
After much anticipation and several previews, SideFX has launched Houdini 18. This version introduces Solaris, a new procedural lookdev system designed for layout and lighting. Solaris is built on the USD standard and works seamlessly with a key feature of this release: the brand-new Karma Render engine, which is based on Hydra.
Houdini 18 also brings a wealth of other enhancements, including SOP-based tools for setting up Destruction and Pyro FX shots, alongside improvements to user experience and overall optimization. For a comprehensive overview, you can view the launch presentation.