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By Peter (RL) - 12 Years Ago
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Hi Everyone, We are pleased to announce the DrawPlus Character Template and Whitepaper are now available. If you are CTA2 Pipeline user, please login to your Member Account and select Patch/Bonus to find the Character Template download link and the Whitepaper. Please share any feedback you have about the creation process below. Thanks.
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By narf2n - 12 Years Ago
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Does it work for DP X5 or is X6 a must ???
I am getting a warning with X5 and the documentation mentions X6 and not X5 :ermm:
So do I have to upgrade another app in order to enjoy the feature for which I got the pipeline version to begin with ?
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By dmr_1984 - 12 Years Ago
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narf2n (1/23/2014)
Does it work for DP X5 or is X6 a must ???
I am getting a warning with X5 and the documentation mentions X6 and not X5 :ermm:
So do I have to upgrade another app in order to enjoy the feature for which I got the pipeline version to begin with ?
I have it, and it works on DrawPlus X6 :)
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By dmr_1984 - 12 Years Ago
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Also, thanks to the CrazyTalk people for making this possible, as I'm a long time DrawPlus user, it should be that bit easier for me to create a character now ;)
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By jlittle - 12 Years Ago
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narf2n (1/23/2014)
Does it work for DP X5 or is X6 a must ???
I am getting a warning with X5 and the documentation mentions X6 and not X5 :ermm:
So do I have to upgrade another app in order to enjoy the feature for which I got the pipeline version to begin with ?
There is no need to upgrade to DPx6!
I opened the body template in DPx5 and exported it to swf and then it imported into CTA2 without a problem.
I don't believe there are any special features used in the templates that are specific to DPx6 and would cause a problem.
Jeff
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By narf2n - 12 Years Ago
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Thanks Jeff (jlittle)! That really bothered me and I am glad to learn it's not a real issue.
After carefully reading through the white paper here is my collected feedback and open questions…
While the white paper has a lot of info, for me as a beginner to Draw Plus it still lack a lot of information and I am looking forward for some video tutorials to accompany it – hope we don't have to wait for long :)
For example
The following page references adobe flash for some reason so you may need to edit it:
(many other references to flash are rather confusing – do you mean the product by adobe or the technology?)
"Do not draw a character with perspective in Flash!" – what does this mean? Is there some magical way to go from 0 deg to other angels and save the time for redrawing the respective views?
You mention the open close joint technique but you don't explain / reference how to achieve it in DP… when I draw a line I can either keep it or hide the whole thing with my current (poor) skill set – how do I chose where it's open and where it is visible and closed?
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By narf2n - 12 Years Ago
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Another issue:
When I expand a body part it seems to be a group with a bunch of objects for example
When I draw a replacement I can't seem to drag it into the group – how do I add it?
The "actual upper torso" is make of two objects I suppose – object695 & object692 as two halves – do I need to create my upper torso as two parts as well or can I make it one whole object?
Other than these 2 objects there seem to be some circles in there on top of the actual upper torso drawing - do I need to create them or are they automatically generated in one of the processes?
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By Luna - 12 Years Ago
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Hi narf2n! narf2n (1/24/2014)
The following page references adobe flash for some reason so you may need to edit it:
http://help.reallusion.com/CrazyTalk_Animator_2/ENU/Whitepaper_Drawplus/default.asp
(many other references to flash are rather confusing – do you mean the product by adobe or the technology?)
"Do not draw a character with perspective in Flash!" – what does this mean? Is there some magical way to go from 0 deg to other angels and save the time for redrawing the respective views?
That means for example that in a 45 degree angle you shouldn't draw the leg that is nearer to the viewer (to the camera) longer. Draw both legs the same length. Luna
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By Peter (RL) - 12 Years Ago
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narf2n (1/24/2014)
"Do not draw a character with perspective in Flash!" – what does this mean? Is there some magical way to go from 0 deg to other angels and save the time for redrawing the respective views?
You mention the open close joint technique but you don't explain / reference how to achieve it in DP… when I draw a line I can either keep it or hide the whole thing with my current (poor) skill set – how do I chose where it's open and where it is visible and closed?CTA2 creates perspective which is why you should not add any to your characters. So as Luna has already explained you should maintain the size of all body parts no matter which angle they are facing. Regarding other aspects of the whitepaper, we do make the assumption that the user already has a good working knowledge of DrawPlus. If you are new to DrawPlus you should spend a little time following the DrawPlus tutorials to get a better understanding of the processes involved.
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By narf2n - 12 Years Ago
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So when you wrote:
Peter (RL) (1/23/2014)
...
Please share any feedback you have aboutthe creation processbelow. Thanks.
you were not after all the issues and questions I mentioned? maybe wanted something shorter and easier to digest?
well, how about mediocre, baffling and disappointing? is that the type of feedback you wanted?
I mean, IF sending me to learn drawplus with no references to what - is the type of answer you are going to give, PLEASE don't bother - let someone else who actually wants to help answer.
I realize the pipeline version is for a more advanced users but I don't remember any list of prerequisites when I was offered to buy this version - and I usually catch things rather quickly. but a month after the release I am still trying to get make something of this software that I purchased and either the feature are still expected to be delivered sometime in the future or the documentation sucks.
Bruce (RL) promised a tutorial to "Create multi-dimension characters from Flash Template >> mid Jan" where are we with that? how soon will you have one for DP ?
at least now I understand why no one else bothers to provide feedback in the forum, perhaps I'll take my questions with support and hopefully solve them 1X1 and not in the forum where other people can learn from it... tanks for the lesson Peter.
:angry:
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By niceblinkluck - 12 Years Ago
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Mmmmm got to admit Reallusion seem very sluggush releasing training videos. ToonTitan can produce one excellent video after another whenever the mood takes him on the forum. It proves they don't take forever to produce...but we are still waiting for you guys to release that fla template pipeline training video. Come on guys if you wanted to you could do it today...so do it today
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By darian.kanius - 12 Years Ago
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narf2n (1/26/2014)
So when you wrote: Peter (RL) (1/23/2014)
...
Please share any feedback you have aboutthe creation processbelow. Thanks.you were not after all the issues and questions I mentioned? maybe wanted something shorter and easier to digest? well, how about mediocre, baffling and disappointing? is that the type of feedback you wanted? I mean, IF sending me to learn drawplus with no references to what - is the type of answer you are going to give, PLEASE don't bother - let someone else who actually wants to help answer. I realize the pipeline version is for a more advanced users but I don't remember any list of prerequisites when I was offered to buy this version - and I usually catch things rather quickly. but a month after the release I am still trying to get make something of this software that I purchased and either the feature are still expected to be delivered sometime in the future or the documentation sucks. Bruce (RL) promised a tutorial to "Create multi-dimension characters from Flash Template >> mid Jan" where are we with that? how soon will you have one for DP ? at least now I understand why no one else bothers to provide feedback in the forum, perhaps I'll take my questions with support and hopefully solve them 1X1 and not in the forum where other people can learn from it... tanks for the lesson Peter. :angry:
Dude. It is not their job to teach you how to use other software not related to Crazytalk Animator. Get a grip. If you want to make characters not in Flash than learn the tools to do it or just don't do it.
Learn the software like everyone else had to. I just don't understand people. LEARN THINGS!! Stop asking for it to be done for you, if you don't know the software how are they suppose to write something that you will understand? That doesn't make any sense? They are not going to hold your hand through the entire process on a piece of software they did not even develop.
They have like 3 different versions of CTA2 for a reason. Pipeline is a more advanced version for people with experience using the tools required to get the most out of the version.
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By darian.kanius - 12 Years Ago
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niceblinkluck (1/27/2014)
Mmmmm got to admit Reallusion seem very sluggush releasing training videos.
ToonTitan can produce one excellent video after another whenever the mood takes him on the forum. It proves they don't take forever to produce...butwe arestill waiting for you guys to release thatfla template pipelinetraining video.
Come on guys if you wanted to you could do it today...so do it today
Go make a tutorial video about anything you want and come back, post it and then tell use how easy and fast it is to make.
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By narf2n - 12 Years Ago
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Darian,
When you criticize a company whose whole business is about offering a product that makes video production easier I think the comments about how much time we have been waiting for a video tutorial is very match valid.
The decision to make CTA2 dependent in another product was RL's - instead of developing the feature in their product they leveraged on the development of a sister company, one with which they've been cultivating a partnership for a while now and that makes perfect sense. But if the process of using RL product is SO dependent of that third party - it's becoming RL interest to make it clear and to demonstrate - otherwise they may lose potential buyers... RL asked for feedback in the beginning of this thread and I gave some (they only one who toke the time to do so by the way) I raised a number of points which were gracefully ignored and I am still waiting for some answers 3 days after posting it, if you think that's ok than good for you - I don't.
I WANT to use the product I bought, and I've been trying to do so for a month now - putting in a lot of hours only to find bugs and missing features that are slowly being added so I vent here...
It was RL choice to release a half baked product only to maximize sales around Christmas, they knew the product had bugs and features where missing but they marketed it anyway and we are paying the price. I counted on CTA2 for some work related tasks which are still being pushed back due to problems with the software so get off the high horse and horse and don't point yourself advocate because you don't know what you are getting into.
by the way, did you buy the pipeline version? did you follow the documentation? were you able to produce your own elaborate character? how much time did it take? (and if you didn't please spare me your reply).
Still :angry:
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By niceblinkluck - 12 Years Ago
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Darian.. for some reason you want to pick on me...its not my job to make training videos its theirs, its their software...and they did promise to release this video mid January. So they are at fault...end of story...no question... Lets not all start shouting at each other on here...I have no wish to have any argument with anyone...I just want to learn the software and get the most out of it...and at the moment I cant....white papers are no substitute for a good video. :)
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By animagic - 12 Years Ago
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CrazyTalk Animator (including version 1) always relied on other products to make certain types of characters, so that is nothing new. I'm just pleased that I don't have to buy Flash, but can use DrawPlus instead, which is quite a cost-saving.
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By etourist - 12 Years Ago
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Having read through the white paper, carefully taking in each section, to make sure I'm clear on the concepts, I feel confident I can create my own character with DrawPlus. Nothing seemed overly difficult or complex to me.
I'm certainly not proficient with DrawPlus but I know enough to know that most of narf2n's questions are DrawPlus specific and could be answered through referencing DrawPlus's own documentation.
I did buy the Pipeline edition of CTA2 specifically for the ability to create characters in this way.
My Question...
I have noticed is that G2 Characters appear to have the provision to add both rabbit style ears and a tail (with multiple segments). Is that a carry over for G1 character import compatibility or can you add these features to G2 characters?
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By Peter (RL) - 12 Years Ago
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narf2n (1/27/2014)
The decision to make CTA2 dependent in another product was RL's - instead of developing the feature in their product they leveraged on the development of a sister company, one with which they've been cultivating a partnership for a while now and that makes perfect sense. But if the process of using RL product is SO dependent of that third party - it's becoming RL interest to make it clear and to demonstrate - otherwise they may lose potential buyers... RL asked for feedback in the beginning of this thread and I gave some (they only one who toke the time to do so by the way) I raised a number of points which were gracefully ignored and I am still waiting for some answers 3 days after posting it, if you think that's ok than good for you - I don't.narf2n Again you appear to be misinformed. You are not dependant on 3rd party products to create characters for CTA2. At the beginner level you can create characters entirely within CTA2 using the mix and match method. Secondly you can create your characters entirely within CTA2 using the Sprite replacement method. With either of these options you do not need Flash or DrawPlus. You will of course need to have the Artwork prepared but even then you could source it from someone else as you seemed appalled by my suggestion that you learn to use DrawPlus yourself. As to complaints about the delays in getting replies to questions. The forum is not monitored 24 hours a day but I do try to check here as much as I can. If you are seeking urgent help with a problem then please use our Technical Support department. They will happily try to help you with any issues you are encountering.
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By narf2n - 12 Years Ago
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Oh Peter...
If ever there was an example of how not to communicate with a customer...
You know, I would say I am no more miss informed than you are able to get to the bottom of my criticism.
I don't understand at which point this thread became about whether or not and how much narf2n understands pipeline or draw plus rather than about the actual tool and process. Maybe it's easier for you to deflect than deal with the issues...
I expected reaching out to the forum for filling in the blanks be ok and really did not expect a forum manager to send me away with no relevant pointer or some relevant assistance - regardless of your workload. I don't know and every day I care a little less, about this thread and about Crazytalk - hence your questionable success story on the customer care department.
Also, between 24 hours and 8 days there is quite a gap, but I am not in charge of your duties and it doesn't matter who answers, I'd simply appreciate an answer but to be honest, I've given up on that by now, much like the hope of seeing the video tutorial you promised to upload on this very issue over 2 week ago.
You know what, Forget it... Moving on.
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By planetstardragon - 12 Years Ago
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heh, I know this feeling.....been there and i raised up a stink and a half lol...ask any vets here haha!
truth is those videos aren't easy to make....i've made a few myself and it took quite a bit of planning. Also it's a small company, and it's why the forum members try to help when we can. It actually helps us in return because we are still learning and exchange ideas, inspiration, and lessons. Being a small company means many of them wear a variety of hats, some of which include traveling to trade shows.
Peter is a great moderator, if he was able to have patience with me as he did, God bless him! :D
Reallusion are really nice people, over worked with an ambitious goal!
If there is something the community members can help with, we'll try our best.
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By Peter (RL) - 12 Years Ago
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narf2n (2/4/2014)
Oh Peter...
If ever there was an example of how not to communicate with a customer...
You know, I would say I am no more miss informed than you are able to get to the bottom of my criticism.
I don't understand at which point this thread became about whether or not and how much narf2n understands pipeline or draw plus rather than about the actual tool and process. Maybe it's easier for you to deflect than deal with the issues...
I expected reaching out to the forum for filling in the blanks be ok and really did not expect a forum manager to send me away with no relevant pointer or some relevant assistance - regardless of your workload. I don't know and every day I care a little less, about this thread and about Crazytalk - hence your questionable success story on the customer care department.
Also, between 24 hours and 8 days there is quite a gap, but I am not in charge of your duties and it doesn't matter who answers, I'd simply appreciate an answer but to be honest, I've given up on that by now, much like the hope of seeing the video tutorial you promised to upload on this very issue over 2 week ago.
You know what, Forget it... Moving on.My point was that this is a user discussion forum and not the Technical Support department. If you have any issues affecting your use of our software then please use the Support Form below and submit your question. You will then normally get a response within 24 - 48 hours (Mon - Fri). However if you wish to chat and discuss our software, and post non-urgent questions, then the forum is the place to be. http://www.reallusion.com/CustomerSupport/User/QForm.aspx
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By InfoCentral - 12 Years Ago
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narf2n (1/26/2014)
Bruce (RL) promised a tutorial to "Create multi-dimension characters from Flash Template >> mid Jan" where are we with that? how soon will you have one for DP ?
Did that video ever get done yet?
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By Anonymous - 11 Years Ago
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Hi, posted this request already in general, but I think it belongs here:
I am trying to decide wether to buy Pipeline or Pro.
The only thing I am interested at in Pipeline is the dummy template.
But I figured out, that I need DrawPlus for it which does´t run on a Mac.
Is there an alternative software with which I can work on the dummy .dpa file?
If not, I think Pipeline does´t make sense for me, since I don´t work with iclone, flash or alike.
Am I right?
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By Peter (RL) - 11 Years Ago
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regiregi (4/7/2015)
Hi, posted this request already in general, but I think it belongs here:
I am trying to decide wether to buy Pipeline or Pro.
The only thing I am interested at in Pipeline is the dummy template.
But I figured out, that I need DrawPlus for it which does´t run on a Mac.
Is there an alternative software with which I can work on the dummy .dpa file?
If not, I think Pipeline does´t make sense for me, since I don´t work with iclone, flash or alike.
Am I right?Hi.. The Dummy Templates are only available for Adobe Flash or DrawPlus so if you don't use either of these programs then this feature will not be much use to you. The other big feature of Pipeline is the ability to import iClone 3D motion files. You won't need to own iClone as the motion files can be installed directly into CTA2 Pipeline. As we have a very large collection of motions available this can be a massive time saver so certainly worth considering.
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By momillis - 11 Years Ago
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These tutorials show you how to create characters with CTA 2 Pipeline and DrawPlus.
FYI...
CTA 2 Pipeline doesn't have any more features than the Pro version. It only allows you get access to the character build templates and DEV tools, and allows you to use the RL Content Uploader for putting content in your Marketplace store.
Also, DrawPlus is not a Reallusion product. It's by Serif which is not a subsidiary of RL. Serif is a trusted partner, sorta like an affiliate. Anything Reallusion does to help you learn about making characters in DrawPlus is a bonus. RL is the flash character build expert, not the DP expert.
For that matter you only really need from DrawPlus is the .swf file export so it's compatible with CTA 2. You can build your characters or sprites in any software you want, then simply import to DrawPlus as a keyframe animation, then export as an .swf flash file.
Everything you need to know is in these 2 tutorials, regardless of a broken promise for a new videos lately or whatever. If you can't learn it all from these then you won't be able to with any others. It's all right here. Hope they help you.
I would hope you post your new characters when they're finished. I'm interested to see how they will turn out. Good Luck! :D
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJPavtRr3YI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06AjWWt4AvQ
Official Reallusion tutorials by Kai D. :)
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By Anonymous - 11 Years Ago
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Thank you for taking your time to answer me!
Your response was really helpful :)
I will take a look at the tutorials!
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By animagic - 11 Years Ago
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momillis (4/8/2015)
[b]CTA 2 Pipeline doesn't have any more features than the Pro version. It only allows you get access to the character build templates and DEV tools, and allows you to use the RL Content Uploader for putting content in your Marketplace store.Like Peter mentioned in his post, the Pipeline version also allows you to import iClone 5 motion files, so that is another benefit. Overview is here: http://www.reallusion.com/crazytalk/Animator/animator_matrix.aspx. I don't think you need the Pipeline version for putting content in the Market Place. The Pro version should be enough, at least that's the case with iClone.
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By dclelland - 11 Years Ago
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Hi, I am just a newbie to Drawplus. I am trying to create mg own G2 characters but It seems I cant find any step by step video from head to foot.Do you have any written tutorials that you can share? Thank you.
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By vidi - 11 Years Ago
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Have you the pipeline version ? if yes you will find Guides and Templates in your member account
these videos demonstrated the procedure with the Draw Plus template
btw there are many more tutorials on this RL youtube channel
Happy Creating !
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By hufos - 11 Years Ago
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Hi. I notice that there is a Buddy Character Template for Flash but I didnt see a Template for Draw Plus. I am curious as to whether or not support for Draw Plus has been discontinued or what? I would like to make my own Buddy Characters but since I am only using Draw Plus X8, it doesnt take FLA files.
Any Suggestions are appreciated.
Thanx In Advance,
hufos
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By Peter (RL) - 11 Years Ago
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hufos (7/29/2015)
Hi. I notice that there is a Buddy Character Template for Flash but I didnt see a Template for Draw Plus. I am curious as to whether or not support for Draw Plus has been discontinued or what? I would like to make my own Buddy Characters but since I am only using Draw Plus X8, it doesnt take FLA files.
Any Suggestions are appreciated.
Thanx In Advance,
hufos
Hi Hufos,
The Buddy pack was designed using Flash and so for the convenience of our users we included the Flash Template as well. DrawPlus has certainly not been abandoned and it can still be used to design new character content using the G2 Templates.
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