Spiral Graphics Releases Genetica 2.5

Spiral Graphics Inc. has released Genetica 2.5, a new update to its flagship seamless texture editor. A freely downloadable demo version has also been made available. With Genetica 2.5, digital artists can create grayscale effect maps that match their textures. These effect maps can be used in any of the channels supported by popular 3D environments, such as bump, specular, reflection, luminance, and others. Genetica 2.5 offers a procedural approach to ensure effect maps will be automatically updated as edits are made to the original texture. The professional edition of Genetica 2.5 extends the functionality to normal maps. A number of noise patterns, such as the new circuitry generator, have been added. Improved transparency support allows artists to create images that can be layered within the final environment, such as weathering maps and decals. Textures can now be rendered with or without baked highlights and shadows, depending on the level of optimization desired for each scene. Genetica 2.5 is a free upgrade to all licensed users of Genetica 2, while new users are invited to try the program for 30 days. Genetica 2.5 can be downloaded from Spiral Graphics' site.