EVE Frontier's CORTAO rendering tech goes open source
Fenris Creations has released CORTAO as open source software, a graphics technology developed and tested in EVE Frontier that enhances visual realism in game environments.
Technology proven in EVE's universe
According to MMORPG.com, Fenris Creations made its rendering technique called CORTAO publicly available in November 2026. This graphics approach was first implemented in EVE Frontier, the new project set in the EVE Online universe, before being offered to the broader development community.
The method uses an ambient occlusion system built on ray-tracing with circular occluders to calculate indirect lighting. This technology aims to produce more realistic shadows and shaded areas in 3D scenes.
Code available to all
Designed specifically for Fenris' Carbon engine, the technology is now available as open source. Developers can integrate it into their own projects, study it, or modify it according to their needs.
This move reflects the studio's commitment to technical knowledge sharing, allowing other game creators to benefit from graphics optimizations proven in a space MMO context. For EVE Frontier players, this demonstrates the studio's technical investment in the visual quality of their gaming experience.