Certainly it will be sometime until the Map Editor will come forward, and likely an element introduced in the final package. Because of this, I was wondering if it would not be at all a problem to share the map specifications with the community? What do I mean by specs?
I've noticed that several low poly elements were making up the map, yet they were just simply vast in scale. Many of the basic structures seen in the trailer where mainly just textured rectangles and cubes stated open atop another. It'd be nice to start piecing such a level together actually, and seeing how well it could work in the end.
But It's be nice to know what limits are desired to help make the game continue to run smoothly on lower end systems? Certainly I ask these questions because I'd like to begin work on maps as soon as possible, that way they'll be ready in time for release.
For instance:
1. What is the maximum polygon limit you desire? I assume everything must be triangulated, and measured in Tris instead of Faces.
2. What program do you suggest using? Maya or 3D Studio? I personally use Maya, and looking to challenge myself making some complex level elements I can use later for some really wicked looking levels when the editor is released.
3. What Units of measurement would you suggest? Presently I measure everything in Meters in Maya, knowing the maximum height of the tallest character in the game helps dramatically in sizing out the level.
4. What Texture Sizes are best? I could see the map handling a lot of 256x256 standard tile textures with no bump maps to help with running the game smoothly. Would you suggest otherwise?
5. Will there be script functions in the editor for destructible buildings or terrain?
6. Can base elements like lava be applied using the future editor to a foreign, imported game mesh. Or would I have to create my own lava via texture and glow effects? If so, what glow effects should I utilize in Maya (if that is the system) which will be best?
7. What elements of lighting are used? What elements of lighting can't be used?
