What it does
ArcGIS CityEngine creates procedural urban models from fictional layouts or geographic information system (GIS) data. Its CGA rule files turn shapes into building geometry, with editable parameters and exports. Access requires a licensed ArcGIS organisation account.
Create or import building lots, assign a .cga rule file and choose a start rule that exists in that file. Generate the selected models, then vary the exposed attributes or random seed to produce alternatives. A missing start rule prevents generation. Street-layout edits can also rebuild the dependent blocks and buildings.
For an OBJ handoff, select shapes and choose File > Export Models, select Wavefront OBJ, set the output location and base name, then finish. CityEngine writes the mesh, textures and an export log. It can export a large scene without first generating every model in the viewport.
Format choice changes what survives. OBJ transfers simple colours or single texture layers and has no instancing. glTF and Datasmith support richer materials and instances. Export settings also control terrain, mesh grouping, normals and UVs; the available controls vary with the format.
New CityEngine access comes through ArcGIS Professional or Professional Plus user types. The named user signs in to an ArcGIS Online or ArcGIS Enterprise organisation; ArcGIS Online user types use annual licences and cannot be shared between people. Existing perpetual customers have separate migration arrangements.
The current desktop release supports specified Windows and Linux systems on x86-64 hardware. It needs at least 16 GB RAM, with 32 GB or more recommended.
Strengths
- Rules and per-building attributes allow related design alternatives.
- The exporter can handle a scene without displaying every generated building first.
- Format-specific controls cover geometry, terrain, materials and textures.
Watch out for
- Current named-user access requires a licensed ArcGIS organisation account.
- OBJ cannot preserve instances or richer material layers.
- The current supported platform list is Windows and Linux on x86-64.
Best for
- Rule-based urban development alternatives
- City-scale geometry passed into GIS or visualisation applications
Sources
- Procedural City Generator | ArcGIS CityEngine (Oct 28, 2026)
- Introduction to CityEngine | ArcGIS Documentation (Oct 28, 2026)
- Exporting | ArcGIS CityEngine Documentation (Oct 28, 2026)
- Export a Model | ArcGIS CityEngine Documentation (Oct 28, 2026)
- Authorizing Your Software | ArcGIS CityEngine Documentation (Oct 28, 2026)
- ArcGIS Online Pricing & Licensing Options (Oct 28, 2026)
- CityEngine 2026.0 System Requirements (Oct 28, 2026)
- ArcGIS CityEngine | Product Sales Update (Oct 28, 2026)