contents

software
 
AGEIA PhysX SDK v2.6 Released

AGEIA Technologies has announced availability of the AGEIA PhysX SDK v2.6. The latest version of its physics API and runtime engine dramatically enhances and accelerates the development of cutting edge games with complex physics-based environments that feature real-time dynamic motion and interaction on a massive, persistent scale.

The SDK v2.6 brings new Deformable Objects features and Self-Collision Prevention capabilities to developers of games for Windows, and leading next generation videogame platforms, as well as new added support for Microsoft Windows Vista 64-bit & Linux environments. The AGEIA PhysX SDK v2.6 now supports physics simulations for applications developed for Linux operating systems, and supports hardware acceleration for applications running on Microsoft Windows Vista.

Beyond new support for Microsoft Windows Vista and Linux, the AGEIA PhysX SDK v2.6 includes two significant advancements in physics-based features that will give game developers even more tools to take their games to the next level of interactive gameplay; dynamically deformable objects with impact retention, leveraging AGEIA PhysX cloth simulation technology, and both software and hardware-accelerated cloth with self-collision prevention.

The AGEIA PhysX SDK v2.6 contains a deformable object API which opens up a wide range of exciting new gameplay possibilities. With AGEIA's technology, developers can create realistic deformable objects that act and react in real-time. With a deformable shell covering the structure of a vehicle, for example, the car body can now be realistically damaged in a collision so that it retains the shape of the impact. This collision can then affect the car's dynamics, and dramatically impact game play. In addition, because all of these interactions and reactions happen in real-time, and according to the laws of force, speed, pressure, density and volume, the next time the gamer has a collision it may cause an entirely different set of real-world reactions, adding to the re-play value of each game.

AGEIA's SDK 2.6 also provides the most advanced collision detection API available to game developers. With newly added cloth self-collision detection, game creators can now use complex cloth materials in their games without side effects or a reduction in performance. Without this ground-breaking new advancement, cloth materials, used in clothing, flags or various other coverings, could fold or tear unrealistically, removing the player from the experience.

Today, more than 70 developers and publishers are creating over 120 new games utilizing AGEIA's physics acceleration technology, which is optimized for the AGEIA PhysX processor, the world's first dedicated physics processing unit. The AGEIA PhysX SDK v2.6 provides support for modeling and art tools, including plug-ins for Autodesk 3ds Max 7 and Alias Maya 7, as well as COLLADA Physics format import/export support. AGEIA PhysX technology is also integrated into Softimage /XSI v5.0, available directly from Softimage.



write your comments about the article :: © 2006 Game News :: home page