[OT] 3d graphics software

[Frostmarrow]

Drawing upon the vast knowledge of the EN-Boarders, I'd like to know if there is a good 3d graphics program out there. What I need is a program that can turn a 2d map into a 3d version of the same map (isometric view perhaps). Assume that I draw the first map in with vector graphic, ie not CAD. Can anyone help me?

 

[rigur]

3D STUDIO MAX would be my suggestion. You can use your 2-D map as floor(pasted on a 3D object) and then add 3D objects like walls and staircases etc.

 

[Psionicist]

I second 3d Studio Max. It's coded by Discreet (http://www.discreet.com/). The lead programmer at Discreet is one of my better friend. He is very smart ÁND rich, go figure

 

[Plane Sailing]

If money is an issue, cheaper 3D software like Truespace by Caligari might be a better bet. There is some freeware and shareware 3D software but they tend to have IMO impenetrable interfaces - but you may fare better. Moray and Blender spring to mind.

Another high-end option is Lightwave (they used to have a cut-down more affordable version called Inspire, but I think that is discontinued)

It might also be worth looking at some 3D CAD programs.

(n.b. a plan drawn in a vector program can be turned into a nice isometric view with a bit of cunning co-ordinate translation)

Cheers

 

[Psionicist]

Or, if you are feeling rich, you can buy Maya for around 15000 USD

 

[Frostmarrow]

Or, if you are feeling rich, you can buy Maya for around 15000 USD

Nah. Just outside my price range I'm afraid.

 

[MaxKaladin]

If you have Campaign Cartographer 2, there is a third party addon that will render 3d scenes from your CC2 map. It's called Realm Overseer 3D.

http://www.overseer3d.com/roIndex.asp

 

[Aeolius]

I'd cast my vote for a combination of Poser (www.curiouslabs.com), which lets you pose and render images of people, props, and animals, and Bryce (www.corel.com), for creating realistic and surrealistic terrains.

 

[DMaple]

I believe 3D Studio Max comes in at the bargin price of around £3166 pounds which is probably a little more than most people want to spend on something to draw the odd map for a hobby.

 

[Anthron]

You could not have picked a better time to want something like this. Alias Wavefront (creators of the already mentioned Maya) are come out with a free personal learning edition of Maya some time this month.

You can sign up on there mailing list here:

Free Maya