Softimage announces free version of Softimage|XSI v3

Softimage, a subsidiary of Avid Technology, have announced the availability of a free version of their leading 3D nonlinear production environment specifically designed for training purposes, the Softimage|XSI EXP v3.
A successor to the popular Softimage|XSI v2 Experience CD, this software introduces a range of new abilities that make it easier for everyone, from professionals to 3D novices, to learn and enhance their animation and effects creation skills. Available as a free download from the Softimage website or as part of a complete CD-based training kit available for purchase, the Softimage|XSI EXP v3 software also provides users the ability to save files and take advantage of the Softimage|XSI Net View feature to access a wide range of tutorials, tools, user forums and new features videos, while creating within the Softimage|XSI EXP environment.
Digital artists using the Softimage|XSI EXP v3 environment are able to open files from the professional version of the Softimage|XSI v3 software, which has recently been used in a range of high-profile feature films such as ‘Minority Report’, commercials including ‘Pepsi Twist with the Osbournes’, games such as ‘Resident Evil’, music videos from David Gray and TV programs such as ‘The Pyramid’.
The Softimage|XSI EXP v3 also includes six tutorials which provide instruction on everything from learning the user interface, mastering the integrated compositing capabilities, to connecting the Softimage|XSI software to other applications in a 3D pipeline. In addition, the EXP also features free and fast online access to the Softimage|XSI EXP community which provides digital artists with peer-to-peer discussion forums, galleries, customer stories, advanced tutorials and the complete professional version of the documentation kit with full index and search capabilities.
Michael Stojda, Managing Director of Softimage, said: “Softimage has always been a pioneer in its development of products, and with Softimage|XSI EXP v3, the company is taking this one step further by giving free access to the latest version of its industry leading 3D nonlinear production environment.
“Everyone from professional digital artists to 3D enthusiasts will benefit from the advanced learning tools of the EXP and also from the community created to support it. I’m looking forward to the results of the explosion of content and creativity we’ll be seeing posted to the gallery on our web site,” he said.
(AMcE)