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A 3D computer graphics program mostly meant for 3D animation, but also used for modeling, simulation, and rendering

A 3D computer graphics program mostly meant for 3D animation, but also used for modeling, simulation, and rendering

Vote: (384 votes)

Program license: Trial version

Developer: Autodesk Inc.

Version: 2022

Works under: Windows

Also available for Mac

Vote:

Program license

(384 votes)

Trial version

Developer

Version

Autodesk Inc.

2022

Works under:

Also available for

Windows

Mac

Pros

  • Industry standard 3-D software application
  • Comprehensive modelling tools
  • Intuitive interface despite the countless tools
  • Animation timeline
  • Dedicated scripting language support

Cons

  • Steep learning curve
  • Requires a powerful computer
  • Lengthy startup time
  • Expensive for a single user

A complex graphical application used by design professionals to model, render, and animate 3-D objects in a super-realistic way.

Whether it's the abundance of modeling tools or the surplus of physically realistic effects, no one can deny Maya its high ranking among the few prestigious graphics packages designed to bring 3-D objects to life. The immense tool-set squeezes literally hundreds of powerful graphical functions into a single attractive interface. In fact, many 3-D designers opt to plug in a second monitor to use the complex sets of menus and windows, each designed to create objects, effects, and scenery for use in everything from the latest Hollywood blockbuster to a dynamic new game bound for the latest super-console. Students train for several years at leading colleges just to grasp the fundamental operating environment used in transitioning from a blank screen to a piece of dimensional art ready to be seamlessly composited within a movie scene.

The professional slant to this software package makes it a challenge to learn, but the user-friendly interface does its utmost to smooth that experience. Context aware menus open at the click of a right mouse button, and improved workflow options are offered by replacing a standard mouse with a tablet and stylus, a perfect setup for artists. Plugins capable of improving rendering performance are available, though their purchase is likely out of the reach of most buyers, but we could use the same argument for Maya itself. Plenty of memory and a powerhouse computer will be required to get the best performance from the application, which means the 64-bit version of the program should be considered to make the software fly at a productive speed. Add lots of memory and a large hard drive before even considering a project in Maya.

Maya has won many industry awards and garnered countless testimonials due to its accessibility and focus on art. While anyone could potentially master the software, a college education and a talent for art is the ideal combination, one that will see the user potentially find employment anywhere in the world as a Maya professional.

Look for the latest version of the 3-D graphics package as it tends to update once a year with a list of new features demanded by users. The current version includes superb animation and rigging facilities for creating machinery, objects, scenery, and creatures. Dynamics modules, a choice of Python or MEL embedded scripted language support, effects windows, particle systems, and a choice between polygonal or NURB-based modelling tools, makes this a solid contender for top 3-D modelling and animation package on the market.

Pros

  • Industry standard 3-D software application
  • Comprehensive modelling tools
  • Intuitive interface despite the countless tools
  • Animation timeline
  • Dedicated scripting language support

Cons

  • Steep learning curve
  • Requires a powerful computer
  • Lengthy startup time
  • Expensive for a single user