UE3 - UT3 Modelling tools?

[omie jay]

Hi, i would really like to make my own custom character models for ut3, and i'd like to know from current modellers what softwares are recommended.
So far im getting photoshop cs3 (might get cs4, whenever it comes out) and maya, anything else needed?
Also if possible, could someone plz gimme some links to some modelling tutorials for absolute beginners.

Much appreciated

 

[[SAS]Solid Snake]

MudBox or ZBrush

 

[omie jay]

Which one's better? Easier to use?

 

[Peccavi]

That would depend on your preference really. There are trial versions for both.

 

[omie jay]

ok, well i got zbrush now anyways, and i really need to get used to using it!
Would a graphics tablet be recommended for using stuff like zbrush or maya? Or can a mouse suffice?

 

[Peccavi]

Either way is good. I used my tablet last time I used a trial version of Zbrush and thought it was the faszizsh. I wouldn't go out and buy a tablet just on a trial version of a program unless you are really going to go for it.

 

[omie jay]

Hm.. there are some character models i'd love to make, for example a predator (maybe i'll make different masks too) and some other im dying to make but dont want others to do it before me so i wont mention...

Would this be classified as 'really going to go for it?'
How hard will it be to make it using a mouse? I understand that for really artsy people, a graphics tablet will be the way to go, but im not a really artsy person. I just love CAD programs, so the thought of making custom characters for ut3 excites me to the max.

 

[The_Head]

Mudbox is apparently "an easier version of zbrush"

I've not used mudbox yet. But the people who have used it said it was far easier to pick up than zbrush, and achieves the same thing. I've got a bit of experience in zbrush, and have eventually got the hang of finding things, the workflow is really odd at times, and the UI is horrid. Its even more confusing than Maya (coming from a Max user - picking up Maya a bit now)

 

[omie jay]

oh really? I'll get mudbox then.
Thanx for info.

 

[pruvaloo]

Mudbox is apparently "an easier version of zbrush"

and the UI is horrid.

Got to say I agree on both counts. The first time I opened up ZBrush I ran away from the pc terrified! Whereas with Mudbox the UI is pretty much like every other program out there and is very easy to pick up imo.

So, while mudbox is easier to learn to start with, I'd say that I think ZBrush is the more powerful, it just seems to have a lot more tools and settings etc, the trouble is it takes a while to get used to the layout.

If you're just starting out with modeling though I would concentrate on learning your modeling program first. Once you get the hang of Maya or 3ds max or blender or whatever, then move onto sculting programs and the headaches of baking out normal maps etc

 

[omie jay]

ok cool, thanks heaps everyone, will update with more questions as they arise

 

[omie jay]

More questions ahoy, i hear that 3ds Max is a really good program for 3d modelling, worth using for ut3 character modelling? I'll be getting the 09 edition, and i'd like opinions from pro modellers out there as to which is better for ut3 character modelling. Better as in easy to use, level of detail, etc. Also, i assume that there is a way to import models from 3ds max/zbrush/mudbox to the ut3 editor, and make it into a playable character (need to work out how to do this, and how to actually use modelling programs).
Right now im getting watever software is needed, before i start learnin how to use and start makin models.

 

[Forgetful]

If you have links to some of the things you have done I could try to make some recommendations.

 

[omie jay]

I havnt made anything yet. As i said before, i wanna get whatever software is needed for the job, before i start trying out the software, and making my character models.

 

[Forgetful]

Do you have an previous experience working in a 3D package?

 

[omie jay]

Not in any 3D art package, but ive used 2 different CAD programs, CATIA and Pro/Desktop, i self learnt them pretty quickly since i love using those programs to make whatever, whether its my project, or a random car/gun/whatever, so im assuming that zbrush/mudbox/3ds max is sort of similar but more harder, i reckon i can learn em, just a matter of how long it'd take.

Also i'd still like to know which of the softwares, zbrush, mudbox, or 3ds max 09, would be better for character modelling in terms of ease of use and level of detail achievable, maybe other factors too if anyone can think of.

 

[Forgetful]

If your just starting off use whatever program you can get a hold of. I have limited experience using 3DSmax so I can't say anything good or bad about it. I am currently using Maya 2008 x64. I started with Maya 2 years ago and that's the program I've stuck with. I personally like the edge loop tools that Maya gives.

In the end you are just creating a base model which your going to later bring into Zbrush (or Mudbox) and "sculpt" so your inital 3D package doesn't matter that much.

As far as Zbrush or Mudbox goes, just take what you can get and run with it. Don't spend weeks deciding over what package to use, just grab whats available and get to it

If you have never used either 3D package I would recommend tracking down some "Digital Tutor" videos: http://www.digitaltutors.com . They are a pretty good source of basic and intermediate info.

 

[omie jay]

Ok cool, thanks heaps for the info

 

[EvilEngine]

Buy Zbrush and Crazybump, worth every penny.
3DSmax or Maya cant be beat for all around rigging/animating/modeling, but are pricy unless you get a student liscense. But give them a try, theres free trial versions available at Autodesk's website.
Alternatives are milkshape and Blender which are easier to obtain for beginners on a budget.

 

[omie jay]

price is no issue