A free version of Softimage's 3D nonlinear production software SOFTIMAGE|XSI v.3.0 designed for training purposes, is available to download for use with the Microsoft Windows XP and Windows 2000 platforms. The upgrade to SOFTIMAGE|XSI v.2.0 Experience CD, offers a wider range of capabilities for both professionals and 3D novices. Users can access all features found on the advanced version, offering the ability to create game content using the SOFTIMAGE|XSI realtime shaders, utilize the fully integrated compositing environment, render film-quality images with mental ray v.3.1 technology and save files. Users may open files and learn from the professional version of 3.0, which has been recently used in high profile projects like the feature film MINORITY REPORT, the "Pepsi Twist with the Osbournes" commercial and games such as RESIDENT EVIL 0. The SOFTIMAGE|XSI EXP v.3.0 also includes six tutorials, which provide instruction on learning the user interface and mastering the integrated compositing capabilities, to connecting the SOFTIMAGE|XSI software to other applications in a 3D pipeline, as well as free online access to the SOFTIMAGE|XSI EXP community for forums, galleries, customer stories and advanced tutorials. SOFTIMAGE|XSI EXP v.3.0 is available as a free download from the Softimage Website (www.softimage.com/EXP) or as part of a complete CD-based training kit available for purchase. Intended for non-commercial use, watermarks will appear on rendered images.
