Buying a "software" that does almost 'similar' thing just because of price comparison?...no, no, no...people. Buy what you can afford or want that fit your need and style of work. Bryce and Vue are both quite similar for what it does for you in your CG work. They can't be compare in the sense of "apple to apple". They are both tools that aid you in your work. Even without both these program, I have seen work done by 2d artist that does just as good, if not better. We do have a saying here that each dollar has its and this imply to products and goods in turn of "quality". Here I say, Bryce and Vue is not much different, they both have what it takes to give you that "ummmphnn!!!" in your work. To each his own and be happy with what you bought. Like I suggested, if one is more familar with Bryce, go for the Bryce upgrade if theres is "?" in your head. Its just a question of marketing strategy to win customer/user over from one to the other. Me?..what am I saying?...did I buy Vue 4 because it was cheaper?..NO! I have both and never like Bryce 4 rendering speed and user GUI...Vue 3 blasted Bryce 4 out of the sky! Who knows Bryce 5 would do the same to Vue 4? Read the other threads...using volumetric stuff in Vue 4 is already causing a lot of question, there is already a patch or two expected...now Bryce or Vue, each has its caveats and fill. Buy either one should one only be your choice and make the best out of it. If you can afford both, go get them all :) Errr..bythe way...go figure...I like Bryce volumetric clouds that Vue 4 ones...but I use Vue 4 more often!!!....LOL!!!...till I wanna almost die. Okay...I'm dead!