CG/Animation MAX or MAYA?

[Bobo]

Originally posted by DVN
I need help on wich program to licens through my university I am intressted in animation and CG but don't know what program would be the best too use? I read that SQUARE uses MAYA and you can't complain about them ;) Please be hounest about the programs.. I'ts still alot of money for me


Cheers ! :beer:

Asking on all max forums will give you biased opinions.
Asking the same question on Maya etc. boards will give you other biased opinions.

3D software is usually a personal choice nobody can make for you. I would suggest taking time to do some research yourself:

Maya 4 Personal Learning Edition is available for free download. Go to A|W page and get it. Or order a CD.

Max 5 has a 30 days (I think) time-limited demo with full functionality. You have to order a CD from http://www.discreet.com
Also, you can try out gMax which is a Lite version of max 4 - at least to get an idea if you like the interface and the general workflow (it cannot render though).

Softimage XSI has a demo of 2.0
Be sure to take a look at it as it is the youngest and probably most future-oriented professional 3D software.

Lightwave 3D also has a demo CD. Some people love it. Some people hate it. Find out which type of user you are...

While not for beginners, SideFX Houdini also has a demo and learning edition now.

All these programs have educational licenses which are *much* cheaper than the full version.


Once you get these, play a bit with them and decide. Don't try to learn how to use them, just see which one is the most iintuitive for your way of thinking - the one you manage to do most without ANY knowledge might be the one you want to learn in-depth...

Get your feet wet in these packages. Then you will be able to make your own mistakes ;)

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