Where Can I Get A 3D Modeling Program?
by Joseph · in Artist Corner · 12/30/2000 (11:29 pm) · 34 replies
If someone can tell me where I can get a 3d modeling program, it will help me alot. Thanks -Joseph
#3
02/19/2001 (8:32 pm)
are these programs by any chance mac compatible? and how much programming, if any, is required? I am very interested as i would like to do 3d animation/modeling as well. any answers would be greatly appreciated, thanks.
#4
Question: could I use Anim8or to create player models for the V12 engine? What about Blend?
Also, I know from the Tribes engine that making models and making motions can be two different things entirely. So, about that: will I be able to create animations for V12 engine player models using Blend or Anim8or?
I will post this to the main forum as well . . . because, dammit, I'm gonna start modelling for my project right now. Then engine can change, but as long as I stick to compatible file types, a detailed 3D model will be useable 3 years from now.
But, obviously, I'll need answers first :)
03/13/2001 (8:54 pm)
Anim8or professes to be able to save and export into the .3ds file type. It can also do simple animation.Question: could I use Anim8or to create player models for the V12 engine? What about Blend?
Also, I know from the Tribes engine that making models and making motions can be two different things entirely. So, about that: will I be able to create animations for V12 engine player models using Blend or Anim8or?
I will post this to the main forum as well . . . because, dammit, I'm gonna start modelling for my project right now. Then engine can change, but as long as I stick to compatible file types, a detailed 3D model will be useable 3 years from now.
But, obviously, I'll need answers first :)
#5
There is tons to it, just like programming, and then you need talent as well....
Milkshape doesn't have enough advanced tools in my opinion, I don't know about the others really...
If you are good enough, you could go from Milkshape to something like 3ds max in 3 months, I've seen it done before.
Of course then you have to learn max...
Some people are lucky.
04/25/2001 (1:39 am)
If you are just starting out in modeling, be prepared...There is tons to it, just like programming, and then you need talent as well....
Milkshape doesn't have enough advanced tools in my opinion, I don't know about the others really...
If you are good enough, you could go from Milkshape to something like 3ds max in 3 months, I've seen it done before.
Of course then you have to learn max...
Some people are lucky.
#6
Milkshape I personally like, its a simple modeling program without all the hoopla of most modeling programs, makes it easy for creating low poly models (which it was built for) for gamming systems.
3DMax is nice, But like said before, it will probably take you awhile to get to know just the basics of the program, considering how many different functions it has, and what you have to go threw to get half of them to work for ya.
But anyhow, anyone know which model format is going to be supported by the V12 engine? It would be nice if it was something simple like the halflife model format ;) but i know its probably not.
05/09/2001 (7:58 am)
hmm, ok sorry to sound stupid here, but what format is the V12 engine going to support for modeling/animations Some of the programs listed can only export the model, no bones or animations, while other formats can be exported with bone, and some with bones and animations from the apps listed.Milkshape I personally like, its a simple modeling program without all the hoopla of most modeling programs, makes it easy for creating low poly models (which it was built for) for gamming systems.
3DMax is nice, But like said before, it will probably take you awhile to get to know just the basics of the program, considering how many different functions it has, and what you have to go threw to get half of them to work for ya.
But anyhow, anyone know which model format is going to be supported by the V12 engine? It would be nice if it was something simple like the halflife model format ;) but i know its probably not.
#8
I downloaded Blender and Milkshape3D. I am in the process of downloading Anim8tor as I type, I decided to do that when I found out that Milkshape wern't free. I know it hardly costs anything, but I'm just taking a look.
Man, I never realised how simple I find programming until I tried 3D modeling, it's really hard to get started on. After playing with MS3D and Blender for a while, I've found blender much easier to use, I picked it up much before MS3D, and I have been able to create much more detailed models faster, maybe it's just me. The only problem I have with blender, is that I can't see any way of saving individual models. There probably is a way, but I've only used it thrice and it's got a whole load of buttons :)
Anyway, I'll have a go with anim8tor in the moring. I'm sure milkshape is good, but it's taking me some time to get to grips with, unlike blender, I found it's interface to be really intuitive.
05/09/2001 (5:20 pm)
Well, I'm a programmer, and I decided just 2 days ago that I wanted to see what this modeling lark was all about.I downloaded Blender and Milkshape3D. I am in the process of downloading Anim8tor as I type, I decided to do that when I found out that Milkshape wern't free. I know it hardly costs anything, but I'm just taking a look.
Man, I never realised how simple I find programming until I tried 3D modeling, it's really hard to get started on. After playing with MS3D and Blender for a while, I've found blender much easier to use, I picked it up much before MS3D, and I have been able to create much more detailed models faster, maybe it's just me. The only problem I have with blender, is that I can't see any way of saving individual models. There probably is a way, but I've only used it thrice and it's got a whole load of buttons :)
Anyway, I'll have a go with anim8tor in the moring. I'm sure milkshape is good, but it's taking me some time to get to grips with, unlike blender, I found it's interface to be really intuitive.
#9
yes, I did, apparently it was something I overlooked. Thank you for the starcasmistic responce, i'll go look it over again.
05/09/2001 (6:11 pm)
Quote:Does anybody read the FAQ/Features?
yes, I did, apparently it was something I overlooked. Thank you for the starcasmistic responce, i'll go look it over again.
#10
I read it to be "what modeling software can you use?"
Answer: MAX 3.x from the FAQ
But now that I reread it I guess you mean "what is the format of the exported model?"
Answer: Don't know and sorry :)
05/09/2001 (6:20 pm)
Maybe I was a little hasty with that post, if I misunderstood what you were asking, I take it back.I read it to be "what modeling software can you use?"
Answer: MAX 3.x from the FAQ
But now that I reread it I guess you mean "what is the format of the exported model?"
Answer: Don't know and sorry :)
#11
The only "real" 3D program for game design is 3D Studio MAX X.X
It has all the tools you need, BUT this is a $2500-$3000 program, the only way to get it, is illegal, unless your father is rich. But if you can get it "that way" it is the best program... No doubt.
But dont expect to learn this program over night, it has a LOT of features. Then again... If you are up for it... Then go for it!
Good luck!
07/17/2001 (6:03 pm)
Honestly...The only "real" 3D program for game design is 3D Studio MAX X.X
It has all the tools you need, BUT this is a $2500-$3000 program, the only way to get it, is illegal, unless your father is rich. But if you can get it "that way" it is the best program... No doubt.
But dont expect to learn this program over night, it has a LOT of features. Then again... If you are up for it... Then go for it!
Good luck!
#12
Second, you can order a 15 day trail version of Max R4 from Discreet. This is a full version of the software and will definately let you know whether or not its worth getting.
Third, if you want to learn Max (or any other 3D program) I suggest you take a few classes on it from a certified instructor.
Fourth, do not expect to learn everything in three months. It will take a long time (years in fact) to learn the software and to become advanced enough in it to become useful in the industry. My personal recommendation is also not to focus not only on the Real Time 3D aspect of modeling, but learn everything that you can about the software and 3D. The more you know the more of an asset that you are, and the wider variety of jobs that you can get with your 3D skills.
If you really like the software and want to do more 3D then buy the software/tools that you will need.
Yes this does cost money but you are investing in your future, so the blood, sweat and tears that goes into buying the software is just that much more motivation to become really good at it. If you need the software badly, borrow the money from family or the bank.
Sure this is quite the investment (probably one of the largest that most of you have probably ever made in your lives) but if you are any good at the software you can make that money back easily by doing freelance work.
Logan
07/17/2001 (9:20 pm)
First and foremost if you are a hobbist modeler or 3d user then stick with the free 3D programs mentioned previously. They are a great way for you to find out if learning 3D is worth your investment.Second, you can order a 15 day trail version of Max R4 from Discreet. This is a full version of the software and will definately let you know whether or not its worth getting.
Third, if you want to learn Max (or any other 3D program) I suggest you take a few classes on it from a certified instructor.
Fourth, do not expect to learn everything in three months. It will take a long time (years in fact) to learn the software and to become advanced enough in it to become useful in the industry. My personal recommendation is also not to focus not only on the Real Time 3D aspect of modeling, but learn everything that you can about the software and 3D. The more you know the more of an asset that you are, and the wider variety of jobs that you can get with your 3D skills.
If you really like the software and want to do more 3D then buy the software/tools that you will need.
Yes this does cost money but you are investing in your future, so the blood, sweat and tears that goes into buying the software is just that much more motivation to become really good at it. If you need the software badly, borrow the money from family or the bank.
Sure this is quite the investment (probably one of the largest that most of you have probably ever made in your lives) but if you are any good at the software you can make that money back easily by doing freelance work.
Logan
#13
But be warned!
the frustration you will experience sitting on a blank grid for days at a time trying to chug through a 3ds guide book is nothing short of life altering.
Most startups in this day and age may not have the money for either the software, nor the training The'll need to be effective.
what I personaly want is a good 3d editing program for around $200 thats aimed at my needs as cheapskate game developer/dreamer/hobbyist :p
something for making quake quality game models, animation, levels, simple movies, and able to export to popular formats.
Something intuitive enough that it wont take me a year in school to learn how to use it.
If anyone knows where I can get that in a box, Im waiting with my blank $200 check signed and ready to go.
07/31/2001 (7:07 pm)
well, 3d max may be the more popular of the bunch, and definatly the most powerful in that price range (far as I know)But be warned!
the frustration you will experience sitting on a blank grid for days at a time trying to chug through a 3ds guide book is nothing short of life altering.
Most startups in this day and age may not have the money for either the software, nor the training The'll need to be effective.
what I personaly want is a good 3d editing program for around $200 thats aimed at my needs as cheapskate game developer/dreamer/hobbyist :p
something for making quake quality game models, animation, levels, simple movies, and able to export to popular formats.
Something intuitive enough that it wont take me a year in school to learn how to use it.
If anyone knows where I can get that in a box, Im waiting with my blank $200 check signed and ready to go.
#14
As for your Max comment, yes it can be fairly overwhelming for the neophyte user, but that's where the tutorials that come with the software, knowledge of the software and work techniques, and being taught the program by a knowledgable person really help (I was trained by a Discreet Instructor, so to me your comments about the software seem fairly odd).
Logan
07/31/2001 (9:35 pm)
I guess you could try Hash Animation master (I think its 800 USD) if you want a decent modeling and animation software, some people swear by this software (though I have never touched it). It is obviously not as robust as some of the more expensive packages (and it is not geared towards game developers), but its not the software that makes the art, its the talent thats driving the software :)As for your Max comment, yes it can be fairly overwhelming for the neophyte user, but that's where the tutorials that come with the software, knowledge of the software and work techniques, and being taught the program by a knowledgable person really help (I was trained by a Discreet Instructor, so to me your comments about the software seem fairly odd).
Logan
#15
OpenFX - http://openfx.org (think thats the link)
Its free and is gaining support.
08/01/2001 (8:35 am)
I would like to point out another option for 3D work.OpenFX - http://openfx.org (think thats the link)
Its free and is gaining support.
#17
08/01/2001 (1:51 pm)
Yeah and you know if you use a warez version in a commercial project you're going to have a major lawsuit on your hands. If you feel like living in a card board box then go for it, but I'd avoid warez.
#18
08/01/2001 (3:14 pm)
I've seen code blatantly stolen from the corporation, and used in a .com startup. Shit happens. Liability is a threat, but can you justify the ROI on R&D? If you, as an Indie, actually produce a deliverable, then you can still get yourself legal. Granted, this is amoral as hell, but so is the fact that an s-corp has the status of Person in the legal system.
#19
3DSMAX is probably one of the most unnecessarily complicated 3D programs out there - and while it's popular in the gaming world, there are MUCH better programs out there.
Maya, which you can actually get CHEAPER per seat than MAX for game development if you do a little research into their licensing, is by far the best app out there for game models and animation. It's flexibility is unparalelled by any existing 3D application in any field.
SoftImage, once you get used to the interface, is almost as powerful as Maya (though the included renderer is much more robust). XSI still lacks in the polygon tools department, but 3.9, whichi looks like (but isn't) a DOS app has great polygon tools, plus the best LOD optimization I've ever seen (it features a slider that lets you adjust mesh detail and preview it in real-time). The models and animation in many N64 games were created using this app.
This is where I get shot - trueSpace, despite its lack of stability on some PC configurations, is much easier to model in than MAX. The animation tools totally suck, but for static models, it's great. What I usually do is model in trueSpace than use Character Studio in MAX to animate the models, though I'm thinking about picking up Maya to handle the whole shebang in one app.
Lightwave - Same as SoftImage. Once you get past the interface, it has the outstanding polygonal modeling tools, one of the best sets out there. Serious Sam models and animations were created using LW. A few other game companies use LW as well, but none are springing to mind as I type this.
MilkShape, which has an interface similar to MAX, can't be beat for the ultra-low price of $20. It modeling tools, like the interface, is similar to MAX, but you can't really complain about that considering the support and price. Its UV mapping tool is amazing, I've never used a program that allowed me to get maps so perfectly aligned without the use of a third-party plugin.
In the end, it's all about what best suits your style and allows you to get from start to finish the fastest. I hate MAX, as do many people I know who are working as artists in the game industry, but it is the current standard, so us artists are kind of screwed there. What we need to do is convince the higher-ups to buy apps based on workflow and usability as opposed to reputation...
But good luck doing that.
I also have to disagree with L Foster on having to take classes; I learned most everything I know about 3D modeling and animation on my own, and I'm glad I did. Rather than having to emulate someone else's style of workflow, it allows you to develop your own and find your own shortcuts. I firmly believe the best people in this industry ARE self-taught. What I WOULD recommend is taking classes in anatomy and 2D design, because if you don't have that basic knowledge, you're not going to be creating models that are as high-quality as would if you had some basic design knowledge.
Regards,
- Nick Robalik
www.digital-soapbox.com
08/01/2001 (3:38 pm)
3DSMAX is probably one of the most unnecessarily complicated 3D programs out there - and while it's popular in the gaming world, there are MUCH better programs out there.
Maya, which you can actually get CHEAPER per seat than MAX for game development if you do a little research into their licensing, is by far the best app out there for game models and animation. It's flexibility is unparalelled by any existing 3D application in any field.
SoftImage, once you get used to the interface, is almost as powerful as Maya (though the included renderer is much more robust). XSI still lacks in the polygon tools department, but 3.9, whichi looks like (but isn't) a DOS app has great polygon tools, plus the best LOD optimization I've ever seen (it features a slider that lets you adjust mesh detail and preview it in real-time). The models and animation in many N64 games were created using this app.
This is where I get shot - trueSpace, despite its lack of stability on some PC configurations, is much easier to model in than MAX. The animation tools totally suck, but for static models, it's great. What I usually do is model in trueSpace than use Character Studio in MAX to animate the models, though I'm thinking about picking up Maya to handle the whole shebang in one app.
Lightwave - Same as SoftImage. Once you get past the interface, it has the outstanding polygonal modeling tools, one of the best sets out there. Serious Sam models and animations were created using LW. A few other game companies use LW as well, but none are springing to mind as I type this.
MilkShape, which has an interface similar to MAX, can't be beat for the ultra-low price of $20. It modeling tools, like the interface, is similar to MAX, but you can't really complain about that considering the support and price. Its UV mapping tool is amazing, I've never used a program that allowed me to get maps so perfectly aligned without the use of a third-party plugin.
In the end, it's all about what best suits your style and allows you to get from start to finish the fastest. I hate MAX, as do many people I know who are working as artists in the game industry, but it is the current standard, so us artists are kind of screwed there. What we need to do is convince the higher-ups to buy apps based on workflow and usability as opposed to reputation...
But good luck doing that.
I also have to disagree with L Foster on having to take classes; I learned most everything I know about 3D modeling and animation on my own, and I'm glad I did. Rather than having to emulate someone else's style of workflow, it allows you to develop your own and find your own shortcuts. I firmly believe the best people in this industry ARE self-taught. What I WOULD recommend is taking classes in anatomy and 2D design, because if you don't have that basic knowledge, you're not going to be creating models that are as high-quality as would if you had some basic design knowledge.
Regards,
- Nick Robalik
www.digital-soapbox.com
#20
Maya is overrated for games and the only reason why it is even being pushed for games is because Alias|Wavefront cannot make a profit catering this overpriced nurbs modeler and character animation softwre to Hollywood FX studios. Maya has been catered solely for movies and thus its games development tools are lacking, especially for the huge investment price that you pay for it.
Max on the other hand is the accepted program for games model creation, it has been happily used for many years because it does the job right. Max has a ton of tools catered around game development, tools that make the workflow for developing games in Max very quick and robust.
Anything that you can do in Maya (in terms of games development) you can do in Max quicker, easier, and without feeling as though you were taken to the cleaners.
I could post a comment about the schooling but there is another thread started on another part of the message board about this debate. Personally I feel that if you don't really (and I mean really) know the software and have a lot of experiance with it already, go get some schooling, its well worth the investment.
Logan
08/02/2001 (7:43 am)
Well since we're ranting...Maya is overrated for games and the only reason why it is even being pushed for games is because Alias|Wavefront cannot make a profit catering this overpriced nurbs modeler and character animation softwre to Hollywood FX studios. Maya has been catered solely for movies and thus its games development tools are lacking, especially for the huge investment price that you pay for it.
Max on the other hand is the accepted program for games model creation, it has been happily used for many years because it does the job right. Max has a ton of tools catered around game development, tools that make the workflow for developing games in Max very quick and robust.
Anything that you can do in Maya (in terms of games development) you can do in Max quicker, easier, and without feeling as though you were taken to the cleaners.
I could post a comment about the schooling but there is another thread started on another part of the message board about this debate. Personally I feel that if you don't really (and I mean really) know the software and have a lot of experiance with it already, go get some schooling, its well worth the investment.
Logan
Torque 3D Owner Pat Wilson
Anim8or is a free 3d modeling program that is pretty decent.
There's also Milkshape 3D:
www.swissquake.ch/chumbalum-soft/
Which can be used to create models to use for Quake(2/3), Half-Life, Unreal Tourny, and you can write plugins to export to whatever format you want. It's not free, but it's shareware. If you feel the urge to register it, it's $20, which is, quite frankly, trivial in light of it's capabilities. There's a good tutorial about how to load models created by Milkshape here:
garagegames.clipper.net/index.php?sec=mg&mod=resource&page=view&qid=333
Hope that helps.