As for object generation, users are also required to utilize object primitives that are built into the program because of how Groboto does its thing, so there is not object import function, either. There is a complete collection of geometric shapes whose details can be controlled by sliders or direct numeric input. These customizations can also be controlled over the distance of arrays generated by Groboto.
The lighting, atmospheric and environment controls are good with control over the expected range of parameters.
In a nutshell, the control and variability given users in Groboto are very good, but you can only utilize the elements installed in the Groboto tool sets.
Performance
The Groboto render engine is very capable albeit not the fastest renderer that I’ve encountered for both stills and animations. However, during actual creation, the programs ability to handle massive textured arrays in real-time is astonishing. What you see on-screen is virtually what you get at render time. This is made possible by Groboto’s ability to (here’s the ¢25 word for the day) instantiate the objects mathematically. This means the objects seen on the screen aren’t really there. It’s all mathematical sleight of hand. This way, the program isn’t really keeping track of actual geometry, just locations of mirror images of an object.
Creating a wide range of environments that run from sci-fi to steampunk can be accomplished in minutes.
This is most evident in creating this intricate and detailed array above. I personally found myself making insanely intricate textured space-scapes in mere minutes. Doing something like this in my typical 3D solutions would take much longer.
Groboto does allow users to export these arrays to third party software programs. So, if you would prefer to integrate these incredible creations in other programs, you can. However, Groboto exports can quickly grow to be very large with 30 to 100 megs being the norm for modest creations. As long as your system and target program have the capabilities, this isn’t a big deal though.
Value Vs. Cost
This program is not for everybody - at least in the cinematic or professional sense. But, if you need the kind of look and environments that Groboto excels at, there simply is no substitute. (However, regardless of which side of the coin you find yourself on, everybody that tries it will have a blast with the program.)
Image courtesy Darrel Anderson - Braid Art Labs.
Final Comments Rating this program is tough. My normal 3D software for cinematic and television production needs are C4D, Carrara, Vue and others. These programs are extremely robust and fulfill a broad range of needs that Groboto just can’t do. However, those 3D packages are like massive 3D first aid kits with equipment for every eventuality. Groboto is a stand alone tweezer. But when you need a tweezer, nothing else will do.
Ease
of Use
8.5
Depth
of Options
8.0
Performance
8.0
Value
vs. Cost
7.0
Overall Score
7.9
Mark Bremmer has operated his own commercial studio for 15 years. He’s been fortunate enough to work for clients like Caterpillar, Amana, Hormel Foods, Universal Studios Florida, and The History Channel; producing stills, digital mattes and animations. Mark contracts regularly as an art mercenary with production houses that shall remain nameless by written agreements. His production pipeline is Mac-based, with the FCP Studio2 workflow. He loves Shake and Motion. And his family.
