.3ds is a 3DStudio mesh file extension.
I use to use 3D Studio Max but since Caligari TrueSpace 7.6 has been given out for free by MS I am learning it. There are a very large number of free wmv files at the site to help you learn TS. You could import your 3ds files into TrueSpace. Work with them including your image files for texture then save them as a direct X .x file. The .x format seems to be a standard file format these days for games.
Just one idea anyway.
CrypticDragon
You know for a fact that you have reached the edge when you can absolutely see sound!