This effect was simulated in Unreal Engine using Niagara, with smoke flipbooks created in Houdini. To achieve the motion and shapes that I wanted, I created various custom Niagara Module Script assets to control the shape of the source, apply velocity, and control color.

To support a chaotic and natural look, I focused on layering forces of different sizes, varying lifespan, and having rare outlier particles that last longer or fly faster. I was inspired by various principles of animation and design and focused on defining a beginning, middle, and end to the effect.