MotionBuilder

MotionBuilder is a 3D character animation and motion-capture editing software developed by Autodesk. It provides a real-time, interactive environment for authoring, cleaning, retargeting, and refining motion data, with particular emphasis on mocap workflows and virtual cinematography. The program is commonly used in film, television, and game production to previsualize scenes, choreograph performances, and streamline animation pipelines.

Historically, MotionBuilder originated at Kaydara in the late 1990s as a dedicated mocap and animation tool. Kaydara was acquired by Alias|Wavefront in 2004, and Alias|Wavefront later became part of Autodesk in 2006. Since then, MotionBuilder has evolved as part of Autodesk’s Media and Entertainment software family, maintaining strong interoperability through the FBX interchange format and ongoing feature updates.

Key features include a take-based animation workflow, a mocap editor, and a Characterization system that maps motion data to a target rig. It supports forward and inverse kinematics, constraints, animation layering, and retargeting across skeletons. Real-time playback enables live capture, virtual camera work, and on-set visualization. Scripting and automation are available via Python and a C++ SDK, allowing customization and pipeline integration. Import and export with FBX facilitate data exchange with other tools such as Maya, 3ds Max, and various game engines.

Typical applications encompass mocap data cleanup and retargeting, non-linear animation editing, virtual production, and rapid prototyping of character performances. MotionBuilder remains a staple in professional studios seeking efficient mocap workflows and real-time storytelling within established animation pipelines.