AvPGalaxy Forums

There's been some interest lately in DeEdit with some people asking questions on these forums and elsewhere.  It has been years - maybe 8 years - since I booted up ye olde toolset for 'AvP2' and I've got to say I've become more than a little rusty.  Anyway, I decided to see if I could actually do anything with the editor.  It's been difficult so far as a lot of the helpful old tutorial sites have shut down and I really have to struggle getting back on my feet with the editor once again.

Slowly, very slowly that is; I am regaining my skills.  Today, I remembered how to carve a Brush. By drawing a line across it (pressing the Spacebar twice) and then cut it in half (Press S).  Yeah, it's basic stuff like that I am trying to remember and start with first.

I decided to go for something relatively simple for this map.  A TDM map as something as demanding as a Single Player map is just outside my ability a the moment.  So I am building a TDM map with a solid central idea featuring a major set piece.  To this end, I decided to use the old Nostromo prefab I used for Herr Alien's 'AvP2: Fortress' mod.  (People here should get a game up and happening using that mod.  He did some great work on it.)  Anyway, the Nostromo is a terrific structure to fit into the center of the map and then build the gameplay around it.  I'm slowly picking up some of my old skills and it's taking time but I'm getting there: 

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_01.jpg&hash=ce98d151cb8fb58fb5debd7b30972ad4bcfc06d6)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_02.jpg&hash=4e63ee37fe6b23b511d25a9f853cd89ae3cc4c47)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_03.jpg&hash=06668b9a562c972d9215c70bc7e0bac59b83fae9)

These screenshots of the map, which I am christening 'TDM_Dry_Dock', are very early in the blocking out stage to figure out pathing and navigation around the map to get it working properly.  Eventually, the map will change significantly during the next days, weeks and months.  I'll post some more work in progress shots at some point in the not too distant future. 

I promise you won't have to wait 8 years for that to happen.   ;)

-Windebieste

I love the idea of a drydock facility! You should drop in another ship in another location that you can slightly enter that is all hived up and the source of a local infestation.

I'm keeping the map to a reasonable size.  I'm aiming at making the map fun for 8-16 players.  12 should be optimal. 

By 'AvP2' standards, it will be a decent scale.  The larger the map is, the more players will be needed to make it a fun experience and I don't know how many people still play the game.  I imagine some people do but I have no idea if it will attract a full house.

Besides It's too easy to include too much additional content and have the map blow out to a ridiculous scale.  More importantly, it increases the workload substantially - and I have a number of other important Projects ticking away in the background.  It's one thing I learnt a loooong time ago - keep it clean, compact and disciplined.  As it is, the map already has the Nostromo, which is an enormous set piece. An adjacent 3 storey building to wander around in also accompanies it, along with some small outdoor areas at ground level.   16 players should be about right to max the map out.

Yes.  There will be a hive.  The lowest level of the facility immediately beneath the landing platform will be encrusted with hive material and dripping slime. 

I started this map about a week ago so I still have a long way to go.  Maybe a couple of months before it sees the light of day.

-Windebieste.

No worries. I look forward to seeing more.

Is it hard to hive up locations?

It's no more difficult than adding fine details to any other part of the map.  It's time consuming more than anything else.  The worst part of it involves the need to have all the geometry added to the map and manipulated by hand; each polygon gets added one at a time, then moving each vertex into place and adjusting them to get the desirable organic look.  I've built hives before so I know what to do and how much effort it will take.

Well, that's the theory, anyway.  It's been a long time since I built a hive...

-Windebieste.

Awesome.

Let me know when it's ready and i'll get it uploaded/published! also get it in 'UMP3'  ;D

Ya. I'd figured you'd be interested.   ;D  Of course.  You're welcome to handling the releasing of the map as well as its inclusion in UMP3.    That's a done deal. 

At some point prior to release I'd like to test the map.  Make sure it doesn't glitch, make sure spawn points are all located appropriately, weapon placement is appropriate and balanced, along with navigation and accessibility for all 19 classes, missing polies, wonky geometry, performance optimisation, lighting, texture alignments... and so on and so forth.  I need to Make sure all that dumb stuff is ironed out and the map working properly before release.  Would you be interested in organising such an exercise?

That's still some time away and will happen about week or 2 before the map is ready for public release, but yeah.  It will need testing.

Do you have a deadline for items to be included in the UMP3 Project?  I'd like to be able to meet that goal with you.  That is, if it's not too soon.

-Windebieste.

I'm glad you're back at it. :D

@ Winde,

No deadline or UMP3 at the moment, i'll have to ask him.


Will let you know ASAP

Thank you.

Slowly getting there.  I had to change the color of the map.  All that orange was hurting my eyes.  There's only a couple of Light and Fog Objects are currently in the map, one being the Sunlight Object that casts shadows and the AmbientLight setting in the World Info box, so changing those values is really easy.  It's also a cheap way to get basic lighting working in a map at this early stage.  I'll add more Light Objects later when I'm ready to work on that feature.  Right now, Blue is nice. 



Right now, the size of the map and all navigation locations are in place and locked.  The map won't change from what it is now (unless testing it proves such to be necessary.).  The next thing is to start the first pass on detailing the map.  This will take some time.

At this stage the map is still in its infancy and still needs tons of work.  It's coming along and taking shape without too much drama. 

-Windebieste.

Looks beautiful.

Blue is much better.

I like orange themes, but I think it might just be too saturating. The blue looks really nice!

I think the blue looks much better. It's looking so good. I'm getting nostalgic pangs.

Just a quick update on the progress of this map.  It's taking shape very well.  Added a few more details tonight. 


I haven't made any adjustments to the lighting since last time.  It will be some time before I add that.  Good lighting will totally bring this map together. 

I'll post more screenshots soon.

-Windebieste.

I'm loving how this is all coming together!

Fantastic !!

Can't wait to get my hands on this !

Ya.  It's coming along really well.  Like REALLY Well. My problem is I'm working on too many Projects at once so my time and attention is (unevenly) divided on RL commitments and several of these other Projects that I need to do. 

Among other things, this week's images give you some more lighting adjustments on the exterior.  I'm keeping the blue ambiance - it works the best.  I tried a bunch of other schemes and they all looked terrible and only served to emphasize how aged the game is.  It can look really sweet under the right conditions, but I'm finding blue is the best - especially for the exterior location on this particular map. 

Once all the micro detailing for the map is in place and individual Point Lights are added , the scene will really pop, but right now, the map is generally very flat - especially in the interior section of the map - which is only basically detailed.  I still haven't touched the hive yet - that will take some time and will be done using sheets of zero thickness polies created in the editor and each vertex manipulated using Geometry Mode.  It's a fussy way to do things, but the results are sweet.  I'll post images of that once it starts to take shape.  Right now it's just an empty space reserved for that purpose and not all that interesting to look at right now

Other than the hive and the transfer station, there is one more interior location that I need to work on.  It also hasn't had any detailing done on it just yet but once I get onto those areas, I will post more varying screenshots.  All the walkways and navigation corridors are also now in place.  They will also need to be detailed and lit. 



So it still has a long way to go.  Once Upon a Time when I had less commitments, a greater command of the level design tools and more time to f**k around making this stuff, this map would have been completed by now.  It's a slow process and adding that hive is going to be bitching work.  Right now my goal is to get all the locations up to the same level of detail before I go through the whole map, set up the lighting and micro detail it.  Testing too.  Oh, yeah.  Don't forget that!

-Windebieste.

Well it's definitely coming along great! It looks wonderful. Really makes me want to give it a go but I know I'd never be able to commit to learning it properly.

I can't wait to give yours a go though.

It's not that hard, learning how to draw, split, carve, hollow, texture and light brushes. It's just the way you combine them in order to create complex shapes (such as a ship) that is difficult to make.

Loving it. Can't wait to see the final result.  :)

Love the shadows/light effects.


The ball is rolling windie !

;)

nice map
it's nice to see that someone in 2016 still has the patience to draw or re draw
but the old engine has its limits talking of shadows/light effects.
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fd33tBXw.jpg&hash=ff350d5a22f2ae439b6ee6fc0e352dae22010432)
one of his many faults

Quote from: Lucifero on Mar 06, 2016, 08:25:52 AM
but the old engine has its limits talking of shadows/light effects.

Yeah, the lighting and shadows is something I've always wanted to see updated. I wish AvP2 got a mod like the Berserker mod for Quake 2, which gave it modern lighting/shadows and so forth.

Hello Windebieste!
Progress looks very nice! If you ever need a hand at testing, my rat nose will find all the leaks :p

Cya and keep up!

Hi there, Le C.  You wanna test this map?  Does that mean you're going to send me ENDLESS SCREENSHOTS with RED SQUARES MERCILESSLY DRAWN ALL OVER THEM? 

AGAIN..?

In that case, it's a deal.  The map will need to be tested and you'd be welcome to do so. 

As for the map itself, I'm working on the hive at the moment.  It's got to fit in the interior of the lower section of the map.  Going to take a while.  About a fifth completed as of now.  Well, maybe a little less considering all the architectural geometry, lights, TWM's, drippers and other props that will need to be added to it.

Waaaay too much on my plate at the moment, so that makes progress doubly slow, but hey.  I'm getting there. ;)

-Windebieste.

Keep up the good work Winde!


Glad you're finally gonna release a map in 2016 !  ;D

Hey Windebieste,

Don't worry, I grew up, I draw pink circle now, I'm much more gentle!
Take all the time in the world, I know how important it is ;)

Good luck!

Quote from: Le Celticant on Mar 09, 2016, 12:09:44 PM
Hey Windebieste,

Don't worry, I grew up, I draw pink circle now, I'm much more gentle!
Take all the time in the world, I know how important it is ;)

Good luck!

Hah, no doubt you're the best 'tester' for a new map.

Find those bugs Le Celticant!!!!!  :D

Quote from: x-M-x on Mar 10, 2016, 12:28:50 PM

Quote from: Le Celticant on Mar 09, 2016, 12:09:44 PM
Hey Windebieste,

Don't worry, I grew up, I draw pink circle now, I'm much more gentle!
Take all the time in the world, I know how important it is ;)

Good luck!

Hah, no doubt you're the best 'tester' for a new map.

Find those bugs Le Celticant!!!!!  :D

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.joe-ks.com%2Farchives_dec2011%2FComputerBugs.gif&hash=72b8da68769473dbd8f2e7fb7c40d0a14ff617b6)

[close]

Here's the first pass on the hive, just to get it started as a location.  At the moment it's not terribly large but it does have 7 entrances/exits into it so everyone can get in there and mess around.  At the moment, it's still very early in development and there's a ton of work to get done - especially if I choose to expand it some more. 

Anyway, on with the visual documentation: 



The map is coming along nice and quick.  I'll put aside this initial pass on the hive for now and get one of the other areas up the same level of detail.  Once that location is done, I'll add a bunch of spawn points to the map and it will be ready for its first test run. 

Looking forward to that.    ;)

-Windebieste.

Hey,

It's looking very nice, well done W.
It's the first time I notice a truck hanger.

I grow more and more impatient to test it  :D

It's looking great, winde! Coming along really nicely.

Awesome > Awesome > AWESOMESAUCE >  ;D

I have to ask. Will this have a skirmish mode?

I may do so as it will only take a little extra effort, relatively speakig.   The map will have to be complete before adding all the necessary AI components to get it to work.

No promises on that one but it did cross my mind and is very much possible.  We shall see. 

At the very least, I will be releasing the .ed file so anyone can mess around with it. 

-Windebieste.

shame not to have a server where test.

it can be tested in LAN mode you know, doesn't matter how you test it.


@ windie,


Looking good man!

I'm making more good progress on this map.  Today I started adding lights to it.  Lighting isn't going to be finalised for a while yet, but at least this first pass is indicative of the direction the finished map will take.

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_18.jpg&hash=e86cf947a400c8ee7b1b16881a05dbc635071cde)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_17.jpg&hash=27dde3eec85f7ef5d622b344e8ef8e08326b569f)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_16.jpg&hash=09f48c2fbdf237adc003c02b06932f5cebe44367)

Still got a looooong way to go!  This making maps stuff sure is time consuming.  Gradually remembering how this stuff works. 

-Windebieste.

Pictures aren't loading for me, winde.

Quote from: Corporal Hicks on Mar 16, 2016, 12:27:50 PM
Pictures aren't loading for me, winde.

Appear fine to me,


Looks Awesome Winde! fantastic work my good man!  ;)

Thanks. ...and yes, it's coming along fine.  Adding 'Lights' is different to adding 'Lighting'.  Lights are more or less glorified props (with some lighting elements, simply because of their nature).  Lights will help to bring  map to llfe but Lighting is all about altering the mood and giving the environment depth. 

Some lighting tricks regardless of light sources, like leaving lit edges against dark edges - a fundamental aspect of painting - along with subtle changes in color, will help the mood and sell the World as a place. 

Lighting isn't my strong point - but I'll manage.  Otherwise, I'm going to have to wake Psykore out of his creative slumber.  Maybe get him to do some work on this map.  lol.  :laugh: Coz lighting in his maps was always done with Masterful precision. ...and who wouldn't want to see him return to 'AvP2' mapping???

Once the lights are all added (and these aren't by any means finished once the first pass is complete), I'll move onto adding smaller details and props.  Then add sounds. (to really make a map immersive, sounds are more important than graphics.  Despite what anyone else says.).  Then it's onto adding spawn points and pick ups along with other miscellaneous other tasks.  After that, testing. 

There's still a lot of work to do on the map, I'd say about 2 weeks worth at the minimum. 

As far as Skirmish goes, the map has to be completely finished before I add the most rudimentary AI behavior to it.  I'm still considering it as optional at this stage.

-Windebieste.

Quote from: x-M-x on Mar 13, 2016, 01:08:53 PM
it can be tested in LAN mode you know, doesn't matter how you test it.


@ windie,


Looking good man!

I am aware. I only say that some maps have a good gameplay and some not. the only way to test if the maps are playable or not.
is simply play in a dedicated server maybe with some veteran players.
It would be nice if avpgalaxy.net had his own small server (for test all mods and all maps & skins)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FZ2b2HHY.jpg&hash=9c0506186df71310d0a8cd1458003fb1c3779152)

Looking good so far.

Agreed with Lucy, having a testing area for the map would be nice.

I'd love a server but there's no providers (game's too old) and my own connection is just abysmal.

My connection is no better and I don't get to LAN parties any more either.  Does anyone ever do those things any more?  So much fun!  Way better than online gaming - which is just cheap lazy compared to the fun of being in the same room as the guy you just pounced on out of the darkness.  LOL.  Good times.  Long gone.

Anyway, this is the first time I've picked up the tools in about 8 years  and I haven't even played the game in about 10.  I understand all the characters abilities but the map will need to be tested with at least 2 players.  I'm sure someone will have access to a LAN or have one at home that can do that.

Getting closer to a test version, too, by the way.

-Windebieste.

Hello,

I still have my kickass connection if needed for hosting a game.
I need a date though (hook up is fine  :D jk) and some international gmt+00 hour.

Might want to run test before though, not sure I have everything installed with master Server and all that's going on.

Cya!

If you can set up the server, that would be terrific. 

Mind you, as you're the one running the server, everyone joining will have to comply with when you choose to run it.  You get to call the shots in this regard.  You want to run it at Noon?  Fine.  Just let interested people know 24 hours in advance.  Wanna run it at 3am..?  Well, why not, if that suits you.  Letting people know  in advance is important, though.  At least 24 hours notice so people can't complain "aw... I didn't know" and that that bullshit.  Most people want to help, but you have to help them help.  Giving them minimum 24 hours is essential.

We can find out who's interested in joining for the MP test sessions.  They can apply for testing on this thread. 

I'll be sending you the map well in advance to get it and the server running properly.  Will be a week or 2 before that happens.  There's no rush.  I will have to write a .txt that will include as many features that require testing - that alone will take me an evening. 

Thanks for the offer.  I'm sure it will be greatly appreciated by more than just myself.    ;)

-Windebieste

Quote from: Corporal Hicks on Mar 18, 2016, 08:48:28 AM
I'd love a server but there's no providers (game's too old) and my own connection is just abysmal.

dear Hicks yes this game is old as hell but exist more then 1 way for rent / host a server .

the real question is:  whether you still want to play?

Quote from: windebieste on Mar 19, 2016, 01:29:40 AM


We can find out who's interested in joining for the MP test sessions.  They can apply for testing on this thread. 

-Windebieste

better a server always online
http://stargatebase.net/avp2-masterlist.php
my answer is yes i'm interested.
but not with the current ms,  i prefer to wait (for  principle)

Quote from: Le Celticant on Mar 19, 2016, 12:47:49 AM
Hello,

I still have my kickass connection if needed for hosting a game.
I need a date though (hook up is fine  :D jk) and some international gmt+00 hour.

Might want to run test before though, not sure I have everything installed with master Server and all that's going on.

Cya!

i think you know the story Celticant.

I'm more than happy to have Le C run Le Cerver.   ;D  I've worked with him before.  More than once.  I know I can place my faith in him.

All the same, here have another round of Work in Progress screen shots. 

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_21.jpg&hash=e0769c35c78f079d1152d263668673d2ff7e5408)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_20.jpg&hash=42a75c732d09d1ccdb584f5183319201fbb5b3dc)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_19.jpg&hash=ab9e87247f2fb3c346ce73e1f6a7a067ecfbd37a)

I'll post some more tomorrow, if you want 'em.

-Windebieste.

---

OK, here's those additional screenshots I pledged earlier - whether you wanted them or not.  :P 


Obviously, I'm aiming at very different ambiances in both the interior and exterior shots to make them distinctive.  It looks like 2 different maps in these shots, but they transition well from one environment to another.  Next, I gotta get stuck into the finer detailing of the map.  This will take a while.

Enjoy! ;)

-Windebieste.

I was always curious as to how one does create trucks, APC's and the like in the DEdit. It is needed to create multiple brushes and stick them together?

For the trucks, 3D models in .abc format are used.  These items would have been constructed in Maya or 3D Max.  The trucks come in 3 varieties: 4 wheeled, damaged 4 wheeled and 6 wheeled as part of the assets included in the game. The trucks are actually based on real world vehicles, the Mercedes Unimog:

(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/9d/1b/ca/9d1bcafc7df867cc90f4a195a365eb1d.jpg)

The APC is also modelled in 3D, as is the dropship and I think the Betty is, too.  Other ships, like the Verloc are built in the editor itself.  To construct complex structures like ships in the editor, you need to use the advanced NoSnapNoCsg method.  Adding multiple Brushes together isn't enough to control the level of detail needed. 

-Windebieste.

Cant wait to host this on AVP Unknown ! :)

Can we play it yetttt?!

All this AvP2 porn is turning me on. Looks really cool. I would like to get my hands on it to help out, but I don't have anything installed and I seemed to have lost all my old files which I wanted to use for reference.

@C.Hicks and x-Man: it's just a matter of time, now.  Got a few Projects on the go at once and cycling between each one is slowing me down; but I'm still getting there. 

@PsyKore: Ah, if you get yerself set up with the game and tools installed, you'd be welcome to help out.  As a matter of fact, I'm sure people would like to see credit shared between us on this little Project.  :)

I'm really rusty with the tools as well.  For example, it's only because of the existence of the other thread discussing 'Water in DeEdit' that got me thinking this map needs some.  I had to learn how to configure it all over again as it just didn't come to me intuitively.  I'm going to have to re-learn a few things like that.  A lot, actually,  Like how to set up LightGroups and ScaleSprites for blinking lights... that kind of thing. 

On the other hand, certain aspects of the editor were like getting back on the proverbial bicycle.  Geometry manipulation came back to me without too much cause for concern.  I remembered more than I realised.  It was strange; once I'd gotten familiar with the basic keyboard hotkeys for the editor once again, it all came back very fast. Detail Level 1/0 settings are a breeze.  I have a complete handle on their use and functionality. 

HullMakers also, for example.  I know exactly how to use them despite them not being present in the map yet.  On the other hand, most PC's should be able to run the map without that kind of optimisation being necessary - but I will add them simply because there may be some one who wants to run the map on their 15 year old P4 and the map will have to optimised for such.  I want to optimise it for as many systems as possible.  It's just the right thing to do.

By the way, the map is super neatly laid out with an obsessively organised Node Tree and is entirely built in NoSnap; so it's lean with zero concealed faces and is very fast on the compiling Processor. 

-Windebieste.

---

The unprocessed map from 'outside' the World.  All the backfaces and unseen geometry have been removed from concealed Brush faces:

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FMapFromOutside.jpg&hash=1598c442effb81ea083a9f228393123b6a69de5d)

This makes the map very lean and light.  NoSnap is the only way to go.   ;D

-Windebieste.

@C.Hicks Very soon !  :D

@PsyKore cut the chatter, install the game/tools and give us F4AR damnit!  ;D deep down... you know you want to !


@Winde send me the link ASAP for the final version and i'll get it posted/uploaded on AvP Unknown! keep up the good work fella!

So...I'm reading modmakers' tutorials. I'm going to give it a go tonight - assuming I'm not being nagged at.  :laugh:

Those tutorials are good.  My advice: 

- Learning these tools is VERY time consuming.
- Treat it as Fun.  Don't let it become a Chore.  The best satisfaction coming from this exercise is Your Own.
- Start Small and expect your first attempt to be basic.  Get accustomed to using Brushes in cubic shapes, first.
- Your first map won't be a masterpiece but it will be the most important map you will ever make.  Treat it that way. 
- Making a single room that you can just simply walk around in is a Celebration when starting out.  Just aim for that right now.
- Making content for MP is a lot easier than SP. 
- Keep your work neat. 
- Test frequently.
- Get into the habit of organising your Node Tree early... it will save you enormous amounts of time later when you have thousands of objects in the the map and you need to copy/paste complex arrangements (For example:  Lights with light sources, fittings, ScaleSprites, etc.) multiple times across the map.
- Ask questions.
- Post screenshots of your work!  People love seeing results.  We all do.  ;D
- Start yer own thread.   :P lol.

-Windebieste.

Sorry, winde.  :laugh: And will do. Thanks for that.

Not a problem.  Looking forward to how you progress.  It will take a while as there's way too much to learn in just a couple of sittings - so don't rush.

Anyway, on with the show.  Did some more work on the hive. It's slowly taking shape:

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_25.jpg&hash=fbd256c6046a43c76e7a43c3b9082ae9e419027d)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_26.jpg&hash=ffee171375718512d3a9fb27f652fe1479b9adf3)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2FDryDock_27.jpg&hash=db415a7c32a98a8db434c38e7cd62153f5e5def3)

Added some Eggs and now loogies are hanging off of the ceiling.  Still gotta add some steam emitters, eerie sound effects and a range of other props including old bones, skulls, ruined equipment and some other random junk just scattered about the place...  Stuff to help make if feel just like a teenager's bedroom.

-Windebieste.

That looks good, man. Are you going to hive up the ceiling as well?

I may, we'll see.  It's always nice to have some balance between what's an original surface and one that's covered in shit. 

It helps to have the floor thickly coated, though.  Aside from gravity acting on the hive material, it's psychologically uncomfortable to have crap - that is, anything that's garbage or detritus - cluttered around your ankles. I'll be adding more props to the floor. 

Right now I'm struggling to get the right steam affects in the hive.  There's a few varieties, but the ones I want to use clip through the geometry and render where I don't want them to...  There's always problem solving like this to be done.

-Windebieste.

I still wanna see a sequel to 'Xenocortex'  :P  :D

DO WHAT MUST BE DONE LORD WINDE! DO NOT HESITATE SHOW NO MERCY TO DEDIT!

That map was built by 2 people.   PsyKore started it, I completed it. 

I don't give in easily.  You'll see.

-Windebieste.

Quote from: windebieste on Mar 22, 2016, 09:49:18 AM
That map was built by 2 people.   PsyKore started it, I completed it. 

I don't give in easily.  You'll see.

-Windebieste.

;D Yes we will !  ;)

Now for the Frame Rate Test. 

This went well.  Map is a constant 60FPS throughout.  Mind you, you would expect that from a reasonably current machine running a game that's 15 years old. 




There is a massive open area at the heart of the map that easily houses a 1:1 scale version of the Nostromo, so it's going to be important to configure and optimise the map so it runs on, well, most machines.

Mind you, on top of that, the map is unoptimised at this stage.  I still need to reduce the draw distance, modify the fog, add HullMakers and run the map through the Processor on Full Optimisation rather than just Approximation.  Once done, I'm hoping this map will run (at least) relatively smoothly on machines that are a decade old - or older - at 60FPS.   

Looking very promising at this stage.  ;D

-Windebieste.

If it's running 60FPS on approximate optimisation, then you're laughing.

We're almost there people!!!

Looking great man 60FPS!

Thanks.  It's almost there... still got this short 'To Do' list to go through yet:

- Add Ambient Sounds.  To all locations.
- Add Props.  Again, to all locations.
- Add Spawn Points for all 19 classes.
- Add Pick Ups for Marines and Predadors.
- Trigger some eggs ito display an open state.
- Rework 6 wheeled service trucks.
- Add Fill Lights.
- Add Blockers to the Nostromo's landing gear. (So players can't camp inside the claws.)
- Add cycling landing Lights.
- Add other flashing Lights.
- Add HullMakers.
- Raise the ceiling and pipes in one locations. (Right now, they're too low.)
- Darken AmbientLight.
- Optimise Draw Distance.
- Modify Fog values.
- Make sure all Textures are aligned correctly.
- Add more signage to walls.
- Make sure all geometry is displaying correctly.
- Add dummy switches to doors and indoor overhead crane.
- Remove remaining unseen Faces.
- Create niches in upper level Blockers for (some) Aliens to spawn on rooftops.
- Plus various other small details and features...

So, a small list but it still represents a fair amount of work to do on it yet.  About a good week's worth - maybe 2 - actually.  Then it's ready for testing.  Once a few people have had a run around in it, hopefully in MP either online or LAN, I'll address any issues that arise and then it's done.  Too easy.   ;D

-Windebieste

You Windiebeste..Can you make single player maps for predator? That'll be great! :)

Quote from: IXvPRIMUSvXI on Mar 24, 2016, 02:58:08 PM
You Windiebeste..Can you make single player maps for predator? That'll be great! :)

You have Dedit? give it a shot !

Quote from: x-M-x on Mar 24, 2016, 06:40:47 PM

Quote from: IXvPRIMUSvXI on Mar 24, 2016, 02:58:08 PM
You Windiebeste..Can you make single player maps for predator? That'll be great! :)

You have Dedit? give it a shot !

A continuation to IXvPRIMUSvXI's post:

It literally takes a couple of minutes to create a room with several AI's engaging in combat, but it's not really something too enjoyable, I would say.

If you aim at creating singleplayer maps, you should at first concentrate more on AI behavior rather than detailing maps. Creating brushes and using the various tools is easy and not too much of a trouble, but things like creating a hive are for the experienced. You should have a basic knowledge of creating maps, that's all.

If one were to test my maps, they would probably believe to be playing a shitty version of Portal.  ::)

Quote from: IXvPRIMUSvXI on Mar 24, 2016, 02:58:08 PM
You Windiebeste..Can you make single player maps for predator? That'll be great! :)

Yeah Winde, make Predator SP maps. :P

Why not do some Marine levels as well?  ;D

Quote from: PsyKore on Mar 25, 2016, 01:20:18 AM

Quote from: IXvPRIMUSvXI on Mar 24, 2016, 02:58:08 PM
You Windiebeste..Can you make single player maps for predator? That'll be great! :)

Yeah Winde, make Predator SP maps. :P

What about you fella?  :D

Hey,

It looks stunning! The outside lightning is absolutely beautiful.

Cya

Getting back to working on this item now.  Sounds are working properly (Not much to show in this regard - it's just ambient sound Objects added to the map).  Also performed some necessary geometry tidy up work (Making sure certain polies no longer drop out - all fixed now.)  Dummy switches added, some texture alignments and various other bits and pieces done to the map

So, nothing new to actually show you - just getting the necessary grunt work behind me needed to progress development of the map. 

Anyway, most sounds are now in.  Rebellious AWOL polies are now displaying correctly.  A bunch of other stuff is now in place.  On with the next phase...

...um?  Finish adding Sound Objects and add Spawn Points for all 19 classes...  That'll do for a start.

-Windebieste.

Great to hear! Can't you show us the sound?  :P Where is your power?!

So impatient to test it!

PS: I made test, got 4 server running at once yesterday.
They work great on both AVP2 MS2.2 and AJL (R2 & B3.2) and work with official + custom UMP2 maps.
So whenever you're done, give the green light and I'll make us a private server ;)

I've added HullMakers to the map to help optimise it.  I have also started to add MP Start Points.  Aliens can now spawn into the map.  Marines, Mercs and Preds will be next.  Then add pickups...  Just a few more features after that and the map will be ready for testing. 

Le C. is gonna be stoked!  LOL. 

When this is ready, you can add it to your server.   ;D

-Windebieste.

Oh yes indeed... yes indeed!  :P

Spawn points for Aliens, Preds, Marines and Mercs are all now in place.  Human weapons are now in the map.  I still have to add the pred weapons, all ammo pickups/boxes, health pickups. 

A bunch of other features to address still need attention and the map will be ready for testing. 

Not long now. 

Testing will determine if these spawn points and weapon pickups are in optimum locations.  These are likely to change once I've gotten feedback from testers. 

-Windebieste.

Hey,

Great to hear, here come the end of the tunnel!

Cya!

Not too much to do now.  Just add the remaining essential DM items... ammo boxes (for Humans and Preds), Health and armour pickups.  Then it's ready for testing. 

I'll try and get these added today.  It's all simple tasks, just time consuming adding the several dozen items, configuring them and making sure that they all work as intended.

I was running around the map yesterday, and noticed some drop in frame rate in some locations.  Nothing drastic, it just dropped to around 55FPS at the outer most locations when looking into the center of the map.  I'll try and correct this at some future point but right now, I just want to get this version finished for testing.

-Windbieste. 

QuoteI was running around the map yesterday, and noticed some drop in frame rate in some locations.  Nothing drastic, it just dropped to around 55FPS at the outer most locations when looking into the center of the map.  I'll try and correct this at some future point but right now, I just want to get this version finished for testing.

Less TWMs = more FPS. If all else fail just use the LMGridSize, with static sun light the fps increase is rather dramatic.

Quote from: windebieste on Apr 13, 2016, 11:48:14 PM
Not too much to do now.  Just add the remaining essential DM items... ammo boxes (for Humans and Preds), Health and armour pickups.  Then it's ready for testing. 

I'll try and get these added today.  It's all simple tasks, just time consuming adding the several dozen items, configuring them and making sure that they all work as intended.

I was running around the map yesterday, and noticed some drop in frame rate in some locations.  Nothing drastic, it just dropped to around 55FPS at the outer most locations when looking into the center of the map.  I'll try and correct this at some future point but right now, I just want to get this version finished for testing.

-Windbieste.

Awesome man, hit me up with the DL link ASAP, and we'll host it.

;)

Work is continuing on this map and it is currently undergoing testing, squashing bugs and eliminating glitches. 

It will need a proper MP stress test at some time in the near future prior to release.  If 2 or more people can be available to test the map along with Le Celticant, then post your interest below.  I'll have the first proper MP test version ready sometime soon but some organisation to get Testers properly co-ordinated will be necessary.

Thank you!   ;)

-Windebieste.

Send me that link ASAP Sucka!

;D

Sure, I'll be up for it.

I'll be happy to join in on the fun.

Where is the god damn LINK

(Mandalorian patience is 'thin'  :D)

Link?  Ummm... OK, here ya go:



As for the map..?  Well, it's almost ready for MP testing.  ;D

-Windebieste.

I'm shaking my head.

Ya.  You're probably right.  I'm being unnecessarily harsh. 

I really appreciated x-M-x's enthusiasm.  It's great to see such is the case and is a significant inspiration to me to ensure this map sees completion.  It touches me greatly to see that this Community still wants to see content for this old game.  It's a credit to the Community's enthusiasm as a whole that despite the game being 15 years old people are still making content for it.

I'm not speaking for myself, either.  There's always been interest in modding this game.  Whereas other more recent releases have been technically and aesthetically superior in just about every way, 21st Century Fox (and their partners ) have locked us out of any opportunity to actively generate substantial content for them.  I would love to have seen the tools released for 'A:CM'. ...or 'AvP 2010'.  ...or even 'A:I'. Unfortunately, no.  It didn't happen.  For the modding Community, we can only work with 'AvP2'.  So be it.  We'll do that.

So any input is precious and to be considered valuable.  I don't mean to belittle your enthusiasm, x-Man.  I'm completely taken aback by how much this Community craves custom content and has welcomed this map being made.  Not just for this game, but in general across all fan endeavors in this licence.  We are creative lot, us 'ALIENS' fans.  You may have noticed.  I sure have. 

Recently my activity in this Community has increased.  A lot.  There's a couple very good reasons for this and while they are both very personal, I will be more than happy to discuss them at further length at a later date.  I have a lot to thank this Community for - more than you can realise right now.

So, thank you x-M-x - and everyone else - for your support.  It means a lot to me.

-Windebieste.

Hey everyone, Happy Alien Day! LV-4/26!

Just here to stop by while I have little time right now to announce that along with the release of TDM Dry Dock, Winde and I are partnering with releasing the Drone Skin from my WIP Graphic Redux Project! You will only be able to download and use the skin upon downloading Winde's Dry Dock map when he releases the finished(NOTE* It will not be available during the MP testing phase) map.

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1209.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fcc397%2FDeathly_rYaN%2FADS_4.png&hash=d130a83e5ea70138e654b9c8644af4d8d917b287)

Wot he said.   ;D   Seeing as the map is very strongly themed around the Nostromo, we discussed the possibility of including Deathly_rYaN's 'ALIEN' skin along with it and decided to release it together with this map.   

Fear not!  You'll also get the skin as part of D_r's texture/skin pack at a later date.

Anyway, progress continues.  Here's some screenshots of the map in its test phase:

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2Flithtech%25202016-04-27%252013-38-22-06.jpg&hash=a2ccab9102ba4ca55ea13c3c4342e11864dd0867)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2Flithtech%25202016-04-27%252013-37-16-49.jpg&hash=cbc2d35b09e4cac998abbe568ab3f3e67b56d27f)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2Flithtech%25202016-04-27%252013-39-16-21.jpg&hash=1d958a4df8c309c160a740e8db6825e6cb4410f2)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2Flithtech%25202016-04-27%252013-37-39-00.jpg&hash=4f3e0c14c64ad3f6e8758c2a475f2f621abb9d2c)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2Flithtech%25202016-04-27%252013-41-36-14.jpg&hash=7343e6c57647b922a06847c4014fa026d1e35a58)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2Flithtech%25202016-04-27%252013-41-58-05.jpg&hash=29e3db9546f74d1146b3d24dc2771e18e0ebf4ca)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2Flithtech%25202016-04-27%252013-40-33-85.jpg&hash=0d666e5f51c82bc3a3211936e76496f09c0580f6)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2Flithtech%25202016-04-27%252013-39-46-34.jpg&hash=3db593777bbde3745de03602acb882369cf4e0af)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi613.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ftt211%2Fwindebieste%2Flithtech%25202016-04-27%252013-39-24-32.jpg&hash=c1c3bb89dda2beee7bd824aa45dcc1b2608db752)

Have fun today everyone!

-Windebieste.

Yay! On all the points above! Oh man, they both look gorgeous! I really can't wait to give these a go. Like winde, I've found myself quite re-energized with the community and a lot of it has to do with people such as yourselves. Thank you guys.

@ windebieste

All good dude all good! (make sure you send me this map soon)

@ Deathly_rYaN

Why didn't you release this skin ages ago? we've been asking you to release stuff 'separate' as a taster!

@ Corporal Hicks


Yea man! keep the community Strong!


x-M-x

 

Quote from: x-M-x on Apr 27, 2016, 12:59:29 PM

@ Deathly_rYaN

Why didn't you release this skin ages ago? we've been asking you to release stuff 'separate' as a taster!

If you followed up on the GR Thread, I've been having problems getting the skin to work. The dtx viewer said that the new dtx files were tga files just renamed. I guess I didn't have to do anything but leave it as is.

But I also thought that this would be a cool thing to do. Release the skin with Windes Nostromo themed map.

GOOD JOB!

I know I am really late to this community and I kinda feel like a stranger who doesn't know anything but I want you to know that I love all the work you guys have done. Keep up the good work all of you!

Looks dope, Winde. ;) Do you have plans for more stuff after this?

@ Spooky799kil: Welcome to our odd little corner of the internet!   

@ PsyKore:  Thank you.  At this stage, no.  I've been mulling over this idea for a long time, though, and been wanting to do it.  ...on the other hand, you can never tell...  Would love to make a map where you play as an unarmed female scientist.  With just one Alien that randomly hunts you down in SP.  I think I can tweak the AI within the editor with a bunch of triggered commands to get it to emulate the Creature in 'ALIEN: Isolation'.  I think that would be fun.

...but not straight away.  I'll be glad to get this map finished before I make any other commitments.  i want to complete and reduce the number of responsibilities I have currently undertaken so I can concentrate on other major Project(s).  I have so much on my plate at the moment, even just contemplating making another 'AvP2' map right now is more than I want to tackle.  lol. 

-Windebieste.

Quote from: Deathly_rYaN on Apr 27, 2016, 02:23:01 AM
Hey everyone, Happy Alien Day! LV-4/26!

Just here to stop by while I have little time right now to announce that along with the release of TDM Dry Dock, Winde and I are partnering with releasing the Drone Skin from my WIP Graphic Redux Project! You will only be able to download and use the skin upon downloading Winde's Dry Dock map when he releases the finished(NOTE* It will not be available during the MP testing phase) map.

http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc397/Deathly_rYaN/ADS_4.png

nice skin It reminds me a bit the old Movie Runner
A more movie realistic runner from Alien.
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FG9hCKJZ.jpg&hash=e33953054239528cfb13eaeb13514df6017e287b)   

Oh, I like that skin. Is there still a download link to it?

windebieste isdd a mapping machine. you cant stop him. he says irt will be dobne on a week ., its will be done it a qwwekkkk


ive hasd a few refrwesgments i ap[ologizer for my y[oing . id canjt be borthetredfg vto fix it

Sit back.  Relax.  Have another drink.   ;D

In the past I could churn 'em out, for sure.  I'm a little rusty now and I have a ton of other Projects on the go so they are all slowing my progress down here. 

Nonetheless, this map will be finished soon. 

Great to see you again D'mancer!

-Windebieste.

im rusty as a nail impaled in thje underside of myu foot. but my secret weapon is copy paste! makw one corrdidor and paste over over ans over, bam! 1 map a fweek

Add fog... done.   ;)

-Windebieste.

Quote from: Corporal Hicks on Apr 29, 2016, 09:25:00 AM
Oh, I like that skin. Is there still a download link to it?

http://avp.raptorred.com/skins/aliens_list.php?class=runner

f**k IT! WE'LL DO IT LIVE! https://www.twitch.tv/warning_high_voltage

Apparently, Winston Churchill was a president of the United States.

Well, ya learn something new every day, huh. 

-Windebieste.

Quote from: Lucifero on Apr 29, 2016, 08:50:30 AM

Quote from: Deathly_rYaN on Apr 27, 2016, 02:23:01 AM
Hey everyone, Happy Alien Day! LV-4/26!

Just here to stop by while I have little time right now to announce that along with the release of TDM Dry Dock, Winde and I are partnering with releasing the Drone Skin from my WIP Graphic Redux Project! You will only be able to download and use the skin upon downloading Winde's Dry Dock map when he releases the finished(NOTE* It will not be available during the MP testing phase) map.

http://i1209.photobucket.com/albums/cc397/Deathly_rYaN/ADS_4.png

nice skin It reminds me a bit the old Movie Runner
A more movie realistic runner from Alien.
http://i.imgur.com/G9hCKJZ.jpg

I took some design choices from a variety of Alien concept designs, I like how it turned out.

But I do want people's opinion about the color, do you guys prefer black or like a grey-black (as seen in the image)?

Getting very close to a hands on MP test happening of the map.  Just another pass on it to get the final critical bugs eliminated.

Le Celticant will be runner the  server.  Server details will be posted on this thread sometime soon. 

I'll be handing out the test version of the map to interested people who want to join in the test session sometime during the next week.

If you want to join in the testing of the map during this phase, please PM me and I will include you as part of the distribution.  People I know will have priority over unknown applicants.  Sorry, I have to be able to trust individuals who won't prematurely distribute the file and can't hand out the map to completely unknown applicants. 

Participants providing feedback will be credited as Testers in the release readme.txt file.

Looking forward to seeing this phase happening with you included.

-Windebieste.

Good Good!

Send it my way via pm or email.


;D

i have a sure fire method for fixing glitches in maps..

cover it in piles of TWM prop junk. trash piles boxes barrels beams grates ea games ect ect..  there will be so much junk on the glitch you wont be able to see it any more

Quote from: x-M-x on Apr 30, 2016, 12:51:16 AM
Good Good!

Send it my way via pm or email.


;D

it would be easier to organize test using steam?
or alternatively teamspeak?
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FgtiWRnI.jpg&hash=2b03b515b48331fba5a6d1f27f496d3bcc6fd79f)
the Olde's ts server is always up?
ts.68.teamspeak3.com:7909
why not use it for this purpose?

I would prefer steam or teamspeak. Never got into using that program that much.

I have next Thursday off, or Friday sometime after 5pm EST.

the olde's TS seems down this morning  ???
but we can use the old stargate team speak 3 server its always up   ::)
http://stargatebase.net/
just click the button connect
ok maybe not everyone likes to use the microphone.
@xMx (https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhDLtLV5.gif&hash=95f97eccc79883e1603903ff4f1925acfb78181d)
but I reiterate the point that a small chat could be the key also to find people who have different time zones.

Quote from: Deathmancer on Apr 29, 2016, 10:52:05 AM
f**k IT! WE'LL DO IT LIVE! https://www.twitch.tv/warning_high_voltage

I make a small spoiler there is a client (not tbbc client) that allows direct avp2 streaming via Steam without using external programs or twich

I can not say any more  8)

Quote from: Lucifero on Apr 30, 2016, 06:43:37 AM
the olde's TS seems down this morning  ???

It's working for me.

Hey,

Name: Windebieste Dryrock test Serv
MS Version: TBBC 2.2
Password: None
Map: dm_dry_rock (only map)

It's showing fine on TBBC list.

If some trustworthy fox want the master control, just ask me in PM.

(Maps is latest Windebieste's Version)

Cya

Current statuts: Server is up and Running, it should run for 14 - 16 hours a day. I'm in GMT + 1 (Paris, France) starting usually around 10am, finishing around 2am.
(I know what X-man-X would say, get an old comp and put a 24/7 linux server on it  :D )

If I see you and I'm not on my working hour, I'll catch you!
Good testing!

Server is up.  Nice.  Don't worry if you haven't got the map yet.  I'm just waiting on the current 'inhouse' testing to be completed.  Then, when that's been completed, I'll distribute the map. 

The server will be available to test. 

Those of you wanting to join in the test should PM me.   I'll be forwarding the map soon to those who do so.

-Windebieste.

lol @ Le,

nothing wrong with an old comp some linux !



@ Winde, i got ya map and will test it soon.

---

***UPDATE***

(i love the map btw) (will test more later tonight)

Love the shadows and the ship (shame we cant fly it haha)

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Favpunknown.com%2Favp2files%2Ftestscreens%2Fdd1.jpg&hash=aa1affd54df26162fac8e7da9a974d09f490d000)


That Ship is massive lol, (and i really dig the blue aura/tint you got going! much better than the red one you used)


(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Favpunknown.com%2Favp2files%2Ftestscreens%2Fdd2.jpg&hash=99f07af68cf61dd7164b352fe04c2ceec9a1c3d1)


Actually love those towers? in the distance dark shadow ones

(shame we cant climb to the top as an alien though? did you cap that off because of lag perhaps?)


As i type this i'm still in the map lol, will post more info later.

The map is fantastic serious! good job man.

Once it's released hit me up and we'll host it on AvP Unknown


Hope you'll make more maps in the far future!

;)

winde are you familiar with the dedit function of automatically splitting  a weird angled 4 vertice face into 2 triangles when it has uneven vertices, 1 vertice not on the same plane as the rest causing a "bending mirror" effect on the face.

i cant remember how to do it but its a nice trick for creating terrain in a hurry or fixing problem faces in a curved tunnel.


i did it by accident a few days ago. cant replicate it.

@Deathmancer:

In brush mod:
Ctrl + E

;)

Dumbass question but because I don't recall using a .dat file for an AvP2 custom, how do I go about getting Dry Dock to work as a .dat?

Quote from: Corporal Hicks on May 02, 2016, 09:58:58 AM
Dumbass question but because I don't recall using a .dat file for an AvP2 custom, how do I go about getting Dry Dock to work as a .dat?

Create Folder call it 'DD' (put the DD FOLDER IN AVP2 DIRECTORY)

Inside DD create other folders such as Worlds > Multi > Dm <-- (PUT DAT IN THIS LOCATION)

Launch AVP2 use -rez DD


or add it to UMP2? or rez it up.

Awesome. Thanks. I'm just heading onto the server now if anyone wants to join in.

Just a reminder to those good people who have been in possession of the test version of the map now for a few days.  Feedback will be greatly appreciated.  I know some of you have been generous in providing me with valuable information; but I'm sure there's more to be said about the map. 

Just a short list of feedback items that need to be checked:

- Geometry is fully present and is not missing any polies.
- Textures are to be present and aligned appropiately.
- Lit areas to be clear.
- Pathing and navigation through the entire map needs to be checked for ease of use by all 19 classes. 
- Spawn points set up in correction locations.
- Weapons, ammo and health pickups need to be in appropriate abundance and placement.
- Enjoyment factor - is the map fun to play?  You need to be able to test the map as a group, if possible.
- Sound effects in appropriate locations and volume.
- Plus anything that you can think of. 

Please, I need to know your thoughts on these items. 

-Windebieste.

Hey,

Gonna try to test some more today.
Server is up by the way.

Cya

Will test more later.


What about those towers i mentioned? is there a reason you 'capped' it off? because they clearly look reachable.

(I think aliens should have the ability to go that high no?)

I passed on my observation of those nooks too.

I can jump on in 6/7 hours for a bash, if we can get some folk together for a match. I do think its a map that will need a good number of players to make the most of.

Yes please.  That would be terrific. 

The map is already large enough and probably too large for small groups and Aliens can already climb high enough.  Adding access to areas beyond that height (above the height of the Nostromo and cranes which they can also climb on top of) won't improve the quality of gameplay for other classes.   I'll add access to some of the recessed small locations at the same level that the Alien Players spawn at, but anything above that is way outside any reasonable height. 

Let me know if you find any other issues.  I'd hate to release the map with issues present that testers were aware about but failed to communicate to me.

Thank you for testing.  It's been a long time since I've made one of these for 'AvP2', so I am very rusty on my skills.  Too long.

-Windebieste.

Any testers want to get a game in today?

For some random reason, you all come to the server, but at different hours of the day  :D
It would be nice to organize our little avpg army!

Time zones are a bitch.  :-X

How do i get this map again? Do i just PM you winde?

---

well just tested this map and it looks good to me.

I really like the dark towers on the upper edge of the dock. The only design complaint that i have is that it might be too big, certainly too big if you dont have 10+ players in the server.
Cant find any visible bugs with it and regarding ammo count and playablilty this really isnt something i can test alone.

And then comes the big elephant in the room which is the fps. It's just too low. I get 30 if i look at the ship from any point in the map and considering the absolute minimum of  fps i set for this pc is 100, which is "barely playable" for most people so 30 is quite low.

The culprit seems to be, (once again....) high poly count, the ship itself is ok but all that pipework including the ship's feet are really heavy in polies. And then comes the static sun light into action which is well known to cause even more polies to split.

Solutions? Well apart from good ol' poly culling there is only the LmGridSize which you should try. This command really does wonders in improving fps with static sun lights, the downside is that it obviously makes the shadows look more horrbile and less defined, from LmGridSize 64 which is not too bad, to LmGridSize 128 which is medium horrible all the way to LmGridSize 256 which horrid but high in fps count.

Apart from the framerate issues this is yet another great map.

Thanks everyone for your time and effort.  The input and feedback has been gratefully received.  I'll be working on this map later this week, iron out a few wrinkles and get it released by the end of May.  That's the current plan and I think a realistic time frame at this stage.

-Windebieste.

Quote from: windebieste on May 18, 2016, 01:36:24 AM
Thanks everyone for your time and effort.  The input and feedback has been gratefully received.  I'll be working on this map later this week, iron out a few wrinkles and get it released by the end of May.  That's the current plan and I think a realistic time frame at this stage.

-Windebieste.

Good Good,


Next i want to see 'Under the Hunters Moon II' & Dm_Shafts 2 & Dm_xenocortex 2

Thanks man you're the best  :D ;)

Awesome, I look forward to it! We'll have to try and get a big match meet-up going too.

Quote from: x-M-x on May 18, 2016, 11:07:47 AM
Next i want to see 'Under the Hunters Moon II'

That makes so little sense it is actually a great idea.  :D

'Under the Hunter's Moon II' Predator campaign coming up next! 

PsyKore's Making it...   :laugh:  BWAHAHAHAHAAAAA!!! 

Anyway, enough fooling around.  :P I did a ton of fixes and updates on this map during the past week, many of which are based on the results of focus feedback from people who've been involved in testing the map.  Thanks Guys.  Your input has made a great difference to the map. 

Too many things to mention have been addressed, many of them small and not noticeable but here are some highlights: 



A ton of other optimisations have been done, fixes... you name it.  It's probably been addressed to some degree.  On schedule for an end of the month release. 

More later.   ;D

-Windebieste.

Nice work man !

Woot Woot!

I like dat apc! Gives a bit of military background to the place then I guess  :D

Awesome! Can't wait to get a game in with everyone!

Just one last thing to address and it's an important one. I need testers to provide me with feedback on the exosuit.  Can it get to too many locations humans can't normally access?  for example, the tops of crates, pipes, scaffolds etc.  I need to know if the map is exosuit friendly or if it should be removed entirely because it can be used too much as an exploit. 

This is the last test item I need feedback to act on as appropriate and then the map ready for release. 

-Windebieste.

Quote from: windebieste on May 30, 2016, 10:57:42 AM
Just one last thing to address and it's an important one. I need testers to provide me with feedback on the exosuit.  Can it get to too many locations humans can't normally access?  for example, the tops of crates, pipes, scaffolds etc.  I need to know if the map is exosuit friendly or if it should be removed entirely because it can be used too much as an exploit. 

This is the last test item I need feedback to act on as appropriate and then the map ready for release. 

-Windebieste.

One near the ship? and one more inside the cargo hold/hanger ?


Don't go crazy though.

I'm not worried about adding a 2nd one - I'm more concerned about the devices ability to permit marines accessibility to locations they shouldn't get to.  The exosuit can power jump to heights similar to Preds.  I need to know if there's to much potential for exploits.   

-Windebieste.

Right now, I'd like to not be distracted and concentrate on feedback regarding critical game balancing issues - such as potential exosuit exploit issues.

This is now holding up the release of the map.

-Windebieste.

Quote from: windebieste on May 30, 2016, 09:31:13 PM
Right now, I'd like to not be distracted and concentrate on feedback regarding critical game balancing issues - such as potential exosuit exploit issues.

This is now holding up the release of the map.

-Windebieste.

Just send me a copy of the map and I'll jump everywhere with the exhaust. I'm taking today off from working on anything so I don't mind looking for those little spots the marine can't get too.

Quote from: Deathly_rYaN on May 31, 2016, 01:15:33 AM

Quote from: windebieste on May 30, 2016, 09:31:13 PM
Right now, I'd like to not be distracted and concentrate on feedback regarding critical game balancing issues - such as potential exosuit exploit issues.

This is now holding up the release of the map.

-Windebieste.

Just send me a copy of the map and I'll jump everywhere with the exhaust. I'm taking today off from working on anything so I don't mind looking for those little spots the marine can't get too.

meat in a box
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F5lRrPiF.jpg&hash=d79d36b9141a1ac622b6d901a4e30da1daab1fab)
you could make an exo vs queen to verify the exo game play

@Windebieste why it makes you laugh at the idea of a hunter moon 2?

Quote from: Lucifero on May 31, 2016, 06:22:05 AM
@Windebieste why it makes you laugh at the idea of a hunter moon 2?

Yeah, what do you find so funny about it? We're talking serious !  :laugh:

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimage.noelshack.com%2Ffichiers%2F2016%2F22%2F1464720348-screenshot3.png&hash=edd57dd3be1af31a9b16efc8615173f4887186a7)
Same way I told you Predator could get on it  :P

[close]

Quote from: Randomizer on May 31, 2016, 04:19:06 PM

Quote from: Lucifero on May 31, 2016, 06:22:05 AM
@Windebieste why it makes you laugh at the idea of a hunter moon 2?

Yeah, what do you find so funny about it? We're talking serious !  :laugh:

the dark side of hunter moon
http://steamcommunity.com/app/3730/discussions/0/357287304434469876/?ctp=2

---

Quote from: Le Celticant on May 31, 2016, 06:46:51 PM

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimage.noelshack.com%2Ffichiers%2F2016%2F22%2F1464720348-screenshot3.png&hash=edd57dd3be1af31a9b16efc8615173f4887186a7)
Same way I told you Predator could get on it  :P

[close]

well even in some standard maps AVP2 you can get out of the map.
is not the end of the world would be enough not to abuse the bug

I'm just going to have to remove the exo... it can get into way too many places and camp with re-charging lasers.  The map will have to undergo major work to accommodate it properly without being a serious exploit.  I just can't do that.

I'll leave all the ammo crates associated with the exo on the corners of the platform but will reconfigure them for marine/merc weapons and ammo. I will probably add 1 shotgun and 1 flamer diagonally opposite each other.  I will add extra ammo types for a few weapons: shotgun, flamer, pulse rifle ...and smartgun in the remaining 2 boxes. 

Do you guys have other preferences for the contents of these boxes?  I haven't played proper MP in 10 years so it's a guessing game as to what's best.  lol.

-Windebieste.

Map is released & uploaded

Download @ www.avpunknown.com (news also posted)

Good Job Wind! now get working on hunters moon 2 and shafts 2

Cheers  :D ;)

x-M-x

Is this the first new map for a long time?

I think HHO released a single player map about 6 months ago. 

It's certainly my first effort for a loooong time.  About 6 years.  I'll probably do some more later but not straight away.  I have a few other Projects I want to complete first. 

Thanks for posting, x-Man!  I'm sorry, I decided I had to remove the Exosuit.  It was way too prone to exploits as it could too easily access areas it was not intended to and camp there.  It's ability to constantly recharge lasers by sitting stationery in such elevated places broke the gameplay too much. 

All the same, have fun! This was a fun map to make and one that I'd been thinking about for a long time to do.  I finally got the opportunity to do so. 

-Windebieste.

Now let's get together and play the damn map!

Now that would be nice.  I have more work to do, so I can't make it.  But if you make a News item out of it, I'm sure you'll get some takers. 

-Windebieste.

Quote from: windebieste on Jun 02, 2016, 10:28:15 AM

Thanks for posting, x-Man!
-Windebieste.

;)


DIRECT DOWNLOAD LINK HERE

---

Quote from: windebieste on Jun 02, 2016, 10:28:15 AM
I think HHO released a single player map about 6 months ago. 

Was it this one?





That was 11 months ago (i know he's going to release a new 'maze map' soon he was talking to me about it i think two months ago. (or longer? i cant remember getting old)  :D

I have Saturday off if everyone wants to start up a few matches!

Plus has anyone used the new skin yet? :)

Quote from: Corporal Hicks on Jun 02, 2016, 10:34:45 AM
Now let's get together and play the damn map!

You're absolutely right.
I wish it were so simple but it is not.
you are free to test this map but I'm afraid you'll have to have more patience to be able to play all to gether

Also posted the map info on twitter Winde. (and the map has already got 51 downloads) not bad but wonder who they are lol.

https://twitter.com/avpunknown


Cheers


x-M-x

Yeah.  That's the map I was thinking of.  That's the only one I can think of that has been released recently. 

51 downloads already.  Nice. That's a good result for less than 24 hours.  I don't expect thousands of downloads like when the game was in its prime.  Those days are long gone.  Hell, I'd be more than happy if it reaches triple figures!   Who said 'AvP2' is dead?  These games never die.

Time for Sega to consider releasing some tools for their more recent games, I think.  Oh, of course they won't, but they certainly can't use the "There's no interest in it" argument. 

-Windebieste.

---

GODDAMMIT! 

A massive polygon isn't being rendered on one of the cranes.  Oh, Hell.  I'm not going to worry too much about it right now unless people want it fixed.  I really don't want multiple different versions of the map being distributed. 

So disappointed I didn't catch that problem.  gah...

-Windebieste.

you have right my prehistoric fiend , It will exist until someone loses his time in designing a new map or a new skin.
AVP2 never die.
rise from its ashes like a phoenix does.

Quote from: windebieste on Jun 02, 2016, 09:54:10 PM
   Who said 'AvP2' is dead?  These games never die.

Just scrolled through this thread. You, sir, are a true artist. These screenshots look incredible, gorgeous, whatever complimentary adjective you want to use. Truly outstanding.

I wasn't able to get home last night but I'm looking forward to downloading it later.  ;D

Quote from: windebieste on Jun 02, 2016, 09:54:10 PM

---

GODDAMMIT! 

A massive polygon isn't being rendered on one of the cranes.  Oh, Hell.  I'm not going to worry too much about it right now unless people want it fixed.  I really don't want multiple different versions of the map being distributed. 

So disappointed I didn't catch that problem.  gah...

-Windebieste.

your suffering will be legendary even in hell!!!!  :D

Don't worry about it man, the map is fine as is, don't stress ! it's good you got a map released! i can't wait to see what maps you will make in the years to come?  ;)

I think i need to make a separate topic of this map so people know where to download it... unless they wanna scroll several pages back all the time.



Cheers
x-M-x

I WILL ALWAYS BE CURSED!!!!   :'(

The annoying thing about it is there was a previous problem with that crane and I fixed it, checked the location ingame and there was no problem.  Then, for the final compile, the poly dropped out.  I've inspected the .ed file since and found a single vertex that was ever so slightly off the grid.  This stuff has to be 100.0000% accurate and a single vertex misaligned like that will drop the poly.  You can even check it in the .ed file that's included in the release and you'll find one vertex almost on the grid that's causing the problem.  lol.

I have no idea how that misaligned vertex occurred, but it's there. xtralol.

A fresh thread might be a good idea.  Be my guest.  ;D

-Windebieste.

Quote from: x-M-x on Jun 03, 2016, 09:16:00 AM
your suffering will be legendary even in hell!!!!  :D
Cheers
x-M-x

yes Cheers in hell
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsqiLdeO.gif&hash=d6420569e82436fec603df81994d62dcd8d0c508)
Can't wait to get a server dedicated for test everything.
I have in mind an entire dedicated hell!

---

to make corrections fix or updates for build a better word we are always in time.

Hey,

Congratulation W. on the release! It's truly a beautiful map and I'm in heaven by its scale.
I always preferred big and large maps to small one.
And that Nostromo is always heavily impressive!
I like it all! Now we need to set up a big game to be the first to have fun in it!

Spoiler

PS: If it's just a single poly it's no big deal... no I'm kidding, you'll go on the mapper wall of shame for eternity now  ;D

[close]

Erm, so...do you want feedback? I'll just give mine regardless. I did a perfunctory test and everything seems to work right. I don't think it can be helped that it favors marines, although jumping from building to building as an alien is pretty fun, yet a death sentence to the marine with falling damage on. The outside is very vertical. It seems to me like there are basically three main indoor areas: a small hive directly beneath the ship, a large hangar bay with lots of stacked boxes, and a large section with ramps leading up to a control panel. I liked how the areas are connected and how they all lead outside on multiple levels. This is definitely a map that requires quite a bit of playing to learn where everything is. The area with the ramps feels very good when playing as a marine but not so much when playing as an alien. The alien instead gets a very long and intricate vent system, which may or may not be accessible to other species, I don't know. The map's size and level of detail makes it look like a showpiece, and I don't know just how effective it will be in actual practice. I can't see it being very effective for fewer than five players. The addition of lots of miscellany such as crates, trucks, and APCs makes the open spaces on the ground feel cramped, even though they're probably placed strategically for cover. Neither the runner nor the drone's pounce distance feels long enough to traverse the outer area quickly, which I suppose doesn't warrant criticism because that's to be expected.

Now for my slight criticisms. I don't know how lights work in AvP2 but I found the boxes emitted from many of the spotlights to be very distracting, especially when I would clearly notice the square end of the spotlight.

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fn4v7Z9i.jpg&hash=a7f03a6153f7ae6ef1d7e86772feb17b38fb0366)
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFfge74r.jpg&hash=e617b872c4f1d6d5f4c32a974994a97417ee26e8)
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FNFgrEfe.jpg&hash=d7cf7d8150dabb97375a1fcc745f5344e706925f)
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F1bhzuPD.jpg&hash=db579763d7de41e9a87e6ff5ad9fcb635a566d75)
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fv364RPF.jpg&hash=bac03cd6219bb35b23fa0bf9dc07b645cb9f03e7)

[close]

It's especially distracting when there are multiple spotlights in a row, as in the image below.

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FxmEaZfU.jpg&hash=f130444bba633f1d8611815a07987378de77a310)

[close]

Also, the vent textures look very bizarre. I don't know if it's because of a setting I have, but the texture is totally stretched and when you move in the vent, it looks like it doesn't move. This effect actually makes me physically nauseated when I move throughout the vent. I suspect the error (if it indeed is one) might be the result of having a texture that's too big.

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FBkfe0eb.jpg&hash=60ca859cedb0c6daddba5c7b9eb3261463963972)
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FZoiRwMW.jpg&hash=0ebe4c2705520cf5e0a2c30798b5b930a5d1856b)

[close]

There's this oddity where it looks like the totally wrong texture is to the side (two columns have this problem).

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fj0nRe3v.jpg&hash=50783f22e05cacfff08ec84784df37d713501fda)
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FEWKDSs4.jpg&hash=b17624373b43a8e6e12e212fa8ebc05f828ede65)
(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FlWADTd7.jpg&hash=c01987c9b2153ddaeb226623bab9662a518909ea)

[close]

Then there's this...guess it's supposed to be a joke? I don't really get it.

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKu3EBeL.jpg&hash=a16867ba2993379fa3b17aab1a202b32bc752bc2)

[close]

I also found the texture of the exterior buildings to be laughably barren. It looks like a map with a placeholder developer texture instead of a final one. It's quite jarring considering the level of detail on the rest of the map.

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FOOv0txc.jpg&hash=667279a7dbcbeea5d9d2ae5f18b07c3ed653099d)

[close]

Lastly, we get to my most major problem with the map, one that I assume others will have and one that I also assume will not be changed. It's an issue with the limit of how far up an alien can climb the outer buildings. I understand the need to limit the alien height (although naturally it would be fun to be able to climb ridiculously high) because it presents a problem with wall-climbing and jumping outside of the map. However, I don't really like the way that wall-crawling height is limited here. It feels too artificial and arbitrary, the reason being because half the time it's because of invisible walls. I don't even know why you bother to have this gap in the fence when it's just as prohibited for the alien as the rest of the fence, to speak nothing of the comedic way it looks when it breaks off.

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FG2rzjhP.jpg&hash=ab21bc5c1be8f4b682607a099ebfa3ca2fd0292f)

[close]

And there are spots where the alien literally spawns in a location with only one way out because the right, left, and backward directions have invisible walls. If those locations are known to marine players, it potentially sets an alien up for an instant spawn kill. Some of the locations of the invisible walls feel arbitrary, as well. For example, the below picture is where an invisible wall starts.

Spoiler

(https://www.avpgalaxy.net/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F26xYCPw.jpg&hash=1e6b4e27a61bf5d7fd3b2b9abb86bd85eb3468ce)

[close]

Again, I realize why making wall-crawl height unlimited is a problem, and also that it's nothing new. Even Depot disallows aliens from climbing on certain walls that should be entirely wall-crawlable because of that problem. However, I think the map would've been improved had there been both a better boundary system (more consistent fence) and more height made available to the alien; I don't understand the need for map makers to try and outdo themselves by making an unrealistically traversed building. Either have the building be entirely usable or scrap it. Don't tease us by showing us what we could have but aren't able to, because honestly it ends up looking like the author didn't try enough.

But overall I liked the map. Hope we can eventually see it with 8+ players because it definitely feels like it needs to be around there for players to consistently be in action.

Thank you for the feedback. It's always appreciated. 

I'm not making any promises, as far as I am concerned, this item is now behind me.  I may at some point at some SP content to the map.  Not just Skirmish, well, I can add that too; but the map is large enough to accommodate a complete Marine SP experience. 

If - and it's a big 'if' - I return to work on this map once again, I'll address outstanding issues.  I just have too much on my plate at the moment to dedicate my time to making maps like I once did.

All the same, keep the feedback coming.  If I don't know issues require addressing then one thing is for sure - the will never get fixed.  So keep the feedback happening. 

-Windebieste.

Hey,

@Olde:
Lights are a pain the ass in AVP2. Lithtech of Talon is probably the worse engine I had to play with to date.
That being said, the only tricked I figured to "prevent" this hard edge stop of light is always to make them end on the ground.
That way the light feels "natural" but it's not something you can do for every light.
If you find it very disturbing (I can notice it but it's not that distracting to be frank, I have to pay attention to see it) I suggest you calibrate your monitor, it may help a bit.
I didn't find any issue with the vents, I suspect its due to a mod you're running.
It's the same texture, just a small miss-alignement with an hard shadow that doesn't help at covering the weirdness of this pillar.
The APC door has always looked this way, kind of a joke from Monolith. Maybe they let an internship do it  :D

---

I don't know why people are so obsessed with height.
Alien are really already high on the map. I played it with friends and I can guarantee you, due to the size, it was already hard enough to navigate and find a prey. If you added more height the map would first be unplayable due to the fog visibility blocking (you wouldn't see a thing from the top of the towers) and it would be absolutely impossible to strike since you take about 5 secondes to drop from the top.
The nostromo itself is very very very high compared to the ground, a full vertical pounce can't even reach it!
IMO what's lacking is like depot 2, a death trigger if you go on an adventure behind the fences.
Maybe in a 1.2 version add a full circle fence.  :P

Cya

PS: YES YES YES for DAT SP MAP!

Light rays ("box lights") just need their opacity lowered and the texture properly aligned to the darkest part so they fade out naturally. They don't looks so good with a high opacity. Sounds easy but they can be difficult to get just right depending on the look you're going for. They do look amazing, however, with perseverance.

I know from experience that people find all sorts of defects after you release a map, but if it doesn't detract from the overall experience and gameplay, I don't think it's a big deal. You did awesome work on this map, Winde. Well done!