Cascadeur 2022.1EA introduces Python Scripting and Node Editor
Apr 15, 2022
We’re excited to announce that Cascadeur’s version 2022.1EA is now available to download!
With this release, Nekki's physics-based animation software gets three new major features:
A Node Editor, Python scripting and fully Customizable Viewport Controls.
Moreover many existing Cascadeur features receive improvements and an expanded range of functions: The reworked AutoPosing tool shows a huge performance boost in the new version. AutoPosing now also utilizes a brand new IK-based system, producing visibly better results compared to previous releases. On top of that we added tween-machine support for the controllers and a new direction controller for setting the character’s line of sight.
Cascadeur 2022.1EA introduces an alpha version of the long-awaited Constraints Feature, which has has the potential to significantly streamline the process of animating complex motions, especially those that involve things like tools or weapons.
Cascadeur’s Physics Engine has also undergone some significant improvements: Now there is an option to smooth down the Character’s rotation speed, and an improved Secondary Motion tool, which offers new customization options and generally produces more natural-looking results. Animation Cycles now move along with the corresponding parts of the Timeline in the Track. And with the Stretching Mode you can regulate the length of an Animation Cycle without having to recreate it.
Eventually most of the reported compatibility issues in Cascadeur’s FBX Support have been fixed, and the FBX import of DAZ Studio characters is now fully supported.
+++ New Expert Features +++
Node Editor
The Node Editor is a versatile instrument that allows animators to access the inner structure of character rigs and fully customize them. With access to these scripts advanced users will be able to change almost every aspect of a character. An illustrative example of the practical use of the Node Editor can be seen in the 2022.1EA teaser between 01m:35s and 01m:45s: The weapon shown there was dynamically connected to the character's hand just using the Node Editor and Python Scripting!
Python Scripting
Cascadeur’s new built-in Python API enables advanced animators to write their own command scripts and automate many operations. So if Cascadeur’s already built-in functionality isn't versatile enough for your needs, you can now either write simple scripts inside Cascadeur - or just paste complex Python scripts from external editors into the command console.
Customizable Viewport Controls
The new Input Settings window gives you an option to rebind any action - selecting objects, pan, zoom and so on - to a different key or set of keys.You can now apply the same control scheme to Cascadeur that you are used to when working with other 3D software. Especially for Blender users we even added a preset!
For a more detailed description of the listed changes, as well as an overview of the many other updates and bug fixes, please refer to the official 2022.1EA release notes.
Subscribe to Cascadeur blog
Thanks for joining!
Cascadeur Mobile for iOS – Now Available on the App Store
We are grad to announce the official release of Cascadeur Mobile, now available for download on the Apple App Store! Cascadeur Mobile brings high-quality, AI-powered animation tools directly to your iOS device, allowing you to create keyframe animations with ease, anytime and anywhere
Indie Spotlight: Rooftops & Alleys
From music producer to game developer, Michel Losch shares his journey in crafting Rooftops & Alleys: The Parkour Game, a title that combines the essence of parkour with dynamic, fluid animations. In this article, he reveals how Cascadeur became an indispensable tool in creating realistic character movements that make every leap feel natural. With 97% positive reviews on Steam, Rooftops & Alleys has quickly become a surprise hit in 2024. Discover how he brought his game to life and how Cascadeur played a key role in its development.
Revolutionizing Animation: An Interview with Eugene Dyabin on Cascadeur’s AI-Driven Future
Cascadeur’s development began over 15 years ago with the vision of creating a groundbreaking, physics-based animation tool that could perform any stunt with ease.
In an exclusive interview with Website Planet, Eugene Dyabin, the creator of Cascadeur, shared how the software has evolved into a comprehensive suite of AI-assisted tools designed to simplify and speed up the animation process for creators and studios.
Indie Spotlight: Shadows of Chroma Tower
Join 2D/3D artist Wesley Sales as he takes you behind the scenes of animating Shadows of Chroma Tower, an epic dungeon crawler by Double Dash Studios. In this article, Wesley shares how Cascadeur became his secret weapon for turning rough blockout animations into fluid, lifelike combat sequences. With the help of Cascadeur's AI-powered tools like Mocap Cleaning and AutoPhysics, he tackled complex challenges, from perfecting weapon trajectories to creating natural character movement. Discover how this powerful software seamlessly integrated with Unreal Engine 5, transforming his workflow and breathing life into the game's hero.
Indie Spotlight: RAPID - Mecha Combat Action
Lev Ornstein, a game design student and indie developer living in Germany, shares the journey of creating Project RAPID. His passion for action games and the use of innovative tools like Cascadeur are central to bringing this action-mecha game to life. Cascadeur proves to be versatile, excelling not only in realistic human animations but also in achieving the distinct, robotic mecha look and feel. Follow the story of how this project is evolving into a fast-paced, customizable combat experience. Find out more about the future of this exciting project!
Indie Spotlight: The Story of Papillon Games and Astrocuco
Discover the inspiring journey of John Caicedo from Bogota, the mastermind behind Papillon Games, and their ambitious Mars exploration game, Astrocuco. Utilizing Cascadeur, Nekki's cutting-edge animation tool, John transforms his vision into a reality, overcoming numerous challenges. This heartfelt project is a tribute to his beloved daughter Daniela, whose courageous battle against leukemia continues to inspire the game's development.
Indie Spotlight: A Journey with Cascadeur and Olympic Sports
Discover how indie developer Ali turned his passion for video games into the creation of a 3D Olympic sports game for mobile platforms. Learn how the innovative animation software Cascadeur revolutionized his project and helped overcome development challenges. An inspiring insight into the world of game development, blending creativity and technology.
Cascadeur Update 2024.1.1 is Now Available
We're excited to announce the release of the 2024.1.1 update for Cascadeur, which is available for immediate download. This update focuses on enhancing your animation experience and workflow with a range of improvements and fixes.
Cascadeur's New Licensing Structure: Comprehensive FAQ
To address your questions about our new licensing model and provide clarity about the recent changes, we have compiled this FAQ based on inquiries received from our Discord community.