WhiteFireDaemon wrote : I'd love the chance to learn how to make one of these games. I was looking through some old notes on how he made the games, but when I saw the pricetag on just the posing software I lost a lot of hope.
There's no need to start off with the expensive software like Poser or even the full Daz suite. Try the free version of Daz3d, it's a full piece of software with no time limits. It just lacks some of the features of the paid for versions.
You can also get some of the basic models, Vicky/Michael etc. for free, and the forums have a "freepository" where you can find lots of other free content created by fellow users. I think I spotted the excellent Foberginhi in Sharks new game (am I right Shark?).
If you enjoy rendering, and can afford it I reccomend joining the Platinum club there. It costs $100 for a year's membership, but part of that is $5 of free purchases each month, on top of a 30% discount on all their products. Between the various discounts and vouchers I had at the time I got the full version af Daz3D Advanced for about $15-$17.
I love it, although I can't compose a scene for toffee. I really dig messing about with different lighting and effects. I'll happily post a few images I've got if folk are interested.
My main point is don't be frightened by the prices charged by a lot of places. You don't need Photoshop CS to edit your holiday snaps, and you don't need Maya to make some fun and funky renders. More affordable stuff is out there, try it and enjoy it.