1) BlitzMax does not directly support 3D... yet. There is a 3D module coming out which will have support for this. OpenGL commands, however, can be used in BlitzMax for various 3D-esque features (rotation, scaling etc). That should clear up the price difference. The 3D module will probably cost a small amount extra. If you want to use 3D, get Blitz3D.

2) I have used Blitz Basic, Blitz3D and Blitz Plus. I dont have Blitz Max yet as I dont own a Macintosh. Its a very simple task to make games in Blitz, so I'd eagerly recommend it for making games. Its easy to use yet flexible and comprehensive enough to make some very stunning games. For further information on any of the Blitz languages, try asking the friendly folk at www.blitzbasic.com.

Its coming out for Windows and Linux. As yet, however, no release date has been given for it. Also, BlitzMax is a far more advanced version of the other Blitz products. It sacrifices a little ease of use for functionality. This makes it harder to code in for beginners. The module which will come out for BlitzMax does not have a release date either and the sum total of BlitzMax + 3D Module will probably total more than just buying the easier to use Blitz3D. Hence my recommendation.

But, of course, both are outstanding languages and you should be able to make simple games after only a short while of using them. Like I said, check out the forums and ask questions. There isnt much you can say which hasnt already been mentioned on the forums at least once so feel free to ask anything about the language you need.