DSMapGen file

DSMapGen
Version 1.0.0
Introduction


DSMapGen is a map utility that generates a random map based on properties you enter. You specify the size of the region, any landscape objects (rocks, trees, etc.) and the name of your level. A complete map and all required files is generated and instantly ready to load up and edit in the Siege Editor. Future versions will include terraforming options to create peaks and valleys, streams and rivers, waterfalls, dungeons, and even entire towns.

Documentation
Using DSMapGen is pretty simple. By default it will fill in most of the values for you and will create a map called "my_map" and one region called "region_1". You can change these values to suit your own needs. The trees, foliage, and rocks tabs control how populated your region is. The % coverage value is based on the size of your region. For example, if you have a region that's 32x32 (the default) and tell it to create 100% coverage on the tree tab then 1024 trees will be created (placed randomly in the region). You can crank up these values to whatever you like so experiment. Each tab also lists various types of coverage. If you select a type in the list, it will be included in the region generation. This allows you to create entire regions with only specific landscape artifacts.

Click the Generate button once your settings are complete. This will create the directories and files for your map. Load up your map in SE and you're ready to start customizing the level. 

Future Enhancements
DSMapGen is very basic and just beginning it's development lifecycle. Don't expect to be able to release a grand mod to the community just by clicking a few buttons. It's a way to start. The creativity lies within yourself to build your levels from this kickstart. However, as time goes on we will be enhancing the program. These enhancements include:

Generating cliff walls around the levels to contain each region
Multiple region support, each with it's own unique settings
Smart placement of objects like trees, rocks, etc. to move away from the barren wasteland that it creates now
Monster placement (again, trying to be smart with this like hiding monsters in bushes)
Terraforming to create hills and multiple levels
Dungeon generators to create (and populate) a complete dungeon full of goodies
And much, much more...
If you like to see a feature in a future version, why not suggest something!

Reporting Bugs and Suggestions
If you find a bug or would like to make a suggestion, you can visit our online tracking tool to make your submission. Click on the button below to launch the site. This will allow you to submit a request anonymously.

Alternately, you can email me at bsimser@shaw.ca with your request.

Change History
1.0.0 05/19/2002
    +Added summary after generating map
    +Added icons to tabs
    +Added program icon
    !Changed border type and size to be more standard
0.5.0 05/17/2002 (Internal)
    +Added description text field for editing
    !Fixed region name change bug
0.4.0 05/16/2002
    +Added foliage (ground cover) types
    +Added tree types
    !Changed "foilage" to "foliage". Stupid spell checker.
    !Set target node and starting position/camera to center of map
    +Added random rotation to objects for more interesting layouts
    !More layout changes to support various options
    !Get author name from SE registry values now (if available)
    +Added copyright field for map
    !Change rock coverage (small, medium, large) to single value
    +Added rock type picker for map generation
    !Fixed tab order with screen
0.3.0 05/15/2002
    !Rearranged layout for regions and more terrain options
    +Added terrain (rocks) object generation
0.2.0 05/14/2002
    -Removed region description and notes fields
    !Creates full directories for new maps instead of just the map path
    +Added terrain object fields
0.1.0 05/13/2002 (Internal)
    Initial release
For more information and the latest updates, please visit the DSMapGen homepage here hosted by Game-Editing.