SpeedTree

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SpeedTree
SpeedTree Logo
Developer: Interactive Data Visualization, Inc.
Use: Middleware
Website: SpeedTree Official Website

SpeedTree is a programming package produced by Interactive Data Visualization, Inc. (IDV) that generates virtual foliage in real time for video games and simulations. It has been licensed to next generation, MMO and PC video game developers.

Contents

[edit] Components

SpeedTreeRT (RT standing for "real-time") is a software development kit (SDK) written in C++ whose source code is available to licensees. It is intended to be fitted into a larger graphical engine, with the SpeedTree software handling the rendering of trees and foliage alone and the specific product's engine incorporating these into the larger environment.

SpeedTreeCAD (CAD standing for "computer-aided design") is a Windows-based specialized modeling tool created specifically for creating and editing foliage. SpeedTreeCAD permits specification of such variables as branch length, branching angles, bark texture and gravitational influence, and then generates a tree from that information. Trees created in SpeedTreeCAD can be more or less detailed, and consequently can be used for either real-time or prerendered display.

IDV also provides SpeedTreeMAX and SpeedTreeMAYA, plug-ins for the popular 3D Studio Max and Maya modeling programs.

Stock advertisement image, created from the integration of SpeedTreeRT with Epic Games' Unreal Engine 3.
Enlarge
Stock advertisement image, created from the integration of SpeedTreeRT with Epic Games' Unreal Engine 3.
An example of large scale forest rendering with SpeedTree.
Enlarge
An example of large scale forest rendering with SpeedTree.

[edit] Licensees

SpeedTreeMAX was launched in February 2002, and SpeedTreeRT was licensed for its first titles, including The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, in December 2002. SpeedTree has been licensed for MMO, PC and next-generation titles with developers including:

    SpeedTree is a licensed middleware partner with both Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

    SpeedTree has also partnered with Epic Games in order to integrate the software with Epic's Unreal Engine 3 (see image).

    [edit] SpeedTree in Games

    Many game developers do not reveal their use of middleware, or will not announce the tools they have used until the game is released, so this is most likely just a partial list of games featuring SpeedTree.

    [edit] SpeedTree in Non-Game Applications

    The following non-game projects have been announced by IDV:

    [edit] See also

    [edit] External links

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