If you need to export to .x format, Blender has built-in exporters that are more actively maintained than legacy plugins.
As of 2024, has become the primary tool for indie 3D Rad developers. It is free, open-source, and has a thriving scripting community. The Blender 3D Rad Exporter Plugin (often called io_export_rad.py ) is the most reliable option today.
The exporter generates a .x file along with a folder of textures (usually .jpg or .png ) that can be loaded directly into 3D Rad. 3D Rad Exporter Alternatives and Modern Workflows
Because 3D Rad is an older engine, you will encounter errors. Here is a cheatsheet for the most common issues with the 3D Rad exporter plugin. 3d rad exporter plugin
Historically, 3ds Max was the primary tool used by the 3D Rad community. Plugins like or the official Microsoft DirectX SDK Exporter integrate directly into the 3ds Max utility panel, offering robust dropdown menus specifically tuned for 3D Rad's frame-rate requirements. 3. Autodesk Maya
Is 3D Rad dead? Not entirely. The engine has not had an official update since 2014, but the community has kept it alive through "modded" versions (like 3D Rad v9) and custom exporter plugins. In 2025, the engine sees a nostalgia-driven renaissance, particularly among developers making "Dad-ware" style racing games and puzzle platformers.
The DirectX format exporter (often available on GitHub repositories dedicated to legacy gaming engines). How to use it: Download the zip file of the addon. Go to Edit > Preferences > Add-ons > Install in Blender. Enable "Import-Export: DirectX Model Format (.x)". If you need to export to
: A dedicated exporter exists to bridge Blender's advanced modeling and physics with the 3D Rad environment, though it requires specific Blender versions (typically 2.67 or newer) to function correctly. Installation & Troubleshooting
3D Rad remains a beloved, accessible game engine for creators who want to build interactive 3D worlds without writing complex code. However, the biggest challenge for many 3D Rad developers is importing custom 3D models into the engine. Because 3D Rad relies on specific file formats like .x (DirectX format), you cannot just drop a standard .obj or .fbx file into your project.
A common error in newer Windows versions is when the plugin indicates a successful export, but no file appears. This is often caused by permission issues with the AppData folder. Try running SketchUp as an Administrator. The Blender 3D Rad Exporter Plugin (often called
Newer versions and community mods sometimes support .obj or .dae (Collada), but the .x format remains the most stable for physics and skeleton animations.
3D Rad remains a classic, lightweight game engine favored by indie developers for its physics-based automation and visual programming paradigm. However, the true power of the engine is unlocked only when you can seamlessly import your custom 3D models. This is where the 3D Rad Exporter Plugin becomes an essential component of your development pipeline.
3D Rad works best with simple material textures (jpg/png). Complex procedural shaders in SketchUp will not export properly.