New to Blender

Support Basics & Interface
#1

I’m new to using Blender and I only have limited chances to use the net. So I have to cram a few questions into one post.

Is blender as good as Smax and Gmax? (I’ve been using Gmax with the intent of one day getting Studio Max, but if this is as good, despite the confusing interface, I’ll take the time to learn it!)

I would greatly appreciate a list of links that would improve the program in terms of modeling and functionality. I’m going to compile a disk full of everything I need for the program. Could you guys throw me a few?

Is there a complete and comprehensive (not to sound too formal) PDF guide I can download that will tell me the basics and not so basics of the program? Is there a book I can buy that would do the same? (Links on this would be appreciated too.)

Another thing I would benefit from are tutorials. Where can I find some real good ones in PDF format? (I require PDF because the computer I use isn’t connected to the net.)

I intend to use this thread as a reference to make a complete program and learning package that will keep me from having to go on the net repeatedly for improvements and info.

Your replies are greatly appreciated.

#2

Just a few…
Blender Basics
Essential Blender Resources
Blender Art Magazine

#3

Blenders mediawiki.

#4

I would greatly appreciate a list of links that would improve the program in terms of modeling and functionality. I’m going to compile a disk full of everything I need for the program. Could you guys throw me a few?

You don’t need it, but you’ll probably want something like this sooner or later, I think.


http://gnu.kookel.org/ftp/gimp/docs/gimp-user-manual.

Also, its not pdf, but keep in mind you can save and print html files too.

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Blender_3D:_Noob_to_Pro/Printable_Version

#5

Good is always subjective but Blender is a better choice if you want an all-round application.

I didn’t use GMax much but from what I remember it was specialised for modelling for certain games with no rendering features. Blender is a more general purpose 3d application letting you model, render and animate and isn’t tied to only being able to create for specific game packs.