THE BEST, AFFORDABLE ANIMATION AND SFX TOOLS IN THE MARKET!!

Want to try before you buy, or looking for something simple but functional with no strings attached? Here's a list of various animation software packages available for download. Some are entirely free, some are shareware, some are free with limited functions (with more available after paying), and some are free trials that either expire after time or come with certain critical options disabled.

2D Animation Software

Software: Adobe AfterEffects
Publisher: Adobe
License: Free Trial
Comments: Motion graphics and visual effects for film and media.
KDX: A good tool for a stater or experienced person. If you know Photoshop, the fun is more.

Software: Animator-9 3.6
Publisher: Key Technology
License: Free
Comments: Make animated GIFs from your digital camera.

Software: AniS 1.0
Publisher: Tom Whittaker
License: Free
Comments: Simple image manipulation for the web.

Software: Jumpwel
Publisher: Phildes
License: Free
Comments: Basic object manipulator for use in HTML; uses Java applets.

Software: Macromedia Flash
Publisher: Macromedia
License: Free Trial
Comments: The leading name in 2D vector animation.
KDX: I'm a AS2.0 Programmer and askin me about this software is useless, but i can tell you that, you will really be someone learning this one day!!

Software: Macromedia Director
Publisher: Macromedia
License: Free Trial
Comments: Create interactive ShockWave content.
KDX: A good tool for including your programming, drawing and web based skills.

Software: Sqirlz Lite 1.1d
Publisher: xiberpix
License: Free
Comments: Animated image distorter that exports in AVI format.

Software: Sqirlz Morph 1.2c
Publisher: xiberpix
License: Free
Comments: Animated image morpher and blender.

Capable of outputting in Flash format.

3D Animation Software

Software: 3D Studio Max 7.0
Publisher: Discreet
License: Free Trial
Comments: Version 7.0 of the award-winning 3D modeling and animation software package. Also comes with trials of Character Studio and Mental Ray.

KDX: I can tell you that if you are into architecture or modelling, 3dsmax is now too good and incorporates a hell lot of design tools within.

Software: Cyberdelia
Publisher: Askoh.com
License: Free
Comments: 3D Animation with support for exporting into Macromedia Shockwave.

Software: FreeCAD 8.0
Publisher: Askoh.com
License: Free
Comments: Bit of a beginner’s 3D CAD and simulation program.

Software: Gmax
Publisher: Discreet
License: Free
Comments: Oh, man. It’s every gamer’s dream: a free 3D program that lets you make your own modifications, customizations, and models for Gmax-ready video games. Based on 3D Studio Max.

Software: Maya 6.5
Publisher: Alias WaveFront
License: Free Trial
Comments: The latest version of an industry leader in 3D modeling and animation.

KDX: Im not a good modeller, but when it comes to animation - key based, straight forward or motion capture - MAYA stands shoulders high. Great tool for rigged animation and expressions.

Publisher: Serif
License: Free
Comments: Allows animated shapes and landscapes.

Software: Special Effects 3.2
Publisher: Mathematically Beautiful ScreenSavers
License: Free
Comments: Very limited range of pre-set animations controlled by user preferences.

Software: Touch Art Sampler 017
Publisher: Derivative
License: Free
Comments: More of a VJ/synthesizer studio than anything else, but still lets you play with animations. Looks rather fun.

Software: TrueSpace 3.2
Publisher: Caligari
License: Free
Comments: Full 3D rendering and output. Seems completely free, though you have to register to get an unlock code on the website. Cross-compatible with many programs.