3D Modeling Programs

This is a list of programs that can be used for modeling, animation and rendering of 3D objects, characters, environments, etc.

• Maya 3D - Excellent modeling and animation package. Considered to be one of the best among modders. Quite expensive.
• 3D Studio Max - Powerful tool for modeling and animation, one of the industry's best. Also expensive. See 3DS Max for smd exporter/importer and vtf import.
• GMax - A discontinued free version of 3D Studio Max. See GMax for smd exporter and importer.
• Blender - Free, open source modeling, animation, rendering, post-production, interactive creation and playback library/engine/IDE. See Blender for exporter and importer.
• Milkshape3D - Low cost, popular and simple to use 3D modeling program. Comes with .smd support.
• Fragmotion - Comparable in many ways to Milkshape, but it has support for waitghted vertexes and more advanced animation tools. Comes with .vtf and .smd support.
• Lightwave 3D - Excellent modeling & animation tool. See Lightwave for links to HL2 exporters. Like every other high end package, it is considered to be one of the best by its fans. :) Expensive, but less so than others.
• Softimage|XSI - Program used to make models & animations for HL2. XSI Mod Tool is available for FREE.
• Wings3D - Free, open source Nendo-alike natural modeling IDE.
• Cinima 4D - A popular modeling program, especially in TV media. It is a powerful toolbox. See Cinima 4D for the link to the exporter.