MODO 13.2 IMPROVEMENTS

MODO 13.2 has just been released and it brings a few significant rigging improvements: new 2D IK solver, twist extractor node and gradient modifiers. Manipulating animation curves in graph editor got better as well.

Without going into details - these are all big features and I plan to take advantage of them when building ACS3 assets. That means two things. First, it’s pretty much certain that ACS3 will require at least MODO 13.2. Second, I expect ACS3 assets to be smaller (less complex) and faster then equivalent parts of ACS2 rig. I’m also hoping for a better animation experience (manipulating IK chains, IK/FK switching) but time will tell how it turns out exactly.

Foundry has been really great with development of these new features. I had a chance to test and provide feedback (together with other specialists) during alpha and beta stages of MODO 13.2 cycle. I was also asked to record a video covering the Twist Extractor node and it appears that this video is one of Quick Clips released together with 13.2, you can watch it below.

Twist Extract is a new Channel Modifier that will extract the twist, forward-backward, and left-right angles from joints or locators. This node allows riggers to get the twist of a joint relative to its parent.

Make sure to watch the other clips as well, Rich Hurrey made a couple of great videos covering the rest of rigging improvements. See the entire collection here: https://vimeo.com/showcase/6534702

All in all, I’m very much looking forward to working on ACS3 assets, good times ahead!