Autodesk’s release of 3ds Max 2024.2 marks a significant update in their modeling and rendering software. This version focuses on enhancing performance and streamlining workflows across various tools:
Performance Enhancements in Key Modifiers: The update significantly speeds up several key modifiers like the Boolean modifier, Push, Relax, XForm, and Volume Select. The Volume Select modifier, for example, is now up to ten times faster. The Retopology Tools also see a performance boost, being up to 30% faster.
Extended Development Cycle: Unlike the usual three-month cycle, this update came after six months, resulting in a more extensive list of improvements. Although no major new features were introduced, significant workflow and performance enhancements were made to the existing tools.
3D Modeling Improvements: The processing of Boolean operations on meshes is now 35% faster. There are also updates in the handling of source meshes with co-planar faces, and Boolean operations on OpenVDB volumes now preserve animation parameters. Other key modifiers like Push, Relax, XForm, and Volume Select also received significant performance improvements.
Retopology and UVs: The Retopology Tools have been updated with a faster base algorithm, Autodesk ReForm, making the process up to 30% faster. Additionally, the Unwrap UVW Modifier’s tools now respect the current UV selection.
Animation Tool Updates: The Assign Controller rollout now automatically resizes to fit the Command Panel, and there are bug fixes and workflow improvements in the Biped and CAT tools.
OCIO Color Management and File Size Reduction: The OCIO color management system is now fully integrated and out of the preview phase. Additionally, 3ds Max no longer saves scenes with empty Animation Layers, Note Tracks, or Note Keys, helping reduce file sizes.
Updates to USD and Arnold Plugins: The USD plugin now supports MaterialX and exporting facial animations as blendshapes. The Arnold integration plugin, MAXtoA, has been updated to support the new features in Arnold 7.2.4.
Pricing and System Requirements: 3ds Max 2024.2 is available on a rental basis, with subscriptions priced at $235/month or $1,875/year. Artists earning under $100,000/year and working on projects valued at under $100,000/year in many countries can avail of Indie subscriptions, now costing $305/year.
3ds Max 2024.2 emphasizes improved performance, user experience, and workflow efficiencies, catering to the evolving needs of professionals in the 3D modeling and animation industry.
