[C3C] WIP: New Terrain Pack Based on 0.A.D Graphics

[nick0515]

As part of the development of my Epic Mod I've always wanted to create a new terrain pack to accompany it. I've decided to create it using the graphics from the amazing cross-platform FLOSS game 0.A.D, which if you haven't played then you absolutely should.

All comments/advice/criticisms welcome!

What's done-ish so far:

• Grassland
• Plains
• Desert
• Tundra
• Grassland Forests
• Coast
• Sea
• Ocean

Screenshots:

 

[Synobun]

I really like the grassland and desert but I'm not sure how to feel about the tundra. It's very... 'dirty' if that makes sense? I feel like it could be a lighter shade or two and still look the part.

 

[nick0515]

I really like the grassland and desert but I'm not sure how to feel about the tundra. It's very... 'dirty' if that makes sense? I feel like it could be a lighter shade or two and still look the part.

Thanks. I know what you mean. I'm most happy with the grasslands and desert so far. I'll see what I can do with the tundra. I didn't want it to be just all white but I think maybe it is too dark/dirty looking as you say.

 

[tom2050]

The grass looks nice! Really looks like rolling meadows of lush grasses! And the desert, love the sand dune lines!

Some tundra terrain might really be kind of like that, dirty looking ? I know not all our like that, but could be realistic, which is nice.

 

[Oni Ryuu]

The darker version could be LM Permafrost.

 

[nick0515]

Thanks, Tom. I feel like the Tundra is somewhat realistic but it isn't that pretty, haven't decided on whether or not to change it. If I do Oni Ryuu I might do as you suggest and make it the LM Tundra.

I spent hours trying to replace the water terrain but it looked terrible every time so I gave up. Am working on the forests now which are looking quite good.

 

[nick0515]

This is what the forests look like so far. Also, changed the palette for the hills and mountains to match the new grassland better.

Question: Any ideas on how to make the rivers blend better with the new forests. They don't look very natural at the moment.

 

[tom2050]

Nice!! You might be able to get rid of the green outline around the rivers altogether, so you have just the blue river. That way the river matches any terrain type. Should be pretty do-able in most paint programs.

 

[nick0515]

Thanks, Tom. Yes that might help with the rivers. I hate the way they look like they are laid over the trees (which they are of course) rather than flowing through the forest.

 

[tom2050]

Thanks, Tom. Yes that might help with the rivers. I hate the way they look like they are laid over the trees (which they are of course) rather than flowing through the forest.

I agree! I wish they would have faded the river graphics over forests or something, to make them look more natural.

 

[Pounder]

I thought of putting rocks and bushes along the banks of the rivers, to see if that would make the rivers blend into forests better, but never got around to testing it.

BTW, always good to see new terrain packages, good to see you working so hard, your efforts are appreciated.

 

[nick0515]

Thanks, Pounder! Kind words from a graphics master! I totally agree. The more graphics to choose from the better!

 

[AnthonyBoscia]

I really like the bold color of the grass and forests, Nick. The tundra is also a nice break from the flat white snow of the original.

 

[nick0515]

Thanks, Tony. I'm quite happy with the way they turned out. Haven't had a chance to work on the graphics for a while but hope to get some more done soon.

 

[nick0515]

Not much progress to report. I redid the deserts which look similar but blend better. I've tried over and over again to create new coast/sea/ocean terrain but every time it looks terrible. Same with mountains. The water tiles are really much harder than the land tiles somehow.

Will work on more trees. Jungle is a problem because O.A.D doesn't have jungle trees.

EDIT: Okay so I managed to make some new water terrain that looks okay. The tiles are too similar though so they need some more work.

Another attempt:

And made the coast tiles less bright.

 

[nick0515]

Progress:

 

[Nathiri]

Looks good.

 

[Blue Monkey]

I prefer the first set - the sea being a mix of the two shades of blue (from coast & ocean) is a very nice idea. It might need some adjustment, but it's unique - and something people might incorporate into other sets or mash-ups.

 

[tom2050]

I like the 3rd one, when seen against the coast makes it look like a nice beach to relax on! The first one also looks pretty good, would definitely give it a unique look.

 

[Vojvoda]

i would say i like most 3rd water test it more visible. My sugestion is that u will need to make little different especially hills cuz i have 0 AD game and atm its very bad hill/grassland distinction. so lets more rocky/forest hill or darker so it can contrast to grassland and mountains too.
And btw when u finished i will use your terrain for my new mod start up . Build one real world map with highest resolution.

the best that i like is barbarian village it fits nice on the map.

keep good work nick0515.