Autodesk celebrates 25 years of 3DS Max, releases Max 2016 Extension 2

Extension 2 features a number of improvements. Max creation graph enhancements allow users to create, manipulate and use shapes and splines with new nodes. Pros can also import bitmaps and simulation data like CSV or Open VDB files. Print Studio allows users to export 3DS Max files for 3D printing in one swift click. And animators can now import and animate accurate simulation data to visualize how it changes over time.

New text and shape map tools allow animators to use objects as a mask to create custom decals, graffiti and other text-based graphics on the fly without leaving 3DS Max. The text tool also sees improvements: font names are now displayed in the font type, making it faster to find fonts when using the text tool to apply textures, animations and effects to text.

Also new is the ability to easily and accurately create, place and animate multiple materials, and use any shape to control the application of materials to an object.