GMAX - Modeler For Train Simulator

GMAX is by far one of the best modeling programs for creating train-sim locomotives, rolling stock, buildings, you name it. This program will do just about everything you need to get the job done right the first time.

GMAX, as the name implies, is an off-shoot of a 3D modeling program called 3D Studio MAX. But, unlike 3DS Max, GMAX is free... Yup, that's right, it is a free downloadable program for you to use. But don't think just because it's free, it's cheap. This modeling program has many of the features of it's big brother 3DS Max, with a few features left out. Why did they leave features out, you ask? Well, did I happen to mention that it's free? 3D Studio MAX, the last time I looked, was in the area of $3100 for version 4.2 - Stand Alone. I guess if you have more money then you know what to do with, you could always buy the latest version 6, somewhere around $3700.

But hey, we are talking free, right? Right... So, back to GMAX. I have made some GMAX tutorials in the past, and I will be finishing those up in the future. Again, as with my PhotoShop video tutorials, these will be in Windows Media Format. Hang tight.

For now, if you think you are going to be interested in creating your own models for train simulator, then I would suggest that you go, and download the files you will need to get started. First, you will want to go to the GMAX homepage, and download the GMAX program itself. You can get there, by clicking here. Also, it may be a good idea to download the help file installer while your there. The help files contain a ton of information, and can answer a few questions your going to have.

Next, you will need some files from the Microsoft web site by clicking here. Scroll down to where you see the DOWNLOAD GMAX GAME PACK NOW link listed. Download that file, and while your there, (if you haven't already done so) you will want to download the "Toolsupdate.exe" file as well. As the name suggests, this package contains nessesary tool updates for creating msts add-ons.

Another note here that will, I hope, keep you away from some frustration. If your running Windows 2000 or Windows XP, and your using DirectX 9, you will need to download update files from the Microsoft Windows Update web site. There are updates there to fix a "glitch" within DirectX 9. If your Windows OS is not up to date, you will have all kinds of problems using GMAX, and the Train Simulator Game Pack. You can read more about the HOTFIX by clicking here.

So, get your train-sim modeling program up, and running, and I will get some tutorials put together to get you started. In the meantime, you can visit Volker's Gmax Tutorial to get you started.

Happy building,
Patrick