Mapping For Mapping N00bs

G_a_a_r_a

Ok erm what do i need to get started,Got hammer already,where do i get protacals for cc etc?

Reese

All of that is contained in the .fgd file in your ns directory. (usually c:\sierra\half-life\ns\ although it may change if you're running CS or DoD retail) A good guide to getting you moving is located at <a href='http://nsworld.ns-central.co.uk/Main.php' target='_blank'>http://nsworld.ns-central.co.uk/Main.php</a>

Read through all of this before you start. Also look around online for tutorials and whatnot. Making a half-life deathmatch or fy_ style counter-strike map will teach you a lot before you start on NS. Natural selection is VERY hard to make maps for, so starting out in another area of the half-life universe is probably a good idea.

Some_tall_guy1

I think Reese summed it up pretty well, but I'll give you a link to set up hammer and batch compiler (batch compiler is a seperate program that compiler your map a lot faster and with less resources than hammer). It isn't necessarily to set up your configuration for ns but it gives you a good idea.
<a href='http://www.valve-erc.com/cgi-bin/wcsetup.pl' target='_blank'>Hammer setup</a>
<a href='http://www.valve-erc.com/cgi-bin/batchfile.pl' target='_blank'>Batch compiler setup</a>
I hope this helps.

kittycat

Well I say its easier to make a map for natural-selection than for cs. Just look at nice sci-fi movies (aliensfor example)to get nice ideas and dont get discouraged. Be confident.
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Some_tall_guy1

Its hard to map for as in setting up the necessary entities is confusing, as well as learning to use the particle system. Theres plenty of inspiration though if you just watch some movies like kittycat said.

SnakeUb

i learnt to map on ns (still learning) i admit what i make doesnt compare to what the official maps look like but it IS possible to learn with ns the best thing to do is to make a few fun maps to get used to how things work then start on your first map.

<a href='http://www.geocities.com/adam_tebbutt_mckern/ns.html#Building%20Your%20First%20World' target='_blank'>http://www.geocities.com/adam_tebbutt_mcke...20First%20World</a>

is the site i used to learn now i recomend it

G_a_a_r_a

Hmm ive made a map,check later posts for problems...