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SideFX has released the latest version of its flagship product, Houdini Engine, which adds a range of handy new features.
For virtual reality developers, the new VR camera makes it easier for users to render images in their games, as well as setting the eye separation and eye-to-neck distance.
Artists will benefit most from the modelling tools, including PolyBevel (pictured), PolySplit and Dissolve. These have all been completely revamped with modellers in mind, while new functions such as straighten, distribute points and make circle options have been added when users are editing points.
Crowd animation tools have also been expanded with advanced locomotion controls, more sophisticated crowd steering, and accurate foot planting and terrain adaption. A library of motion-captured animations has been added, and Houdini’s crowd tools new support FBX imports.
Finally, the latest point-releases introduces third-party rendering to Houdini Indie, allowing indie artists and studios to use RenderMan, Anrold and OctaneRender with their Houdini projects.
“Houdini 15.5 delivers great production-inspired features both to our established community and our emerging userbase,” said SideFX’s VP of product development Cristin Barghiel. “There’s a lot more included than in a typical point release, as we’ve been able to finalise a wide range of features well ahead of our major release schedule.”
Devs can download Houdini for $1,995 or Houdini FX for $4,495. Houdini Indie is available for $199 per year. You can find out more about Houdini 15.5 via the SideFX website.
