Go Bonsai

Introduction

“Go Bonsai” is a prototype of highly realistic interactive tree growth software that I would like to eventually build a full game around. As far as I know this is the first and only 3D tree simulator available anywhere.  Many features are planned for the future like ability to save and load trees, more tools, wiring, roots, pot selection, scenery, higher quality rendering, etc. Until then please enjoy what I have so far which is a pretty tight demonstration of the engine with one tree type and a simple interface.

Features

  • Simple and easy to learn interface
  • Realistic 3D tree growth simulation
  • Seasonal growth cycle
  • Leafs and branches are effected by gravity and wind
  • Complex lighting model with self shadowing that effects growth
  • Growth pattern simulation of a Japanese Maple
  • Snap Shot button to easily save images of your trees
  • Game and data all packed into single exe file

Downloading and Installing

To install the Go Bonsai simply run the self installing setup program.

  • Go Bonsai – Download the latest version here. (Requires Windows and DirectX 9)

Video

Screenshots

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Gameplay Tips

  • The goal is to create a small tree that looks big
  • You will need to constantly maintain your tree to achieve a proper look
  • Use the speed controls to slow things down when necessary
  • If you let the tree grow on its own the simulation will eventually max out and pause
  • If the simulation is overloaded that means your tree is too big or dense
  • Cut your tree down every few years at first to achieve a good trunk taper
  • Don’t be afraid to cut everything off your tree, this is necessary sometimes
  • Once you have a good bonsai going, prune it constantly to refine the shape
  • Trim your bonsai every year in the winter to make room for new growth
  • Trim strong growth and “leaders” in the summer to achieve balanced growth
  • Don’t remove weak growth at all, or the branch may eventually die off completely
  • Use the middle mouse button to make thick trunk cuts
  • Press Alt+Enter to toggle full screen mode
  • You can open more then one instance of Go Bonsai
  • Remember to take SnapShots wherever your bonsai is show condition
  • You can press the 9 key to enable the hidden uber-fast simulation speed
  • There is an experimental Auto Trim feature you can activate by pressing the U key

Installation Help


7 comments for this entry:
  1. NJ Tree service

    Woah! How long did it take you to do all that?

  2. Frank

    Thanks! I worked on it for about 3 months.

  3. SlyAnimationz

    Cool, my teacher showed this to me. Keep up the good work. :D

  4. Hoodman

    Wooow, it’a really nice software. I really enjoyed it. It’s helpfull for bonsai lover. But how can I see the Snapshots took?
    If you’re about to make an update I suggest you to put more specimen…and more tools ;)
    Anyway, great job Frank!

  5. José Claudio

    Very nice work!!!I’d always wait for a software like that!!!
    Do you have an idea of when you will do the complete version, or at least just another models of trees?
    Thanks a lot for the software!

  6. Frank

    Hoodman – There is a SnapShots folder in the same place as the GoBonsai program where all your snapshots are saved.

    José – I haven’t been working on it too actively, currently I am juggling several projects and a full time job. My next goal with GoBonsai is to implement tree saving and more tree types.

  7. Vano

    ??????, ?????? ??????? ,?? ??? ?? ? ???????????? ??????? ?????? ?????.
    ? ????? ??????? ???? ??????!

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