Nekki has launched Cascadeur 2024.3, the latest version of its AI-assisted animation software, which introduces several groundbreaking features. Notably, the release includes a new ragdoll physics system designed for more realistic character animations, such as those depicting characters being knocked unconscious or killed. Additionally, the update integrates a live link to Unreal Engine, streamlining workflows for game developers and animators.

| AI-Powered Animation with Real-World Physics

First introduced in 2019, Cascadeur offers an artist-friendly alternative to traditional animation tools used in game development, motion graphics, and visual effects. The software provides comprehensive rigging, posing, and animation tools, but its true distinction lies in its suite of AI-assisted, semi-automated features.

The AutoPosing system allows users to quickly establish key poses for characters by adjusting a few joints, with Cascadeur automatically adjusting the remaining body parts. For more complex actions, such as jumps, Cascadeur uses this input to calculate a physically accurate trajectory between key poses. Additionally, the AutoPhysics system applies AI to refine keyframe animations, transforming them into more realistic, physics-driven motions.

Cascadeur supports exporting animations in various formats, including FBX, Collada, and USD, ensuring compatibility with other digital content creation (DCC) software and game engines such as Unity and Unreal Engine.

| Introducing Ragdoll Physics in Cascadeur 2024.3

The standout feature of Cascadeur 2024.3 is the introduction of ragdoll physics. By activating the new ragdoll option in the Physics Settings panel, characters become limp and are animated in a way that simulates lifelike physical reactions, such as crumpling to the ground or being thrown about. This feature allows for the creation of more realistic, dynamic animations involving unconscious or deceased characters, with the motion influenced by the character’s pose when entering the ragdoll state. Ragdoll characters can also interact with other characters and objects in the scene, adding an extra layer of realism to animations.

| Seamless Integration with Unreal Engine

In addition to ragdoll physics, Cascadeur 2024.3 introduces a live link to Unreal Engine, enabling real-time synchronization of changes made in Cascadeur directly into the game engine. This eliminates the need for manual FBX exports, enhancing workflow efficiency.

The update also improves several existing features, including AutoPosing, Auto Interpolation, and Secondary Motion. The Secondary Motion system now accounts for collisions between characters and objects, further refining the realism of animations.

With these new tools and updates, Cascadeur 2024.3 solidifies its position as a powerful and intuitive animation solution for professionals across the gaming and entertainment industries.

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