VAT Destruction Workflow (Hoduini/Unreal)
The destruction workflow from Houdini to Unreal. Developed for an internal R&D project using Vertex Animated Textures. The flow starts in Houdini, with a custom tool window to generate the node setup for different kinds of animation.
Directional - Supports up to 8 different directions for better destruction visuals
Staged - Breaks the destruction into separate stages, allowing for multiple hits on an asset
The rendering process is automated, reducing the time it takes for rendering out different directions.
Once in unreal, I set up a blueprint which supports these different destruction methods and can play them out.
Models provided by https://antheavl.artstation.com
Python Tool that generates the correct nodes based on the user's input. Each node is commentated to help the user.
The 'Render' button starts the automatic render process. Ensuring assets and the animations are rendered out correctly as VAT textures.
Example of Staged destruction
Video example of directional destruction.
'Destructible' Blueprint allows multiple setups depending on the needs of the asset.