Boris FX

What is Particle Illusion?

Particle Illusion is a powerful particle generator that gives users instant access to 3D particles with a huge preset library, hardware acceleration through OpenGL, and advanced features like Fluid Dynamics, Forces, Deflectors, 3D Model Support, node-based navigation, integrated 3D camera with motion blur and depth of field, and more.

Can I use the free version of Particle Illusion Pro for commercial work?

If you plan to use Particle Illusion Pro, please purchase either a monthly or annual subscription. The unlicensed version (free) of Particle Illusion Pro is intended for non-commercial / personal use only.

Can I buy a perpetual license for Particle Illusion Pro?

No, Particle Illusion Pro is available as a subscription only. You can purchase a perpetual license for Continuum which includes Particle Illusion Pro, as well as the plugin version of Continuum. See Continuum pricing here.

Why do I only see 3 emitter libraries instead of dozens?

Only 3 emitter libraries are installed with Particle Illusion’s main installer: the “Sampler” library, the “Custom” library (which can be added to and edited), and the latest library from the current release – for instance “Emitters_2024.0”. All of the other libraries are in a separate installer which can be downloaded using the Help menu – Download Emitters… option. Note that after installing the Additional Emitter Libraries, Particle Illusion must be restarted.

How can I create a “blank” emitter, to start from scratch?

Particle Illusion does not have a concept of a “blank” or “empty” emitter – it must start with a preset. There are a few basic emitter presets that are as close to a “blank” emitter as possible. To find them, do an emitter library search for “Basic” and look at the “Emitters_2021.0” or “Custom” libraries for “Basic Emitter” and its variations.

How do you delete position keyframes?

Cmd+click (Mac) or Ctrl+click (Windows) on a position path key in the Stage window to delete it. Note that this may not work if the emitter is on top of the key you are trying to delete.

Why do I get an “internal data stream error” when trying to render?

This may be because the output size (resolution) is either too large, or is a “weird” value. Try setting the output resolution to 1920x1080 as a first step. If that works, try gradually larger sizes until it fails. You could also make sure that the width and height are both evenly divisible by 16.

How can I reset the preferences to default settings?

The easiest way, even if Particle Illusion will not open, is to launch PI while holding down the SHIFT key. (Either hold SHIFT while launching, or press and hold SHIFT immediately after launching.) If done correctly, a message will appear saying that Preferences have been reset. (If you don’t see that message, then the Preferences have NOT been reset and you should try again.)