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

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

• If you receive a missing dll error when the screensaver is run then it is likely that you don’t have a recent enough version of DirectX. Try updating DirectX via microsoft’s site here.
• Contact me at frankforce@gmail.com if you have any other problems and I will look into it.