Difference between revisions of "Map Creation"

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(Fixed 7zip link, autoplacer link, increased heading level, moved additional links to the bottom of the page, gave springrts links some descriptions (so at least you think you know why you're clicking).)
 
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== Creating maps ==
 
== Creating maps ==
Beginner mapping tutorial for SpringRTS (the engine) is located here: [https://springrts.com/wiki/Mapdev:Tutorial_Simple Simple tutorial].
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<Removed some links to the old Spring wiki since you would probably get malware if you go there.>
 
 
SpringRTS site contains other useful information for [https://springrts.com/wiki/Mapdev:Main map development] and lists some [https://springrts.com/wiki/Map,_Game,_And_Unit_Development_Programs#Map_Creation tools to help with map creation].
 
  
 
Ask for help in #zkmap in on the [//discord.gg/xCUAvnQT4Z| Zero-K Discord server].
 
Ask for help in #zkmap in on the [//discord.gg/xCUAvnQT4Z| Zero-K Discord server].

Latest revision as of 14:23, 4 March 2024

Maps are 7z archives which, at their most basic, consist of three image files packaged in a particular way. They can be found in Zero-K/Maps and be zipped or unzipped with 7zip. Maps can contain more than their three image files, including:

  • Metal spot layout.
  • Start area configuration.
  • Tree, rock or any other models to be placed as map features.
  • Arbitrary code and units changes that can arbitrarily modify the game. See Mod Creation.

Creating maps[edit]

<Removed some links to the old Spring wiki since you would probably get malware if you go there.>

Ask for help in #zkmap in on the Zero-K Discord server.

Startboxes[edit]

Further information: Startbox API

Startboxes are loaded from /mapconfig/map_startboxes.lua and can be generated ingame with the Startbox Editor widget included with the game. ‎Alt + F11‎ to toggle.

Metal Configuration and Spot Graphics[edit]

Metal spots on maps are done via Lua configs. They can be generated ingame with the dbg_mouse_to_mex_portable.lua widget, available at TheMooseIsLoose's github.

Download that repo as a zip and extract into your map folder. Load the map in ZK, enable cheats, and then enable Mouse to Mexes in your ‎Alt + F11‎ widget menu. Click to create new metal spots, the values and positions will be automatically saved to your game data directory. Copy and paste the content from MexSpots_YourMap to your /mapconfig/map_metal_layout.lua.

Running maps[edit]

Local testing[edit]

To run a map locally put it in Zero-K/Maps then start the game. Untick 'Only featured maps' in Settings → Lobby and start a singleplayer skirmish game. Select 'Advanced', click 'Change Map' and select your map from the list.

Multiplayer[edit]

Upload your map to https://springfiles.springrts.com/upload/ to make it downloadable and playable by others. Some admin action to feature/support the map may also be required.

See also[edit]