Hiya.

You can also try trueSpace (www.caligari.com), it's free as well.
A lot of people really like the "combo" style development where they use a specialized tool for each step. For example, Wings3D for modeling, UltimateUnwrap3D for UV'ing, the GIMP for texturing, and Fragmotion for animation. (there are a LOT of other decent programs out there for various tasks).

I used to use XSI (since it was just called Softimage|3D 11 or so years ago), but when Autodesk bought them out, I jumped ship. No renewal of maintenance or upgrading for me. I LOVE XSI...I *hate* Autodesk. So, I now use Lightwave 3D (which, by the way, is currently developing a totally new package based on Lightwave ideas, called CORE; I'm a member of the HardCORE beta team...:) ).

Anyway, if I was you, I'd avoid Autodesk. You will *not* be able to afford it if you are just a hobbyest/newbie-indie type. Go with something cheaper, or that doesn't have a blackmail policy (re: autodesk's "give us a grand or two every year and we'll let you use our stuff...but if you fail to make a payment, we kick you out and you have to re-buy at full price"...)

PS: Sorry for the mini-autodesk rant...I really like their softwares (used Maya, 3DS MAX and XSI...but only own 3DS MAX and XSI), but their corporate/company policies *SUCK*.