Multiple novel attributes are being integrated into Houdini 21
Houdini 21, the latest iteration of SideFX's powerful 3D modelling, animation, and simulation software, is poised to redefine the industry with over 300 new features.
The video teaser showcases a stunning realistic simulation and highlights some of the key updates. One such improvement is the Material Point Method (MPM) enhancements, demonstrated by a detailed cookies and frappuccino sequence that showcases improved MPM for realistic soft-body and granular effects.
In terms of character animation, Houdini 21 introduces a new OTiS solver for muscle and tissue simulation, offering more realistic effects. Additionally, the ability to transfer muscle and bone geometry between characters streamlines character animation workflows.
Auto rigging and animation improvements are also a significant part of Houdini 21. Auto rig components for limbs, hands, feet, neck, and scapula simplify rig creation. The spine rig supports squash and stretch, while the enhanced electro rig includes twist joints and bendable IK/FK reverse foots and clavicles for more natural motion.
Procedural rig building and motion mixing are further aids to animator productivity. Viewport drag-and-drop rig building, procedural graph fusion for rapid rig generation, and an experimental motion mixer for nonlinear animation editing are fully integrated with Houdini's Apex system.
Houdini 21 also introduces a fully rigged humanoid (called "Otto") with built-in machine learning-driven muscle and tissue simulation, providing highly realistic character deformations.
AI-powered surfacing features in Houdini 21 assist with tasks like converting low-resolution textures to high-resolution versions, enhancing material creation workflows.
Rendering and viewport upgrades include Vulkan viewport support, enhancements to the Karma renderer, and updates to Apex physics simulation, improving overall performance and visual quality.
Updates to Houdini's compositor add new capabilities for real-time image manipulation and compositing within the software.
These updates are just a glimpse of the over 400 new features due for reveal over SIGGRAPH 2025, reflecting SideFX's commitment to evolving Houdini's extensive toolset for VFX, animation, and simulation artists.
The excitement surrounding Houdini 21 is palpable, with users expressing a desire to start learning the software from the beginning with each new version release. One user even commented, "I wish to be born again and learn Houdini from the version v1." Despite the challenge of keeping up with the rapid release of new features, users are praising SideFX's approach to AI in Houdini 21 and the cinematic feel of the video teaser, which uses a Royksopp track for its soundtrack.
Houdini 21 is not just a software update; it's a testament to SideFX's dedication to pushing the boundaries of 3D modelling, animation, and simulation.
[1]: Source: Houdini 21 Video Teaser [2]: Source: SideFX Website [3]: Source: ILM senior FX technical director Yunus Balcioglu's post on the SideFX forum [4]: Source: Guide for the best 3D modelling software
- The artist responsible for the Houdini 21 video teaser creatively designed a captivating simulation, demonstrating some key updates, utilizing a Royksopp track for its soundtrack.
- Houdini 21 introduces a new logo design, showcasing a more modern and sleek look in the video teaser.
- One user expressed their desire to start learning Houdini from the beginning with each new version release, commenting, "I wish to be born again and learn Houdini from the version v1."
- With updates to Houdini's compositor, artists can now design intricate posters with real-time image manipulation and compositing within the software.
- Houdini 21's AI-powered surfacing features will revolutionize material creation workflows, aiding artists in designing captivating art pieces.
- In the realm of UI design, Houdini 21 presents a streamlined layout, offering a more intuitive experience for users working with gadgets and technology.
