Ultimate Game Design : Building game worlds

FIGURE 2-4
Maya scene
C H A P T E R 2
Next, we will consider the process of building up your initial level geometry, also
called “stubbing out” your level. This process usually follows a fairly common
five-step routine. You can adapt this to meet your own content needs.
Step One: Working from Your Topographic Sketches
The first step in stubbing out your level is to make sure you have a nice topographic
sketch of your map, which describes the general shape and physical features for your
level. It can include indications for general prop layout, rough enemy placement, encountered
obstacles and hazards, and power-ups. Most importantly for modularity
at this stage, it should describe environmental features to the best degree possible,
such as the following:
� Terrain features (hills, valleys, outcroppings, rivers, pools, and so on)
� Terrain elevation information (stair placements, ramps, slopes, inclines,
and so on)
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Level Planning and Building