Softimage has announced the latest version of its 3D animation software, version 3.0 introduces a new behavioral animation and crowd simulation system that incorporates full-featured behavioral scripting, visual state-graph editing and dynamic motion synthesis. Other highlights include: tools for working with HDR images and the integration of Mental Ray v.3.1 technology, enhancements to hair and fur dynamics tools, as well as to its advanced particles system.
XSI 3.0 is scheduled for release in October 2002. Customers purchasing a new license will be provided with a no charge upgrade to version 3.0 when it releases.