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iDTech 5 was publicly unveiled by John Carmack during the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference 2007 as the next-generation game engine from Texas-based id Software. Of all the engines featured in this roundup, it's the one about which least is known as no games have yet shipped using the technology.

The first to do so will be id's Rage, a vehicle combat game involving large, exterior areas. In this respect, one of the most important features of idTech 5 is the MegaTexture system -- a high-quality streaming technology which treats environments as one very large texture rather than breaking it down into tiled components.

Another element highlighted is the collision system which id claims prevents the typical geometric interpenetrations and collision errors currently seen in games.

Linked into the game engine is the real-time idStudio, which interfaces with the system's development tools and editors, ensuring data consistency and integration with source control solutions. IdStudio also allows you to run game content practically instantaneous on all supported target platforms.

In keeping with other id engines from Quake onwards, IdTech5 supports the OpenGL graphics standard, ensuring core cross-platform support across Mac, PC as well as Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

iDTech 4 (iDTech 5 available on a select basis)

Features: HDR rendering; soft shadows; integrated physics, animation, AI and audio engines; MegaTexture system; idStudio development suite

Platforms: Mac, PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360

Integration with Other Technologies: interfaces for Alienbrain and DevTrack, plus plug-ins for 3ds Max, LightWave 3D and Maya

Cost: idTech 4, $250,000 guarantee against a 5 percent royalty; idTech 5, available on request

Released Games Include: idTech 4: Doom 3 (id), Quake 4 (Raven), Prey (Human Head), Enemy Territory: Quake Wars (Splash Damage) idTech 5: none

Games in Development Include: idTech 5: Rage (id)

www.idsoftware.com/business

Human Head's Prey