SAN RAFAEL, CA — Autodesk (autodesk.com) has unveiled 3ds Max 2021, a new version of its 3D modeling, animation and rendering software. The latest release brings 3D artists new tools to meet evolving content creation demands across design visualization and media and entertainment, with a fully scriptable baking experience, simpler install process, viewport and rendering improvements, and integrated Python 3 support, among other enhancements.
“From architecture to design, game development, filmmaking and beyond, the complexity of projects continues to grow, while delivery timelines shrink, so having tools in your arsenal that let you create and iterate without bottlenecks is key,” explains Chip Weatherman, chief product owner, Autodesk, Media and Entertainment. “With this in mind, we’ve introduced new features for 3ds Max 2021 and supercharged existing ones to give users an improved experience, and one that’s faster from installation to rendering.”
The new texture baking experience supports physically-based rendering (PBR), Overrides, and OSL workflows, and provides an intuitive new toolset. An updated installer allows users to get up and running quickly and easily. There is now integrated support for Python 3 and an improved pymxs API ensures developers and technical artists are able to better customize pipelines.
The new release includes native integration with the Arnold Renderer V.6.0 and offers a high-end rendering experience out-of-the-box, while included scripts efficiently convert V-Ray and Corona files to the Physical Material for added flexibility. Numerous performance enhancements simplify the use of PBR workflows across renderers, including with realtime game engines; provide direct access to high-fidelity viewports; improve the OSL user experience; significantly accelerate file I/O; and enhance control over modeling with a new weighted normals modifier.
Toolset advancements to SketchUp import, Substance, ProSound, and FBX streamline the creation and movement of high-quality 3D assets. New plug-in interop and improvements include support for AMG and OSL shaders to scene converter extensions. This allows for a broader range of plug-ins to easily hook into 3ds Max while also simplifying plug-in development and installation.
3ds Max 2021 is now available as a standalone subscription or with the Autodesk Media & Entertainment Collection.