If you’re interested in getting into 3D modeling and animation and thinking about buying one of the state-of-the-art software programs, think again! Before you run out and spend hundreds of dollars on AutoDesk Maya or AutoDesk3D Studio Max or Eovia Cararra (a combination of the discontinued Ray Dream and Infini-D)… you might want to consider Blender.
 
Blender, freeware that entered the market in 1998, may be the 3D, animation, motion graphics, game development software of choice for both beginning and experienced 3D modeling artists and animators. Although some users say Blender isn't the easiest program to learn 3D modeling on, once you get the hang of it, it’s packaged with you all need.
 
Blender 2.4.1 is a newly released version of the free 3D modeling and animation software program. Some of the features that other uses like about this program include the following:

• Costs absolutely nuthin! It’s freeware!
  
• Available for use on different platforms (Mac, Windows, Linux, FreeBSD, Irix, Solaris)
  
• Revolutionary, flexible and configurable user interface
  
• Offers a wide range of 3D modeling and rendering options
  
• Generate realtime 3D interactivity and game creation without programming
  
• All data is saved in single .blend file  
  
• Supports a variety of file formats and Python scripts
  
• Create stand alone animations or those for use with a 3D web browser plug-ins
  
• Open source licensing - you own what you create
  
• It’s award-winning!

Check out the Blender website where you will find downloads, tutorials, galleries and tons of resources to help you get started in 3D modeling. Seasoned 3D designers may also benefit from using Blender. Just read the testimonials on the Blender.org website! According to the site, Blender has proven to be a timesaver in comparison to using other popular and more expensive, software programs.
 
If anyone tries this out or has worked with this software, give us some feedback and show some examples of your 3D creations! I think even I might download it myself and give it a try!  

Somone now any good Linux program for 3D and animations?
 
I just installed CentOS in my home computer and want to check it out there.
 
/Admin