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The old truism that a picture is worth a thousand words has not been lost on the creators of TrueSpace 6.5 by Caligari Corporation. Of all the various 3D and animation packages available, True Space is unique in it's approach to tackling design issues. It is so innovative that it may take a while to become fully comfortable with the still revolutionary format.
Unlike most if not all applications, TrueSpace is not menu driven. Instead, TrueSpace is operated through the use of various icons. The concept behind this approach is to allow the user to access as much space as possible for the creation of objects without having to worry about the mechanics of getting things done. This method allows TrueSpace to open up the workspace in a way that allows users with small screens to maximize usable screen real estate. In contrast to Carrara Studio, which uses the metaphor of rooms to create and manipulate objects, TrueSpace allows the space to remain open and free. For those that dislike screen clutter, True Space keeps things as lean as possible, while still making options accessible.
The open space is welcome; however the icons can be a bit intimidating if you are not sure where to start. To make the process easier, TrueSpace 6.5 includes an icon helper. The self explanatory feature makes finding the right function easier. With so many icons to select, this is one feature that should definitely be committed to memory. This one convenience can easily save you hours of hunting and searching. It is also wise to access the return to default set up interface when learning the program until you are familiar with the placement of the various icons that control the application.
Once you become familiar with the workspace, the next step is manipulating shapes and forms. TrueSpace allows this through a unique option, "the magic ring primitive manipulator." This hands on tool allows you to stretch, manipulate and form your primitives directly in real time. With regards to detail, and fine tuning, this tool works amazingly well, and is somewhat more fluid than one would expect. The same can be said for the selector cage. In terms of ease of use, these form altering tools are real standouts.
As far as features go with Caligari TrueSpace, this is about as feature rich and complete as an application in this price point can be. In many ways it holds its own with packages many times more expansive in range and price. This is great for those on tight budgets. However, there is one caveat to the application.
Like any complex full featured application, TrueSpace does have a learning curve. Not that this is an incredibly steep one, but one none the less. While creating an interface that is primarily visual has advantages, the large number of small icons can be intimidating for newbies. For those more familiar with menus, tabbed interfaces and the like, TrueSpace breaks free of those Windows conventions. So do brace yourself. It does take some time becoming familiar with TrueSpace, even if you have experience in other programs.
Some of the complexity here cannot be made simple. As hard as TrueSpace tries, there is no escaping the fact that you need to be familiar with certain design concepts first. Even then, this is not exactly easy. However, TrueSpace makes a real concerted effort to make the process as intuitive as possible. The program also makes it as direct as possible. For visually oriented persons, the advantages are obvious. For those not visually inclined, or willing to move onto a slightly different way of working, this can be a real problem.
In many ways TrueSpace is a package for designers and those visually inclined. As such it addresses the concerns of designers and those not already familiar with this realm of design. TrueSpace again does do a solid job of making that possible. However, it does require that you read the enclosed documentation.
The enclosed thick 500 page plus user's guide and colorful quick guide card are not only needed; they are essential. They do adequately document the product. This is particularly true with the Reference card. With this many icons, hard copy documentation becomes necessary. In that regards, Caligari has provided solid support.
On the down side, true newbies and those who are designers not familiar with 3D concepts may need to obtain added support. While this application does make 3D accessible, it requires a real commitment of time to make the most of things. So I do suggest looking to added resources for learning the application.
On the plus side, Caligari does maintain an excellent Web site filled with plug-ins, examples of work and the like. If you have a question, do take time to look around and investigate what the application can really do.
The big question that will come up is that of features. Below is a run down of some of the features included. By no means is this comprehensive, but it does give you an idea of the broad scope of TrueSpace 6.5.
This should provide you with a raw idea as to what this packages comes with and the new advances that come with the latest version, TrueSpace 6.5
There are a plethora of 3D packages on the market. With completion reaching a fevered pitch, and price points a consideration, picking the 3D package that is right for you depends on five key points: features, ease of use, performance and price. Should an application not meet you on the primary points, there can be issues. Taking all of these things into account, TrueSpace is more than a midrange product.
If you can become comfortable with the interface, and you take time to learn the program, this is an excellent option. While I think a few more tutorials and a step-by-step manual would be welcome, there is very little here to criticize. The program is stable, works very well with Windows XP and is actually enjoyable to use once you become comfortable with it's unique interface. For those using older versions of Windows, this application can run under Windows 95. From my perspective, I suggest everyone upgrade to the much more stable Windows XP.
I do suggest that anyone using it, take into consideration the learning curve and obtain extra documentation. For many users new to 3D, this is the right application. While it may be a little more expensive than Carrara, there is much to recommend the program. Plus, it is a fun program to play with if you don't mind the plethora of icons.
The only true downside with TrueSpace 6.5 is the lack of a Mac version. As a side note, do make sure you have a large hard drive and sufficient memory. All 3D programs can be system intensive. So do consider those concerns before purchasing any 3D program. Let me also suggest contacting Caligar directly. They have a great deal of information available on their site, as well as a free demo to download. If you are brand new to 3D, or a graphic designer on a budget, this is an application to check out first.
Talk to Kurt in Graphics Unleashed Forums
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