Planetside’s Terragen 2

Tuesday, August 11, 2009
By: Thomas J. Mclean

The last time I used Terragen was around a million years ago to create a matte painting background to be the stand in for Oahu. I recently discovered that the Planetside software has come a long way since that time—and the wait has been worth it.

I noticed a UI overhaul immediately, which mirrors the technical updates: A nodal system, reminiscent of Houdini, has supplemented the modular system of the previous version, providing the user with massive power and control over how the scene is created. Fractal systems permeate the program from terrain generation, to clouds, water, etc.—basically everything you need for photoreal backdrops. And if you look at their gallery, there are some stunning examples.

Not only has the program received a new coat of paint, but its scale has also increased—to the point where you can create entire planets. And the scale also goes macro.

Other features include instancing geometry for when you need a forest of trees with only your RAM to hold you back and Volumetric or 2.5D clouds to balance between speed and realism. You can also save out your environments to HDR files for reflections and GI in your other 3D programs of choice.

It’s a little slow, which is understandable when you’ve got all the toys turned on. It doesn’t have animation, yet, but a module is in beta right now for licensed users. And its somewhat limited in its import/export capabilities, limiting it to a degree to legacy pipelines (although FBX support is on the way). However, at a $300 price tag, its got a lot of bang for the buck.

Website: www.planetside.co.uk
Price: $299; ($200 upgrade from V. 09); Terragen 2 With Animation: $399

Reader Comments

• enhancer : sex enhancer : china

  Sunday, October 25, 2009

  http://www.china-satibo.com/
  http://www.china-satibo.com/news/wenickman.html
  Wenick Man Capsules---Help improve penis health.
  Wenick Man Capsules---Enlarge your penis in length, width, and strength and response capability.
  Wenick Man Capsules---Have herbal formula for preventing prostate problem.
  Wenick Man Capsules---Assist with premature ejaculation and impotence.
  Wenick Man Capsules---Improve overall kidney function and prevent the illness in kidney.
  Wenick Man Capsules---Achieve more powerful thrusting ability and rock hard erections.
  Wenick Man Capsules---Help to increase stamina and improve immune system.
  Wenick Man Capsules---Increase male hormone and testicle hormone.
  Wenick Man Capsules---Protect illness and accelerate blood circulation.
  www china-satibo com
  www china-satibo com
  www china-satibo com