I’ve noted that Epic is testing 3dsmax import, and according documentation it should be possibl with Datasmith. However, I do have a package exported in 3ds Max format but importing with Datasmith is NOT possible since that extension does not show up in the selection of extensions. Current project to import the assets into is 5.1.1
What are you referring to?
For the datasmith route you need to install a datasmith exporter on your 3dsmax, and then use datasmith to export a .udatasmith file and datas in a separate folder. Then that file and side data can be loaded in UE with datasmith.
Else there is the FBX/glTF/USD route.
UE does not load native max formats.
FBX is the standard for autodesk products, there isn’t a lot of reason to use the datasmith method. We’ve been using fbx for 20 yrs now.
Datasmith is more for things like cad where they use shapes and curves not polys.
FBX is enough in many use cases. It depends how complex is the user scene and what they want to do.
Through datasmith we try to have more information carried for light, material, instances, etc.