What to Consider while Creating your Maps..

[SunnyIsSoDelight]

I thought I would write up something for map makers, or new map makers.

What to Consider while Creating your Maps..

Halo uses a complex engine (yes, it is complex.) A lot of people design maps that are just a hill, with stretched grass, etc. Sure, it's fine, you're learning how to create maps. But, don't stick to that.

* Halo is graphically enhanced. Shaders, etc, are everywhere. Take advantage of them.
* Your maps should be a piece of art, not just a simple sketch.
* Fix up your textures. Don't leave stupid UV mapping errors. Those give the map a touch of "nub"ism as I call it.
* Start from basic geometry, and build up. Don't start modeling something complex right away. Start from boxes, etc, and during the process of modelling add more and more.
* If you can, listen to music while mapping. Sounds weird, but it REALLY does help. Calms your mind and allows you to think and model better. I'm not joking. Try it out.
* Keep everything balanced. Don't give one side a giant cliff with a whole base and the other side a lake. Make sure there is something to balance the equation.
* IMO, don't start thinking of a layout. Just model something. You'll get an idea. (Unless you aren't that kind of person).

[gecko753]

sounds good. i hope people read this. only 1 thing sunny.... when u say shaders, be specific.

id say, use transparency, use bump maps (but not much), and try to take advantage of the different types of shaders u can make (model, environment, plasma, glass, water....)

but as for crazy effects, like mirrors.... only use them in 1 small place and tone it down. make it colored or just barely reflecting.

[griffenmaster]

* If you can, listen to music while mapping. Sounds weird, but it REALLY does help. Calms your mind and allows you to think and model better. I'm not joking. Try it out

I agree whole-heartedly with that. I've been listening to all forms of Rock for years while modeling, working in flash, coding, and basically everything else I've dabbled in with computers. It's the same as going on a long road trip... Music is just the cure for boredom and keeps you goin.... heck, I even sing along (when no one can hear me of course, I don't want anyone knowing how much I suck at singing)!

[TheRealStick]

*Listens to The Last Spartan* Nope, I still suck. Oh, wait you said MAPPING, I thought you said AT LIFE.....