Digimation has recently started shipping Phoenix 1.5, an upgrade to their original fire simulation plug-in for 3ds max developed by the Chaos Group. Phoenix was developed for simulating real fire and it allows 3ds max objects to appear as if they are engulfed in flames. By simply choosing any object or particle system as the emitter, Phoenix has the ability to wrap it in a complete volumetric flame. Phoenix allows full control of the colors, lights, transparency and the shape of the flames. The fire results will stun in both realism as well as overall control. "Enhanced control over features and effects make Phoenix 1.5 an even better solution for creating realistic flame or fire results," commented Beau Perschall, vice-president of Research & Development at Digimation. Phoenix 1.5 is available now at a recommended retail price of US$395.