Autodesk today launched Mudbox 2009 software for 3D modelers and texture artists working on entertainment and design projects.
Mudbox combines an intuitive user interface with a powerful toolset for creating highly-detailed 3D models.
The software gives artists the freedom to create without worrying about technical details.
Mudbox has shaped characters in blockbuster movies and games, including Journey to the Center of the Earth, The Mist and Mass Effect.
"Our goal is to make early stage digital assets resemble their final 'on-screen' forms as closely as possible," said Dave Cardwell, Mudbox product designer at Autodesk Media & Entertainment.
"Starting with accurate models makes the production process more efficient and provides a higher-quality end result.
For example, you'd want to know early on whether a prominent brow will shadow a character's eyes.
That's why Autodesk Mudbox 2009 has texture painting tools and on-target display features; these will help artists build and refine better 3D models."
Autodesk anticipates that Mudbox 2009 will be available in October 2008.