Blender is a comprehensive content creation software developed for producing three-dimensional (3D) computer graphics, distributed as open-source and under a free software license. Its development and coordination are carried out by the Blender Foundation, established in 2002 by Ton Roosendaal. The software is licensed under the GNU General Public License (GNU GPL), and its source code is accessible and open to contributions from everyone.

Blender integrates numerous graphic production processes into a single unified platform, including 3D modeling, digital sculpting, animation, simulation, rendering, motion graphics, video editing, compositing, 2D animation, and game content development. In this respect, it can be used in multidisciplinary digital production activities.

Thanks to its cross-platform support, the software can run on Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. Its user interface is customizable and can be extended through scripts and add-ons developed in the Python programming language. Blender is suitable for both personal and institutional use and can be employed in academic research, commercial productions, independent art projects, and educational environments.

Blender’s continuously updated versions are developed with contributions from a global community of developers and users. This community adds new functionalities to the software, produces documentation, and prepares educational materials. The software operates with low hardware requirements and offers many professional-level features without any licensing fees.

Technical Features

• Modeling: Blender supports polygon-based modeling, digital sculpting, subdivision surface, and spline-based modeling methods.

• Animation: It includes tools such as keyframing, rigging, inverse kinematics, motion capture, and a timeline.

• Simulation: It has physical simulation modules for fluids, smoke, fire, cloth, rigid bodies, and particle systems.

• Rendering: Blender contains two integrated render engines named Cycles and Eevee. Cycles is based on ray tracing, while Eevee is a real-time rasterization engine.

• Video Editing: The Video Sequence Editor (VSE) module can be used for basic video montage, audio editing, and transition effects.

• Compositing: It features a node-based compositing system supporting color correction, layer management, and effect addition.

• 2D Animation: The Grease Pencil tool provides support for two-dimensional (2D) animation and drawing.

• Scripting and Extensibility: It offers the ability to write scripts and develop plugins using the Python language.

Platform Compatibility

Blender is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems and can run on both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.

Usage Areas

The software is utilized for 3D modeling, animation, game asset production, architectural visualization, film and television effects, scientific visualization, and educational purposes.

Community and Development Process

Blender is continuously updated by a global developer community coordinated by the Blender Foundation. Its source code is open to everyone and accessible via Git. The development process can be monitored and contributed to through online platforms.