Latest Version of Discreet’s Flagship 3D Software will be launched at Siggraph.
Version 5 is a highly interesting release, adding Radioisty technology to the very popular animation software.
There are many new features, in modeling, user interface, renderfarm management but it is the radiosity technology that Discreet has now combined into Max that is of perhaps most interest, especially given the lack of radiosity in the products bigg
Discreet 3ds max 5 software will be unveiled at Siggraph 2002-(San Antonio, TX-July 23-25, Booth #8062) and is scheduled for release in summer 2002.
“With 3ds max 5, Discreet answers and precipitates the continually evolving needs of the 3D industry,” said Phillip Miller, vice president of Discreet’s animation products. “3ds max 5 is tailored for traditionally trained animators and designers-and delivers a solution of continued innovation and productivity that more 3D professionals choose to rely upon than any other.”
3ds max 5 software introduces key new features such as enhanced global illumination methods for subtle, elegant and accurate lighting-critical to producing a natural look for pre-visualized or finished animations; reactor, Discreet’s embedded, integrated and interactive physics engine from HAVOK-soft and hard-body dynamics software; and new texture mapping capabilities to accurately marry image data to mesh models.
Discreet claims that Animators using 3ds max 5 software will enjoy greater control and finesse in character animation with tools such as a new Set Key system, Curve and Dope Sheet editor, and Merge Animation tools for repurposing character animation segments. 3ds max 5 will include Backburner for efficient management of free network rendering (including control over Discreet combustion, desktop 3D compositing and paint seats) and new license sharing options for networked groups of animators sharing 3ds max in a LAN environment.
Staff additions
Chris Ford joins Discreet from Alias Wavefront.
“With the 3D software market expected to reach approximately $1.2 billion by 2005, I am delighted to be able to join a company like Discreet whose current and future product plans have such a strong sense of direction and clarity of vision,” said Chris Ford, Discreet animation product line manager and former senior Maya product manager. “3ds max 5 will offer artists a wide range of outstanding tools and features that address the most challenging contemporary production requirements-and there’s more to come. Discreet customers can expect significant innovations that will enhance the creativity of all 3D artists.”
Price and Availability
Discreet’s 3ds max 5 software will sell for the suggested retail price (SRP) in North America for US $3,495. Upgrade price from 3ds max 4 to 3ds max 5 is the SRP of US $795.