Autodesk, Inc, creator of noted 3D graphics creation tool 3D Studio Max, has announced that is has launched a new community portal called simply Area. The site, which is now live and offers free membership, is intended to be a centralized repository of content created using Autodesk Maya and Autodesk 3ds Max animation, modeling and rendering software; Autodesk MotionBuilder character animation software; or Autodesk VIZ 3D modeling, rendering and presentation software. To foster collaboration and networking within the industry, content on the Area is intended to be generated by the community, and supported by Autodesk. The site features tips and tutorials, discussion forums, blogs, downloads, galleries, member portfolios and feature stories on artists and developers. Area was first announced on July 31 at the Autodesk user group meeting at SIGGRAPH 2006 in Boston. "We have been looking forward to today’s launch of Area, because it enables Autodesk to further support its media and entertainment 3D user community," noted Michel Besner, Autodesk Media & Entertainment senior director of product management. "Through Area, the 3D community can support its own growth as the industry addresses the next-generation production challenges of increasingly complex games, television and film effects, and design visualizations." Blake Studios' Rick Pumphrey added: "After learning about the upcoming Area site, I have been eagerly waiting to see it go live. The forums have the potential to put artists in contact with others who may be facing similar challenges on their projects."