The MotionMaker updates in Maya 2026.2 deliver comprehensive improvements across editor functionality, performance optimization, and workflow customization. Key enhancements include persistent editor positioning and customizable row colors for improved user experience, character referencing and lightweight meshes for better performance, enhanced machine learning models for more accurate character behavior, and customizable shortcuts for personalized workflow integration. These updates collectively provide a more efficient, responsive, and user-friendly MotionMaker experience while maintaining the robust character animation capabilities that users expect.
MotionMaker Editor Updates
Editor Position Persistence: The MotionMaker Editor position is now saved in the workspace. This enhancement ensures that your preferred editor placement is maintained across Maya sessions, providing a more consistent and personalized workflow experience.
Customizable Row Colors: MotionMaker Editor row colors can now be edited from the Maya Preferences window. This customization option allows users to personalize the visual appearance of the editor interface to match their workflow preferences and improve readability
MotionMaker Performance Updates
Significant performance improvements have been implemented to enhance MotionMaker's efficiency and responsiveness.
Character Referencing: By default, the character rig is now referenced instead of imported. This optimization helps to reduce the file size of scenes with standard characters while maintaining full functionality. Characters can still optionally be imported instead of referenced when specific workflow requirements demand it.
Lightweight Character Meshes: Biped and canine meshes are now lighter weight, providing improved performance during animation playback. Lower Level of Detail (LOD) options can be selected from the character node for even faster playback when high visual fidelity is not required.
Enhanced Machine Learning Model: The ML (machine learning) model for triggering actions at low speeds has been improved. This enhancement primarily benefits sitting and lying down animations for the wolf character, providing more accurate and responsive behavior transitions.
MotionMaker Workflow Updates
Workflow enhancements provide greater flexibility and customization options for MotionMaker users.
Customizable Shortcuts: MotionMaker shortcuts can now be edited from the Hotkey Manager. This feature allows users to customize keyboard shortcuts to match their preferred workflow and integrate seamlessly with existing Maya hotkey configurations.
To learn about MotionMaker, watch the QuickStart tutorial and walk-through on Maya overview page.
To get familiar with the workflow, see the MotionMaker: Introduction and QuickStart Guide.