For all Maya fans who love a bit of nostalgia. I discovered an amazing website that collects all Maya splash screens in one place. On toxik.sk you can find a comprehensive database of every Maya version and its splash screen, starting from the very first version 1.0 in February 1998.
A Look Back: Back then, Maya was still released under a different manufacturer. Each new version came with a unique splash screen that showcased stunning CG artwork. For me, these splash screens were always a highlight when launching Maya. They set the mood and reminded you of the incredible artistry behind the software.
My Personal Favorite: My favorite Maya splash screen is from version 8.0. It featured a creature that looked like a dragon. I still vividly remember opening Maya for the first time and seeing that image. It was my very first encounter with Maya, and that dragon splash screen stuck with me ever since. To this day, I think it is one of the most iconic Maya splash screens of all time.
Copyright: Autodesk
What Changed: Unfortunately, Autodesk moved away from unique splash screens at some point. Today, Maya only shows a generic splash image when you launch it. I truly miss the old days when every new version came with its own piece of artwork. It made each update feel special.
A Small Note: The collection on toxik.sk currently goes up to version 2023. Hopefully it will be continued, because I think this website is a fantastic resource for the Maya community.
What About You?: Do you remember your first Maya splash screen? Which one was your favorite? I would love to hear your thoughts!