How do you set up a custom map?

from GalCiv2 Forums

I want to play a normal game on a map size between medium and large (thinking 6x6). I notice a custom map option, but if I choose it, I never get the option to set parameters for it or anything, and instead go to some really oversized map.

10,852 views 5 replies
Reply #1 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

Custom maps are predefined maps with fixed stars, planets, starting ships, etc. They are created by hand in a text editor, or through the map editor that comes with TA. Unfortunately you cannot define custom dimensions, only choose from the sizes offered in the game already.

Reply #2 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

I have never made a custom map, but i belive that you can set the locations of everything you want.

So, would it work for you to just not place anything outside of the 6x6 grid that you would want?  I know the AI will not try to loop around into empty space so you could just ignore anything beyond your 6x6. Of course you will have to be nice and not take advantage of the empty area.

Of course it occured to me that maybe you can't set the location of anomolies, especially the re-appearing ones.

Siege of Centauri
Reply #3 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

Quoting kryo, reply 1
Custom maps are predefined maps with fixed stars, planets, starting ships, etc. They are created by hand in a text editor, or through the map editor that comes with TA. Unfortunately you cannot define custom dimensions, only choose from the sizes offered in the game already.

I was worried that this would be the answer.

Damnit. The map sizes progress nice and smoothly right up to the point where they're a bit smaller than I like, then jump way up to "too big."

Reply #4 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

Quoting Lavitage, reply 3

Quoting kryo, reply 1Custom maps are predefined maps with fixed stars, planets, starting ships, etc. They are created by hand in a text editor, or through the map editor that comes with TA. Unfortunately you cannot define custom dimensions, only choose from the sizes offered in the game already.

I was worried that this would be the answer.

Damnit. The map sizes progress nice and smoothly right up to the point where they're a bit smaller than I like, then jump way up to "too big."

+1

This

 

The 5x5 medium map size is just a smidge too small. However, the 8x8 large map size is WAY too big for my liking.

I however would not be opposed to a 6x6 within an 8x8 size. Space is infinite afterall....the illusion of a 2 tile space around the playable region would be more than acceptable.

I understand that 5 years has transpired, but would it be difficult to achieve?

Reply #5 from GalCiv2 Forums Top

Quoting GFireflyE, reply 4
I understand that 5 years has transpired, but would it be difficult to achieve?

I'm not that familiar with the map editor, but it shouldn't be too hard to do. Start up the editor, select a large map (8x8), then click on Edit->Randomize All, and remove everything from outside the 6x6 grid.

The only thing I'm not sure about are the starting positions for the races. All of the pre-made maps have fixed starting positions for specific races. For example, the Duel map is a 1v1 between the Terrans and the Drengin.
There is a Allow Homeless Players option, but I have no idea how that works, or how you can make the map use the standard values for the races' homesystem. You'll have to figure that out on your own.