on the alpha sorting problem

Hi, I'm new to SL and 3D modeling, but I've been having a lot of fun with both the last couple months. However, I just ran into the infamous "alpha sorting" problem.

The prim count for my project was ballooning; but, I realized that I could, theoretically, replace most of my prims with textures containing transparent areas. Unfortunately, I discovered the "alpha sorting" glitch would thwart this effort. I read everything I could find in these forums about the problem, and I have these observations and suggestion:

1. Many SL content creators have taken advantage of the alpha sorting glitch, and they would be very unhappy if the bug were fixed.

2. The experts point out that any solution would increase the load on the real-time rendering engine.

However, one expert mentioned in these forums that a 3D modeling program does exist where the alpha sorting glitch can be toggled on or off (presumably, by the user and by object). This would be the ideal solution. I suggest it would be well worth the significant development effort necessary to implement this kind of solution in SL. I suspect the problem with a fix increasing the rendering load would be offset by the greatly decreased number of prims to be rendered. I would also think that a fix along these lines could lead to significantly enhanced content in SL. What do you think, Linden gurus?

Thanks,
Craig Hilbert

Hiya Craig! "Alpha sorting" (also known as "z-fighting", among other things) has created a unique industry within Second Life of visual effects as you mention in (1). (2) would precisely have yet to be determined, but as we currently have a focus on Second Life's performance and stability, it'd be wise to measure any adverse effects.

It doesn't sound like a fix for "alpha sorting" will be coming soon, but I'll definitely include your feedback in the related project file.