Quote: "Here's a different twist on this topic - has anyone ever considered the fact that 3D modelling programs are just not well designed? They might have evolved over the years to include an amazing array of features, but the way they fundamentally work is still stuck back in a design paradigm that came from the mid 80's and has barely evolved since. I don't believe that there is a single 3D modelling package out there that is genuinely "easy to use" when it comes to creating something more complex than a shiny sphere or crate. I guess most of the reason is that creating 3D on what is essentially a 2D platform (a monitor) just isn't "easy"."
Have to disagree on the well designed bit. Ease of use can only really come from simplification. Simplification is fine for people learning getting there grips on 3d, But I need flexability and power. aside from the very rare bug or crash I encounter, 3dsmax is the perfect modelling app for me.
True flexability really can't be simplified. I need to be able to manually define any shape I want without any input or guidance from the application. Most people who don't paint, model, sketch, sculpt... regularly don't realize that they really don't know what anything looks like. We all use symbols to represent objects in our head and those symbols are very abstract. Because of this real modelling really can't be parametric and the app can't do the work for you.
Quote: "I actually agree with Rich that most modelling packages havnt changed, I actually first started 3D modelling on the Amiga with imagine, And it really isnt that much different, just a few more buttons and a different layout.
I also believe that people should just have a go at modelling, It really isnt that hard, After just a few basic tutorials any one could make any of those models above, You shouldn`t be put off by what looks like a complicated interface, Half the buttons on Max I don`t think Ive ever used. You can even get a copy of GMax for nothing now.
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There isn't anything even remotely impressive about the geometry of those models. Nor should there be, they are simple forms in real life. What sets them apart are the textures.