Maya LT gets scripting and animation extensions

Autodesk has upgraded the low-cost version of its development suite, Maya LT.

The system aimed at small team, now has support for Maya Embedded Language scripting, new OBJ export options and improvements to HumanIK and IK Handle technology.

It was also given a polycount increase in October, as well as being featured in our round-up of essential mobile development tools.

Maya LT Extension 2 features include:

• MEL Scripting to simplify repetitive or complex tasks and seamlessly facilitate sharing with team members: A built-in script editor removes the need to manually write scripts and displays corresponding commands in MEL script. Scripts can be saved and turned into customized parts of the Maya LT UI through Shelf Buttons, Hotkeys or Marking Menus
• Human IK and IK Handle Animation: A new IK handle, a pole vector constraint, Human IK mirroring and an animation retargeting tool accelerate the animation, rigging and transfer of information between characters
• New Export Options: Export Maya LT 3D assets in an OBJ file format to expand compatibility with other industry standard tools and game engines.

Paul Kind is one of the first Maya LT users. He used it for the first time while creating assets for Revolution Ace, his upcoming multiplayer shooter for PC and iOS.

“Maya LT offers a great deal to indie game developers at a comfortable price. It’s perfect as a strict game toolset and meets the needs of developers in an easy-to-learn and easy-to-use way, said Kind.

Maya LT Extension 2 is available now as a free download to Autodesk users on subscription or pay-as-you go plans. For more information about Maya LT or to download a free trial of the software, visit the product website.