IllusionMage 3D Animation Review - A Look at This Animation Software

Submitted By: Michael Ortiz

I have been using animation software for the past 6 years and have worked with 3DMax and Maya. Recently, I've had the opportunity to play with IllusionMage, the newest 3d animation software in the market and here is my review of it.

Here's what I think:

Right out of the box, it has a very high quality feel about the entire package. From the video tutorials and the manuals, the entire suite looks very polished and professional.

Once I started loading the program, I was pretty impressed with what I see.

IllusionMage animaton features are extensive and covers all the features that hi-end animation software like Maya and 3DMax has. That being said, it does require some work to fully utilize and appreciate all of it's features.

However, the coolest thing about IllusionMage is the amount of video tutorials and lessons that come bundled with the software. You'll learn how to create simple models and advanced cartoon animations...all in a step-by-step easy to follow format.

This is an advanced animation software and a full featured integrated modelling, rendering, animation and real-time 3D game creation package. This hi-end software suite allows you to:

- Create high quality 3D graphics
- Produce your own cartoon animated film
- Draw and animate 3D models
- Design your own 3D game easily
- Create real-time interactive 3D content
- Creating and render exceptionally rich & realistic natural environments.

You can either choose to build people, planes, forest, imaginary places and etc. You can control shapes of the objects, shadow of the objects, you can add different colors, different cloths of the people, you can add stamps, move trees, adjust the sun and etc. When you get better with IllusionMage, you can try your hands on game design. There is where the fun comes in.

It can be used for modeling, UV unwrapping, texturing, rigging, skinning, animating, rendering, particle and other simulating, non-linear editing, compositing, and creating interactive 3D applications.

All in all, it is a very powerful and well-rounded application.

What I didn't like

It takes a long time to load if you do not have at least a Pentium 4 duo core processor. However, it is understandable since 3d animation programs will work much better with a faster CPU.

Also, the final render on characters are not as sharp as Maya. However, judging from the price of Maya (over $1000) and IllusionMage at $47, I can't complain much. This is great value for someone who is starting out in animation and do not wish to pay an arm and a leg for software.

The bottom line:

IllusionMage has tons of features and the potential to make some really high-quality animations/videos/worlds. For the price, it is a huge bargain.

I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys creating 3d animation, whether for traditional art, games, cartoons or advertisements. This software is remarkably versatile considering the relatively low cost. But don't take my word for it... try their 60 day demo before you buy (available from the website).

Published At: Isnare.com