So are your skills up to snuff? We've gathered over 20 3D creation tools so that you can create your own avatar or virtual world. Whether you're a 3D pro or just starting out, we've got tools for everyone. Try them out and let us know what you think.
Free 3D Tools
SceneCaster.com - Create 3D environments, complete with talking avatars, that you can then share on Facebook, Flickr and more. 3D models are partially based on items from major retailers. Can be displayed on any device that supports XHTML (i.e. the iPhone). You can learn a lot more in the write up our Kristen Nicole did.
Akebulan.com - Makers of 3DBuilder and 3DRender. Builder is currently in beta (you need to sign up and they will email it to you), Builder lets you create interactive 3D environment that can then be accessed in a browser via a regular URL. 3DRender allows modelers to test their models with the Java3D API.
Anim8or.com - A freeware 3D modeling program created by a software engineer at NVidia. The last stable release was in April 2007, but it says it's still being worked on.
ArtOfIllusion.org - An open source project for building a 3D modeling program that can be used by all skill levels.
AutoQ3D - Has both free and paid versions.
Blender.org - A full-featured, GNU licensed free program that clearly gives you more bells & whistles than we could ever list here.
Seamless3D.com - An open source 3D modeling program project, has several tutorials and seems like a good place to get your feet wet.
SketchUp.com - Proving that Google will come out with some crazy stuff, this Google app has numerous 3D modeling possibilities, and can help you create more 3D buildings for Google Earth.
TopMod3D.org - An open source 3D mesh modeling system that is platform independent.
Wings3D.com - An open source mesh polygon modeling program that is under very active development.
ZModeler2.com - A 3D modeler primarily aimed at those creating models for games.
Environments
Ajax3d.org - An effort to build 3D online worlds using both Ajax and the X3D open standards. Seems a bit quiet over there, but there is some activity on the forums.
OpenGL.org - A standard for 3D, cross-platform, cross-device development since 1992.
Web3d.org - A project that is working to develop an open standards, royalty free, system based in XML. The goal is for it to work between the Web, networks, and mobile devices from the same development and render full 3D environments.
Commercial 3D Tools
3ds Max - One of the top tier makers of 3D programs, offers different programs for different jobs, expect to spend several thousand dollars.
Animation Master - This program will let you create still images as well as animation. Offers annual subscription plan or one-time purchase pricing.
Bryce - This program boasts of its landscapes, but from watching their demo reel, it is capable of a lot more, and is reasonably priced.
LightWave - High end 3D modeling that has been used in movies such as Sin City and 300. Will cost you around $1,000 at the high end of pricing.
Modo - A rich 3D tool used by architects, package designers, animators and more. Price is in the $900 range.
Maxon - Is capable of lighting, polygons, animating, texturing and more. Works well with Adobe.
OpenWorlds.com - Used by groups as large as NASA, you can find uses for learning apps, ecommerce, gaming and more.
