What is TOON?

TOON files are project files created by Toon Boom animation software (Harmony, Storyboard Pro, Producer). They contain scene data, timeline information, layer structures, drawing elements, camera movements, and effects settings. TOON files don't contain the actual artwork - they reference external image files and organize them into animations.

Toon Boom software is used by major animation studios including Disney, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, and DreamWorks to produce professional cartoons and animated series. Shows like Rick and Morty, Bob's Burgers, and The Simpsons use Toon Boom. TOON files are the backbone of professional 2D animation production pipelines.

Did you know? Many of your favorite cartoons were created using Toon Boom software!

History

Toon Boom was founded in Montreal to provide professional digital animation tools for studios transitioning from traditional cel animation to digital workflows.

Key Milestones

  • 1994: Toon Boom Technologies founded
  • 1996: First animation software released
  • 2005: Toon Boom Studio for beginners
  • 2012: Harmony replaces Animate Pro
  • 2017: Industry Emmy Award
  • Present: Industry-standard animation tool

Key Features

Core Capabilities

  • Scene Management: Organized animation projects
  • Timeline Data: Frame-by-frame animation
  • Layer System: Complex compositing
  • Camera Moves: 2D/3D camera controls
  • Effects: Blur, glow, color correction
  • Rigging: Character bone systems

Common Use Cases

TV Animation

Animated series production

Feature Films

2D animated movies

Web Animation

Online cartoons, ads

Game Cutscenes

Animated game sequences

Advantages

  • Professional animation toolset
  • Industry-standard software
  • Powerful rigging and effects
  • Studio production pipelines
  • Both 2D and 3D capabilities
  • Frame-by-frame and cut-out animation
  • Professional output quality

Disadvantages

  • Proprietary format (Toon Boom only)
  • Expensive software licensing
  • Steep learning curve
  • Requires Toon Boom to open
  • Large project file sizes
  • Professional-grade complexity

Technical Information

Format Specifications

Specification Details
File Extension .toon, .tbp, .xstage
MIME Type application/x-toon
Format Type Animation project
Content Scene data, references
Software Toon Boom (Harmony, Studio, etc.)
Export SWF, MOV, AVI, image sequences

Common Tools

  • Software: Toon Boom Harmony, Storyboard Pro
  • Alternative: Adobe Animate (different format)
  • Export: Video formats, image sequences
  • Pipeline: Studio production workflows