The surface morphology and its evolution are of critical importance in the production of electronic and optoelectronic devices. The phenomenon is intriguing in its own right, particularly with respect to the mechanisms that give rise to it. During this talk I will present the results of the studies of the role of surface potential energy in the formation of various patterns on the crystal surface using the (2+1)D Vicinal Cellular Automaton (VicCA). By distinguishing between surface diffusion and adatom incorporation in our model, we can identify key factors that influence the dynamics of surface patterns. A detailed analysis of the diffusion process shows that depending on whether a potential well at the bottom of a step or an Ehrlich - Schwoebel barrier at the top of the step is present, the formation of meanders or three-dimensional mounds can be initiated. Further modifications to the shape of the surface potential energy, which can accommodate surface defects or induce an upward flux of particles due to the temperature gradient present during growth, can lead to the formation of nanopillars or the step bunching. In this talk, I will show how the interrelationship between existing wells and/or barriers influence the final surface morphology.