Alexey Vanzhula releases Soft Boolean 2025 for Houdini
Developer Alexey Vanzhula has released Soft Boolean 2025, the latest version of the real-time Boolean modelling system for Houdini, SideFX’s procedural 3D software.
The release updates the add-on’s underlying algorithm, generating more detailed and more stable output, including the option to cut 3D text into curved surfaces.
A dedicated real-time Boolean modelling system for Houdini
First released in 2021, Soft Boolean made the real-time Boolean system from Modeler, Vanzhula’s hard surface modeling toolkit, available as a dedicated add-on.
The software makes it possible to perform Boolean modelling operations on polygonal meshes in the Houdini viewport, and apply accurate bevels to the resulting geometry.
As well as the Soft Boolean node itself, the add-on provides a set of Shelf Tools to speed up workflow.
Soft Boolean 2025: more detailed, stable Boolean operations
Soft Boolean 2025 updates the software’s underlying algorithm for Boolean operations, improving both the quality and stability of the output it generates.
The change makes it possible to cut detailed text into curved surfaces, and introduces “many new parameters” for fine-tuning Boolean geometry.
In particular, it should be easier to adjust sharp corners, and the radius of bevels, and normal smoothing is “more precise and natural”.
The add-on should also handle a greater range of source topology correctly.
There are also new shelf tools for hole detection and “quick cutter finding”.
Supplied as a HDA for use in compatible DCC applications like Maya
Soft Boolean is supplied as an HDA (Houdini Digital Asset), which should make it possible to use the tools inside other DCC applications that support Houdini Engine.
The original release – still available on Gumroad – also includes scripts making Soft Boolean functionality available via a shelf inside Maya, although Soft Boolean 2025 itself is only listed as being for Houdini.
Pricing and availability
Soft Boolean 2025 is compatible with Houdini 20.0. Individual floating licenses cost $40; Studio licenses, which provide unlimited seats, cost $200.
The release is a paid update from the original version of Soft Boolean, which costs $30 for individual licenses, and $200 for Studio licenses.
Download Soft Boolean 2025 for Houdini from Alexey Vanzhula’s Gumroad store
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