How to import 3D models into Alice:

In addition to an extensive online gallery of models, Alice also lets you import 3D models saved out at ASE (ASCII Scene Exporter) files. If you want some information on how to make effective Alice models, check out this site: Effective Alice Models

Step 1: Exporting the file from 3D Studio

From the "File" menu select "Export". From the "Save as type" dropdown select "ASCII Scene Export", give the file an appropriate name, and hit "Save". Make sure when you save out the model that you keep the texture in the same directory. When Alice imports the ASE file it will look in the same place for any textures the model may need.

Step 2: Setting the export options

When the export dialog comes up, make sure all of the "Mesh Options" are checked and hit OK.

Step 3: Import the model into Alice

Under the "File" menu, select "Import". Make sure you select "ASE" from the "Files of type" dropdown. Navigate to where you exported your model to, select it, and hit "Import".

Step 4: Looking at the model

When the model imports, you'll probably want to get a better look at it to see how it looks in Alice. Right-click on the model in the model tree and select "Camera get a good look at this". This will frame the object in the middle of the view and zoom out as necessary.

Step 5: Resize the model (if needed)

If the model is too big (a common problem since 3D Studio uses different units from Alice), simply use the "resize" method to shrink it down. Resize it by about 1/2 until it's the size you need it for your scene.

That's it! Now you can use it just like any Alice model. Go ahead and save it out as an A2C file so you won't have to import it again.