Raising Hills in Slough Creek

[loboLoco]

We use actual topographic data to create our game maps, since they’re based on real locations in Yellowstone National Park. But the resolution of that data means that the game map is too smooth and generalized, without the level of detail that you see in the real place. Fortunately, there are more and more tools that help us add that important detail to the maps. It’s still a lot of work, but far easier than it was even a few years ago. Today’s devblog looks at how we use a tool for Unity called Gaia to make the granite hills around Slough Creek more realistic. Using Gaia’s Stamper tool, we can apply small-scale heightmaps of rock formations to raise (or lower) sections of the terrain, then paint textures based on convexity of the surface — so granite on the convex bumps and grass in the cracks and crevices in between. It takes a lot of experimentation to get it to look right, but it’s very satisfying to see the map gradually become more detailed and realistic. Of course, with such a big map, that means a LOT of experimentation — and hopefully a lot of satisfaction.

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While in Early Access, we will be updating the game frequently with more features, multiplayer, and ultimately the Slough Creek episode with pups. The mobile version will come after the game is completed on PC/Mac platforms. We’ll then resume development of the next episode, Tower Fall (DLC).

[SophieTheAiredale]

Wow!! Slough Creek is looking amazing!! I really can't wait to see what those cute pups will look like!! I also can't wait to explore and discover everything!! My wolf will have a workout by the time I'm done. . . Anyway, I have a few questions. One: Will SC come out first, or MP? Two: where will we spawn? (it's okay if you don't know yet) Three: how big is the map? because it looks bigger than AM. Four: Are the original dens still going to be there? Sorry for asking so much, I just have a lot of questions.

[elkhunter123456]

Its so green! When slough creek comes out I know i'm going to try to get the largest territory possible

[Mwitu]

I love seeing this progress! I look forward to the new dens and the wide selection available. I'm already a bit intimidated at the prospect of rival wolf packs, though. I could see myself claiming territory at the edge of the map and as far away from other wolves as possible. Something tells me this game will be significantly harder than 2.7!

[-Wolfdog-]

Ahhh!! Yay I've been waiting for the day you'd talk about Slough Creek. It's coming out great, and the water looks beautiful. I'm so excited for Slough Creek

[Loach]

Man playing with stamps on unity terrain is amazing. I'm guessing these stamps and the brushing of the terrain is why there are some unwanted depressions or a bit too much jaggy parts?

Love seeing Slough Creek since it's so green and the longer expanse of river crossings will make it feel more wet and humid, compared to the dry cold feel Amethyst Mountain has.

[SamueWolfSword]

It looks really fun to paint in the heightmap of the hills and add the terrain textures. It also looks really cool and it`s nice that it paints textures for you so you don`t have to hand-draw everything from scratch (which I think can take more time and is harder to do).

[Phasoli]

I'm loving the greenery. The plant-scape is one of the highlights of the game for me.