Unveiling the Innovative Performance Capture Technology Behind Squadron 42

Cloud Imperium's long-awaited multiplayer space-trading title, Star Citizen, has been in development for over a decade, raising more than $867 million through crowdfunding. With a projected launch window of 2027 or 2028, its single-player spin-off, Squadron 42, is expected to release next year, featuring a star-studded cast, including Gary Oldman, Gillian Anderson, and Mark Hamill. To create digital replicas of these actors and other characters, Cloud Imperium partnered with Clear Angle Studios, a Hollywood VFX company specializing in scanning technology. Clear Angle's head scanning system, Dorothy, utilizes 76 cameras and 1,500 lights to capture 3D and 4D textures. The company collaborated with DI4D and TexturingXYZ to launch a new 4D facial mocap service, which was used for custom character creation and NPC scans in Squadron 42. In an interview, Clear Angle's founder and director, Dominic Ridley, discussed the collaboration, stating that the companies worked seamlessly together, with each contributing their expertise. Ridley emphasized the synergistic relationship between Clear Angle and DI4D, with Clear Angle handling scanning and processing, while DI4D focused on mesh tracking. The companies' collaboration resulted in a high-quality end product, with TexturingXYZ handling render pipeline and enhancements. When asked about working with Cloud Imperium, Clear Angle producer Ali Ingham praised the company's openness and collaboration, noting that they were willing to share their technology and goals. Cloud Imperium's senior director of tools, tech, and content, Sean Tracy, discussed the potential for photorealistic graphics, stating that there is still room for innovation, particularly in performance capture. Tracy emphasized the importance of representation and inclusivity in game development, ensuring that players can see themselves accurately reflected in the game world. The technology used in Star Citizen and Squadron 42 is designed to benefit all players, regardless of their platform, with Tracy stating that it will be integrated directly into the games, allowing players to experience advanced capabilities without needing high-end hardware. When asked about the affordability of performance capture for smaller studios, Tracy noted that advances in technology have made it more accessible, with scalable solutions available for indie developers. Clear Angle's founder expressed interest in collaborating with more game studios in the future, aiming to advance high-level scanning technology in the gaming industry.