Hexels 2

Polygonal sp ree The Hexels app goes from quirky to versatile

The painting app goes from quirky to versatile.

Hexels 2 is a strong sequel to an intriguing app. Now under the management of Marmoset, it includes a lot of improvements that promote it from a quirky paint package into something more versatile and accomplished.

The original Hexels was a gridbased painting app that enabled you to choose what sort of polygonal shapes you want to be constrained by, helping paint isometric images with ease.

Hexels was always enjoyable, but version 2 adds a lot of functionality. Layers ensure you can experiment non-destructively and import background images to work with. A new streamlined animation keyframe editor means you can create animations that can be exported as animated GIFs. Layered PSD export also makes it easier to incorporate the program into your workflow.

Hexels 2 won’t suit everyone, but if you have a passing interest in retro video games, making animated GIFs, geometric art, pixel art or enjoy experimenting, then it’s worth its agreeable price tag.

Hexels also features a dedicated pixel mode that employs an optional grid guide, and gives you Glow and Gradient options.

Hexels is surprisingly powerful, with many useful customisable options to make workflows faster.