Crystal Tools
 |
| File:Crystaltools.png | |
| Developer(s) | Square Enix Taku Murata (Director) |
|---|---|
| Stable release | 1.1
/ September, 2009 |
| Operating system | XMB, Various |
| Platform | PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows |
| Type | Game engine |
| License | Private |
| Website | Square Enix's Global Website |
Crystal Tools is a game engine created and used internally by Square Enix. It was originally titled the "White Engine", but the name was changed with the release of version 1.1 of the engine.
Overview
The engine was originally created when the company decided to create an internal engine for use with seventh generation consoles. The game developers at the company have stated that the hurdles were bigger moving from the PlayStation 2 to the PlayStation 3 than moving from the PlayStation to the PlayStation 2. The engine was developed with the aims of being able to create advanced facial animations and to have a single 3D format throughout the company.
Features
- Advanced Audio Processing
- Real-time Physics Calculations
- Cinema-Quality Special Effects Rendering
- Progressive Scan Loading
- High Quality, CGI Real-time Rendering (both cut-scene and gameplay) graphics capabilities
- Seamless cut-scene to gameplay transition
Engine programs/functions
Crystal Tools uses the GRAPE2 Communications Server.
- Functions
- Character Viewer
- Effects Editor
- Cut-scene Editor
- Sound Maker
- Layout Tool
- Plugins
Compatibility
Crystal Tools is able to be adjusted for whatever project it may be needed for. Currently, Square Enix shows no intention of sharing the engine with other developers, besides its subsidiaries. The engine can be used to create games for Microsoft Windows, Sony Playstation 3, Microsoft Xbox 360.
Games using the engine
- Final Fantasy XIII (2009)
- Final Fantasy XIV Online (2010)
- Final Fantasy XIII-2 (2011)
- Final Fantasy Versus XIII (TBA)
- Untitled MMO (TBA)
References
"'Crystal Tools': Final Fantasy Engine Renamed, Supports Wii". Wired.com. February 22, 2008. Retrieved 2010-04-16.
"Square Enix unveils new engine". GDC. February 22, 2008. Retrieved 2010-08-13.
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