That's odd. There were two links for IFOS. I pulled the first one. The second goes to a Microsoft Sky drive folder that someone has. The Relief Map Generator one pulls up no problem for me ...
That's odd. There were two links for IFOS. I pulled the first one. The second goes to a Microsoft Sky drive folder that someone has. The Relief Map Generator one pulls up no problem for me ...
I noticed töff recommend DungeonCrafter3 in another thread.
I think it ought to be noted that DC3 is a barely functional program that has not been developed since 2007. It has a fixed cell size of 72x72, a maximum map size of 15x15 (developers said it slowed down too much with more complex maps) and cannot save, only export.
DC1 was a perfectly functional program, but limited in terms of cell size and the images it could use. DC2 had improved usability but was never finished and a lot of users used both DC1 and DC2 to work on a single map. DC3 was released when it was in a pre-pre-preAlpha stage, had a very minor bug fix and then nothing. DC1 and DC2 (and tilesets) are available from the DC3 website (Legacy section) and are also available on teh Dungeonforge website.
Welcome!
Now about the app I'm playing with it, it's kinda neat, I wish it'd let you make some adjustments once you've got the random image... I put some names in to a text file for generating a map, and it likes to put some that start with Port in the middle of land areas...
As stated in their reply to my suggestions mail, "Development at GFIE is suspended now but will be continued in about a month." so I`ll keep a close watch on this
Campaign Cartographer was mentioned but it is important to note that several of their add-ons can be used in multiple mapping programs to place art objects. And their add-on cosmographer is one of the only software programs that can build a galaxy for the sci fi enthusiasts. (If anyone knows of a better sci-fi galxy builder please list it, as I am always up for that challenge)
I can't vouch for it's utility since I have never used it, but nbos.com develops and sells AstroSynthesis which has abilities to map and create star systems, including some type of randomizing(as well as scripting) of body creation. I have also heard of several others, including some that are free, but can't remember the names off the top of my head.Originally Posted by qmslager
My Finished Maps
Works in Progress(or abandoned tests)
My Tutorials:
Explanation of Layer Masks in GIMP
How to create ISO Mountains in GIMP/PS using the Smudge tool
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Unless otherwise stated by me in the post, all work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 3.0 United States License.
I think it kind of depends on what you mean by a galaxy map. Isomage is scripting up a Traveller sector map. I did a scripted galaxy part map for the challenge a while back (Aug08 maybe...) and many programs can use tokens and CAD type effects to make galaxy maps by hand. I think there are plenty of options tho if one style of map floats your boat then I reckon that only then is there a 'best' app for it.
Well in a cosmographic map I prefer 3D mapping not just texture, similar to what I'd expect in a topographic or bathymetric map. More closely resembles maps you'd find use by an oceanographer which can be viewed at multi angles in 3d. As for best, don't really care I'd like one better than cosmographer as graphically its images remind me of an old apple 2 e. I've found a couple but they require you to really understand physics to even begin to utilize their programs.
My addition to the mapping software: It's full of Stars
This system generator has a steep learning curve and very ancient graphics but it is probably the most in depth one I have used.
Sorry if you wanted to keep this strictly planetary.
Last edited by RobA; 08-21-2009 at 03:51 PM. Reason: Moved details to main thread.
Google Sketchup should be on the list. Its easier to use than some other map making programs and virtually no limitations of how detailed and perfect you can make your maps. Oh yeah its free too and has so many user created plugins you will feel like a virtual demi-god as you create vast 2d/3d cities and landscapes with ease.
There is a great wiki page comparing raster editors here.
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