Autodesk Reveals Mudbox 2009

Autodesk launched a new version of its Mudbox software, designed for high-detail 3D model and texture design. The newly-released 2009 version of Mudbox adds performance enhancements and improved interoperability with the company's other products, Maya and 3ds Max. Mudbox 2009 also features a new toolset and the ability to paint textures across multiple maps and directly onto 3D models, and allows users to paint references onto a model from screen space using a new Projection brush feature. Additionally, multiple maps can now be painted on multiple UV tiles simultaneously, while users can assign multiple UV tiles on a single mesh. Autodesk says Mudbox was used to create characters in movies and games including Journey to the Center of the Earth, The Mist and Bioware's Mass Effect. Dave Cardwell, Mudbox product designer at Autodesk, says, "Our goal is to make early stage digital assets resemble their final 'on-screen' forms as closely as possible. Starting with accurate models makes the production process more efficient and provides a higher-quality end result."