How do I get my 3ds Max models into an iPhone 3D game?

Question

I've written a couple apps that are currently published in the app store. However, I'd like to start writing games that use OpenGL ES. I know how to model objects in 3D Studio Max but what I don't know is how to get my models into an OpenGL ES application on the iPhone/iPad and then manipulate those objects to create gameplay.

Can anyone point me in the right direction to get started on this?

Just to clarify...I don't mind writing code; I'm not looking for a point and click solution.

I would imagine that I'd need to export my models into some sort of format. What is that format and how do I incorporate it into a game on the iPhone/iPad?

Answer 1

While more involved than you're looking for, Stephen Jayna has a great writeup on how he exported textured models from LightWave in COLLADA format for use in OpenGL ES on the iPhone.

Bill Dudney had put a little effort into making a Wave Front OBJ loader for the iPhone a while back, but I think that Jeff LaMarche's project to do the same might be the farthest along.

UPDATE (8/10/2011): Jonathan Wight recently posted his TouchOpenGL code, which includes an OBJ parser.

Answer 2

I've used this before with some luck. However, I would say there are no easy answers to this in my experience. They all required some coding/wiring up for me.