3d Modeling

This section will probably be the longest, for two reasons. One, 3d modeling software is what most people ask for, and I have the most knowledge of this area.

3d modeling usually consist of the following stages:

1. Creating a model
2. Skinning the model
3. Exporting the model to the format you want to use

There are many, many options for this. I will outline the ones I personally use. For more options, a good link site is POVRay Modeling Links

• Modeling
  • sPatch -A bezier patch based modeler. Good for quick models of things.
  • Anim8or - a 3D computer animation program that is designed to allow straightforward creation of animations.
  • Milkshape 3D - Originally designed for making HL and Quake models, it has a SDK that allows users to write plugins for any need.
  • Amapi - An older version of their 3d modeler has been released as freeware, thanks to InsideCG Magazine.
  • Blender - Strange interface, but a very powerful piece of software.
• Skinning
  • LithUnWrap - A tool for mapping and editing the UV coordinates of of low poly models. Unwraps a 3D model and export the mapping to a bitmap texture which can then be painted using a 2D graphics program.
• Conversion
  • Unfortunately, there aren't any free 3d format converters left out there, that I am aware of. The ones I can recommend as being decent are:
    • 3d Exploration - Excellent functionality. It will import, export, render, and add materials to a lot of 3d files. However, it has become rather pricey. I wouldn't include it, but there are so few options now... (hint to all you coders out there ;) )
    • 3d Win - A cheaper option. Doesn't have all the functionality of 3d Exploration, but only runs around 30 Euro

Music