What is Hydra?
Hydra is a video synthesizer you play with code. You open the editor in your browser, type a short line such as osc().out(), and colourful moving patterns appear behind the text. Change a number or add another function and the visuals change right away.
It was created by Olivia Jack and is free and open source, made for beginners and experts alike. The idea comes from analog modular synths, where you patch effects together, so you chain sources, colours, blends and modulations to build a look. You can mix in your webcam, a screen share or videos, make visuals that react to sound, load random example sketches, and share your sketch with a link or upload it to the gallery.
Main Features
- Live code moving visuals in the browser
- Chain sources, colours, blends and modulations
- Use your webcam, screen share or videos as inputs
- Audio-reactive visuals and MIDI control
- Load random example sketches to learn from
- Share sketches as a link or in the gallery
- Works on laptops and mobile devices
- Free and open source
How to Get Started with Hydra
- Open hydra.ojack.xyz and close the welcome window.
- Press the clear all button to start fresh.
- Type osc().out() and press Ctrl, Shift and Enter to run it.
- Add functions like .rotate() or .kaleid() and change the numbers.
- Use the random sketch button to explore what others have made.
Hydra Pricing
Hydra is free and open source, with no paid plan. You can donate to support its development if you like it.
Who Should Use It?
- Artists who want to make generative visuals
- VJs making live visuals for music and shows
- Beginners curious about creative coding
- Teachers showing code in a fun, visual way
- Anyone who enjoys playing with colour and motion
Hydra Alternatives
- Silk is a free toy for drawing glowing, mirrored generative art.
- CodePen is an online code editor for building and sharing creative web sketches.
- Jackson Pollock by Miltos Manetas lets you splash paint across the screen with your mouse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hydra free?
Yes. Hydra is free and open source, with no paid plan. Donations are welcome but optional.
Do I need coding experience?
No. The getting started guide assumes no coding or video experience, and you can learn by changing numbers in example sketches.
Who made Hydra?
Hydra was created by Olivia Jack and is supported by a community of contributors.
Can I use my webcam in Hydra?
Yes. You can use your webcam, a screen share or videos as sources and add effects to them.
How do I share what I made?
Your sketch can be saved as a link, or uploaded to the Hydra gallery, which gives it a shorter URL.