Autodesk to Release Subscription-based Maya LT on Steam Later this Month

Steam’s software section hasn’t quite exploded at the seams with titles since its introduction in late 2012, but of what is available, most looks quite good. This is especially the case if you’re a developer; from 3D graphics to audio, there are many solutions available.

Steam has been lacking some big names on the development side of software, however – something that’s going to be remedied a bit later this month. On April 22, Autodesk will be releasing Maya LT (2015, at current) on the service, priced at $50/mo, and available on Windows and Mac OS X. That price matches what Autodesk itself charges through its own website, and while there it also offers a discounted license of $400/yr, it’ll unfortunately launch on Steam without that option (that doesn’t mean that it won’t come in time).

Autodesk’s “LT” releases have often been considered “Limited” or “Light”, but both are poor terms given all that the software offers: These are still incredibly advanced solutions. Maya LT targets indie gamers looking for a feature-rich solution that doesn’t break the bank and will help them deliver the most compelling of experiences.

Autodesk is hopping on the Dota 2 bandwagon with this announcement, as it states that Maya LT is the perfect solution for designing content to be used (or sold) in the game. Frank Delise, Autodesk’s Director of Games Solution, states:

The Valve community is unique, because it includes a very engaged mix of both gamers and developers working together to mod titles and generate content. We hope Maya LT will further that creative spirit and help a Steam user of any skill level to create high quality 3D game assets. We’re engaging with the community on day one by participating in forums, answering questions and offering custom tutorial content for DoTA 2 fans. We can’t wait to try new things with the community and see how they push Maya LT to its limit and beyond.

Those interested in exploring Maya LT on Steam can head on over to its Steam page. At the moment, there isn’t a purchase button; that will become available on April 22. It’s worth noting that a full retail version of Maya LT carries an SRP of $795, which in some ways sounds like a steal given Autodesk is charging $50/mo on Steam. But, with a perceptual license, much like with Adobe’s CC, you’re always kept up-to-date.

I think this is a great move by Autodesk overall, but I do hope that it’s one that could spawn the birth of a Linux version of Maya LT. Most of Linux’s current catalog on Steam owes its thanks to indie developers, and given Maya LT targets indie developers… do I need to say more?