Review: Hexels 2

The painting app sequel goes from quirky to versatile.

Our Verdict

Hexels 2 makes the leap from being enjoyable to practical in this new release. Streamlined controls and added functionality make Hexels 2 more than just a curiosity for animators, especially when considering its low cost.

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Hexels

Hexels 2 is under the management of Marmoset

Hexels 2 is a strong sequel to an intriguing paint app. Now under the management of Marmoset, it includes a lot of improvements that promote it from a quirky paint package into something more versatile and accomplished.

The original Hexels was a grid-based painting app that enabled you to choose what sort of polygonal shapes you want to be constrained by, helping paint isometric images with ease. Hexels was always enjoyable, but version 2 adds a lot of functionality. Layers ensure you can experiment non-destructively and import background images to work with.


A new streamlined animation key-frame editor means you can create animations that can be exported as animated GIFs. Layered PSD export also makes it easier to incorporate the program into your workflow.

Hexels

Hexels 2 boasts a lot of unique features at a small price

Hexels 2 won't suit everyone,
but if you have a passing interest 
in retro video games, making animated GIFs, geometric art, pixel art or enjoy experimenting, then it's worth its agreeable price tag.

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The Verdict
8

out of 10

Hexels 2

Hexels 2 makes the leap from being enjoyable to practical in this new release. Streamlined controls and added functionality make Hexels 2 more than just a curiosity for animators, especially when considering its low cost.

Rob Redman

Rob Redman is the editor of 3D World and ImagineFX magazines and has a background in animation, visual effects, and photography. As a 3D artist he created the mothership in the Webby winning Plot Device and was animator on the follow-up; Order up. He has created training for Cinema 4D and Blackmagic Design Fusion artists. He's been a published product and food photographer since the age of 15. As well as being a multi-instrumentalist, Rob is also an avid beard grower.