Free 3D Modeling Packages

Here's a list of free 3D modelling tools which could be used in developing your own games:

• Blender
• Sketchup (mentioned in an earlier post)
• trueSpace

I'll also give a mention to Milkshape, which is a $35 shareware modeling program with a 30 day free trial.

How to compile from the command line with Visual Studio

I often forget how to compile a project from the command line. Here's my little reminder:

• First run C:\Program Files\Microsoft Visual Studio 8\VC\vcvarsall.bat
• Then call something of the form:  devenv c:\Foo\MySolution.sln /build "Release"

Note that this works for Visual Studio 2005. Small changes may be needed in other versions. Also, I don't think 'devenv' comes with the Express edition - try using 'VCExpress.exe' instead.

TrueType to bitmap conversion

A common bit of code which needs writing for game UI's is something which converts a TrueType font to being bitmap based, so it can be rendered in game efficiently.

A friend of mine has written a shareware app called Fontrast which does just this. Well worth the $15 compared with spending the time to write it yourself...

List of Game Middleware

I've spoken about Middleware for games a few times (click tag for more). GameMiddleware.org has a list of many of the options.