Autodesk\u2019s new Autodesk Softimage Mod Tool 7.5 software (formerly SOFTIMAGE?XSI Mod Tool) is now available. This 3D modelling and animation package for aspiring game artists is based on the same professional toolset as Autodesk Softimage (formerly SOFTIMAGE?XSI). Game studios have used Softimage software to create hit titles such as \u201cMetal Gear Solid 4\u201d and \u201cFable II.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cSoftimage Mod Tool gives the next generation of game artists access to professional tools, so they can learn while making their own games or game mods,\u201d said Marc Stevens, Autodesk Media & Entertainment vice president, games. \u201cGame developers can also use the software to extend the life of a game by building a community of modders. Game mods can go on to become commercial games in their own right, and they can be used by developers to identify talent for recruiting purposes.\u201d<\/p>\n
New Features in Autodesk Softimage Mod Tool 7.5
\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 New learning materials: Softimage Mod Tool 7.5 comes with training materials from Noesis Interactive. These materials show users how to create a character and export it for use in Microsoft XNA Games Studio 3.0.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 New real-time shading API (application programming interface): Softimage Mod Tool 7.5 supports the Realtime Shader API version 3.0, which helps make real-time shader development simpler and more flexible. The new version offers an architecture focused on programmable shaders (GLSL, HLSL) and file-based effects (CgFX and DxFX). With these capabilities, what game developers see in Softimage Mod Tool is what they get in the game.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Interactive Creative Environment (ICE): ICE is an open, scalable platform that enables artists to extend the capabilities of Softimage more quickly and intuitively using a node-based dataflow diagram. Artists can now quickly create complex 3D effects and tools without writing code.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Support for Windows Vista operating system: Autodesk Softimage Mod Tool 7.5 now supports the Windows Vista Business operating system.
\nCreate Compelling 3D Content for Microsoft XNA and Major Game Engines
\nSoftimage Mod Tool 7.5 can export 3D models and animation for use with the Microsoft XNA Game Studio 3 framework. Fledgling or independent game developers now have access to a professional toolset for creating original games on the Microsoft Xbox console or Windows platform.<\/p>\n
Users can also download add-ons for content export to Crytek CryENGINE 2, Epic Unreal Engine 3 and Valve Source game engines. With this professional 3D toolset modders can produce characters and props for their favorite game.<\/p>\n
Commercial Version for Microsoft Xbox Live Community Games Available
\nAutodesk Softimage Mod Tool Pro 7.5 software is functionally identical to the Mod Tool, but has an End User License Agreement that allows users to produce assets for games sold via Microsoft\u2019s Xbox Live Community Games. Autodesk Softimage Mod Tool Pro 7.5 is available only with Microsoft\u2019s XNA Creator\u2019s Club Premium membership. For more information visit http:\/\/creators.xna.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n