Abstract: A multi-pass method of generating an image frame of a 3D scene, using a parallel graphics processing system having a plurality of graphics processing pipelines (GPPLs), including a primary GPPL. In the system, each GPPL includes a color frame buffer and Z depth buffer, and the GPPLs support an object-division based parallel graphics rendering process, in which the 3D scene is decomposed into objects that are assigned to particular GPPLs for processing. The multi-pass method involves, during a first pass, providing a Global Data Map (GDM) to the Z depth buffer of each GPPL. This step involves the transmission of graphics commands and data for all objects in the frame, to all GPPLs to be rendered. Then, during subsequent passes, a complementary-type partial image is generated within the color buffer of each GPPL using the GDM and a Z test filter supported by the Z depth buffer, and transmitting graphics commands and data of objects in the image frame, to only assigned GPPLs.