Autodesk Maya 2018.5 , you can create and customize 3D text using the
Modeling and UV Workflow
MASH Toolset: A powerful motion graphics plugin integrated into Maya that allows for procedural modeling and complex scattering. In version 2018.5, it was frequently used for creating environmental effects like forests or architectural elements like roofs. Autodesk Maya 2018.5
Don't just install the base .5. Download Maya 2018.5 Update 6 (the final hotfix). This patch fixes the "Undo crash" related to the Node Editor.
: Maya 2018 was the first to bundle Arnold 5.0, featuring a significantly updated core for faster rendering and new shaders like Advanced Modeling Tools : Introduced the Circularize command Autodesk Maya 2018
Arnold 5 Integration: Bundled as the primary renderer, Arnold 5 introduced physically accurate shaders (Standard Surface, Standard Hair) and improved sampling for faster, cleaner renders.
Autodesk Maya 2018.5 is a specific update release within the Maya 2018 lifecycle, focused primarily on Step 1: The Hotfix Don't just install the base
: High-performance polygon and subdivision surface modeling tools. ACM Digital Library comparison