I am just looking for a broad answer to this question. I am more curious about the general information rather than the specific. Also, I tried to search for this, but I think it's hard to word it so you get the right question. Anyway:
One common thing I see in a lot of games is multiple animations on the same model.
i.e.
A character runs, but also raises his arms an shoots.
A character has a walking animation, but can also be carrying resources as he walks.
I am curious if the first model has a "run" animation and a "run while shooting" animation. Or if they have a "run" animation and a "shoot" animation and run them at the same time. Obviously the first is possible, but I am wondering how the second one is done.
Do they use two models for upper and lower body or is there a way to ignore certain parts of a model when animating?
I know this depends a lot on the model, the programmer, language and the way the animation is done.
But broadly, if you were making a model with the intent of it doing multiple animations at once, what would be the best way to go about it?
Again, not after detailed specifics, just an overview :)
Thanks!