Abstract: The present disclosure provides embodiments of systems and methods for rendering and skinning in video game applications that utilize a modified finite elements analysis in combination with position based dynamics. Position based dynamics can be used to provide a tradeoff of accuracy for speed and stability. The resulting position based finite element process provides for rendering and skinning elements, such as character models, during real time execution of a game application. Embodiments of the position based finite element technique can provide high quality deformations with a small number of elements, and simulate those elements more efficiently than previous methods used in the art.