Making maps?

[Dark_CZ7 0]

Sorry this probably is really stupid but how exactly do I begin to start creating my own maps? Do I make the map layout in 3DSM? Sorry I'm lost.

[Biro 0]

Yes, use 3d Studio Max 3, 4 or 5 for it.

Check out THIS tutorial for how to get started on it. If you have no knowledge to 3d studio max from before, I will recommend you to go trough some of the tutorials that follow the program. Good luck!

[Dark_CZ7 0]

Thankyou very much .

I use C4D, so the transition should be ok, but I have a question. What about specific enemy placements, triggers and such? Are those also done in Max? Heh I bet those answers are probably answered in that tutorial, but just thought I'd ask. Going to go read that tut now, thanks again.

[deleyt 0]

You can use C4D for modeling, but some objects need to be tagged aswell and that's only possible with the map-editor plugin.

That plugin only works for 3DSM, so whatever program you use now to model, you will have to need 3DSM in the end anyhow.

[The Worm 0]

I see you're new to GR modding

The geometry of the map is built using 3DSM. You'll need plugins found in the GR Island Thunder CD. Note that one of the plugins needs to be updated. There is also the famous "PDF" in the CD, a sort of manual on map making. Once the map is made, it's more or less hard coded and not much can be changed.

Oh, there's also an "Example map" you can take apart in the CD.

Next, to "light" the map, ie add/subtract light and shadows, is the infamous Lighting tool, or properly called ReleaseDarkMapMaker.exe. Found in the GR IT CD. Instructions in the PDF.

Also, to make custom textures, locate the RSB Editor in the CD. Instructions in the PDF. Again, find the Photoshop plugins. A special case texture is the Command Map. Locate the Command Map PDF.

Enemy placements, spawn points etc etc anything to do with the mission itself is done by a proprietry software called Igor. It's in the GR folder. Instructions from the Ubi website (I think), and I think San has a copy on his website. Ask him nicely ...

[San 0]

Don't need to ask, I put it there so you can grab it for free , but I don't have Igor on my site. I do have a link to El Oso's Igor For Dummies. And a couple of map-making tutorials.

I suggest you start with Mike Schell's tutorial, he explains how to set up the plugins for 3dsm so you can begin creating the geometry and when finished you can export it as a MAP-file. Also the level-builder.pdf is a good read !

Have a look at the example Castle map in max, you can learn alot just by looking.