Cascadeur

Introduction to Cascadeur

Cascadeur is a cutting-edge 3D keyframe animation software designed to streamline the animation process for character models. Developed by Nekki, the creators of popular games like “Shadow Fight,” Cascadeur leverages AI-assisted tools and physics simulations to enable animators to create lifelike movements without the need for motion capture equipment. This software is particularly beneficial for game developers, filmmakers, and 3D artists seeking to produce high-quality animations efficiently.

Key Features

• AutoPosing: Utilizes AI to automatically generate natural poses by adjusting control points, significantly reducing the time spent on manual posing.
• AutoPhysics: Applies realistic physics simulations to animations, ensuring movements are physically plausible while maintaining the animator’s original intent.
• Animation Unbaking: Converts baked animations into editable keyframes, allowing for easy refinement and adjustments.
• Quick Rigging Tool: Facilitates the rapid creation of character rigs through a drag-and-drop interface, compatible with standard skeletons from various 3D platforms.
• Secondary Motion Controls: Provides sliders to add subtle movements like shakes, bounces, and overlaps to body parts, enhancing the liveliness of animations.
• Animation Retargeting: Enables the transfer of animations between different humanoid characters, accommodating variations in proportions and skeletal structures.
• Scene Linking Tool: Allows for the creation of complex animations by linking multiple scenes together, streamlining the animation workflow.

How to Use Cascadeur

Getting started with Cascadeur is straightforward:

1. Download and Install: Obtain the latest version of Cascadeur from the official website and follow the installation instructions for your operating system.
2. Import Your Model: Use the Quick Rigging Tool to import your character model and generate a rig automatically.
3. Create Key Poses: Utilize the AutoPosing feature to define key poses by adjusting control points.
4. Apply Physics Simulations: Implement AutoPhysics to ensure movements are realistic and natural.
5. Refine Animations: Use Animation Unbaking to edit baked animations and adjust timing as needed.
6. Export Your Animation: Once satisfied with your animation, export it in your desired format, such as .FBX or .DAE, for integration into your project.

Pricing Plans

Cascadeur offers several pricing tiers to accommodate different user needs:

• Free Plan: Ideal for hobbyists and individuals exploring animation. Includes basic features with exports limited to the proprietary .CASC format.
• Indie Plan: Priced at $8 per month (billed annually at $96/year). Suitable for independent animators and small teams, offering additional features like export to .FBX and .DAE formats, priority support, and a perpetual license after one year.
• Pro Plan: Available at $33 per month (billed annually at $396/year). Designed for professionals and small studios, providing advanced tools such as animation retargeting, scene linking, and enhanced physics interactions. Also includes a perpetual license after one year.
• Teams Plan: Priced at $33 per user per month (billed annually). Tailored for teams requiring collaborative features and dedicated support.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Cascadeur suitable for beginners? Yes, Cascadeur’s intuitive interface and AI-assisted tools make it accessible for users with varying levels of experience.
• Can I use Cascadeur for commercial projects? Yes, the Indie and Pro plans allow for commercial use, with the Free plan restricted to non-commercial purposes.
• What file formats does Cascadeur support? Cascadeur supports .FBX, .DAE, and .USD file formats, facilitating integration into various animation workflows.
• Is there a free trial available? Yes, Cascadeur offers a free plan with limited features, allowing users to explore the software before committing to a paid plan.
• Can I upgrade from the Free plan to a paid plan? Yes, users can upgrade to the Indie or Pro plans at any time to access additional features and benefits.