GeoPatternLabFlocking (Boids)
An interactive boids simulation where flocks self-organize from three simple rules.
A flock of boids self-organizes from three simple rules. Move your cursor over the canvas to herd them.
About Flocking (Boids)
Flocking (boids) recreates the emergent motion of birds and fish from Craig Reynolds' three local rules: separation, alignment and cohesion. Hundreds of agents steer only by their neighbors yet spontaneously form swirling, lifelike flocks in a wrapping world. Move your cursor to herd the flock (attract or repel), tune the perception radius, speed and the balance of the three rules, add motion trails, then play, pause, step, and export a high-resolution PNG.
How to use Flocking (Boids)
- Press Play. Start Flocking (Boids) and watch the animation evolve in real time. Use Pause and Step to inspect it frame by frame.
- Adjust the rules. Use the side panel to change the parameters — the simulation responds live, so you can steer the emerging pattern.
- Explore variations. Press Randomize for a new starting point, or copy the share link to reproduce an exact result.
- Export. Pause on a frame you like and download it as a high-resolution PNG.
Frequently asked questions
What is Flocking (Boids)?
Flocking (boids) recreates the emergent motion of birds and fish from Craig Reynolds' three local rules: separation, alignment and cohesion. Hundreds of agents steer only by their neighbors yet spontaneously form swirling, lifelike flocks in a wrapping world. Move your cursor to herd the flock (attract or repel), tune the perception radius, speed and the balance of the three rules, add motion trails, then play, pause, step, and export a high-resolution PNG. It runs entirely in your web browser on GeoPatternLab, free and with no sign-up.
Is Flocking (Boids) free to use?
Yes. Flocking (Boids) on GeoPatternLab is completely free, with no sign-up or download required. Create as much art as you like and export it directly from your browser.
How do I download my Flocking (Boids) artwork?
Use the export buttons in the toolbar to save your work as a high-resolution PNG image. Files download straight to your device.
Does Flocking (Boids) work on phones and tablets?
Yes. Flocking (Boids) is fully responsive and works with touch input on phones and tablets as well as with a mouse or trackpad on desktop.
Can I use Flocking (Boids) artwork commercially?
Yes. Artwork you create with Flocking (Boids) is yours to use for personal and commercial projects, such as wallpapers, prints, textiles, and teaching materials. See our Terms of Use for full details.
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