From time-to-time there arises the question on entry level and free versions of 3D software. Well, as often is said, there ain't no such thing as a free lunch - but...
There are available programs that can create quality work or, at the very least, allow would be 3D artists to get some experience. To that I offer this.
For those who are interested keep an eye out for either 3D World or Computer Arts magazines. Unfortunately I do not subscribe (shame on me) but do buy these with tremendous regularity. Due to the fact these are British mags, I am about 2 months behind in release.
The current (US) version of the Computer Arts Magazine,
Winter Edition 2002, includes LightWave Discovery. This is a student license version of the product that will limit the size of the project and watermarks the renders - but it is free. You can also order this from NewTek.
Again, 3D World has TrueSpace 3 complete and the lastest (US) issue has a new tutorial that is much better than the last.
It would be nice to get feedback from anyone who has tried Discovery or acquired it through the Magazine.