Currently, iClone 8’s Animation Layer system primarily functions in an additive manner where the top layer either overrides or accumulates over the base animation. However, in software like Autodesk MotionBuilder, animation layers offer multiple blending modes that allow for more flexible and natural animation workflows.

In iClone 8, when applying animation layers, the top layer often completely replaces the bottom layer, making it difficult to create nuanced animations without extensive keyframe editing. This limits the ability to refine motion in a non-destructive way.

Feature Request:

I propose additional blending modes for Animation Layers in iClone 8 to allow for more control over how layers interact. Some key modes that would greatly improve animation flexibility include:


Additive Mode (Current Behavior): Adds new animation data on top of the base animation.

Interpolative Mode: Blends smoothly between the base and top layers, instead of fully overriding motion.

Override Mode with Influence Control: Instead of full replacement, allow control over how much the top layer affects the base animation (e.g., an opacity slider for animation blending).

Subtractive Mode: Dampens or removes motion rather than just adding to it.


Why This is Needed:
Provides better control over motion blending and layering.
Reduces keyframe cleanup when making adjustments.




Aligns iClone’s workflow with industry standards seen in MotionBuilder and other professional animation tools.
Enhances non-destructive animation workflows, allowing users to experiment with different animation takes and refinements more easily.
This improvement would significantly enhance iClone 8’s animation pipeline for both mocap cleanup and manual animation adjustments. I’d love to see this considered in a future update!

Thanks for your time and consideration.