The range kicks off with the for newcomers (which was due out yesterday but has been delayed, according to the E-on site) -- as well as theme packs with bundled content. The next step up is Vue 8 Frontier for Poser users, with the Vue 8 Esprit, Vue 8 Studio and Vue 8 Complete versions completing the range.
E-on says that newcomers to 3D and casual artists will find in Vue 8 Pioneer all the landscape-creation tools they need to easily create and render amazing images of their own 3D worlds. The product can be extended with 12 optional modules that add specific functionality to the base application. Using this modular approach, users can progressively upgrade all the way from Pioneer up to Complete. Vue 8 Esprit, Studio and Complete represent pre-bundled, cost-effective alternatives to the modular approach of Pioneer.
The Vue Theme-Packs include all the software tools and ready-made content for the creation and animation of themed 3D images and video clips. There are 3 different Vue Theme-Packs: Vue Science Fiction, Vue Fairy Tale and Vue Fantasy.
Each Theme-Pack includes over $100 worth of exclusive content -- 3D virtual sets, models (plants, pre-animated meshes), atmosphere presets and more. The Vue Theme-Packs are compatible with all 12 Vue expansion modules. Artists who purchased a Vue 7 Theme-Pack will receive their upgrade to Vue 8 at no charge.
Vue 8 Frontier provides scenic nature and Poser character rendering for artists to easily compose character-filled images and video clips. Based on the Vue 8 core application, Vue 8 Frontier will import any static Poser model, including Poser 8 characters. If they like, users may also render their Poser characters using the native shading tree of Poser, so that their characters look exactly like in Poser - with the added beauty of Vue's radiosity and environments!
Vue 8 Frontier includes a free version of SkinVue 8 that adds the ability to enhance human skin realism. A VuePython powered utility, SkinVue 8 quickly and easily transforms Poser characters into vivid, realistic models.
Vue 8 Esprit offers extended import and scenery control features. E-on says that it's focused on intuitive workflow, advanced rendering features and Poser integration. With a clear, uncluttered interface and state of the art features, Vue 8 Esprit combines sophistication with ease of use. With Vue's renowned natural 3D tools and unique render quality, 3D artists will soon be creating inspiring 3D art in any style.
Vue 8 Studio is the advanced Digital Nature application with powerful vegetation and rendering features for dedicated 3D artists. Focused on enhanced natural vegetation capabilities, advanced rendering features and extended Poser integration, Vue 8 Studio provides comprehensive control over the creation of complex scenes, while maintaining an intuitive workflow.
Vue 8 Pioneer, the Vue Theme-Packs, Vue 8 Frontier as well as Vue 8 Esprit, Studio and Complete are available in English for Windows XP/Vista/Windows 7 as a 32 and 64 bit application, and on Mac OSX 10.4/5/6 as Universal Binary.
Vue 8 Pioneer is free, Vue 8 Theme-Packs cost for $49.95 (around £30), Vue 8 Frontier at $99 (£60). Vue 8 Esprit at $199 (£121), Vue 8 Pro Studio at $399 (£242) and Vue 8 Complete at $599 (£364).