Mark MastersHey Graeme,That’s a really interesting point, and like you said everyone gravitates toward their personal preference. For example, there are people who swear by Blender’s workflow and interface and others who can’t stand it.
Maya LT is very stripped down but they are adding more features to it so it’s starting to get more robust, but yes it is really focused on asset creation and animation.If you prefer working in MODO then go for that application, it’s definitely powerful and has some great modeling tools and the sticker price isn’t that bad. There’s no real “right or wrong” choice, it comes down to what you personally prefer.Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
I’m in the process of selecting a package for a small indy studio a friend and I are about to start. I’ve been a long term Max user (10+ years) and I think it’s great, but I’m about to jump ship. Firstly the price. Living in New Zealand Autodesk seem to think it’s acceptable to add a 20-30% mark up to an already expensive package. I really don’t like being ripped off. Secondly I’m not convinced Autodesk is committed to the long term support of Max, despite assurances to the contrary (they made similar statements about Softimage). If we are going to develop a production pipeline I need to be comfortable my investment will still be relevant in a few years. And yes it needs to be reworked from the ground up but I doubt Autodesk will commit the resources to that and will instead take it out the back of the shed and quietly put it out of its misery.
Maya LT, well that just sucks. Stripped down so much I can’t even render out anything (we’re not just concerned about asset development). That and Autodesk’s markup to reward me for not living in the US. Not overly thrilled with its workflow either.
Blender must have the worst workflow and interface ever devised. If I was new to 3D I may think otherwise but I’m old and set in my ways. I’m sure in time it would be great and the price (or lack of) is enticing but for a quick get up and go this just isn’t it.
I seem to be veering towards Modo. The price is not outrageous and as I have read elsewhere the interface just clicks. Up and running very quickly after grabbing a trial version and I’m finding it just a pleasure to use. I’m sure as time progresses there will be things I don’t like but it for me it covers all the bases.
However everyone is different and what is a workflow/interface consideration for me may be the complete opposite for someone else. The big considerations at the moment is price (Autodesk need to think about the the fact software is downloaded not hand delivered via cruise ship) and the other assets/investments/training etc that go along with selecting a software application.