Editing Map Creation

Maps are 7z archives which, at their most basic, consist of three image files packaged in a particular way. They can be found in <code>Zero-K/Maps</code> and be zipped or unzipped with [https://www.7-zip.org/download.html 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 ==
Beginner mapping tutorial for SpringRTS (the engine) is located here: [https://springrts.com/wiki/Mapdev:Tutorial_Simple Simple tutorial].

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].

=== Startboxes ===
{{See|Startbox API}}

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

=== Metal Configuration and Spot Graphics  ===

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 [//github.com/ForbodingAngel/mexes_grounddecal_autoplacer 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 {{key combo|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 <code>/mapconfig/map_metal_layout.lua</code>.

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

=== Multiplayer ===
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 ==
* [[ZK Map Making Guide]]
* [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PL8U2bf-c5HuSVAihdldDTBA5fWKoeHKNb130YDdd-w/edit# Advanced guide using WorldMachine], by Beherith
* [[User:Aquanim/WaterMapDesign|Some subjective comments on design of sea maps, by Aquanim]]

{{Navbox manual}} [[Category: Development]]