Forging Block.....

[HomieG54]

Hey,
This is obviously a weird name for a thread. But I need help. I have always wanted to build maps in Halo 3 for competitive game types and more. I just can never seem to get ideas. And when I do get an idea when I get in-game I just can't forge it. I know the forging techniques but I just don't know where to start. So if anyone can help me with my huge problem I would be most greatly appreciated.

My GT-HomieG54

Hope to find someone who can help!

[Scope]

First, I'd say to wait for Sandbox.

Now, figure out how you want your map to play. Competitive? How else?
Attack and Defend?
Fast-Paced?
Tight?
Open?

A simple idea is to have a central structure. Create that first, and then decide how the map will play around that. Have points of interest (POI). A POI is a place you want to be.

Make sketches, sketchups, and rough drafts.

[HomieG54]

For POI Do you mean where I would want to be on the map at certain times?

[Murdock Sampson]

For POI Do you mean where I would want to be on the map at certain times?

I think he means like structures in game. Maybe its an aesthetic piece or just a noteworthy place on the map (a corridor or catwalk and such).

I'd personally suggest coming up with a basic idea for what you want to forge. Without a basic idea, you're not going to get much out of the forging. Once you have a basic idea, start developing more specific things. Usually the basic idea is just something like a concept that you want to build. For example a person making a racetracks map might come up with an idea for a loop.

For me, it's gametypes. I come up with what I want out of the gametype and then forge for that idea. Occasionally I think of a good idea using the game mechanics in forge. Once I just took the idea of "Tunnels" and made a map. I never finished it, but I did draw up a map plan.

Forging goes beyond just throwing down boxes. Get a mental image of what you want. Figure out exactly what kind of map and game (if it applies) you want and then figure out what map you want to use and how to build it. Get all of your ideas drawn out more fully and figure out how you're going to do it. Don't let object/budget/space limitations get in your way till you absolutely have to.

That's all I got. Hope it was inspirational

[Scope]

Here is what Transactionzero said about POIs.

Point of interest (POI) is a desired place to be on the map. Points of interest can be Power weapons, power-ups or a tactical position to hold. POI is in fact a goal.

[wiggums]

When you enter sandbox, try out some of the items, mix and match, and an idea should come about.

[Scope]

I think he means like structures in game. Maybe its an aesthetic piece or just a noteworthy place on the map (a corridor or catwalk and such).


I for got to mention. Landmarks are important also because the help you know where you are and creates a mental image of the map in your head.

[HomieG54]

Alright thanks everyone I am starting to get an idea.

[HomieG54]

Alright sorry for the double post and the bumping. But I have another problem.
2 actually.

1. My forging problem now is that I don't really get any ideas. I know this is pretty weird but are there any tips or tricks on getting ideas?

2. I need help with spawns. BAD! So can anyone help with this?

Thanks,
HomieG54

[BabySmuggler]

I could probably help you with spawns. And for ideas, do you mean structure ideas or gameplay ideas?

[HomieG54]

For the spawns that would be great if you could!

And as for the map part I mean the whole map itself. I just can't get ideas. I have always wanted to make good maps but haven't been able too. Any help with that would get you +Rep and the spawn stuff.

Hope that clears things up.

[PsychoBucket]

What type of map are you trying to make? (Conventional, Infection, Mini-game) It helps to narrow it down.

[HomieG54]

Conventional right now but i want to be able to make all kinds.

[PsychoBucket]

I would suggest looking at the shape of random objects or the design on something. It just might give you an idea.

[HomieG54]

Like what?

[Silver0range]

Eh, asking how to get inspiration is a rather vague question, so don't expect specific answers.

My only advice to you is to take a look-see at what other games have to offer, compare their playstyles to Halo 3 (Arena based combat games such as Quake and UT often have little cover, and there gameplay is generally far different as a result) and find ways to tailor them to your own ideas and Halo 3. Also, if you're not a very creative person, try looking at what other long-standing maps accomplish and try to incorporate those aspects into your own maps.