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| PUBLISHER: | Kinetix | DESCRIPTION: | 3D Animation |
| REVIEWED: | Version 1.2 | RATING: | 9.5/10 |
Without doubt the most powerful 3D modeling and animation tool capable of running on Windows 95 (although the application is optimized for NT) 3DS MAX offers many enhancements over its predecessor, 3D Studio R4.
MAIN FEATURES AND BENEFITS
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Distributed, multi-threaded rendering over local
LAN |
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Unparalleled modeling tools capable
of generating realistic organic forms |
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Built in Inverse Kinematics and bones for simplified,
easier character animation |
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32 bit rendering incorporating raytraced shadows,
reflections and volumetric lighting |
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Without doubt, the easiest animation system ever.
Simply push the 'animate' button and virtually ANY object attribute can be easily
changed over time |
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Incorporated Video Post module allows for video
composting, 2D special effects, and supports Adobe Photoshop filters |
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Support for real-time shaded views using MAX's
proprietary Heidi driver |
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The application's module-based design enables 3rd
party developers to create plugins which can customize virtually any area of the
application (example:various alternative renderers are available) |
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Due the the application's object oriented approach,
virtually any modification made to a mesh object can later be changed or deleted
without having to remodel or repair the object. This represents HUGE time savings
in many situations where a client will want to make a 'small' change to an object
which might normally mean starting from scratch |
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Unparalleled material editor, enabling absolute control over all surface parameters, and featuring unlimited texture layers. |
DISADVANTAGES AND DRAWBACKS
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Probably the only negative aspect of 3DS MAX is
the price. At around $AUS 5,500 (approximation only - visit Kinetix for current
pricing) this product is hardly affordable for the majority of 3D artists. |
REVIEW SUMMARY
In short, 3DS MAX is undoubtedly the 3D solution of choice for windows 95 and NT. Containing far too many great features to be listed here, apart from say, extra modeling tools (though modeling plugins are available) its an application that is very hard to fault in any area.
While the price is beyond the range of most 3D artists, for those who have the clientele and the workload to justify such an expense, the program does represent great value for money - especially when high quality, photorealistic animation is required.
Written by Nick Smith