3D models
 

hello there

what is the tool used to design the 3d models? Thanks


Cheers

"3D Studio Max" normally there is many but thats what I used.
http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet...112&id=5659302

In theory I guess one could use "Alias" (what we use at work) but never heard ppl
used that for game modding. "Maya" is also very good made by Autodesk as well.
http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet...112&id=7635018

I guess there is other "free" software out there but...

Many thanks for the links

The autodesk options seem a bit over the budget :hmm: specially when is for a hobby :)

I am sure there is free stuff...but 3D MAX is what most ppl use i think.
Did a quick search and found this.
http://www.3dcgi.com/learn/free/free-3d.htm

SHIV uses .obj files packed into a .dat and most 3d modelling software programs should be able to open these .obj files natively or by using a plugin. You need to extract the .obj files from the .dat first using one of the tools floating around (search these forums for Sensals pack3d tool).

I use wings3d myself, because it's free.

Cheers to both

I'll be looking into this.

My aim is to add a few missing subs to the game but I wonder what tools exist and how difficult will be its integration into SH4 (1st timer on this) :)

Subs are not a great choice at the moment because they can only be used as stationary objects. even giving them waypoints and a speed will see them slow to a complete stop. At some point the AI stuff will be figured out just as it was for SH3 but even then they function more like surface vessels than subs. It's one of the real oversights by the devs. Such a shame.

That said, if you want to make new Sub models - Great stuff! the more the merrier! It just might be a while before we can actually use them for something other than eye candy.

:hmm:

would useless even for player use?

I don't remember anyone even making New playables for Sh3 but I don't see why not - of course, you would have to model the interior stations too and, if wanting to make IJN subs, model japanses crewmen.

Intricate procedure probably its best to start by trying
to make a mod to change an existing sh4 sub into what
you want. then you might have an easier time of it than
if you were trying to put a whole additional new sub.

MM

Ever Tried Blender3d?
 

It is free modeling tool, opensource GPLed(licence of the linux world) so you can do whatever you want with the source. It has many features of Maya and 3dsMax but is lacking on some proffesional feats but we aren't making Pixar movie here. :D
check www.blender.org its documentation was rather lacking a year ago but that may be different now. It is strongly polygon oriented rather then curve, but extrude surfaces and nurbs are there to some extent. It has also animation IKbones and walk cycles and so on. It has many features unseen in other software. It is quite complicated though. It has also its own game engine. May be good for testing models but the SH3 is surely different from it, havent tested it until now. I cant comment because I am no profesional. Its free its small its loaded with features. It knows Wavefront/OBJ format. What can I say from other peoples comments it may be better than older 3dMax versions and it is free as in free speach and as in free bear and peanuts :D

Extra to the ones mentioned here, anything from Right Hemisphere is always a good option.

Deep Exploration - http://www.righthemisphere.com/produ...xp/de_cad.html
Deep Paint/Deep UV - http://www.righthemisphere.com/produ..._UV/index.html

IIRC they also make a program called Unmap which takes your 3d model and actually builds the UV map for you. Very Cool and easy.

Also, you will want to be able to view/edit your model without having to run/open your game everytime (PITA), Deep Exploration will do this as will Photoshop CS3.;) While Deep Paint will let you paint/edit directly to your 3d model or you can switch back and forth from Photoshop, if you have the plugin.

These are not free but it gives you an idea of the proggies that you'll need and their functionality.