Must modelling be done in GMax?

[machineman9]

Just a quick question sort of to do with my other thread, but more in general.

I prefer to use Anim8or for modelling objects as I find it a lot easier to control and should make modelling things go a bit quicker. My question is, can I use Anim8or to model everything and then export it in .3ds to GMax and have it work in FSX?


Cheers

[Fr. Bill]

No, AFAIK. You do have some choices though. GMax is free and fully supported by the SDK.

FSDS v3.x is payware, and is "sort of supported" by the SDK.

[machineman9]

Well I do like using GMax over Anim8or for modelling because it gives me the right dimensions which saves me from having to resize the model later (on Anim8or I am making up my own units of length)

However Anim8or has some issues displaying the GUI, but it should be better for when putting down a reference image to work from.

Should I just risk it and hope for the best?

[Felix/FFDS]

The only "supported"  modelling programs are gmax and Max 7/8/9.

FSDS uses the FS2004/FSX SDK tools, but with issues (not all of FS-X eye candy is supported by FSDS, but 3rd party add ins add that functionality.

Canvas3D is not directly supported, but a user created converter has been made and works.  SO far, only one person is using that.

USe of any other modelling program basically means that the user is (semi) on his own to convert the model into a format that can be used by one of the modelling programs and then finalized there.

Basically, create the mesh as you feel most comfortable, and then import it into gmax to finish off animations, texturing and final compiling.

[Fr. Bill]

As a codicil to Felix's last post...

Google's SketchUp is now supported by third-party addon(s) that will convert the output to a form that the FS tools can use, but it's only good for scenery...

[Tango_Romeo]

Just another opinion....

The key operating feature responsible for Gmax's popularity is, I believe, the word FREE.   Regardless of the SDK support business (the relevance of which depends on the sim you're modeling for), it is an awkward program to both learn and use compared to FSDS.  [smiley=cool.gif]

I've had both FSDS and Gmax since the beginning of both, but I did learn on FSDS and might be a touch prejudiced.  But ragging on FSDS is certainly not justified in any way.   ::)

FSDS is easier to learn and easier to use because it is more 'intuitive' and streamlined.  MDL and/or BGL file creation is a simple and straight forward process, which is not the case with the cumbersome Gmax system.   

[Felix/FFDS]

I've had both FSDS and Gmax since the beginning of both,

So have I - from FSDS1.0, through FSDS 4 I mean 3.5.1

[quote]
but I did learn on FSDS and might be a touch prejudiced.

[Fr. Bill]

Felix, I was wondering about that statement about not being able to "click compile" in GMax...

...until you mentioned all the other stuff that FSDS creates automagically during the "compile," none of which is an inherent part of the actual model being compiled.

Setting up a "template" for FS9 or FSX models is a one-time process, even for Max or GMax users. Do it once, then copy/paste/rename as needed for each project one decides to work on.

As for .air files, ACES were nice enough to provide base .air files for nearly every kind of model that one can use as a starting point.

OTOH, I believe the strongest feature of FSDS is it's facility for setting up the basic structure and auto-configuring contact points, et cetera, as it frees the newbie modeler from having to do so manually.

The weakest feature of FSDS is its lack of advanced mesh modeling tools, which are a basic part of even GMax.

However, like you point out, what Bobby has accomplished with the Citation X, especially the forthcoming new FSX model is nothing short of amazing!

What this proves is simply this: the skills and artistry of the modeler are responsible for the end results, not the tools used! The secret ingredient is "craftsmanship..."  8-)

[Tango_Romeo]

I'll have to agree completely with the concept that the final product is not so much a function of the tools used, as it is the skill of the modeler.   The features of the tool only determine the amount and intensity of the work required to achieve the desired end.

And certainly, both Gmax and FSDS each hold special attractions to various individuals.

[Alejandro Rhodes]

[quote]
FSDS is easier to learn and easier to use because it is more 'intuitive' and streamlined.