'Cosmic Blobs' Launches Version 1.1 for PC and Mac; New Version of Award-Winning 3D Modeling Program Allows Kids to Create Amazing Computer Art and Animation Movies on Mac and PC
Originally released for the PC in 2004, Cosmic Blobs gives children ages 7 to 14 endless options for sculpting, decorating, and animating 3D computer models called "Blobs." Kids start with basic shapes, and use an array of tools to bend, pull, stretch, and sculpt their inventions. They can then decorate them with colors, textures, and decals before bringing them to life with animation. With Cosmic Blobs version 1.1, budding artists enjoy an improved user interface, new decals and textures, downloadable bonus content, and the ability to capture animated movies.
"Cosmic Blobs version 1.1 incorporates powerful new features and enhancements based on feedback we received after the initial launch six months ago. Kids can now capture and save their animated movies, and the improved user interface and starter content make it easier than ever for children to interact with 3D modeling technology," said Scott Harris, Cosmic Blobs' creator. "The Mac platform is considered a standard in graphic design for various consumer and entertainment creativity applications, and Cosmic Blobs is a unique 3D application that is sure to appeal to the Mac community."
Cosmic Blobs' integration with the iLife(R) and iWork(TM) applications further enhances the program's functionality on the Mac. Cosmic Blobs also aligns well with Apple's commitment to content creativity, particularly with the education market.
The original PC-only version of Cosmic Blobs, Lab Rat Edition, has earned significant recognition from various parents' and children's product review organizations, including a 2005 Parents' Choice Recommended award, a 4.5 star rating from Children's Technology Review, and a listing as one of Dr. Toy's Smart Play/Smart Toy Children's Products for 2005. Cosmic Blobs successful adoption into school systems around the world has also contributed to the new version's design as the development team incorporated feedback from educators and students extensively while building version 1.1.
Dassault Systemes will release themed expansion packs for Cosmic Blobs on a regular basis, with the first, "Critter Chaos," included free with this new version of the program. "Critter Chaos" includes fantastic animal-themed models, textures, decals, animations, and background options. Bonus Cosmic Blobs content and instructional information is also available through the use of Mac OS X Tiger's new Dashboard functionality. The Cosmic Blobs "Widget," the first designed specifically for children, provides desktop access to models, tutorials, and educational curricula for kids, parents, and educators.
Cosmic Blobs runs on Macintosh OS X version 10.3 Panther and 10.4 Tiger with a G4 1.25 GHz processor or better and 256MB of RAM. For Windows PC, a Pentium III 1.0 GHz processor or better, 256MG of RAM, and a 32MB 3D video card is recommended.
Pricing and Availability
Cosmic Blobs version 1.1 is available for purchase online at www.cosmicblobs.com or at Amazon.com with an MSRP of $44.99. Cosmic Blobs will be available for the first time in retail at the Apple Company Stores beginning in July 2005.
For more information on Cosmic Blobs, visit www.cosmicblobs.com.
About the Cosmic Blobs Team
Cosmic Blobs(R) computer software is the result of sustained efforts to bring the power of 3D computer graphics to everyone, including children. The Cosmic Blobs team is a dedicated group of programmers, mathematicians, artists, and visionaries - all kids at heart. For more information, visit www.cosmicblobs.com.
About Dassault Systemes
As world leader in 3D and PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) solutions, the Dassault Systemes group brings value to more than 80,000 customers in 80 countries. A pioneer in the 3D software market since 1981, Dassault Systemes develops and markets PLM application software and services that support industrial processes and provide a 3D vision of the entire life cycle of products from conception to maintenance. Its offering includes integrated PLM solutions for product development (CATIA(R), DELMIA(R), ENOVIA(R), SMARTEAM(R)), mainstream 3D design tools (SolidWorks(R)), and 3D components (Spatial/ACIS(R)). Dassault Systemes is listed on the Nasdaq (DASTY) and Euronext Paris (#13065, DSY.PA) stock exchanges. For more information, visit http://www.3ds.com.
