ManuelBastioniLAB (MB-Lab)

Open Source

Professional open-source parametric 3D humanoid modeling for Blender

Capabilities: Procedural human generation Auto-rigging for animation Facial expression mapping Skin shader customization Crowd simulation base creation

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9.5

Protocol Reliability Score

Overview

ManuelBastioniLAB, now primarily maintained by the community as MB-Lab, is a sophisticated open-source framework for the procedural generation of 3D humanoids within Blender. Technically, it functions as a parametric engine that utilizes anthropometric data and advanced topology to create high-fidelity characters with ready-to-use rigging and skin shaders. Unlike cloud-based character generators, MB-Lab operates entirely locally, ensuring data privacy and deep integration with the Blender pipeline. Its architecture features a unique 'proxy' system for clothing, a comprehensive facial shape-key library for lip-syncing, and an inverse kinematics (IK) system that complies with industry standards. As of 2026, it remains a critical asset for indie developers and VFX artists seeking a cost-effective, high-control alternative to proprietary solutions like Reallusion Character Creator or MetaHuman. It provides an extensive range of phenotypes including realistic human ethnicities, anime-style models, and fantasy creatures, all governed by the AGPL license which allows for broad commercial use of the exported models while maintaining the openness of the tool's core logic.