Idyllic Pixel, an indie game studio and tools developer, has released PureRef 2.1, the latest version of its popular lightweight reference image organization tool. This update brings a range of new features and improvements to enhance the user experience for concept artists and illustrators.
A More Powerful Way to Organize Reference Images
PureRef 2.1 offers a more efficient and powerful approach to managing reference images compared to traditional mood boards in apps like Photoshop. Users can now drag and drop images directly into the software, making it easy to scale, reposition, and align them. Additionally, adding text notes and drawn annotations becomes a seamless process.
Enhanced Drawing Tools
Building upon the drawing toolset introduced in PureRef 2.0, the latest version allows users to create freehand annotations and geometric shapes such as ellipses, rectangles, and straight lines. This expansion of drawing capabilities provides artists with more flexibility and precision in their reference image management.
Background Grid and Random Arrangement
PureRef 2.1 introduces a new background grid feature, enabling users to snap images to a full or dotted grid for precise organization. Furthermore, the 'Arrange Randomly' command encourages creativity by randomly placing images across the canvas, fostering happy accidents and unique compositions.
New Commands and Workflow Improvements
The update includes six new commands for image manipulation, such as duplicating, parenting, and normalizing image areas. Existing tools have also been enhanced, including support for rich text in the Comment dialog and the option to lock the aspect ratio of the Crop tool. Additionally, a new image management tool allows for batch processing, enabling users to change image size, resolution, or format efficiently.
Workflow Enhancements
PureRef 2.1 introduces a new canvas displaying thumbnails of recent files, making it easier for users to pick up where they left off. Users can now also drag and drop images into groups, streamlining the organization process. Furthermore, the software now supports multiple languages: Chinese, French, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish.
Pricing and System Requirements
PureRef 2.1 is compatible with Windows 10+, Ubuntu 20.04 Linux, and macOS 10.14+. Licensing options include a Small Business license for $49, supporting up to three users, and full Business subscriptions for $10/month or $96/year. Non-commercial Personal licenses are pay-what-you-want, with a minimum contribution of $7.
For more information and a comprehensive list of new features, visit the PureRef product blog and website. Stay updated with the latest news and engage with the community by following CG Channel on social media platforms.
