"Review of ZBrush 2025: New iPad compatibility and refined 'digital clay' enhancements label this as a minimal update"
Maxon, the publisher of the renowned 3D sculpting tool, ZBrush, has unveiled its latest update - ZBrush 2025. While the specifics of the desktop version's update remain undisclosed, the focus seems to be on refining performance and maintaining the high standard that ZBrush is known for. On the other hand, the iPad version of ZBrush is set to receive significant improvements.
Enhancements for ZBrush on iPad
ZBrush 2025 brings exciting changes to the iPad version of the software. It now supports the transition of files from a desktop machine, making it easier for artists to work seamlessly between devices. The new version also offers extended functionality for touch control and Apple Pencil gestures, providing a more intuitive and efficient user experience.
Moreover, ZBrush 2025 includes the ZBrush for iPad app, which is now part of the subscription package. This addition expands the toolset available to subscribers, offering a more comprehensive solution for digital sculptors.
Desktop Version Highlights
The desktop version of ZBrush 2025 continues to excel in handling millions of polygons with responsive performance. It boasts powerful texturing and painting tools like PolyPaint and Spotlight, and offers extensive customization options including brushes, UI layouts, and macro scripting.
However, the 2025 update for the desktop version does not appear to introduce any major new features or improvements. Instead, Maxon seems to be focusing on maintaining the software's high quality and stability.
Maxon's Strategic Shift
Maxon's recent moves suggest a strategic shift towards consolidating their sculpting apps and prioritizing cross-device innovations, particularly on iPad. This strategy hints at a potential freemium ZBrush desktop version in the future.
The system requirements document for ZBrush 2025 confirms continued support for 64-bit Windows 10/11 with strong hardware recommendations, but does not indicate changes in performance or capabilities.
Cross-Device Interoperability and Beyond
One of the most significant changes in ZBrush 2025 is the integration of GoZ with the Universal Scene Description (USD) format. This enables easier asset management in pipelines, as well as interoperability between desktop and mobile devices, such as the new iPad version of ZBrush.
ZBrush 2025: A Versatile Tool for Digital Sculptors
ZBrush 2025 remains one of the best 3D sculpting tools available, offering a versatile solution for digital sculptors seeking flexibility and a traditional sculpting feel. It is particularly suited for creating highly detailed models for game and movie projects.
However, due to its complexity and lack of a simpler interface, it may not be the best choice for those new to 3D sculpting, preferring a simpler interface, or looking for cheaper software options.
In conclusion, while the 2025 update for the desktop version of ZBrush may not introduce major new features, the focus on stability and performance continuity, coupled with the exciting improvements to the iPad version, make ZBrush 2025 an attractive proposition for digital sculptors.
[1] Maxon Official Website [2] 3D Artist Magazine [3] CG Channel [4] ZBrushCentral [5] Maxon System Requirements Document
- The ZBrush 2025 update on iPad optimizes its functionality by allowing file transitions from desktop machines, enhancing the user experience for touch control and Apple Pencil gestures.
- The subscription package now includes the ZBrush for iPad app, providing subscribers with a broader toolset suitable for digital sculptors.
- The desktop version of ZBrush 2025 maintains its reputation for handling high-quality sculpting with million-polygon responsiveness, while offering advanced texturing, painting tools, and customization options.
- While Maxon did not reveal significant new features for the desktop version, the focus seems to be on preserving the software's high-quality and stability.
- In an apparent strategic shift, Maxon is consolidating their sculpting apps and prioritizing cross-device innovations, potentially indicating a future freemium ZBrush desktop version.
- The integration of GoZ with the Universal Scene Description (USD) format in ZBrush 2025 facilitates easier asset management in pipelines, ensuring interoperability between desktop and mobile devices.
