What It Does
PixelsWorld lets you generate visuals in After Effects by writing code instead of using traditional layer-based workflows. Write scripts in Lua (similar to Processing), GLSL shaders, or paste code directly from Shadertoy.com. The plugin includes a library of presets (patterns, audio-reactive effects, 3D geometry) that you can apply and modify immediately.
Key Features
Lua scripting. Draw shapes, apply transformations, and animate using functions like move(), rotateX(), fill(), rect(), and tri(). Color space conversions (RGB, HSL, HSV, CMY, CMYK) are built in. The syntax is designed to be approachable for beginners while still supporting complex geometry construction via spreadsheet-style tables (inspired by Houdini).
GLSL and Shadertoy support. Copy shader code from Shadertoy.com, paste it into PixelsWorld, and render it in After Effects. Most shaders work without modification (VR and multi-buffer setups are not supported). This opens access to thousands of community-created effects like procedural clouds, oceans, auroras, and fractals.
SpreadSheet geometry system. Build custom 3D geometry by defining points, vertices, primitives, and detail tables. You can construct objects programmatically and render them with custom colors and transformations. Useful for generative design and data visualization.
Texture and filter systems. Load external images, apply custom texture mappings, and use GPU-accelerated filters. Mipmap and alpha mask settings give control over texture quality and blending. Functions like fetchTex() let you sample textures at specific times.
Audio-reactive tools. Refactored spectrum system (as of v3.6.0) allows audio-driven animations. Pair with Lua scripting to create visualizers, reactive backgrounds, or beat-synced motion.
Performance optimizations. GPU caching, attribute binding, and texture casting resulted in a ~30% performance boost in v3.3.0. Multiple instances of the plugin in the same project now share resources more efficiently.
Preset library. Includes categories like Patterns (Diamonds World, Kaleidoscope), Effects (Twist Cubes), and third-party contributions. Apply a preset with one click, then modify the code to customize it. Good for learning how specific effects are built.
Text rendering and simulation. Added in v3.5.0, text rendering functions let you generate typography programmatically. Simulation features (introduced in v3.3.2) support particle systems and physics-based motion.
Who It’s For
Motion designers with coding experience (or willingness to learn) who want generative control. Useful for abstract backgrounds, data-driven visuals, audio visualizers, and experimental VFX. The Shadertoy integration makes it accessible to artists who want shader effects without writing from scratch. Not beginner-friendly if you’ve never touched code, but the quick-start tutorial and presets lower the barrier.
Pricing
Single purchase at $79.57. A trial version is available on the aescripts product page. Windows 10 only (macOS is not supported).