Matrix Games Forums

OK, how do I make the map for the Choose Scenario GUI for a custom scenario? Is it in the manual and I just can't find it?

To create a new scenario, you'll need two files:

1. The Map file. My_Scenario.map

2. The Org file. My_Scenario.org

As a test, you can open up an existing map and then SAVE AS the map name to something new.

Create your org file and SAVE AS to the same name as your map file.

Then to use them in the SCENARIO editor, open up the scenario editor, press cancel, then press new.

It will ask you to choose the map and org files you want to use; select the ones you created in both cases.

SAVE AS your same name.scn

Place your units. Set your victory levels and conditions and you're off to the races.

I'll make a tutorial about how to do this, step by step in the coming weeks.

Jason Petho

No! No! No! I am already way past that, the scenario is done. No I need to make this map and it's the hardest part!

I thought we had included a template of the little map for scenario design? One would only need to add flags and text to it then! Let me look around for you!

There are Pictures in the "Pictures" folder but they don't seem to work.

Ok, what area does your battle occur in? It appears there are a couple different variations of those, depending on where yours takes place, can make a new one? Are you good with graphics, or, I can make one for you!

It is a 1985 repeat of the Valley Of Tears, on June 17th, 1985. Side B - Syrian and Side A is IDF. What program are you using to make them? I tried making them 258 x 128 pixel BMPs but nothing is showing up. What parameters need to be met for it to show up?

I use Corel Paintshop Pro X7, but also have older versions as well, you can use just paint as well, make sure they are 256 colors though, higher color depth won't work, which is what I suspect you have it at? Just decrease it, and make sure the bmp is in graphics folder!

EDIT: and BTW, thanks for making a scenario, can't wait to see it!

I made them using CorelDraw X7.

I can make one for you.

Give me a night or two.

Jason Petho

Jason, thanks but I'd like to learn how myself as this won't be my last scenario. If I made one and sent it to you could you tell me what is wrong with it. I just have Paint but out buy a cheap editor.

OK, I just tried making a map and resizing with IrfanView with no joy.

Guys, I've got to tell you I am just a bit torqued. Look at this from my POV I created a scenario yesterday, I have it play tested today and now I am spending more time (or so it seems) on this stupid little map than on the scenario itself. May I make a suggestion, I will not be the only one here with this issue (I saw it with the old version as well with the pictures).

1. Step by Step instructions using a common editing tool
2. Provide a few generic maps with the Sides A and B being IDF and Israeli/Egyptian/Jordanian and the converse. They won't cover every situation, but a lot of them.

Al

In scenario design the hard things are easy and the easy things are hard! Oh wait that was combat...[:D][8D][:)]

I used ESRI's ARCGIS (I'm a cartographer, that's one of my tools of the trade) and a spatially projected an image from Natural Earth to create the background image. I chose the area of interest that I wanted in the background, then exported it as a BMP.

I imported that BMP into CorelDraw X7 and ensured that the area fit into the expected eventual export area.

I used an existing explosion symbol (vector), that I had created when I was making maps for the Armchair General Magazine, to identify the battle location and added the basic battle details in Knockout Light 69 font.

Added the flags and labels.

Exported as an 8 bit BMP

Renamed it to match the scenario.scn file name.

And it works.
Jason Petho

ORIGINAL: Beachinnole

Guys, I've got to tell you I am just a bit torqued. Look at this from my POV I created a scenario yesterday, I have it play tested today and now I am spending more time (or so it seems) on this stupid little map than on the scenario itself. May I make a suggestion, I will not be the only one here with this issue (I saw it with the old version as well with the pictures).

I would wage a small bet is the file format of the little map you created.

It needs to be in this peculiar 8 bit (ARCGIS) / 256 color (PSP) / 24 bit Indexed Mode (GIMP) format.

One these little irks we've got on our list to fix at some stage so they would use the same file format as being used everywhere else.

You can email me the file I will have a look. krazykat dot theblitz at gmail dot com.

Jason,

OK I have ArcMap as I am my Office's GIS Dept (and X.O.) but I don't have Corel. Despite that I think you would agree the steps you outlined are a bit above the skills of the average "Guest Designer" Might I suggest creating a few "Stock Maps" which are generic enough for designers to use for "Guest Designs."

Crossroads, thank you for the offer.

Al

I can do that this weekend, Al!

Jason Petho

Jason, Thank You very much! I'm going to post the Scenario I've been working on and then add your map with an update down the road.

Al, can you email me your email address. I have a handful of templates I can send over.

Got them Thanks!

No problem!