Texture Generation Scripts

Blue Noise Generator

generate_blue_noise.py - Generates blue noise textures for high-quality dithering effects.

Requirements

pip install numpy pillow scipy

Usage

Basic usage (generates 128x128 texture):

python generate_blue_noise.py

Custom size:

python generate_blue_noise.py --width 256 --height 256

Custom output path:

python generate_blue_noise.py --output ../my_blue_noise.png

Advanced options:

python generate_blue_noise.py --width 128 --height 128 --sigma 1.5 --method void_cluster

Parameters

--width: Texture width in pixels (default: 128)
--height: Texture height in pixels (default: 128)
--method: Generation method
- void_cluster: High-quality void-and-cluster method (default, recommended)
- annealing: Simulated annealing method (slower)
--sigma: Gaussian kernel sigma for void_cluster method (default: 1.5)
- Lower values (0.8-1.2): Tighter clustering, more high-frequency
- Higher values (2.0-3.0): Smoother distribution
--iterations: Number of iterations (optional, auto-calculated if not specified)
--output: Output file path (default: ../blue_noise.png)

What is Blue Noise?

Blue noise is a type of noise with energy concentrated in high frequencies and minimal low-frequency content. This makes it ideal for dithering because:

No visible patterns or clustering
Smooth gradients without banding
Perceptually pleasing distribution
Better than Bayer or white noise for transparency effects

Use Cases in snow_trail_sdl

Tree dissolve effect: Dither trees between camera and player for unobstructed view
Temporal effects: Screen-space dithering for transitions
Transparency: High-quality alpha dithering
LOD transitions: Smooth fade between detail levels