Maya is a mainstream 3D tool
February 20, 2019

Maya is a mainstream 3D tool

Miroslav Bobryshev | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User

Overall Satisfaction with Maya

We mainly use Autodesk Maya for creating 3D models(characters, vehicles, props) of varying complexity, sometimes for animation, assembling(layout) 3d assets to scenes for subsequent export to sideFX Houdini.
  • The program is a complete product for modeling, animation, shading and rendering 3d assets for static images and animation.
  • Maya has one of the best animation tools in 3d industry. It's simple to create/edit complex animation using Time Editor, Graph Editor and etc.
  • Well known in the game and film industry. Many studios use it, so there is no problem for just hired employee to settle in.
  • It has simple(enough) python API. It's easy to create scripts and plugins. And there are lots of free or paid plugins in the internet to speed up 3d work.
  • It has good node-based workflow for procedural creation.
  • Right now Maya has no good viewport like Blender 2.8 has. It is good that Maya 2019 devs focused on performance and stability but it's strange to see that mainstream soft aren't on trend in developing really cool and helpful tools.
  • Maya LT is very good for artist who don't need complex FX tools. So the devs must add python API to Maya LT.
  • Add more helpful tools to modeling section especially for retopology.
  • The pros is speeding up workflow . The ability to customize Maya for various tasks on their own.
  • Another pros is easy programming study. Automation of routine tasks did not require deep knowledge in programming.
  • There was one negative thing. The transition from a permanent license to a one-year subscription in 2016-2017, as the previous purchased licenses were canceled by the Autodesk.
There are list of alternatives of Autodest Maya: SideFX Houdini, Blender. We use them all depending on the task.

Autodesk Maya is perfect for the integrated creation of three-dimensional assets: modeling, creating UV, animation, shading and rendering, as well as simulating effects - the strengths of the program. Sculpting and texturing must be done in third-party applications.