Houdini is a procedural 3D content creation software used for animation, VFX, and game development workflows.
Houdini offers a node-based procedural system for artists to create, simulate, and render 3D content across film, TV, and game production pipelines. It supports dynamic simulations, environment building, character rigging, and pipeline automation.
Every action is stored in nodes connected in networks, allowing flexible, non-destructive editing and rapid iteration.
Includes simulation capabilities for fluids, destruction, pyro effects, grains, cloth, and more for realistic VFX.
Procedural tools to generate terrains, oceans, clouds, and scatter foliage and rocks for large-scale environments.
KineFX system for rigging and animating characters, with additional character effects like hair, fur, muscles, and cloth.
Solaris tools enable layout, look development, and lighting using USD workflows with Karma renderer for photorealistic output.
PDG system to distribute tasks, manage dependencies, and create datasets for machine learning and AI applications.
Encapsulate node networks into custom digital assets that can be shared and used in other host applications via Houdini Engine.
Supports workflows for film, TV, game development, motion graphics, VR, and synthetic data generation for AI training.
Download Houdini and select the appropriate license (Apprentice, Indie, Education, or FX) based on your needs.
Learn how to create and connect nodes to build procedural networks representing your 3D scenes and effects.
Use modeling, texturing, and rigging tools to create assets or import existing ones for your project.
Add dynamic simulations like fluids, destruction, or character effects to enhance realism and complexity.
Use Solaris and Karma to arrange scenes, apply materials, and render photorealistic images or animations.
Utilize PDG to distribute workloads, manage dependencies, and integrate AI workflows if needed.
Package your procedural assets for use in other applications via Houdini Engine or export final media for delivery.
Pricing details are gathered from the official Houdini website and are provided for reference only. Always confirm the latest information directly with the vendor.
| Plan | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Houdini Apprentice | Free | Full-featured version for non-commercial use
|
| Houdini Indie | Contact Sales | Full Houdini FX tools for indie studios
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| Houdini FX | Contact Sales | Complete toolset for commercial studios
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| Houdini Education | Contact Sales | Full Houdini FX for educational institutions
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