Reallusion has rolled out updates for iClone and Character Creator, pushing both to version 8.5. These updates bring several key features and enhancements that aim to simplify animation pipelines and character creation workflows for digital artists. The changes target improved flexibility in character rigging and facial animation, integration with Python for scripting, and support for the latest Unreal Engine features, including Unreal Engine 5’s Lumen and Nanite.
iClone 8.5 introduces an advanced blendshape editing tool, giving users greater control over facial expressions. The updated system allows for detailed animation, providing better results for lip-sync and emotion-driven scenes. Artists can use this tool to tweak each aspect of facial movement, from subtle expressions to more exaggerated animations, ensuring precise control.
One significant update in iClone 8.5 is the expanded Python API, which enables users to automate various tasks, from custom scripts to complex workflows. This is especially relevant for users who work with large datasets or need to automate repetitive processes. The update also enhances compatibility with Unreal Engine, allowing for seamless export to the engine’s Lumen and Nanite systems, critical for real-time rendering in high-fidelity environments.
Character Creator 8.5, meanwhile, refines its ability to create highly detailed and realistic digital humans. The update includes improved skin shaders and material definitions, helping artists produce characters that look more lifelike in various lighting conditions. A new facial topology update allows for better deformation when animating expressions, making it easier to create natural-looking faces with fewer artifacts.
The integration of AccuRIG, a feature that helps automate the process of character rigging, reduces the manual workload and provides more accurate skeletal structures for 3D characters. Artists can import characters into Unreal Engine or Unity, making it easier to integrate these assets into game development or VFX projects. Character Creator 8.5 also supports extended import/export options, providing compatibility with popular file formats and pipelines used in major production environments.
Reallusion notes that these updates are a response to community feedback and evolving industry standards. However, it’s essential to thoroughly test the new features in your specific production environment before adopting them fully, as software behavior can vary depending on the project and hardware.
For more details, you can view the official documentation here:
iClone 8.5 Documentation
Character Creator 8.5 Documentation
Visit the manufacturer here: Reallusion
