For those who don’t know the tool: Hive Auto Rigger from Create 3D Characters is bundled with Zoo Tools Pro for Autodesk Maya. It builds modular character rigs that do not require Zoo Tools on the animator’s machine and targets animation and game export workflows.

A face to match the body

Hive Auto Rigger can now generate full joint based facial rigs inside Maya. The update adds production ready components for eyes, brows, cheeks and mouth, completing the facial set within the existing modular framework. The mouth module, previously labelled beta, is now described as “production-ready”. Create 3D Characters states that the system supports both human and creature characters, including snouted designs.

The facial setup is joint-based rather than purely blendshape-driven. In practice, deformation is controlled by skeletal joints and skin weights. This approach is commonly favoured in real-time pipelines where predictable evaluation and engine export matter more than sculpt heavy setups.

Built for real time, on paper

According to the official product page, the facial modules are engineered for real time performance in Unreal Engine and Unity. The facial components follow the same modular logic as Hive’s body rigs. Users position modules in Maya, generate the rig, and export through standard workflows such as FBX. Hive also supports auto skin workflows and corrective blendshapes. An API is available for technical customisation, although the public documentation does not detail its scope.

Compatibility and cost

Hive Auto Rigger supports Maya 2020 and later on Windows, macOS and Linux, and works with Commercial, Indie and Educational licences. Zoo Tools Pro, including Hive, is sold via subscription. The first month costs 40 dollars and includes access to the full toolset, training and assets. Subsequent months are 10 dollars per month.

Create 3D Characters states that after the first month, users may continue to use the acquired version commercially even if they cancel. For teams already using Hive for body rigs, the addition of full facial modules removes the need for a separate face system. Whether the joint based approach meets your deformation standards is something you will need to test on real production assets.

// Official product information and pricing
// https://create3dcharacters.com/maya-hive-autorigger/

// Company homepage
// https://create3dcharacters.com/

The post Hive adds joint facial rigs to Maya first appeared on DIGITAL PRODUCTION and was written by Bela Beier.