This is simulation from the 2000's?!

Believe it or not, this was quite normal for a select group of individuals who created things like this everyday. What kind of things am I talking about, you ask? Visit the links below and see what I mean!

1. http://www.adobe.com/products/flex/

I found this link interesting because there were things that added definition to the user experience, beyond just clicking buttons.

2.http://www.ogre3d.org/wiki/index.php/GetStarted

I found that this program, called Ogre, that, with a basic grounding in programming, can be very helpful in creating 3D environments, animations, and games. All in all, with the right background, it can really help create those 3d thigns you've always dreamed of.

3. http://www.edcenter.sdsu.edu/geowall/

I like that this lets you controls cameras, but still a little let down that you can't control the plane. Not completely interactive. This is in the first download. Nothing needed to install, but doesn't seem like a complete interactivity project.

4. http://www.forgefx.com/casestudies/prenticehall/ph/ants/ants.htm

I personally enjoyed this simulation. At this link, you control ants, add them via anthills, add or erase pheromones. There were a couple of things that I would have changed

5. http://www.pleasetouchmuseum.org/exhibits/test.html

The things that I liked most about this was that it lets the user controls the zoom. Most web applcations have no control over zoom level. Otherwise, nothing unique.

Observations:

I liked the fact that there was some interaction, based on not only the choices we made, but also based on how long it takes, if you hesitate. Not only are events based on actions, but they are also based on non-actions.

I'm also very amazed that the graphics were as good as they were. Based on the software that they had all that time ago, the graphics that we saw today, were very advanced at that point in time.

I was a little disappointed that the screens weren't in sync, but maybe that was the case because the facility was not in use for awhile, or whatever that case may be.

One of the things that I liked a lot was the facial recognition system using a webcam. It's really handy, because it makes facial animation that much more easier to create and implement.

Another thing was that I looked at some of the tools on the shelves and was really surprised that I knew some of them from previous courses. I recognized 3D Studio Max and Maya. I'm mainly familiar with 3D Studio Max, but I have heard about Maya as well, so I was surprised that those programs, in conjunction with other 3d applications, to create the games we see out on the market today.