Overall, a complete package. Not only does this software have all the expected tools fro painting and rendering, but also has numerous assists for beginning artists such as poseable, 3D drawing dummies, perspective rulers that can be used to correct draft work, and support of OBJ 3D models for reference, and more. While MS 5 is geared toward sequential art, the features that are given toward the art are not so intrusive as to keep one from using it for any other art project.
MS 5 and MS 5 EX each have several substantial improvements over the previous version.
The most identifying feature of MS 5 is the relative color brush engine. With the new brush engine, color is now a central feature to the software, instead of seeming secondary, as expressed by user concerns. What the system does is apply color to the layer using brushes in reference to what color is already on the layer. Essentially, color can be mixed naturally and organically, as in real life.
The second most identifying feature of MS 5 is the new vector drawing engine. The ability to draw entirely in vector allows one to seamlessly correct every stroke of every tool after making the stroke. Color, shape, and density are all easy to fix in a vector drawing. Vector drawing is also independent of a project's resolution, meaning the drawing can be resized to any shape regardless of how it was drawn. Combined with the relative color engine, every minute detail can be adjusted to the desired effect.
This software is called "Manga Studio" after the Japanese term for comics, and therefore is designed to focus mainly on the creation of sequential art (comics). To that end, the software has tools designed specifically to mirror every step of the traditional comics process:
1. A story editor to manage all pages in a story as a project file in itself. Pages can be rearranged effortlessly and spreads can be created by joining pages. All printing and folio information can be inserted in the final pages based on the project specifications.
2. Framing tools, drafting layers, and alternative drawing colors for drafting or "pencilling" pages.
3. Pen tools and an extensive halftone engine for finishing pages in black, or "inking".
4.A formidable text and balloon engine for adding dialogue and captions with precise control to rival professional setting tools such as Adobe Illustrator.
5. The aforementioned color engine for adding vibrant, lifelike color to pages, if needed. Or, in lieu of pencilling and inking, pages can easily be rendered in full-painted color.
6. Batch processing tools for exporting project pages with desired specifications for printing, webcomics, or online distribution.
Note that a recent update (5.0.6) adds the ability to export projects in the popular open .Epub and Amazon Kindle .Mobi formats, making online sales and distribution through Google Play, iTunes, or Amazon convenient for self-publishing creators. Adobe PDF export can easily be achieved by the addition of any number of free, light-weight, third-party "PDF printing" tools, making self-publishing through the Comixology market or on independent websites equally convenient.
Also note that the introductory version, simply titled "Manga Studio 5" is lacking many important features available in MS 5 EX. further information on these differences can be easily found on MS' page on Smith Micro's website.
These are only the facts about this software. My honest opinion of this software after 3 months of continuous hobbyist use is that for one needing an efficient, digital comic- or illustration-tool, one must look no further than Smith Micro's latest offering.
This software is also provided and supported by two of the most reliable production developers currently active: Smith Micro and Celsys of Japan. Rest assured, any questions one has about this piece is fully covered in either the manuals, one of the many official tutorial videos hosted on Youtube, or has been resolved within Smith Micro's expansive online community, Runtime DNA; and if it isn't, support is readily available to resolve any questions or concerns.
In conclusion, at any price, this is a worthwhile investment in time and money for an artist needing to compete successfully in the digital age.
Manga Studio EX 5
4.3 | 147 ratings
Price:
Last update: 08-24-2024
About this item
Includes everything professional comic artists and aspiring artists need to create manga comic art
Easy to use, intuitive interface produces fast results and single-click special effects save time
Complete control over text, lines, word balloons, and page layout
Tons of screen tones included add dimension, depth, and character to your art
Built in special effects, tones and tools give artwork a unique style and professional look
Easy to use, intuitive interface produces fast results and single-click special effects save time
Complete control over text, lines, word balloons, and page layout
Tons of screen tones included add dimension, depth, and character to your art
Built in special effects, tones and tools give artwork a unique style and professional look
Top reviews from the United States
Bob
This is truly the world's leading illustration software.
Reviewed in the United States on September 14, 2015Ross Gordon
Accelerator for the novice and steroids for the professional
Reviewed in the United States on April 26, 2014Keely
I really love this product
Reviewed in the United States on August 7, 2015