Getting Started

System Requirements

To ensure a smooth experience with CineBlast, please check the following:

Autodesk Maya Versions & Required Python Version:

  • CineBlast requires Python 3.9 or newer as provided within Maya.
  • Recommended for: Autodesk Maya 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026

Operating Systems:

  • Microsoft® Windows®: Windows 10 (64-bit) or newer.
  • Apple® macOS®: macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or newer. (Intel & Apple Silicon supported).
  • Linux®: Modern 64-bit distributions (e.g., CentOS/Rocky Linux 7.6+ or Ubuntu 18.04 LTS+ with a standard desktop environment). (CineBlast aims for broad compatibility, but official Maya support primarily targets RHEL/Rocky derivatives).

Core Components:

  • FFmpeg: Included and managed by CineBlast – no separate installation needed.
  • Advanced Motion Blur Engine: CineBlast includes all necessary components for its realistic motion blur feature, ensuring it works out of the box without requiring separate library installations from you.

General Recommendation: CineBlast runs efficiently within Maya. Ensure your system meets the general recommended hardware specifications for running your version of Autodesk Maya smoothly.

How to Install

  • Download the `CineBlast_DIST.zip` package from your Gumroad purchase confirmation (for the full version) or directly from this website (for the trial version):
  • Extract the contents of the `CineBlast_DIST.zip` file to a convenient location on your computer.
  • Inside, you should find:
    • `CineBlast_plugin` folder
    • HOW_TO_INSTALL.md (text instructions)
    • `install_CineBlast.py` file (the installer script)
  • Drag the `install_CineBlast.py` file directly into any of your Maya viewports.
  • Follow any on-screen prompts to complete the installation. You should see a final confirmation message
  • Add the Shelf Buttons: At the end of the installation, you will be asked if you want to add buttons to your Custom shelf. Click Yes. This will create two new icons on your shelf:
    • CineBlast Icon: This is the main button. Click it to open the full CineBlast interface with all its options.
    • CineBlast Run Icon: This is a powerful shortcut. It immediately starts a new playblast using the last settings you saved, without opening the main window. It’s perfect for quickly iterating on a shot.