Rebelle 8, the most recent launch from Escape Motions, is right here, and it’s extra than simply an replace. With over 40 new options, this version represents a generational leap in pure media portray software program, mixing handcrafted expressiveness with cutting-edge digital realism.Now accessible in Early Entry, Rebelle 8 marks the tenth anniversary of digital portray software program I like, and for my part, it is a must-have for artists who demand watercolours that bleed like the true factor, oils that really feel wealthy and textural, and digital brushes that behave identical to the true factor.“The outcomes, additionally together with the brand new RealShader settings, are merely breathtaking,” says digital painter Georg Eire, who’s considered one of a number of artists invited to make use of Rebelle 8 forward of launch.
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(Picture credit score: Georg Eire)Escape Motions isn’t simply chasing realism for realism’s sake; it’s constructing digital portray instruments that reply to your instinct, whether or not you’re sketching a free idea or layering oils for a gallery piece. On the coronary heart of Rebelle 8 is Bristle Brushes, a particle-based simulation that mimics particular person brush strands to create fantastically chaotic, lifelike marks. These really feel like a daring evolution, but additionally a granular simulation that units Rebelle 8 aside from software program like Photoshop.Pair that with RealShader, a photorealistic rendering engine that brings gentle shadows, impasto depth, and reflective gentle to oils, and also you’re some of the convincing conventional paint simulations ever coded.(Picture credit score: Georg Eire)A brand new digital studio for professionalsFrom established illustrators to artwork college students exploring visible storytelling, Escape Motions believes Rebelle 8’s expanded toolkit is constructed for skilled workflows with out the complexity tax that may include different digital artwork software program. I have been utilizing Rebelle in a single version or one other for 3 years and discover it as advanced or as accessible as you want it to be.The upgraded NanoPixel 2 engine presents crisp detailing and export resolutions as much as a staggering 32K. Engaged on large-scale canvases? Brushes now scale as much as 3000px, with out dragging your efficiency.Every day design information, opinions, how-tos and extra, as picked by the editors.In the meantime, new PSD import/export, WebSocket help for distant management or multi-app workflows, and the Escape Motions Join Photoshop plugin (with native Apple Silicon help) place Rebelle firmly within the studio pipeline. You possibly can even add customized reflectivity and granulation textures to fine-tune metallics and pigment results, good for many who crave nuance.“The upgraded NanoPixel 2 export is a game-changer,” says digital artist Craig Werkheiser. “Good for gallery-quality prints.”(Picture credit score: Daniel Ibanez)For many who reside of their brushes, options like Brush Historical past, a symmetry device, instantaneous paper previews, and new layer settings convey welcome quality-of-life enhancements. Rebelle 8 could really feel extra highly effective, however it additionally feels smoother, sooner, and extra elegant to make use of.“The potential for expressive and genuine brushes is gigantic,” says illustrator and educator Tim Shelbourne. “The most effective factor to occur to Rebelle.”Behind all of it is a transparent sense of momentum. Rebelle 8 introduces a 1-12 months Free Updates mannequin, whereas sustaining its perpetual license intact. Purchase as soon as, preserve endlessly, and obtain all characteristic updates for 12 months.For those who’re on Rebelle 7 like me, then upgrades include a beneficiant 50% low cost, and anybody who bought since Could 28 will get Rebelle 8 free.(Picture credit score: Kuzayova)Rebelle 8 pricing(Picture credit score: Escape Motions)Rebelle 8 Customary: $89.99Rebelle 8 Professional: $149.99Upgrade from Rebelle 7: 50% offFree improve for purchases after Could 28, 2025Rebelle 8 is now in Early Entry, with the official launch deliberate for September 2025. Costs begin at $89.99 for the Customary Version and $149.99 for Professional (each together with 1 yr of updates and a perpetual license). The Escape Motions press launch says all purchases are backed by a 30-day money-back assure, which is a pleasant security web.Learn our information to the most effective digital artwork software program to see the place Rebelle suits in, and our Rebelle 7 evaluation for a deep dive into the older version.For those who’re eager on Rebelle 8, then learn up on the most effective drawing tablets to make use of with this digital portray software program and our listing of the most effective laptops for drawing and digital artwork if you’d like a complete new tech refresh.Go to rebelle.escapemotions.com to obtain Early Entry, discover the total characteristic listing, and see what’s subsequent.