Sep 1 2003
Swift 3D v3 for OS X
Swift 3D plays at the top of its niche as the best vector 3D solution. As expected, this version improves vector rendering to include speculator highlights and better shadows. Beyond that, though, this new version represents Electric Rain’s foray into traditional 3D design.
Raster me
New to this version is a raster rendering engine called “Emo”. Emo makes worthwhile all the additional texture detail lost in vector rendering. Emo renders stills and raster swf files. Regrettably, there is no QuickTime export, though QuickTime has no problem opening swf’s.
MX savvy
Another nice addition is Swift 3D’s import support in Flash MX. On install, Swift 3D actually adds an import plugin to Flash MX making it easier to get Swift 3D content into Flash. Swift 3D also takes advantage of other new properties in MX to provide a smother transition.
OS X Ready
Swift 3D would have to go into the “better late than never” category for OS X copatibility. While 3.0 came out months ago for OS 9, it wasn’t even classic environment compatible. Other solutions with Swift’s RAVIX vector rendering engine, like Strata 3D, debuted OS X solutions long before Swift 3D arrived for OS X. But, for those not willing to plunk down for the big guns, patience is a virtue. Also, version 3 is a free upgrade for all those who purchased the OS 9 version.
Woes
The closer Swift 3D gets to a full 3D animation suite, the more cramped the interface gets. I should say that Swift is brilliant with its tabbed main window and contextual panels. However, as a veteran of other 3D solutions I found the main window cramped and the view options limited. The animation timeline along the top wastes quite a bit of screen real-estate.
A library of sorts would be nice for ready made shapes. Also, the farther Swift delves into the 3D arena, it will need more than a lathe and extrude tool. It will have to get a mesh tool and more.
Conclusion
Swift continues to dominate the world of vector 3D. It’s venture into the 3D animation suite may have been clumsy, but I prefer to think of it as the icing on the cake. Given the cost of the application and the quality and speed of its rendering capabilities, there’s no use complaining that it isn’t another Maya.
For exceptional value and integration with Flash MX, this is a buy for anyone looking to add 3D to Flash, and a worthwhile upgrade fro existing users.
Swift 3D for OS X is $169, $89 upgrade
