Currently, many of the ms3d models that I am using in jME 2.0 appear to have animation defects that are not present when viewed in the MilkShape 3D application. After searching through the forums, I have found that others also have issues like this and that no solution, apparently, has been zeroed in on. The following thread link looks to be about the most in-depth on the subject – however, no conclusion was apparently reached:
http://www.jmonkeyengine.com/jmeforum/index.php?topic=8331.0
I don't seem to recall that jME 1.0 had the same issues, so I'm wondering if something changed between that version and 2.0. Of course, I was not trying to do the same sort of complex animations back then as I am trying to do now – the difference between opening a treasure chest with one bone vs walking/running and fighting/magic postures and moves.
If anyone knows of a solution for 2.0, please post it so that it can be assessed and merged into the 2.0 code base for all to enjoy. Or, if there isn't a solution, and others have the same issues (with this very nice modeling and animation format) and would like to work on a solution, key in and let's go.
I can provide a basic test model and comparative screen-shots if needed/wanted.