WaveFunctionCollapse generates bitmaps that share local patterns with an input image. It limits output to NxN pixel patterns found in the sample, and can optionally add rotated and reflected versions. Generation repeatedly chooses an unobserved region with the lowest Shannon entropy, assigns a state, then propagates the information to other regions. For tilemaps, its simple tiled model can use tiles and adjacency data instead of a sample image; a symmetry system can reduce adjacency lists for symmetrical tilesets. Constraints let the method be combined with other generative algorithms or manual creation. The README describes it as suited to game level generation and pixel art, and less suited to large full-color textures. It also describes higher-dimensional models, including voxel examples. There is an interactive browser version, and adaptations are listed for Unity, Unreal Engine 5, Godot 4, and Houdini. The software is free and supports Linux, macOS, web, and Windows, with PNG and TXT export formats. Generation may stop at a contradiction without output.
Who it is for
WaveFunctionCollapse suits people generating game levels, pixel art, tilemaps, or voxel examples from local pattern rules. Its README says it is less suited to large full-color textures.
What is good
- Free software under the MIT License.
- Can generate from sample patterns or tile adjacency data.
- Supports constraints and optional rotations and reflections.
- Adaptations are listed for Unity, Unreal Engine 5, Godot 4, and Houdini.
- Browser version and PNG and TXT exports are listed.
What to know first
- Generation can stop at a contradiction without output.
- README says it is less suited to large full-color textures.
- Bundled release source uses a Windows-only System.Drawing library.
Verdict
WaveFunctionCollapse offers pattern-based bitmap generation, with tilemap, constraint, and higher-dimensional options. Keep in mind that generation can reach a contradiction, and the release page directs Linux and macOS users to source in the repository.
Compared on game map generators
- Free plan
- Yes
- Generation method
- procedural
- Map dimension
- both
- Custom assets
- Yes
- Seed control
- Yes
- Engine export
- Unity, Unreal Engine 5, Godot 4, Houdini
- Export formats
- PNG, TXT
