Idyllic Pixel, the indie game and tool development studio, just announced the release of PureRef 2.0, the latest version of their popular reference image organization tool.
What’s New in PureRef 2.0
PureRef 2.0, the first software update in four years, brings some much-anticipated features. You can now draw directly onto images within the software and set PureRef to display over specific other applications.
PureRef: A Go-To for Concept Artists and Illustrators
PureRef is a favorite among concept artists and illustrators for managing reference images more efficiently than mood boards in apps like Photoshop. Users can drag and drop images into the software, scale, reposition, and align them intuitively, and add text notes.
Drag and drop images from anywhere
Upload images right from your computer, paste or just drag an image directly from your browser.
New Features in PureRef 2.0
Besides the ability to annotate images directly, PureRef 2.0 includes a new rich text editor for formatting text-based notes. Other new features include grouping images and moving them as a unit, with a new Hierarchy view to visualize groupings.
Workflow Enhancements
PureRef 2.0 improves workflow with options to always display the software above other specific applications and new customization options for the user interface. It also supports animated GIFs, allowing you to step through animations frame by frame.
Performance Boosts
The new image caching and streaming system significantly reduces memory usage, though it does increase load times.
New Commercial Licenses
Idyllic Pixel has updated the EULA and licensing for PureRef. Previously available on a “pay-what-you-want” basis, the software now offers perpetual licenses and subscriptions for businesses. Personal licenses for non-commercial use remain pay-what-you-want.
Pricing and System Requirements
PureRef 2.0 is compatible with Windows 10+, Ubuntu 20.04 Linux, and macOS 10.14+. A Small Business license costs $49 and supports up to three users; full Business subscriptions cost $10/month or $96/year. Non-commercial Personal licenses are free, with the option to donate to support the software’s development.
Download PureRef for Free
Download PureRef for free by choosing the Personal Edition and entering $0 in the “Custom Amount” field.