For a better experience and a smoother perception of AR, all the functional elements should be removed from the screen. The fiducial markers are better kept hidden. This can be done by covering a marker with a virtual model that looks larger than the marker. In the simplest case, a planar image with a pattern or pictures can be used. The smartest way is to imitate a texture of a physical surface by photographing its fragment and reproducing it several times. For instance, the marker is placed on a wooden tabletop, then the game takes of photo of the wooden texture, and covers the marker with fragment of the photo. Of course, such a model is hard to develop and in many cases, the output can be less than ideal, but it looks very interesting.

It is spectacular to utilize 3D models in AR games; they express the idea of a center of a game scene better. If the marker defines a position for a character, the model that hides it is sometimes called a AR 3D puppet, and an inanimate object in turn can be referred to as an AR 3D Tower.

In most cases, the concept of 3D models in AR games is similar to that of assets in traditional 3D games; all the principles are the same, that is, rational using of polygons of polygons, simple materials, and good optimization. The only technical claim is a good color and geometrical contrast with its environment, where textures should be bright enough to be noticeable on various types of surfaces, both light or dark and solid or textured. Also, there is no fixed viewpoint for the virtual camera in AR games; players tilt their device very arbitrarily. Hence, 3D models are beneficial from any angle. The drawbacks of geometry or texture mapping cannot be swept under the carpet anymore. Moreover, it is good to think of the design of game elements in such a way that the game can be played comfortably on both horizontal and vertical surfaces.

Among other things, AR games do not necessarily need a 3D engine; they can use flat graphics and spites as well. There should be a good idea behind such a concept. For instance, a game can be created that uses a physical piece of paper as a game board, where tiny characters may interact with the text or printed illustrations. Another good idea is animated pictures in wall frames, in which where actions can take place. Additionally, a wall-projected AR game can be created where all the characters and items are flat and look like animated stencil graffiti—a very stylish approach, especially if the idea behind the game is cool.