Real-time 3D animation just got a major upgrade with the latest iClone 8.52 update. In this feature review video, Sam Lazarus from Rokoko breaks down how the newest tools in iClone 8.52 streamline and enhance animation workflows. From precise Rokoko body motion capture and AccuFace facial tracking to AI-powered lip sync and the brand-new Timecode plugin, Sam explores how these powerful features come together for seamless, efficient production.
Whether you’re an indie animator or part of a larger studio, this in-depth review shows how iClone 8.52 unlocks new levels of control and speed in real-time 3D animation.
Why iClone and Rokoko are Must-Have for Character Designers and Human Creators
- User-friendly workflow: Import or live stream motion capture from Rokoko Studio directly into iClone or Character Creator.
- Robust mocap editing: Adjust shoulders, hands, and more with a powerful IK editing system.
- Seamless integration: Use Rokoko’s headcam with iClone’s AccuFace for impressive facial mocap from a single camera.
- Non-destructive editing: Maintain original motion capture data while applying edits to ensure flexibility.
Sam Lazarus Highlights iClone 2025 Features
Sam Lazarus, Creative Director at Rokoko, recently released a comprehensive review of iClone 8’s 2025 updates — and we’re breaking down everything you need to know to elevate your 3D character animation projects.
1. Timecode Syncing
- Automatically sync Rokoko mocap with other mocap systems or audio using timecode.
- Ideal for combining Rokoko SmartGloves, with Xsens suits, and more natively within iClone.
2. Motion Trail Editor
- Visualize and edit the entire character’s translation in real time.
- Makes complex mocap edits easier and more intuitive.
3. New Filters for Smoother Animation
- Peak removal to clean up erratic keyframe spikes.
- Butterworth smoothing for polished, AAA-quality motion.
4. Improved Non-Destructive Timeline Editing
- Edit mocap without permanently altering keyframes.
- Essential for iterating on animations without losing original data.
How These Updates Improve Your 3D Animation Workflow
- Faster turnaround on creating believable, expressive characters.
- Simplified syncing of multi-source mocap data means fewer headaches in post-production.
- Higher quality mocap results without expensive hardware investments.
- Enhanced lip sync animation capabilities via iClone AccuFace, perfect for dialogue-heavy scenes.
Practical Tips to Get Started
- Use Rokoko Studio to record your motion capture or live stream directly into iClone.
- Export mocap data and drag it onto your character base in iClone or Character Creator.
- Experiment with the new motion trail editor to refine large movements.
- Apply butterworth smoothing filters to clean up jittery animations.
- Use timecode syncing when combining different mocap devices or syncing with audio.
Why This Matters to You as a Character Designer or Human Creator
The combination of iClone 8 and Rokoko Studio offers a comprehensive toolkit to bring your digital human creations to life. Whether you’re a solo indie animator or part of a studio, these updates reduce technical barriers and let you focus on creativity. The ease of importing motion capture and refining it inside a single software ecosystem is invaluable for:
- 3D animation software enthusiasts
- Character designers aiming for lifelike movement
- Human creators wanting fast, high-quality rigs
- Animators focusing on lip sync animation with natural expressions
FAQ
Can I use Rokoko motion capture with any character base in iClone?
Yes, Rokoko mocap data can be applied to any compatible character base imported or created in iClone and Character Creator.
How does AccuFace improve lip sync animation?
AcuFace uses a single camera input to capture detailed facial expressions, enabling realistic lip sync and emotion transfer in real time.
What is Butterworth smoothing?
It’s a filtering technique that smooths out jagged mocap keyframes for cleaner, more professional animations.
Is non-destructive editing difficult to learn?
No, iClone 8’s timeline editor makes non-destructive editing straightforward, letting you keep original data intact while experimenting.
Related Posts
