fsds or gmax

morbidfred · Post by **morbidfred** » 28 Dec 2007, 16:31

Hi,

I have a bit of spare time and am thinking I might have a bash at creating an AI model.

Am I better buying FSDS ? or using gmax ?
Ive never done any modelling before so the Im looking for the more gentle learning curve.

Thanks in advance

nickblack423 · Post by **nickblack423** » 28 Dec 2007, 16:59

FSDS, and then use the forums here to gain as much knowledge as you can. I am eventually going to work on a tutorial for Military AI models, so as if need be I can pass on the torch if you like. It will take so long to do however. Maybe use my next model to do it with.

Anyway back to the question GMAX is alot more powerful and has some great functions that FSDS doesnt, however FSDS is written to be used to make models and scenery for FlightSim, so it is far easier to use and you can relate to it because its for aircraft.

Get FSDS. Have a look at GMAX by all means, (its free on one of the FS2004 CDs. But FSDS is the one for you.

Nick

ronniegj · Post by **ronniegj** » 28 Dec 2007, 17:18

You know, Nick, that you are one of the best modelers here (or anywhere as far as I'm concerned), so if you are thinking about a tutorial you might consider putting a little extra work and detail into it, and self publish using one of those on demand publishing schemes.

Full color illustrations, step by step and lots of hints/tips etc, FSDS only, and I bet you could sell a bunch. I'd sure pay, and I don't think I'm alone.

Could be a bundle of pdf's and example files, downloadable as a series of zip files, whatever. There are no good guides for AI sim modeling available now, and what there is involves a tedious search of the internet for bits and pieces with many dead links etc. Very frustrating.

Would have to be written for dummies like me - assume nothing about previous knowledge/ability.

Try taking a poll to see if there is interest and willingness to pay - you may be surprised!

Ron

SMOC · Post by **SMOC** » 28 Dec 2007, 17:52

I agree that Nick is a superior modeller(not leaving anytime soon I hope?) and I am a big fan of the F-15 and his bombers. And while I don't disagree that Nick could make a fantastic tutorial and turn a profit doing it, to keep with the theme of MAIW, it would be great if it was done as freeware.

Just my opinion though.

aerogator · Post by **aerogator** » 28 Dec 2007, 18:09

I agree with Nick about FSDS. I tried GMAX but couldn't make much headway. Some of the more accomplished modellers use it and Lightwave, but for the everyday guy, I think FSDS is better. And mainly because as Nick says, its made for FS and there are a lot of knowledgable modellers who are willing to share their expertise

.

nickblack423 · Post by **nickblack423** » 28 Dec 2007, 19:53

Ron,

You may be on a winner mate. Ive been looking at ways to try and make a bit of money on the side and that could be a good idea. Its always nice when you can turn your hobby into something that makes you a little bit of money. It would be a huge undertaking from my point and would take alot of time. But it might be worth it.

Nick

ronniegj · Post by **ronniegj** » 29 Dec 2007, 00:49

Well, if you decide to go with it, then good luck, and put me down as one of your first customers. I've already spent plenty on non-specific tomes hoping to learn to no avail. It would be money well spent, and as far as I know, there is no competing product available.

Ron