Mumbai: The Indian animation industry has witnessed a considerable amount of growth in the past couple of years. As the pandemic forced people to stay at home, this increased the need for new content and the animation industry stepped up and delivered some amazing content. According to a report published by FICCI, India’s animation industry has grown by 24 per cent and is expected to reach Rs 180 billion in two years’ time.

Apart from the lockdown, the positive growth pattern can be attributed to the exponential penetration of the internet which allowed people to seamlessly view content on various streaming platforms. Though this is a positive sign for the industry, the high demand for engaging and quality visual experience means animation studios have to constantly strive for fresh ideas and trends that they can showcase to their audience.

Here are the six emerging trends in the animation industry:

Use of restricted color palette: Animators in recent times have started using only a few primary colors instead of a large palette of colors. This gives the animation a simple yet elegant look which is appealing. Though it is challenging for the animator to use a restricted color palate the final outcome often shines out and makes the entire process worthwhile. The use of such a color palette is an extremely popular illustration style on digital platforms.

Simple characters: Schematic and cubical characters will be one of the 2D animation trends. Creating these characters will be easier and will be more attractive than realistic ones for kids. But for Indian viewers, we should add a dress codes related to Indian states.

Use of 3D animations: 3D animation helps to add realism to any animation. The more complex a 3D animation becomes, the more it aims for simplicity in shapes and colors. In 2022 the 3D trend is focused on round shapes with vivid contrasting colors. The end result is beautiful to look at, is creative and provides a sense of nostalgia for many as it is reminiscent of the 2D animations.  

Merging of 2D and 3D styles: Using both 2D and 3D animations is one of the most in-demand animation trends that has witnessed a comeback. Animators are using a mix of 2D and 3D styles to create hybrid types of animation videos that are well received and liked by viewers. The best example of using such kind of animation is by incorporating both styles and also inserting 2D over layers containing movements. This technique is used in both small-scale as well as large projects.

Use of virtual reality in animation: With the advent of high-speed internet, technologies like AR and VR are in high demand and have evolved into a major tool to create quality animations.  This produces more realistic animations that are loved by both children and adults. It can be used in educational programmes and the media all around the world.

Outline animation: Modern and fun

Outline animation is a style that provides innumerable possibilities. From classy animations to creating fun and goofy, outline animations is the go-to style for many animators. The biggest factor for the popularity of outline animation is that it is simple with endless possibilities. This allows for imaginations to go wild. Outline animation has become a trend as it allows animators to create a diverse range of styles.

To sum it up, 2022 is a year of incorporating new beginnings and focusing on the positive aspects of the past. The animation industry is also witnessing such trends. Some old ideas have come again and some new trends have taken center stage.  With such exciting things happening in the industry, India is not far behind the global animation industry.

(About Author: Hansa Mondal is the COO of Ssoftoons)