Spine

Spine is 2D animation software that is available for the Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms. It is designed for gaming applications, but the software can also be used for other things like web animations and films. It is similar in its function to Anime Studio, so users of that program will have no problem mastering the numerous features of Spine. The animation process begins by importing a character. Layers are then created so that the character can be fleshed out. The final step is to animate. All of the work happens in a straightforward interface that helps to move projects forward quickly and save a lot of time. In fact, efficiency is a recurring theme with this program. It is possible to add attachments with the program. This allows characters to swap out items like guns without hampering the animation. The animation sequences created can also be exported straight to a game engine. This is different that the process used by other programs. Typically, a series of frames would be exported. The animation would then be created from the frames inside the game engine. Spine does away with all of that and greatly simplifies the process. Spine integrates a Photoshop script that is useful in exporting layers in their correct placement. This one feature will save animators hours of work. It is very important that layers are imported correctly, and the script will do that every time. Creating deformations of characters is also possible with the program. There is a Squash and Stretch feature that enables the placement of a lattice deformer on an object. The program is also capable of exporting to different file formats. Supported formats include .JPG, PNG, and even movie files. One of the only downsides of this program is that the price difference between the Essential and Professional versions is very substantial. Users will quickly realize that the Essential version does not provide near enough functionality to complete serious projects.