I think it's a good move that's for sure, not all of us need everything Poser offers, especially not when you're starting out. This would actually be perfect for me, I only render occasionally these days, very basic stuff, don't need all the extra bells and whistles anymore. I can see how this can draw in new people trying out 3D and hobbyists with little demands.

 

On the other hand I agree with Wolf359..... knowing how the competition draws in new customers, by giving away their base application for free, SM should perhaps not have price taged this at all.

 

There's also a worrying aspect to this move, it sounds like the current customer base is not enough validate poser anymore and expansion needs to be made to ensure future development.

 

As for the commercial posts, while I understand the reasoning for allowing this, it still doesn't change the whole 'commercial posts not allowed' issue. We all know the cases where mods (viciously) jumped in a thread closing it because of the commercial nature. This is very typical for Rendo, some get a way with stuff, while others don't. We all get treated equally, with the exception of a number of people. Nothing new. I'll leave it at this, you either make clear rules for everyone to abide by, without exceptions, or let things be free. Not like it is now, some people seem to be above the rules and that's not good imo.

Artwork and 3DToons items, create the perfect place for you toon and other figures!

http://www.renderosity.com/mod/bcs/index.php?vendor=23722

Due to the childish TOS changes, I'm not allowed to link to my other products outside of Rendo anymore :(

Food for thought.....
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYZw0dfLmLk