80 Level Weekly Newsletter (September 30 – October 6)

NEWS

Unreal Engine 5.5 Preview Goes Live, Introducing a New Lighting Feature

Unreal Engine 5.5 Preview has been launched, introducing MegaLights, a new feature that lets you add thousands of movable and dynamic lights with realistic area shadows to your 3D scenes.

Learn more and download: https://80.lv/articles/unreal-engine-5-5-preview-goes-live-introducing-a-new-lighting-feature/?utm_source=li-newsletter

Lattice Modifier For Unity Released

Harry Heath released the 3D modeling software-inspired lattice modifier for Unity that lets you easily deform static and skinned objects, making it simple to create complex animations.

Get it here: https://80.lv/articles/lattice-modifier-for-unity-released/?utm_source=li-newsletter

Characters in Dark Souls III & Armored Core VI Were Rigged With the Same Tool

As it turns out, FromSoftware used the same tool to rig character models in Dark Souls III and Armored Core VI, despite a 7-year gap.

If it ain't broken, don't fix it: https://80.lv/articles/characters-in-dark-souls-iii-armored-core-vi-were-rigged-with-the-same-tool/?utm_source=li-newsletter

SpeedTree 10 Has Been Released

SpeedTree 10 is out now, introducing a new physics-based vine generator, a Trim tool for freehand pruning, and enhanced mesh-rigging.

Learn more: https://80.lv/articles/speedtree-10-has-been-released/?utm_source=li-newsletter

Chris Jones Flexes Digital Muscles in a New Mind-Blowing Demo

Character Artist Chris Jones flexes his digital muscles by unveiling a new mind-blowing simulation set up in Blender.

The artist also shared a step-by-step guide on how the project was made: https://80.lv/articles/chris-jones-flexes-digital-muscles-in-a-new-mind-blowing-demo/?utm_source=li-newsletter

Unreal Engine vs. Real-Life: A Lifelike 3D Recreation of a Real Island

Unreal Engine vs. real-life: 3D Animator Peter Monga presents an incredibly lifelike CG recreation of New Zealand's Little Barrier Island.

Learn how it was made: https://80.lv/articles/unreal-engine-vs-real-life-a-lifelike-3d-recreation-of-a-real-island/?utm_source=li-newsletter

INTERVIEWS

How an Eye Camera Design for Alien Romulus Film Was Created

Pablo Dominguez talked to us about creating the EchoProbe camera prop design for the latest Alien movie, discussing how he achieved an authentic 70s-inflected sci-fi appearance using Blender.

Read the interview: https://80.lv/articles/how-an-eye-camera-design-for-alien-romulus-film-was-created/?utm_source=li-newsletter

Learn to Create a Surreal Creature with Intricate Accessories

Marco Gifuni provided a detailed breakdown of the Yokayp project, showing how the creatures, clothes, jewelry, and weapons were modeled and explaining how the tonal variety in skin color was achieved.

Read the breakdown: https://80.lv/articles/learn-to-create-a-surreal-creature-with-intricate-accessories/?utm_source=li-newsletter

How to Create Autumn Temple with Ancient China's Charm in UE5

Environment Artist Siqi showed us how to make Chinese architecture in an Unreal Engine scene, talking about the importance of visual guidance and explaining the wind and fog creation.

Full breakdown here: https://80.lv/articles/how-to-create-autumn-temple-with-ancient-china-s-charm-in-ue5/?utm_source=li-newsletter