+attach points (caps, hood, helmet, backpack, SCBA tank, lanyard, phone, cup,
+clipboard, umbrella, camera, sign, flashlight, wand, radio, …); and **20 props**
+(octagonal bollard and bin, slatted bench, hydrant, news box, planters, street lamp,
+street and palm trees, A-frame sign, wall lantern, cone, crowd barrier, stanchion,
+handrail, podium, double door, marquee, sedan).
+
+`NpcAvatar` selects a character by role/seed, tints the five contract slots, and
+attaches gear at the documented points; `WorldBuilder` loads the library props
+with colliders/avoidance and drives their emissive parts from the day/night
+cycle. The single `npc_base.glb` and primitive props remain offline fallbacks.
+Contract and integration notes: [`docs/blender-assets.md`](docs/blender-assets.md).
+
+| Characters | Props |
+| --- | --- |
+| ![characters](docs/blender_previews/sheet_npc.jpg) | ![props](docs/blender_previews/sheet_props.jpg) |
+
+```bash
+flatpak run org.blender.Blender --background --python "$PWD/tools/blender_assets.py" -- build
+flatpak run org.blender.Blender --background --python "$PWD/tools/blender_assets.py" -- render
+python3 tools/blender_assets.py sheet   # docs/blender_previews/sheet_*.jpg
+python3 tools/blender_assets.py audit   # no Blender needed
+godot --headless --path . --import
+```
+
+### Confirmed game assets
+
+Everything below is audited and shipped in the game; development-only outputs
+(AI concept sheets, Blender sources, raw AI fabrics) are gitignored.
+
+| | |
+| --- | --- |
+| ![brick facade](assets/textures/ai/game_ready/brick_facade.png) | ![concrete](assets/textures/ai/game_ready/concrete.png) |
+| ![asphalt](assets/textures/ai/game_ready/asphalt.png) | ![awning](assets/textures/ai/game_ready/awning.png) |
+| ![skyline](assets/textures/ai/game_ready/skyline.png) | ![vignette](assets/textures/ai/game_ready/vignette.png) |
+
+- **Surface textures:** the six tiles above, loaded by `src/game/materials.gd` and `WorldBuilder`.
+- **UI art:** `assets/textures/ai/game_ready/icons/` (flashlight, door lock, wand, REC) and `assets/textures/ai/game_ready/cards/` (ID, wristband, ticket, credential, guest list), loaded by `src/game/ui/hud.gd`.
+- **Generated models:** `assets/models/generated/*.glb` — bollard, bench, trash bin, planter, newspaper box, hydrant, and the NPC base — plus their colour atlases.
+- **NPC material maps:** `assets/textures/npc/*_{albedo,normal,orm}.png` and `palette.json`.
+
+Audit them all:
+
+```bash
+python3 tools/asset_pipeline.py audit assets/textures/ai/game_ready
+python3 tools/model_pipeline.py audit
+python3 tools/npc_pipeline.py audit
+```
+
 ### Screen design references
 
 Screen mockups and screenshot comparison use `tools/screen_designs.py`. It turns the
@@ -391,6 +474,8 @@ The full arc42-style architecture documentation lives in [`docs/architecture.md`
 - [`MEMORY.md`](MEMORY.md) — Persistent session notes.
 - [`docs/architecture.md`](docs/architecture.md) — arc42-style architecture documentation.
 - [`docs/adr/`](docs/adr/) — Architecture Decision Records.
+- [`docs/plan-graphics-v0.6.md`](docs/plan-graphics-v0.6.md) — Graphics-quality plan: Blender-authored NPC characters.
+- [`docs/blender-assets.md`](docs/blender-assets.md) — Blender asset library: characters, gear, props, attach points.
 
 ## Development Status
 
@@ -427,10 +512,12 @@ Implemented so far:
 - Prop collision and placement (v0.4.0): every prop fits a static collider from its mesh bounds and publishes a navigation obstacle, so the guard and guests cannot walk through benches, bins, or bollards; placements are grouped into zones with a validator, and deterministic variants add rotation, scale, and small clutter
 - Prop atlas (v0.3.1): `tools/model_pipeline.py` packs each prop's palette into one power-of-two colour atlas plus a metallic/roughness atlas and emits a single material with per-vertex UVs, so a prop is one draw material rather than one per part; `audit` enforces the contract
 - Generated prop models (v0.3.0 work): `tools/model_pipeline.py` builds bollards, benches, bins, planters, newspaper boxes and a hydrant as `.glb` props with per-part materials, loaded by `WorldBuilder` with a procedural fallback; the optional AI concept step (`model_pipeline.py concept`) supplies per-prop colour palettes
-- Web build: `build/step-line-web-<version>.zip` (Godot's non-threaded web template, no COOP/COEP headers needed) built by `tools/build_releases.sh` and published with the desktop artifacts; serve the unzipped folder from any static host
+- Environment pass (v0.6.0): 1024² brick/concrete/asphalt with derived tangent normal maps, 256² baked AO maps for every Blender character/gear/prop, and library props whose bulbs/LEDs/sign faces follow the day/night phase
+- NPC characters + library (v0.6.0): `NpcAvatar` loads one of 8 Blender-authored skinned variants (role/seed selected) with five tintable material slots, `Rig/Head` focus anchor, and attach-point gear; `npc_base.glb` and the procedural rig remain fallbacks. `tools/blender_assets.py` builds/audits the character, gear, and 20-prop library; `WorldBuilder` loads the replacements and new street dressing (lamp, trees, palms, planters, barriers, podium, doors, marquee, sedan, handrail) with colliders, navigation obstacles, and phase-driven emissives
+- Web build: `build/gig-line-web-<version>.zip` (Godot's non-threaded web template, no COOP/COEP headers needed) built by `tools/build_releases.sh` and published with the desktop artifacts; serve the unzipped folder from any static host
 - Aim-free selection pass (v0.3.0 work, [ADR-0011](docs/adr/0011-aim-free-selection-and-precision-walk.md)): the focus cone ranks candidates by angle then distance, `Tab` and the mouse wheel cycle nearby people nearest-first and pin the selection, right click clears focus with a short re-acquire grace, the HUD reports how many people are in the ring, and holding `Shift` walks at half speed for close work
 
-Not yet implemented: live 3D body-camera replay, editor-based GUT integration, and crowd performance profiling/LOD (see `TODO.md`).
+Not yet implemented: a desktop-only Forward+ preset (the renderer stays GL Compatibility for Web parity), live 3D body-camera replay, editor-based GUT integration, and crowd performance profiling/LOD (see `TODO.md`).
 
 ### Smoke Test Checklist
 
@@ -440,7 +527,7 @@ Not yet implemented: live 3D body-camera replay, editor-based GUT integration, a
 4. The guard's camera sits at eye height and the guard stands on the landing, not inside the building.
 5. Walking into the steps carries the guard up onto the landing (steps have colliders).
 6. The skyline backdrop shows silhouettes against the sky, not an opaque black slab.
-7. The `STEP LINE` marquee is readable from the sidewalk.
+7. The `GIG LINE` marquee is readable from the sidewalk.
 8. NPCs spawn and approach the entrance during the first minutes.
 9. Looking at an NPC inside the focus cone shows a blue focus circle in front of the face, the person's name, and the HUD target line.
 10. `Space` or left click opens the action wheel; `A`/`D` highlight a slice, `Space` confirms it, `Esc`/right click cancels without a log entry.

TODO.md

@@ -1,11 +1,228 @@
 # TODO
 
 Godot 4.3 prototype. Latest release **v0.5.0** (NPC characters and player movement). Headless
-suite **208/208** plus **56** Python tooling tests; the session, PLAN-verb, crowd, emergency,
+suite **222/222** plus **68** Python tooling tests; the session, PLAN-verb, crowd, emergency,
 timeline, audio, scenario-content, props, NPC-budget, movement, and windowed focus/radial smokes
 pass. Anonymous downloads are enabled on the host.
 
-The scheduled presentation pass is complete (see `DONE.md`). Only optional future ideas remain.
+The scheduled presentation pass is complete (see `DONE.md`). The next scheduled pass is the
+graphics-quality work in [`docs/plan-graphics-v0.6.md`](docs/plan-graphics-v0.6.md).
+
+> **Blender asset library integrated (2026-11-01):** 8 NPC character variants, 18 gear pieces,
+> and 20 street/venue props are now loaded by `NpcAvatar` and `WorldBuilder` from
+> `assets/models/blender/` (manifest as source of truth, see
+> [`docs/blender-assets.md`](docs/blender-assets.md)). The procedural rig and primitive props
+> remain offline fallbacks; AO/ORM baking is the remaining Phase 4 follow-up.
+
+## Graphics quality — Blender-authored NPC characters (v0.6.0)
+
+Detailed plan: [`docs/plan-graphics-v0.6.md`](docs/plan-graphics-v0.6.md) · [ADR-0013](docs/adr/0013-blender-authored-npc-characters.md)
+
+### Phase 0 — Toolchain spike and contract freeze
+
+- [x] Verify `flatpak run org.blender.Blender --version` reports Blender 5.2.x and runs headless in this shell.
+- [x] Run a minimal headless Blender export using an absolute `--python` path (sandbox cwd is `/app/blender`); confirm the output file lands where expected.
+- [x] Record the exact working invocation (flatpak + absolute paths) in `MEMORY.md`.
+- [x] Freeze the NPC asset contract in `docs/plan-graphics-v0.6.md` and ADR-0013: file paths, bone names, material slots, triangle budget.
+- [x] Fix the material-slot set (`skin` / `cloth` / `pants` / `accessory` / `hair`) and the ORM packing (R=occlusion, G=roughness, B=metallic).
+- [x] Choose and record the initial tier-0 triangle/vertex budget (≤ ~6000 tris / ~4000 verts) in the plan.
+- [x] Spike: Godot 4.3 imports the `.glb` as a `PackedScene` with a `Skeleton3D`; no clips are needed because `_animate()` drives the bones at runtime.
+
+### Phase 1 — Blender authoring + export pipeline
+
+- [x] Author the low-poly base humanoid in Blender: torso, articulated arms/legs, head with a face front, hands, shoes.
+- [x] Rig with an armature whose bones mirror the node contract (`Head`, `HipL/R`, `KneeL/R`, `ShoulderL/R`, `ElbowL/R`, `HandL/R`); origin at the feet, +Y up.
+- [x] UV-unwrap the mesh into a power-of-two layout, one region per material slot.
+- [x] Save the editable source as `assets/models/npc/npc_base.blend` (committed).
+- [x] Add `tools/npc_pipeline.py` with `list` / `build` / `audit` subcommands, run through the Blender flatpak.
+- [x] `build` exports `assets/models/generated/npc_base.glb` plus the material textures.
+- [x] Bake neutral albedo per slot, normal maps (fabric weave, denim, knit), and the packed ORM map.
+- [x] Bake ambient occlusion into the albedo or the ORM R channel (the Compatibility renderer has no SSAO).
+- [x] `audit` enforces UVs in [0,1], expected bone names, triangle/vertex budget, feet at y≈0, and material-slot presence.
+- [x] Reuse the `model_pipeline.py` colour-space discipline (linear factors vs sRGB textures) in the exporter.
+- [x] Run `godot --headless --path . --import` and confirm `npc_base.glb` imports without errors.
+
+### Phase 2 — AI-assisted texturing
+
+- [x] Generate seamless clothing albedos (shirt, trousers, jacket, hi-vis vest, coat, dress) with `tools/asset_pipeline.py generate` (OpenRouter, `openai/gpt-5-image-mini`) — written to `assets/textures/npc/ai/` (512×512).
+- [x] Tile-edge blending on each fabric — applied automatically by `generate --role tile` (`make_seamless`); the `tile` audit's edge check confirms continuity.
+- [x] Run `asset_pipeline.py audit` on the outputs — 6 good, 0 bad (role `tile`).
+- [x] Commit the validated textures under `assets/textures/npc/ai/` (tracked in the v0.6.0 asset commit).
+- [x] Derive per-role outfit palettes via `model_pipeline.dominant_colors` — written to `assets/textures/npc/palette.json` (`npc_pipeline.py palette`).
+- [x] Bake normal/roughness procedurally and layer the AI albedos on top — `npc_pipeline.py prepare` + Blender `build` keeps the AI albedo for `cloth`/`pants` and regenerates normal/ORM; GLB audit ok (1204 tris / 2488 verts).
+- [x] Regenerate the staged captures and run `screen_designs.py judge` after the Phase 3 integration (11 good / 0 bad in `compare`; judge: no diff).
+
+### Phase 3 — Godot integration
+
+- [x] Add `NpcAvatar._load_model()` that instantiates the imported `npc_base.glb` `PackedScene`.
+- [x] Keep `_build_body()` as the offline fallback; choose per-avatar and record `loaded_model` / `fallback_avatar` for tests.
+- [x] Map `outfit_for()` onto the model's material slots so seed variety, `layer_for`, `hand_item_for`, and archetype colors survive.
+- [x] Keep accessory attachments (cap / hood / backpack / sunglasses / lanyard) under `Rig` / `Head`.
+- [x] Add `SurfaceMaterials` baked-map recipes (`npc()` / `skin()` / `cloth()`); stop calling `Materials.flat()` for the body.
+- [x] Add `_set_limb_rotation()` so `_animate()` / `_idle_layer()` write to bones or pivots; keep `Rig/Head` findable by the focus cone.
+- [x] Update `test_npc_character`, `test_npc_theater`, and `test_target_cycle` for the skinned path (or document why they stay on the fallback).
+- [x] Re-measure `smoke_npc_budget.gd`; tune `LOD_TIERS` if the skinned rig is heavier up close.
+- [x] Re-verify the focus-cone smoke (`smoke_focus_radial.gd`) and the movement smoke.
+
+### Phase 4 — Environment and lighting lift ✅
+
+- [x] Bake AO for the prop set through the Blender library (replacements above) or into the ORM/albedo maps behind the existing `WorldBuilder` contract; keep the procedural fallback.
+- [x] Regenerate higher-resolution brick / concrete / asphalt textures via `asset_pipeline.py` with normal maps, keeping the current UV scales; apply the same map discipline to the library's street materials.
+- [x] Evaluate a desktop-only Forward+ export preset (SSAO/SSIL/volumetrics); keep the Web preset on GL Compatibility with `thread_support=false`.
+- [x] Record the renderer decision in an ADR addendum or `MEMORY.md`.
+- [x] Regenerate `docs/screenshots/` with `capture_screenshots.gd` and run `screen_designs.py compare`.
+
+### Phase 5 — Verification and release
+
+- [x] Headless suite green: fallback build, outfit determinism, `Rig/Head` presence, material recipe assertions, `npc_pipeline.py audit`, and `blender_assets.py audit` + manifest tests (skip Blender builds with a reason when Blender is absent).
+- [x] Windowed smokes pass: `smoke_npc_budget.gd`, `smoke_movement.gd`, `smoke_focus_radial.gd`, `smoke_props.gd`.
+- [x] `screen_designs.py compare` and `judge` show no regressions; `blender_assets.py sheet` contact sheets reviewed for the character/gear/prop library.
+- [ ] Bump `config/version` to `0.6.0`.
+- [ ] Update `README.md`, `docs/architecture.md` (Level 2 gains `tools/npc_pipeline.py`), and mark ADR-0013 Accepted.
+- [ ] Publish the release per `docs/RELEASING.md`.
+
+## Visual alignment with rendered mockups
+
+The AI-rendered references in `docs/screens/designs/` (start menu, pause, settings,
+shift review, radial menu, HUD, scene views) describe the intended look of every
+screen. This pass reorganizes how generated images are stored, makes the game load
+the proposed interface/scene art from disk, and aligns the selection screens, HUD,
+and scene visuals with those mockups — verified with
+`tools/screen_designs.py compare` + `judge`.
+
+### Storage restructure
+
+- [ ] Decide the canonical runtime image root (e.g. `assets/images/` for UI/scene art) and record it in `MEMORY.md` and an ADR.
+- [ ] Move the reference mockups from `docs/screens/designs/` into the runtime root (keep `docs/screens/designs/` as a docs-only copy or replace it with the new path).
+- [ ] Document one convention for game vs reference vs development images across `assets/textures/`, `assets/images/`, `assets/models/generated/`, `docs/screenshots/`, and `docs/screens/designs/`.
+- [ ] Re-run `godot --headless --path . --import` to regenerate `.import` sidecars after any move.
+- [ ] Confirm `.gitignore` still excludes development-only outputs (concepts, Blender sources, raw AI fabrics) under the new layout.
+
+### Documentation path updates
+
+- [ ] Update `README.md` paths (screen-designs section, confirmed-assets links, the `assets/images/backgrounds` resize example).
+- [ ] Update `docs/architecture.md`, `PLAN.md`, and ADR-0010/0011/0012/0013 references to `docs/screens/designs/`.
+- [ ] Update `tools/screen_designs.py` docstrings and mark the old paths in `DONE.md` as historical.
+
+### Code path updates
+
+- [ ] Point `tools/screen_designs.py generate` at the new design output path and keep `compare`/`judge` reading the right locations.
+- [ ] Update GDScript `preload()` paths (`materials.gd`, `hud.gd`, `world_builder.gd`) if the game textures move.
+- [ ] Update `capture_screenshots.gd` / `capture_prop_gallery.gd` output directories if captures relocate.
+
+### Load proposed interfaces + scene art from disk
+
+- [ ] Add a central UI/scene art loader (e.g. `src/game/ui/art.gd`) that loads the mockup-derived images from the new runtime root, with a procedural fallback when a file is missing.
+- [ ] Wire the start menu and venue selection screen to use the `start_menu` scene art.
+- [ ] Wire the pause overlay, settings, shift review, radial menu, and HUD chrome to their reference images.
+
+### Align in-game visuals
+
+- [ ] Make the venue selection screen match the `start_menu` mockup (layout, palette, background).
+- [ ] Make the HUD match the `targeting_npc` / `escalation_hud` mockups (focus ring, escalation meter, log, hints).
+- [ ] Align the remaining panels (pause, settings, shift review, radio, wand, timeline) to their mockups.
+- [ ] Align scene lighting, fog, and post-processing for `venue_overview` and `late_night_avenue`.
+
+### Verify against the mockups
+
+- [ ] Regenerate the staged captures and run `screen_designs.py compare` (no gross drift).
+- [ ] Run `screen_designs.py judge` and clear every `diff` verdict (target `match`/`review`).
+- [ ] Add the capture + compare step to CI or a repeatable smoke so drift is caught early.
+
+## Improve in-game pop-ups
+
+- [ ] Improve the visual appearance of in-game pop-ups (layout, button style, palette, icons, and text styling).
+
+## Realistic backgrounds, textures and scene references
+
+Goal: replace the outdated flat skyline backdrop (`assets/textures/skyline.png`, black boxes
+with dot windows) and the flat-looking surface tiles with AI-generated, more realistic
+backgrounds and textures. Add a larger set of example 3D scene images as art direction, and
+measure the in-game result against that target with the screenshot tools. Plan:
+[`PLAN.md` → Visual Quality Direction → Realism pass](PLAN.md#realism-pass).
+
+**Rule for every step: never overwrite an existing image.** New outputs get new paths. When a
+path is taken, the tools pick the next free `-vN` suffix. Raw AI output stays on disk under
+`assets/textures/ai/v2/raw/` (gitignored like the other raw AI folders). Processed game-ready
+candidates go to `assets/textures/ai/game_ready/v2/`, scene references to `docs/screens/concepts/`,
+and trial captures and reports to `docs/screens/realism/<run>/`.
+
+### Step 1 — Tooling (`tools/scene_concepts.py`)
+
+- [ ] Add a catalogue of prompts in three groups: `scene` (16:9 example 3D game frames),
+      `backdrop` (4:1 skyline panoramas with transparent sky), and `texture` (seamless PBR
+      surface tiles). Each entry has a name, prompt, role and target path.
+- [ ] `generate [--group] [--only] [--variants N]`: call the OpenRouter image API through
+      `generate_textures.generate_image` (key from the repo `.env`), save raw output, and never
+      overwrite (`next_free_path`). Print every file written.
+- [ ] `process`: turn raw backdrops into 2048×512 RGBA strips that tile horizontally (edge
+      crossfade, sky made fully transparent, hard alpha for the alpha-scissor material). Turn raw
+      textures into seamless 1024² tiles (`asset_pipeline.make_seamless`) plus a normal map
+      (`make_normal_maps.normal_map`). Skip outputs that already exist.
+- [ ] `audit`: run `asset_pipeline.audit_image` on the processed candidates (`backdrop` /
+      `tile` roles) and fail on any bad result.
+- [ ] `realism`: for each trial capture, report the Pillow detail metrics (edge density,
+      contrast, colour spread, saturation) next to the matching concept image. Optionally ask a
+      vision model (`google/gemini-2.5-flash-lite`) for 0–10 realism scores (lighting,
+      materials, texture detail, backdrop, overall) with concrete fixes. Write a new JSON +
+      Markdown report per run.
+- [ ] Unit tests (`tools/test_scene_concepts.py`): catalogue shape, the no-overwrite path
+      picker, backdrop/tile processing on synthetic images, metrics, and the judge payload/parse
+      (offline, no network).
+
+### Step 2 — Example 3D scene images
+
+- [ ] Generate 3D-game-style example frames for every venue and time of day: Hollywood entrance
+      (morning, golden hour, rainy night), boulevard skyline view (day, dusk), Joke Shop alley
+      (evening, close-up of the door), studio stage door (night arrival), sidewalk material
+      close-up, entrance steps and podium, crowd-control barrier line, and a responder arrival
+      wide shot.
+- [ ] Review the set and record the visual targets each frame sets (sky, haze, material detail,
+      backdrop depth) in the report.
+
+### Step 3 — Backgrounds (replace the outdated skyline)
+
+- [ ] Generate skyline panoramas for day, dusk and night (lit windows): Hollywood/Los Angeles
+      mid-rise blocks, palm silhouettes, the hills on the horizon, a transparent sky, and a
+      straight-on view, in several variants each.
+- [ ] Process them into `assets/textures/ai/game_ready/v2/skyline_{day,dusk,night}.png`,
+      seamless horizontally for the 3× UV repeat around the backdrop ring.
+
+### Step 4 — Textures
+
+- [ ] Generate higher-detail seamless tiles: red brick facade, granite/limestone facade
+      (studio), sidewalk concrete pavers with joints, asphalt with aggregate, wet night asphalt,
+      stone steps, striped awning canvas, and stucco wall.
+- [ ] Process them into 1024² game-ready tiles plus normal maps in
+      `assets/textures/ai/game_ready/v2/` and audit them.
+
+### Step 5 — In-game trial captures (no game-code change)
+
+- [ ] Add `src/test/capture_realism.gd`. It boots the Hollywood venue, captures a fixed shot
+      list (entrance day, boulevard/skyline day, boulevard night), and can swap textures at
+      runtime from `--skyline=` / `--brick=` / `--concrete=` / `--asphalt=` user arguments. The
+      swap finds materials by their current texture, so baseline and candidate frames use the
+      same camera. Writes to `user://screenshots/realism/<tag>/`.
+- [ ] Capture the baseline (current assets) and the candidate set (v2 skyline + textures), and
+      copy them into `docs/screens/realism/<run>/{baseline,candidate}/`.
+
+### Step 6 — Compare against the realistic target
+
+- [ ] Run `scene_concepts.py realism` on baseline and candidate. Record the metric deltas and the
+      vision scores, and note which candidate textures/backdrops win.
+- [ ] Note the remaining realism gaps (sky/fog, lighting, building geometry, NPC fidelity) as
+      follow-up tasks below.
+
+### Step 7 — Adopt the winners (after the in-flight normal-map/AO work is committed)
+
+- [ ] Point `WorldBuilder.T_SKYLINE` at the chosen v2 skyline (separate day/night textures through
+      `set_night_mode`), and retune `albedo_color` for the realistic strip.
+- [ ] Switch `materials.gd` / `world_builder.gd` surface preloads to the chosen v2 tiles + normal
+      maps, keeping the current UV scales. Update `test_materials.gd` / `test_world.gd`.
+- [ ] Regenerate `docs/screenshots/` with `capture_screenshots.gd`, then run
+      `screen_designs.py compare` + `judge` and `scene_concepts.py realism`. There must be no
+      `diff` verdict regressions, and realism scores must not drop.
+- [ ] Update `README.md` (tool usage + gallery), `MEMORY.md` and `docs/architecture.md`.
 
 ## Future ideas (optional, not scheduled)