Firaxis Using Fork Particle Toolset For Civ V's Visual Effects

Middleware developer Fork Particle announced that its toolset was used by Firaxis to power the particle visual effects in recently released PC strategy game Sid Meier’s Civilization V. The firm says its technology streamlines particle effects production and simulates real-time effects in-game, such as smoke, fire, rain, explosions, etc. Fork Particle also claims that the toolset is suited for effect-heavy games and rapid development, as the Particle Studio's interface and live update components are designed to reduce iteration time. The real-time tech can be integrated into both in-house and commercial game engines. Several major game developers have licensed the toolset in the past, including Microsoft, THQ, Electronic Arts, Linden Las, Turbine, and others. "Fork Particle effects simulation technology has been a valuable addition to our creative processes,” says Civilization V's lead effects artist Todd Bilger. "Fork Particle has given our production team the flexibility to author breathtaking and detailed particle effects in Civilization V."