The Bottom Line
Macromedia Flash MX just keeps getting better and better. It started out as primarily an animation tool but has evolved into so much more. And this latest release makes it possible to design an entire Web site quickly and with exciting effects using Flash.
Pros
- Powerful ActionScript 2.0 adds OO programming
- Timeline effects and common tasks now done with one step
- Easy to import video clips
Cons
- Very complex, so difficult to learn
Description
- Flash is the industry standard for Web applications and animation.
- Strong integration with other Macromedia tools makes it easy to focus on the job of Web design.
- Third-party developers can extend Flash using the new JavaScript API.
- Using the new Flash player, you can boost performance by as much as 10 times.
- Spell-checker, search and replace, and macros help you work more effectively.
- Use simple check boxes to create accessible content.
- ActionScript 2.0 is an object oriented program language, more familiar to Java coders.
- New start screen makes it a snap to access most recently edited files and more.
- Support included for PDF and EPS files.
- Apply CSS styles to your Flash Web pages.
Guide Review - Macromedia Flash MX 2004
Macromedia Flash MX 2004 offers new timeline effects to make things easier for the developer, and a new version of ActionScript 2.0 that is object oriented. But the best thing about it is the speed. If you publish your projects for play in the latest version of the Flash player you will see between 2 and 10 times increase in speed and performance. For highly Flash focused sites, this could be a vital improvement.
The other improvements, such as timeline effects and behaviors are nice, but not as easy as I wanted them to be. Flash MX 2004 is not for the faint of heart. If you're new to Flash, be sure to get a book to help you learn it. The online help is comprehensive, but I found it hard to read.
Creating a Flash Web application is a great way to create powerful, high-impact Web pages. And Macromedia Flash MX 2004 is ideal.
