Getting started with 3D in Delphi

Building a FireMonkey application with 3D capabilities requires a TViewPort3D component container for holding 3D objects. Starting a new 3D application gives you a form unit based on TForm3D that conveniently bundles the TViewPort3D container in for you. If you have an existing 2D FireMonkey application, you can add a TViewPort3D container onto it, in which you can put 3D objects.

There's no better way to learn than to dive in and start playing in this new arena. I would suggest creating a new multi-device application, selecting the 3D Application template, and placing a few controls from the 3D Shapes section of the palette onto the form. As you place each one, you'll notice the objects have four handles with which to resize and rotate the object in 3D space. Most also have a default color of red.

Another thing you'll notice is that all 3D controls are initially placed in the center of the viewport. ViewPort3D is measured in...