I want to learn 3ds Max plugin development. Only C++ or other languages?

[Morne]

Hi all

I'm interested in learning some development for max to code my own plugins/scripts. Is maxscript it's own language or is the coding the same as for c++? Furthermore, if I develop a plugin (not a script), can it be done with something besides c++, like for example visual basic or java, or is it only done with c++?

[vlado]

MaxScript allows you to do many things by manipulating the 3ds Max scene; you only need C++ if you want to write completely new textures, materials, geometric objects etc. As of now you have to use C++ only since this is the language of the 3ds Max SDK. There is also a Python binding for 3ds Max written by Blur, but I'm not sure what are its capabilities.

Best regards,
Vlado

[plastic_]

Hi all

I'm interested in learning some development for max to code my own plugins/scripts. Is maxscript it's own language or is the coding the same as for c++? Furthermore, if I develop a plugin (not a script), can it be done with something besides c++, like for example visual basic or java, or is it only done with c++?

If you're asking that question, you should immediately forget C++ by any means, unless you want to lose your mind.
Seriously, Maxscript is quite powerful and as easy as it gets for a programming language.

[Morne]

so then is it possible to do something like "MultiScatter" and "MadCar" with Maxscript alone, or do you need C++ for that?

[vlado]

For that you would need C++

Best regards,
Vlado