Autodesk launches Maya & 3DS MAX Indie license

At Siggraph 2019 Autodesk announce a piloting trial of an Indie subscription for people starting out with Maya or 3DS Max. If you meet the criteria, instead of paying $2170 (AUD) you only will need to cash out $354.79 (AUD). At this stage, this price is at a trial. If it does become successful, Autodesk may expand the scheme to include other countries.

Who is eligible?

• Your annual gross revenue from your work must be less than (USD) $100,000 / year.
• Only one license can be used per user or organisation.
• Offer is only eligible to those based in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK or the US.

Note: To ensure you do not get charged the full license price the following year, you will need to manually switch auto-renew off.

What’s the verdict of the Autodesk Indie license?

Maya or Max is an industry standard for 3D animation in movie VFX and game creation. Both packages come with amazing 3D creation tools, animation and rendering capabilities. This offer benefits, freelance artist and small business or individuals wanting to jump into the Autodesk 3D ecosystem.

However, it makes me wonder why Autodesk is making this move at right at this moment. Is it because it wants to capture more market share from indie users which other less expensive or free 3D software are doing so well at. I guess, only Autodesk insiders will be able to tell you that.

Is there another options than Autodesk Indie license?

Yes there is, Blender 2.8, is similar to Maya or 3DS MAX and is free. Other free options includes 3D Crafter, Meshmixer 3 (Autodesk 3D printing app), Onshape (CAD) and SketchUp which are less comprehensive. However if your stuck in the Autodesk 3D platform, then the Autodesk Indie license is the best and most valuable alternative.

Links to purchase your license as below.
Maya Indie link: https://area.autodesk.com/maya-indie/
3DS Max Indie link: https://area.autodesk.com/3ds-max-indie/