Modeler Becomes More Intuitive and Visual with Its New Version for Houdini
The new update Modeler 2025.2, created by Alexey Vanzhula, brings a breath of fresh air to Houdini. This classic modeling toolkit returns to the artist the feeling of direct control, combining speed with familiarity for those coming from other environments like Maya or Blender 🎯.
Shortcuts That Speak Your Language
One of the most applauded changes is the shortcut update: W, E, and R for move, rotate, and scale, and 1, 2, and 3 for selecting vertices, edges, and faces. Come on, now the keyboard no longer feels like an out-of-tune musical instrument 🧩.
Additionally, the contextual menu gestures can be configured independently for the left and right, allowing quick activation of both Houdini and Modeler tools. Ideal for those who work with stylus or mouse as if they were nunchakus 🥷.
Shading Presets at the Reach of a Click
The new version also introduces a shading presets system accessible from the radial menu. This allows quick switching between wireframe, toon shading, or ambient occlusion, useful for both reviewing topology and showcasing your model with style in screenshots.
- Wireframe for precise inspection.
- Toon mode for a clear aesthetic.
- AO shading for visual depth.
No need to dive into options: just spin the radial menu and done ✨.
More Modern Interface with Qt 6
Modeler 2025.2 updates to Qt 6, aligning with the standards of the VFX Reference Platform 2024. This not only improves stability but also ensures future compatibility with professional ecosystem tools 🛠️.
For those who thought Houdini was only for nodes and simulations, Modeler proves there's also room for direct and stylish modeling.
Summary of What's New
- W, E, R shortcuts and 1, 2, 3 selection in Maya/Blender style.
- Customizable contextual menu gestures.
- Visually useful shading presets in radial menu.
- Update to Qt 6 with compatibility improvements.
- More agile workflow in modeling and retopology.
Now Modeler doesn't seem like a Houdini tool… it seems like a digital martial arts tablet ready to fight against topology chaos 🥋😄