Metasequoia, also known as either "Metaseq" or "Meta," is a 3D modeling program that allows the user to create 3D models, objects, and landscapes. Metasequoia is used by many model makers to create MMD models, with a plugin that allows one to export .pmd files directly or save as a direct .x file.
The software was created by Osamu Mizuno in 1998 and released in 1999. It was originally intended for Japanese users, but has attracted outside users and is now available in English.
The current version, 2.4, costs 45 USD. Payment is available through Paypal, though O. Mizno would like to be contacted through email first.
The Creator[]
On his website concerning the software, O. Mizno said the following in his welcome page:
"I produce a software named "Metasequoia" as shareware. I also release a limited edition "MetasequoiaLE" as freeware. This software is made in my personal activity (not a work).
Metasequoia is a polygon modeler for 3DCG and game development. It provides you efficient modeling works. It is very easy to use and learn, and even a beginner of 3DCG will be able to manage it one day."
Features[]
MetasequoiaLE upon launch.
Metasequoia has a simpler layout compared to other 3D modeling programs such as Blender. This is intended to make the software user-friendly to novices.
Two variations of Metasequoia are available from the site. The freeware, MetasequoiaLE, will not have all the advantages as the full version. Instead, some of the key features needed to fully create a 3D model will be available in the shareware edition upon purchase.
| Feature | Shareware | Freeware |
|---|---|---|
| Highlight Selection | Yes | Yes |
| Local Coordinate and Object Hierarchy | Yes | Yes |
| Patch Weight | Yes | No |
| Vertex Color | Yes | No |
| Edit With Handle | Yes | Yes |
| Blob | Yes | No |
| 3D Painting | Yes | Yes |
| Lathe | Yes | No |
| UV Editor | Yes | No |
| Subdivision Surface | Yes | Yes |
| Mirror | Yes | Yes |
| Rendering | Yes | Yes |
| Cartoon Rendering | Yes | Yes |
| Save As and Load MQO | Yes | Yes |
| Three Orthographic Views | Yes | No |
| Export X, DFX, RDS, SUF, POV, SCE, COB | Yes | Yes |
| Plugin Support | Yes | No |
| Python Script Support | Yes | No |
| Susie Plugin | Yes | No |
| Commercial Use of Model Data | Yes | Yes |
| Export LWO, 3DS, OBJ, VRML | Yes | No |
Exporting .pmd files requires the use of a plugin. The full version needs to be purchased in order to utilize the plugins.
System Requirements[]
General:
- Operating system:
- Windows 98
- Windows Me
- Windows NT 4.0
- Windows 2000
- Windows XP
- Windows Vista (32/64bit)
- Windows 7 (32/64bit)
- Pentium or compatible processor
- 32MB empty of RAM
- 640 x 480 x 16bpp
- Installed DirectX 8.0 or later (for using Direct3D)
- Installed OPENGL32.DLL (for using OpenGL)
Recommended:
- Operating system:
- Windows 2000
- Windows XP
- Windows Vista (32/64bit)
- Windows 7 (32/64bit)
- Pentium4 or higher
- 128MB empty of RAM
- 1024 x 768 x 24bpp
- Video card acceralates Direct3D and OpenGL
- Mouse with 3 buttons or wheel
NOTE: To create .pmd models, you must have the later versions (XP and up).