Forum Discussion
Why Can’t We Rotate Objects in Edit States Mode?
Hey all,
I’m working on a project in Storyline 360 where I need to create a frame-by-frame, GIF-style rotation effect using object states. The idea is simple: duplicate an object, rotate it slightly for each new state, then trigger those states in sequence to simulate rotation.
But I ran into an infuriating roadblock—I can’t rotate objects in Edit States mode at all.
- The rotate grab handle disappears when editing a state.
- The rotation options in the Format ribbon are completely grayed out.
- Even the Size and Position window has rotation disabled.
So now, every time I want to rotate an object slightly, I have to:
- Exit states view.
- Duplicate and rotate the object on the base slide.
- Copy it.
- Go back into Edit States.
- Paste it.
- Repeat this process dozens or hundreds of times.
This is a ridiculous workaround for something that should be basic functionality.
When you create a State, while in editing mode, you can cut and paste the object back immediately in the new state. From there, you will have access to the full range of shape or object formatting options.
8 Replies
When you create a State, while in editing mode, you can cut and paste the object back immediately in the new state. From there, you will have access to the full range of shape or object formatting options.
Ahh, a strange workaround but it works! Thank you!
Yes, a strange but wonderful workaround.
FYI: You can also add animations to objects pasted into a state. (See https://community.articulate.com/discussions/discuss/tip-animate-the-change-between-character-poses-photos-or-other-objects/959208 )
Is there a reason you can't just use Animation (Spin)?
I think the idea was to have the item rotate to a certain point or degree. The spin animation is not a triggered event, so there would be some adjustments that need to be made if you wanted this to happen on a trigger. There is the emphasis animation - Rotate - which is triggered, but we have less control over that animation as it will always end up back at its starting point.
The "Spin" animation is grossly underpowered. It only allows rotations in 90° increments. If you want it to spin 10° you're totally out of luck. I turned in a feature request to expand the number of increments, or even make them user-defined, but heard nothing in reply.
It can be done using JS, but although the animation is smooth, it loses touch with reality if someone scrubs the progress bar at the bottom. We've had numerous complaints from users so have shied away from using the JS solution.
Can you turn in a feature request on this? If they hear it from enough people, perhaps they'll consider doing it.Hi RussStill!
Thanks for the feedback on the type of functionality you'd like to see in Storyline 360!
I'm not seeing a feature request case under your Articulate ID. Not to worry! I've just submitted a request to our product team on your behalf.
We'll be sure to notify you if we release a feature enhancement to the Animation - Spin tool, in Storyline!
