Web Animation Comparison: Flash versus Shockwave
When you sit down to author a game or create aweb site, you have two basic software choices: Flash and Shockwave. Both provide comprehensive tools to do the job, but which one is right for your project? Here’s a side-by-side comparison of these two animation giants.
Flash Web Animation
Flash and Shockwave are perhaps the most well known web animation software tools on the market. They both provide designers with an intuitive desktop that offers one-button functioning and several production methods. But when you examine them closely, you’ll find that each has its own nuances.
- Download. Flash files download much faster than Shockwave, making this the ideal format for basic web sites looking to add just a little bit of flair.
- Universality. More than 90% of web users access Flash animation applications at some point. The plug-in is one of the most downloaded on the Web.
- Price. Flash animation is cheaper to use. Shockwave Director runs around $1,000 on the market, while Flash Creator starts at around $400.
Shockwave Web Animation
Shockwave is an entirely different ball game. Built for detail and resolution, web animators find that Shockwave is indispensable for the next generation projects that Flash just can’t handle.
- Capability. Shockwave is the natural choice for intricate graphics, hard-core gaming systems, and a deeper level of interactivity for the user.
- Functionality. With Shockwave, you have a greater selection of files that can be loaded into the system. Flash works in Shockwave, but not vice versa.
Both of these web animation programs provide you with a rich environment to create web pages and gaming platforms. Which one you choose comes down to purpose and preference.
About the author Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.
Posted on August 28, 2007 at 10:34 AM
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