Are there any good Javascript graphics libraries?

Question

After staring at this 3D cube and these triangles for a while I started wondering if there's any good reliable Javascript graphics library with basic 3D support.

Any suggestion?

Answer 1

Take a look at dojox.gfx: docs, tests, demos (last two links to the nightly snapshot on the test server optimized for debugging, not for production).

It uses native graphics: SVG, VML, Silverlight or Canvas — whatever is available on the client covering all major browsers (IE, Firefox, Safari/Webkit, Opera).

While it is 2D, it can be used as a foundation for 3D stuff. In fact there is a library that takes advantage of it: dojox.gfx3d. Examples (can be found in tests):

• cylinders
• cube
• pilot test

And for truly adventurous types there is a library done for Dojo as part of Google Summer of Code 2008: True 3D. Obviously it is much faster than 2D/3D hybrid, and suitable for fluid animation. You can explore it on your own (the previous link is a publicly available Subversion repository), but be warned: it works only on Firefox and Opera with special 3D graphics add-ons from respective vendors. You'll find all gory details in the documentation.

Have fun!