Creators

Max Dev Tool

MaxPkg Packager

MaxPkg Packager is a small script for people who create 3ds Max tools.

It helps turn your script project into a clean .mzp package that maxpkg can understand.

You can get it here:

maxpkg-dev/max-dev-tool

How it feels to use

Put maxpkg-packager.ms into your script project folder and run it in 3ds Max.

The packager opens a simple window with a few tabs:

  • package information;
  • setup and toolbar options;
  • files included in the package;
  • release version and changelog.

When everything is ready, click Build MZP.

The result is an .mzp file that can be tested in 3ds Max and uploaded to maxpkg.dev.

What you need before building

For a simple package, prepare:

  • your main .ms, .mse, or .py file;
  • a package name;
  • a short description;
  • a license;
  • a square SVG icon;
  • one changelog note;
  • supported 3ds Max version range.

The packager checks the important parts and shows what needs to be fixed before building.

Entry file

The entry file is the file that runs when a user clicks your tool button.

For MaxScript tools, this is usually your main .ms or .mse file.

For Python tools, it can be a .py file.

The packager stores this information in the package so MaxPkg Manager knows how to run the tool later.

Testing before upload

Always test the generated .mzp before uploading it.

In 3ds Max, run it through:

Scripting -> Run Script

Check that the package installs, the button appears where expected, and the tool opens correctly.

Then upload the .mzp in the Developer Dashboard.