Since the release of ZBrush 3.2 for OSX and the introduction of GoZ (www.GoZBrush.com), we have received a tremendous amount of positive feedback from the artistic community as well as companies interested in becoming GoZ supported applications.
In order to continue refining GoZ and other ZBrush4 features, we have decided to postpone the release of ZBrush 4 and instead release an interim ZBrush 3.5 for Windows and Mac users. Version 3.5 will have all the features of ZBrush 3.2 – including GoZ – as well as additional refinements.
Some of the features in ZBrush 3.5 are…
Multiple texture, normal and displacement maps per Tool (by using subtools), with enhanced displacement and normal map options such as native export of 32-bit displacement maps. High-Definition displacement and normal maps from HD geometry. Improved perspective with a floor grid. Reorganization of the Tool sub-palettes to coordinate with selected SubTools. The ability to merge all visible SubTools and optionally weld the seams. The new PUVTiles mapping method, which represents the most efficient use of UV space yet. PolyPainting and masking have now been enhanced to 16-bit from the previous 8-bit. New navigation to work with the virtually unlimited zooming. Right-Click Navigation. New sliders added to Project All, providing more control over your results. Memory management enhancements give the capability to subdivide your models to higher polygon counts. New ambient occlusion masking, which can create an AO texture for use in other applications.
Furthermore…
ZBrush 3.5 will also include one of the still unannounced key features of ZBrush 4. We are very excited to include this very powerful and creative new feature in version 3.5, and are sure that you will be too! An introduction to this feature will be made available here, at ZBC, within the next couple of weeks.
The Windows version of 3.5 will be released by the end of August, followed by a release of the OSX version in September (Updated Note: ZBrush 3.5 for Mac OS is in development, release date will be posted when available.). Following the release of 3.5, we will continue to refine ZBrush 4 and its features (such as LightBoxand Spotlight) for release in the 4th Quarter of 2009.
ZBrush 3.5 and ZBrush 4 will be released as free upgrades to all registered users.
Getting the upgrade will be easy, and linked to your Support Account.
If you have already created a Support account, simply log in and check to make sure that you have provided your Cleverbridge reference number and ZBrush 3 serial number. If you have not created an account yet, do so and be sure to include the information from your license purchase (reference and serial numbers). Your Support account pre-registers you to receive the upgrades when they are released.
©2009 Pixologic, Inc. All rights reserved. Pixologic and the Pixologic logo, ZBrush and the ZBrush logo are registered trademarks of Pixologic. Various patents pending. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.