It basically allows you to draw 2D vector graphics in 3D space. The feature in Blender that makes all this 2D goodness possible is called Grease Pencil. However, seeing all these new 2D features, and the fact that I still want to learn how to sculpt and animate my own characters in 3D, Blender is looking like the ideal tool for all my animation needs. Especially since I've had iClone as an alternative.

Since then I've checked back in from time to time just to see how far the software has come but, even though I now have a computer that can run it, I still haven't been compelled to go there. Personally, I tried to learn Blender way back somewhere around 2004-5 but didn't have a computer powerful enough to run it (lots of crashing at the most basic level of use). If you're just interested in the 2D animation features skip to the 9:44 minute mark. YouTuber, Blender Guru made this incredible video, that I happened to click on, not expecting to be as wowed as I was, that runs through all of what's new in Blender 2.8 (which is more of a 'all the reasons why you should learn Blender' list than a 'what's new'). Hence my suggestion that Blender 2.8 is truly the one tool for all your animation needs (because Blender is also very capable at VFX - think of any 'live action' movie that uses CGI to create almost anything in a scene that wasn't there during principle photography). As well, it has plugins that can give 3D animation that 2D look.

That's right you can use it to create 2D, hand drawn animation, motion graphics, and bone rigged 2D characters. With the release of 2.8 not only is Blender a complete 3D animation tool, it's now also a complete 2D animation tool. If you're not familiar with Blender it's been almost the go to tool, since at least 2002, for anyone wanting to learn 3D animation on a budget - and nothing is easier on the budget than completely free. There are a number of animation apps that like to promote themselves as the one tool for all your animation needs and, while many are certainly very powerful, I think Blender 2.8, released earlier this year, may be the closest yet. Created in Blender 2.8 with Grease Pencil.

Blender 2d animation