ZBrush 4, the Eighth

The lead image is by Vasil Peychev – take a look! But back to ZBrush.

While the new “ZBrush Core” is aimed more at beginners, the new release of the “big” ZBrush package had actually been expected – but instead of ZBrush 5, the summit only brought the eighth update of ZBrush. We will test Core in detail in conjunction with the Intuos 3D, in the next issue (provided Core arrives in time).

But what is now in R8? Firstly, Vector Displacement Maps, which means ZBrush can now convert not only textures but also meshes into displacements – effectively, 3D alpha-channel textures. The source mesh (including undercuts) can thus be used to transform and deform the surface. In use, it will presumably be based on the “InsertMultiMesh” system.

Also new is a “Create Multi Alpha Brush” function, with which the modeller can generate new brushes as vector displacements from existing meshes, a kind of “meta-brush”.

In addition, new “Chisels” are being added, which digitally recreate the classic sculptor’s tool, only with less dust and fewer calluses on the hands.

LazyMouse

The “LazyMouse” system, which “calms” freehand drawings, is also getting an update; among other things, strokes can be continued at the endpoint of the previous one, allowing individual strokes to be drawn completely around the figure, and the depth – even for strokes that have already been applied – remains consistent across the entire stroke

Bool!

Furthermore, a new Boolean system is coming, which can link all SubTools with all other elements using Boolean algebra – and in real time.
However, the real-time version only seems to be a rendering effect; for actual use, the user has to convert the result into a 3D model using “Make UNion Mesh”. How long that takes in everyday use will become apparent when R8 is delivered.

As always within the version, the update will be free for licence holders as soon as it is delivered; anyone who does not yet have a licence for ZBrush can purchase one for 795 US dollars. However, delivery will presumably take place after ZBrush Core ships in mid-October.

Archive notice: This article was originally published on 2016-10-07. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.