Architosh reports that the Windows-based 3D software package, Houdini, is coming to the Mac OS X platform and Houdini for Mac Beta has been announced. The company is looking for beta testers and to get their Mac version in the hands of as many 3D professionals as possible. The developer says "With the recent redesign of the Houdini user-interface (UI), the program has become much more artist-friendly, claims the company, making it a great fit for the Mac. Apple's switch to Intel processors has also been a factor in developing a native Mac version."

This is a closed beta program, in which Side Effects Software is looking for a group of dedicated Mac 3D artists to provide rigorous real-world testing The company plans to release a public beta for Houdini for Mac in the early summer. Details about the feature set and release dates will be available when the public beta starts. Houdini ships in two versions, Houdini Escape for $2000 and Houdini Master for $8000.