Discreet has announced the newest version of its 3D modeling, animation, and rendering solution—3ds max 6. Discreet delivered this announcement before the 3D and 2D graphics professionals attending the SIGGRAPH Exhibition in San Diego, Calif. This release will offer capabilities that enable the professional 3D artist, developer, and designer to create games, motion picture visual effects, or intricate visualizations for building design, industrial, or government simulation.

New features in the 3ds max 6 software release will include: advanced schematic view for easier viewing and better management of complex scenes; included mental ray rendering software; vertex color painting; design visualization tools and interchange support with Autodesk and other computer-aided design (CAD) and CAD-related solutions; integrated reactor 2 complete physics—with stuntman and vehicle dynamics; distributed network texture baking, and features that provide greater accessibility to the software for power users. Also included in the release will be a particle flow system for creating realistic fountains, fog, snow, splashes, contrails, explosions, and other environmental effects.

“3ds max is a powerhouse that keeps pushing the boundaries of our industry,” said Paul Lypaczewski, general manager, Discreet and executive vice president of Autodesk Inc. “3ds max 6 contains innovative features for all segments of the design and animation industry that will give our broad customer base the most productive and customizable workflow to realize their creative vision in whatever way their unique 3D projects demand.”

3ds max 6 software is expected to be available in fall 2003 with pricing at $3,495. Localized international versions will be available later in 2003. Upgrade pricing is $795 from 3ds max 5, and $1,295 from the 3ds max 4 release.