Maps and graphics
As promised, in this issue we will talk about the graphics and maps.
The main goal of maps creating process was to recreate the city of Memphis and the nature of Nile region as close to the historical truth as possible. Originally we planned to implement 2D graphics, same as for Egypt-1. The main reason for this choice was the fact that neither of our artists had experience in 3D. After finishing work on the Egypt-1, both of them begun to work on the maps for the Egypt-2, and originally the project looked somehow like this:
The map should have been randomly composed out of these tiles, limited by a certain region border. But this composing process later revealed some mistakes which had a negative impact on the visuals of the game. For example, it was impossible to make a seamless alignment of the fields - in some place, a field could end up composed out of two unequal parts: half linen, half grains. And this is why one of our artists, named Max, came up with the idea of finding a 3D artist and try to make a 3D map. This idea was met with enthusiasm, except a little notice from the rest of the team: "Why would we look for another artist when we have you, Max?" And this is how Max had no choice but to start learning 3D graphics. This is one of the first attempts to draw a map:
But working hard and constantly refining their skills out artists are progressively improving the appearance of the city. This is another intermediate version:
Our artists, as well as the rest of the team, hope 3D maps will possess the same warm and cozy atmosphere as a 2D world. They experiment a lot with the textures and lighting, and in our future issues, we promise to show you the result of their work - finalized views of Memphis and other locations.
Located on the green shores of Nile, Memphis will be divided into 51 regions. Each region will possess different types of landscape and vegetation, and also will be inhabited by different animal species. Those animals will not just be there for fun, they will actively influence the daily life of the citizens. Depending on the game complexity level, chosen by the gamer, regions will also have different starter effects, such as food and sources. The development of the city will be done by regions, and players will be able to select the location of every region. The choice is limited only by one rule: new region cannot be built away from the previous buildings.
On the second map - the map of the whole Egypt, Memphis will only be a small dot, not even a region. This map will be divided into 60 regions or so. Exploration principle is basically the same as in the Predynastic Egypt, with a few new features. Exploration will start from one of 5 randomly selected regions and can be carried out in every direction. Besides, the first region and one random region will be explored for the player for free.
Is there anything else you would like to know about maps and graphics? Please don't hesitate to ask in the comments section. We really want to share with you the process of creating the game, the only problem is sometimes it's hard to select which aspect would be the most interesting. See you in the next issue!