Discreet Releases 3DS Max 7

The latest edition of 3DS Max, version 7, was announced today. Discreet, the company that makes the 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software, will display a demo of Max 7 at Siggraph in Los Angeles August 10-12. The tool has been updated with the following features: normal mapping, mental ray 3.3, edit poly modifier, and skin wrap deformer, among others. A more extensive exclusive preview appears in the current August issue of Game Developer magazine. Discreet officials say they expect the product to begin shipping this fall, and prices range from $795 (to upgrade from 3DS Max 6) to $3,495 for new users.