Houdini Engine is an API that enables Houdini digital assets to be used directly inside of the host application. This allows artists to leverage the power of Houdini directly inside of their most comfortable working environment.
From a technical point of view, Houdini Engine is a C API designed for binary compatibility. It is able to integrate into a host application even if compiler choice or versions don’t match. For example, Houdini Engine can integrate into both managed environments, such as C# and Python as well as a native C++ applications.
Compared to the C++ HDK, Houdini Engine is a flat and small API that is easy to learn.
Tip
To get started with writing your own engine integration in C++ or Python, see the stand-alone Houdini Engine Sample application and its source code.