Physics engine software player Havok has struck a ground-breaking deal to power the Lego Digital Designer download facility that will allow Lego enthusiasts to create custom-built Lego designs.
Fans of the iconic building bricks can make vehicles, buildings and robots from scratch, using the LEGO Digital Designer to choose size, colours and other design concepts for their creations. Users can add LEGO minifigures and finishing touches to their constructions and preview their finished products online.
Prior to purchasing their customized set at LegoFactory.com, users can custom design their own packaging. The Havok Physics software development kit (SDK) will be used to power realistic visual effects in all animations on the Lego Digital Designer download.
“Lego System A/S, like Havok, are industry leaders delivering a world class product and we’re looking forward to working with the Lego team,” Havok managing director David O’Meara said.
“With Havok Physics powering the Lego Digital Designer, users can bring their creative ideas for custom made Lego designs to life, enjoying greater levels of interactivity and realism as they navigate the various stages of the design process.”
Havok uses a combination of next generation physics, animation and tools to reach new standards of realism and interactivity in gaming technology and essentially turn their customers’ creative aspirations into technical realities.
Havok’s physics software is featured in over 200 triple A games available on store shelves today.
With well over 90 games currently in development for release this year, use of Havok’s ubiquitous software is up 100pc for the same period last year.
Best-selling titles featuring Havok Physics include Halo 3, Assassin’s Creed, Guitar Hero III, BioShock, World in Conflict, Half Life 2: The Orange Box and Heavenly Sword.
“Lego Digital Designer opens up a digital world of possibilities for the creative child in us all,” Torben Nielsen, 3D Software Director, business development, Lego System A/S.
“Havok Physics helps us scale that world up to unprecedented levels by enabling the creation and manipulation of ever-more sophisticated Lego designs,” Nielsen said.
By John Kennedy
