Could anyone tell me effective ways to export models to GameStudio complete with animation as seamlessly as possible?

I am not referencing any specific 3D application to do this with, though I will say that I am not interested in Max or Maya because of the price. I want to keep the price under $1000. I would like to use XSI but I have read that there is no way to export from this application and keep the animation.

Also, I would like to know if complex animation can be achieved from within Gamestudio itself. If so, would I be better off animating withing GameStudio?

I am simply seeking the best alternatives that require the least amount of tweaking.

Thanks.