Avid Releases Softimage|XSI 4.2

Avid is releasing a new version of its Softimage|XSI software in several configurations that offer enhanced crowd simulation, compositing and paint features as well as MXF support.

The configurations available include Softimage|XSI 4.2 Foundation, Essentials and Advanced. Film and broadcast enhancements in Version 4.2 streamline the workflow between editing and compositing tools and support 10-bit format and MXF. XSI Advanced is now bundled with Softimage|Behavior 2.0 enabling users to build CC crowd scenes and independently controls characters created in the software application. Other features include obstacle avoidance, dynamic path-planning and automatic motion blending.

"These additional tools empower our customers to push new creative boundaries when producing CG content," said Gareth Morgan, senior product manager for Softimage, a subsidiary of Avid.

XSI Foundation now offers Linux support and increased rendering capabilities.