Epic Games has released a trailer for the MetaHuman Creator, a new, browser-based software app that can craft highly realistic human faces. Powered by its Unreal Engine (which is responsible for games such as <em>Fortnite</em>), the tool can also help create realistic body movements and facial animations which is promising for game developers looking to create character models for their games. Epic also suggest that the tool can be used in conjunction with motion capture and animation techniques to create lifelike scenes in film, TV and other formats. The company says its aim is to enable users to create a digital human character in less than an hour and at a level of quality that’s suitable for next-gen gaming platforms and high-end virtual productions as shown in the trailer. “Up until now one of the most arduous tasks in 3D content creation has been constructing truly convincing digital humans,” said Vladimir Mastilovic, vice president of digital humans technology at Epic. “After decades of research and development … that barrier is being erased through Unreal Engine.” To create a new character with the MetaHuman Creator, users will be able to mix and match from a set of stock content. The trailer shows libraries of bodies, faces, eyes, hairstyles and facial hair to choose from as well as more minute details to control such as skin complexion, teeth and even cheekbone structure. Even though the trailer suggests a 2021 release date, it isn't clear exactly when the MetaHuman Creator will be out. Interested developers and artists can sign up for updates on the <a href="https://ue.unrealengine.com/ENT-1883-01-2021-Digital-Humans_LP.html">Unreal Engine website</a>.
