MikuMikuDance

MikuMikuDance (MMD) is a freeware 3D animation program that enables users to pose and animate three-dimensional models. While it is best known for Hatsune Miku and other Vocaloid characters, MMD supports a wide range of models created by the community. The software uses a bone-based rigging system that allows keyframe animation, inverse kinematics, and basic physics simulation for hair and clothing. It provides tools for camera work, lighting, and lip-sync to produce short films or music videos. Models are typically saved in PMD or PMX formats, and animation data is stored as VMD motion data or pose data. The program runs on Windows and has an active community that shares models, motions, and stage assets.

Origins and influence: MMD was released in 2008 by a Japanese developer as freeware to enable fans to create animations using Hatsune Miku’s model. It quickly gained popularity within the Vocaloid community and on video sites such as Nico Nico Douga and YouTube, where many fan-made PVs and music videos were produced with MMD. The ecosystem around MMD includes numerous third-party tools, editors, and plugins that extend its capabilities and asset libraries.

Technical scope: The software emphasizes accessibility and rapid iteration, allowing creators to mix motion data, camera paths, and lighting with different models and stages. While not a full 3D production suite, its straightforward workflow and abundant community resources lowered barriers to entry for hobbyists and students.

Legacy and current status: MikuMikuDance helped popularize user-generated 3D animation within the Vocaloid fan community and remains a reference tool for independent animators. Although official development has slowed, the program continues to be used and taught for its approachable workflow and expansive library of models and motions.