Autodesk Debuts Latest Product Versions At GDC 2007

Representatives from Autodesk have announced that the latest versions of its 3d anmation, modeling and rendering software, including Autodesk Maya 8.5 and Autodesk 3ds Max 9 Extension 1: Productivity Booster will be on display at its GDC 2007 booth. Autodesk has said that its Maya version 8.5 adds a new Maya Nucleus simulation framework as well as Python scripting integration, which it says will enable faster completion of animation and simulation tasks. Autodesk also adds that its 3ds Max 9 Extension 1: Productivity Booster will help artists increase their efficiency with around 30 productivity enhancements including updates in the areas of animation, Biped, rendering, UI and general usability. Autodesk will also be demonstrating its MotionBuilder character animation software, as well as an array of tools and services to help developers create mobile games. Finally, Autodesk has reiterated that it is a sponsor for Microsoft's recently announced "Dream-Build-Play" XNA Game Studio Express competition, with developers of the top 20 games eligible to receive licenses for either 3ds Max or Maya, and point out that its own Autodesk FBX file exchange format is the only third-party exchange format supported by XNA Game Studio Express.