In the course of the “Elemental Week” JangaFX has presented updates – and they look interesting. Here is the keynote:
EmberGen 1.2: Movable simulation domains and mouse recording
Version 1.2 of EmberGen introduces movable simulation domains that allow the simulation volume to be keyframed or bound to objects and characters. An example shows a fire simulation on a character rig, which is supported by the ability to parent emitters to bones. Another new feature is mouse recording. This allows quick test animations by moving an emitter in the viewport, with the results being recorded in the timeline. This function significantly improves the workflow.
EmberGen 1.2 also brings several workflow improvements and bug fixes. The Curve Editor has been reworked and the ability to snap to individual frames in the timeline has been added. The software continues to support the export of data in OpenVDB and Alembic formats and can output rendered flipbook image sequences for game engines such as Unity and Unreal Engine 5.
The minimum requirements are low: an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or an AMD equivalent is sufficient. EmberGen 1.2 is compatible with Windows 10 and Linux. Prices start at 19.99 USD per month for indie subscriptions, with a perpetual licence after 18 months. More information can be found on the JangaFX website and in the product documentation.
LiquiGen 0.3: New functions for fluid simulations
LiquiGen, the real-time fluid simulation software from JangaFX, is now available in version 0.3 as a public alpha. This version brings a new PIC/FLIP solver that enables more realistic and detailed simulations.
A significant new feature is the Whitewater system, which supports the simulation of spray, foam and bubbles. These particles can be exported separately from the main body of the fluid, allowing targeted control and application of forces. New view options show wave crests or bubbles where whitewater particles are created. Support for surface tension is another important new feature that improves the simulation of liquid splashes. A revised rasterisation renderer provides a practical alternative to the path tracer for production work and now supports refraction and transmission colour.
The overall performance and quality of the simulations have been improved, resulting in an increased maximum particle count and improved meshing and volume preservation. New force nodes such as line force and toroidal force as well as a revised turbulence node are also included. LiquiGen 0.3 is compatible with Windows 10 and Linux and supports NVIDIA and AMD GPUs. Prices start at 19.99 USD per month for indie subscriptions. Further information can be found on the manufacturer’s website and in the product documentation.
GeoGen 0.3: New beta version for terrain artists
GeoGen 0.3, the real-time terrain generation tool from JangaFX, is now available as a public beta. This version offers spline-based terrain control, which makes it possible to define specific features such as mountain ranges, rivers or roads. These splines can branch out and form complex networks that update the terrain in real time. A new directional colour blur system generates surface colour gradients and provides options for terrain detailing, such as layering and blending procedural noise types. Subgraphs support merging an entire node graph into a single node, which helps keep large projects organised.
GeoGen’s key nodes have received updates, especially the Rock and Splatter nodes. Gizmo controls for key nodes make it easier to edit terrain in the viewport. The render engine update increases the level of detail in the preview renderings. GeoGen 0.3 runs on Windows 10 and Linux and supports NVIDIA and AMD GPUs. Pricing starts at 9.99 USD per month for indie subscriptions. For more information, visit the JangaFX website.
