** ARCHIVED THREAD ** Map This! -- Cartography Services

[Vandy 110]

Hi, All.
 
Vandy here with the announcement of the reopening of this thread and my map-making services.  Due to some personal issues that do not need to be discussed, Map This! -- Cartography Services had to shut down for a time.  I'm very pleased to annouce that those reasons have since passed and I'm Back, Baby!  Please welcome back to the Custom Regional Mapping Forum
 
   Map This! -- Cartography Services

---

 
Initially, I will be creating Fantasy Maps -- that is, maps of regions that only exist within the folds of gray matter in my head and within the code of various mapping applications.  For the most part, I will be using Landscape Designer, SCRACC, Terragen, World Machine and Paint Shop Pro v9.01 as my "tools" for creating my maps.  I have just started using SC4TF and, from my preliminary work with this wonderful application, expect to start adding SC4TF created maps to my services in the near future.  Even though the basic map may be created by an application, I intend to modify it and ensure that it meets my own rigorous and strict standards before releasing it.

 

My maps will have different levels of "playability" and I tend to recreate the "real" world as close as possible with them.  Consequently, be prepared to see maps that don't always have playable tiles or will have tiles that may be a challenge on which to build.
 
I would like to close this re-introduction by making a very serious and (for me) heartfelt Statement of Purpose as follows:
 
"It is not the intention of Map This! - Cartography Services to be in direct competiton with or otherwise impede, infringe upon or take away from any other individual or group involved in map making.  I am re-starting this effort with the sole purpose of giving the map community another choice and resource from which cartography services can be provided.  I will never talk down to another map maker or otherwise caused him or her to believe they are being denigrated, attacked or "slammed".  My goal is to offer genuine help in the field of map making and to create a product (maps and tutorials) that will be useful to the SimCity 4 community."
 
Finally, please know that I am always open to suggestions, GOOD constructive criticism and genuinely enjoy the banter back and forth between the interested people who will be posting to this thread.

Over the next few weeks, I will be reposting my maps (I have 12 now) back onto the STEX.  I am going to try and space the uploads so that no one elses offerings on the STEX will be "pushed" off the main page by my uploads.  I will also be posting preliminary work being done on maps in development in order to get your feedback as to what you like, don't like or think should be changed concerning those in-production maps.
 
Thanks, in advance, to all who come visiting and WELCOME to Map This! - Cartography Services.
 
Regards,
 
Vandy

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

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 I would like to reintroduce the first map I created with an updated description and new pictures of it.  This map was originally created on January 22, 2006.
 
I want to introduce the first map I've uploaded.  I've called it Prescott Bay.  Prescott Bay is a fantasy map created in Landscape designer and then tweaked using Paint Shop Pro v9.01.  It features a very large bay area with some good low land for developing cities and some rather dramatic highlands suitable for mountain-style city development.  By using either God Mode or Mayor Mode tools, sea level land can be created to better utilize the waterfronts and for creating large cargo/seaport types of cities.

Some of the city tiles will present challenges in building on them if they can be built on at all.  As you will see, I try to create my maps with as much realism as I can.  Consequently -- just like in real life -- not all areas of the map are equal nor can all areas be developed.
 
Here is a picture of the map rendered in SimCity 4 without any mods (generic render):

Here is a picture of the map rendered in SimCity 4 with a variety of Mods:

Read Me Information

Map Details and Information

Map Type:  Fantasy

Mods used in the modded render of all maps are as follows:
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Coumbus Textures for jeronijs mod
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13804

Cycledoggs Columbus Terrain Snowcapped mod Lower
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13815

PEG ROCK MOD 1 - I used the Limestone_205.dat
http://www.jphayden.com/pegprod/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=57

Ocean River MOD final ver. 1.1 - I used ShallowWater_669966.dat and DeepSea_669999.dat files.
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=11628

Installation
Installing the Map:  Unzip Prescott_Bay.zip saving all files into a temporary folder.  Follow the standard SC4 Region Creation instructions to render the map.

Un-Installing the Map: Delete the region created using this map.  The region typically will be found in the following path:

C:\My Document\SimCity 4\Regions\Created_Region where Created_Region is the name you gave the region when creating the region.

WARNING:  Deleting a region will complete remove it and any cities that you have developed.  Make sure this is what you wish to do!

Dependencies:
There are no dependencies for this map.

Disclaimer:
The usage of this download is at your own risk. I test my maps extensively, and they should work without problems.  Feel free to modify this map for your own use and use it to build a region or show in a city journal.  The original rights to and credits for the map are retained by me and I would appreciate credit given if the map is used.  Also, I would greatly appreciate a link to where your version of the map is located in order to see how you implemented it.  Thank you.

Credits:
Thanks to Andreas for the original formatting of this Read Me template.

Comments and Support:
I would greatly appreciate your commenting and rating my maps in the Vandy Maps portion of the STEX.  Certainly, comments are welcome in this thread as well.  I will attempt to answer and comments or support questions to the best of my knowledge, and as quickly as possible.

If interested, you can download Prescott Bay on the STEX.

Regards,

Vandy

[jplumbley 5]

Nice map Vandy... I posted in my thread answering your questions... Tell me how you want me to send you those pictures for the tutorial and I will send them how ever you like.

The only down comment I have about the map is... the hillsides seem to steep to build on and it may make game play hard. If that was your intention awesome job. I like it though, its got some realism to it, I could actually see Prescott Bay as a real place in my mind.

[Vandy 110]

Originally posted by: jplumbley Nice map Vandy... I posted in my thread answering your questions... Tell me how you want me to send you those pictures for the tutorial and I will send them how ever you like.

The only down comment I have about the map is... the hillsides seem to steep to build on and it may make game play hard. If that was your intention awesome job. I like it though, its got some realism to it, I could actually see Prescott Bay as a real place in my mind.quote>

 

Hi, JP.

Thank you for your comments.  They are certainly appreciated.

I have sent you a PM with my address to which you can send the pictures for your tutorial.  Thank you.

As you said, my intent was to go for realism in landscaping.  (Hmm.  I think I just came up with my by-line -- Realism in Landscaping.)  I am aware that some of the city tiles will be difficult (if not impossible) to build on as they have been rendered.  Nonetheless, I do try to create my maps with as much realism as I can, based on the topology of the region I am creating.

One thing I try to ensure people understand is that the God Mod Terraforming Tools are one of your "best friends" when getting ready to develop a region.  If there is a particular area you aren't sure of, don't like or, just wish to change a little, using these tools will make a difficult area much easier to develop.

It's all in what the developer wishes to do with a given map.

==========

UPDATE ON NEW MAP

I am currently in the process of creating my first SC4TF map.  This map is being created complete from "scratch" and will be a combination of a "labor of love" as well as my learning experience with SC4TF.

The map will have a configuration bit map of 12 pixels wide by 8 pixels long and will contain a very long coastline with numerous bays and rivers along with plains, rolling hills and mountain ranges.

I have been working on the coastline and islands first and have a "first look" ready for previewing.  I'm going to try and get an overview picture posted this evening when I get home.

I really am enjoying the SC4TF application and certainly believe it will revolutionize map-making in SC4!

Regards,

Vandy

[jplumbley 5]

Hey Vandy...

I have some very interesting developments from my testing of SC4TF and I can provide some assistance in giving you some ideas on how to hand-terraform for specific feature types, for example, canyons, rivers, mountains, plains, etc. There is no exact specific way to do anything but I have found some "tricks" to make it more realistic. Saunders Lake is an example but I have found some more advanced things lately. Just ask!!

JPlumbley

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

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Donovan's Reach 

Donovan's Reach was originally created on January 26, 2006.

Donovan's Reach is a fantasy map created in Landscape designer and then tweaked using Paint Shop Pro v9.01.  It features a running ocean front area with some good low land for developing cities and gently sloping to highlands suitable for mountain-style city development.  By using either God Mode or Mayor Mode tools, sea level land can be created to better utilize the waterfronts and for creating large cargo/seaport types of cities.

Here are screenshots of the maps:

Original map as rendered in SC4 without any mods



Original map as rendered in SC4 with the listed mods (below)

 

Read Me Information

Map Details and Information
Map Type:  Fantasy

Mods used in the modded render of all maps are as follows:
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Coumbus Textures for jeronijs mod
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13804

Cycledoggs Columbus Terrain Snowcapped mod Lower
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13815

PEG ROCK MOD 1 - I used the Limestone_205.dat
http://www.jphayden.com/pegprod/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=57

Ocean River MOD final ver. 1.1 - I used ShallowWater_669966.dat and DeepSea_669999.dat files.
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=11628

Installation
Installing the Map:  Unzip Prescott_Bay.zip saving all files into a temporary folder.  Follow the standard SC4 Region Creation instructions to render the map.

Un-Installing the Map: Delete the region created using this map.  The region typically will be found in the following path:

C:\My Document\SimCity 4\Regions\Created_Region where Created_Region is the name you gave the region when creating the region.

WARNING:  Deleting a region will complete remove it and any cities that you have developed.  Make sure this is what you wish to do!

Dependencies:
There are no dependencies for this map.

Disclaimer:
The usage of this download is at your own risk. I test my maps extensively, and they should work without problems.  Feel free to modify this map for your own use and use it to build a region or show in a city journal.  The original rights to and credits for the map are retained by me and I would appreciate credit given if the map is used.  Also, I would greatly appreciate a link to where your version of the map is located in order to see how you implemented it.  Thank you.

Credits:
Thanks to Andreas for the original formatting of this Read Me template.

Comments and Support:
I would greatly appreciate your commenting and rating my maps in the Vandy Maps portion of the STEX.  Certainly, comments are welcome in this thread as well.  I will attempt to answer and comments or support questions to the best of my knowledge, and as quickly as possible.

If interested, you can download Donovan's Reach on the STEX.

Have a great day!

Regards,

Vandy

[Vandy 110]

Hi, JP.

Thank you very much for your offer.  I am very interested in learning abount your "tricks" to make a map look more realistic.  I firmly believe that one never is finished with learning from others.  Thank you for the offer.

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

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UPDATE ON NEW MAP

Hi, All.

I wanted to post a preliminary picture of my newest project, currently untitled and being developed with SC4TF.  I have pretty much finished the shore line and outlying islands and wanted to get your input as to what you think so far.

I believe I may need to do a bit more erosion around the islands shorelines to make them a bit more irregular in shape.

Here is the coastline and islands so far:

The configuration bit map is 12 x8 pixels in size.  I started out with a completely flat landscape and sculptured the shorelines and islands by removing the land to create both.  As I think about it, this is exactly the opposite of JPlumbly's Island Tutorial where he built up his islands from the ocean floor up.

The little "stubs" of water jutting into the coastline are the start of my rivers.  That is what I will be developing next.

I tried to smooth the ocean floor as well as smoothed around the islands building up the land to create shallows around the islands and need the coastline.

Have a look and let me know what you think.

Thanks.

Regards,

Vandy

 

[jplumbley 5]

Hey Vandy,

Great work!! Yes you did do the complete opposite from what I do. The reason I do it the way I do is because.... When you build it up from underneath sea level you then break through sea level with your "eroded" shore line and it never turns out the same. It also allow for you to get thinner inlets with better precision instead of changing your tool size to 1 or 2 and making it much harder in that effect to terraformer.

Your inlets are good!! One thing I do is use the draw tool and set it below sea level say 225m, and then make my view straight down on the map... Then I lay out the rivers that way with my curves, and smooth the edges so that I can build my shoreline like how I build my islands. A good thing about this is it is quick and it gives you an idea of how it will turn out in the end roughly. Then go and put your details in. Less time fixing mistakes.

Then After I have my water laid out... I plan how I envision how to build the region in-game. So for example on the nice big inlet that looks to be a MAJOR river on the right, I would say I want a major city to be around there. So I dont want any major sized land features stopping growth of the city here though I would like some features I dont want something too big. Also I say in my head where I dont want someone to build, and put a small rough of a mountain range there. This type of planning allows for organic growth to the cities and allows for many different playing styles (IMO - most important part of map design)...

Just so you know... I am not telling you how to make your map just brainstorming and explaining how I go through things. Your maps are already great!!

JPlumbley

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

---

Hi, All.  Here is the next repost of my original maps.  Gonzo Bay was originally created on January 26, 2006.

Gonzo Bay

Gonzo bay is a fantasy map created in Landscape designer and then tweaked using Paint Shop Pro v9.01.  I named it Gonzo Bay because the outline of the bay reminds me of the muppet, Gonzo.  It features a very large bay area separateing two land masses.  There are some good low land for developing cities and gently sloping to highlands suitable for mountain-style city development.  By using either God Mode or Mayor Mode tools, sea level land can be created to better utilize the waterfronts and for creating large cargo/seaport types of cities.

Some of the city tiles will present challenges in building on them if they can be built on at all.As you will see, I try to create my maps with as much realism as I can. Consequently -- just like in real life -- not all areas of the map are equal nor can all areas be developed.

If interested, you can download Gonzo Bay on the STEX.

Read Me Information

Map Details and Information

Map Type:  Fantasy
config.bmp size: 8 x 8 pixels
Grayscale Map Image size: 513 x 513 pixels

Screenshots

Original map as rendered in SC4 without any mods

Original map as rendered in SC4 with the listed mods (below)

Mods used in the modded render of all maps are as follows:

Coumbus Textures for jeronijs mod
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13804

Cycledoggs Columbus Terrain Snowcapped mod Lower
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13815

PEG ROCK MOD 1 - I used the Limestone_205.dat
http://www.jphayden.com/pegprod/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=57

Ocean River MOD final ver. 1.1 - I used ShallowWater_669966.dat and DeepSea_669999.dat files.
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=11628

Installation

Installing the map:  Unzip the map file saving all files into a temporary folder. Follow the standard SC4 Region Creation instructions to render the map.

Un-Installing the Maps:  Delete the region created using this map. The region typically will be found in the following path:

C:My DocumentSimCity 4RegionsCreated_Region where Created_Region is the name you gave the region when creating the region.

WARNING: Deleting a region will complete remove it and any cities that you have developed.  Make sure this is what you wish to do!

Dependencies:
There are no dependencies for this map.

Disclaimer:
The usage of these map downloads is at your own risk. I test my maps extensively, and they should work without problems. Feel free to modify these maps for your own use and use it to build a region or show in a city journal. The original rights to and credits for the maps are retained by me and I would appreciate credit given if any of the maps are used. Also, I would greatly appreciate a link to where your version of a particular map is located in order to see how you implemented it. Thank you.

Credits:
Thanks to Andreas for the original formatting of this Read Me template. 

If interested, you can download Gonzo Bay on the STEX.

Regards,

Vandy

[Vandy 110]

Hi, All.

Leonard Lake was originally created on February 5, 2006.  Here is the repost of this map's particulars.

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

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Leonard Lake is a fantasy map created in Landscape designer and then modified in Paint Shop Pro v9.01 smoothing and softening some of the terrain features. It features a large lake surrounded by some low to hilly land for developing cities. There's a very nice high tableland valley (I know it's a strange description) to the Northeast that would be great for a metropolitan area. Ceratainly, God-Mode and Mayor-Mode terraforming can enhance its terrain features, if desired.

Some of the city tiles will present challenges in building on them if they can be built on at all.As you will see, I try to create my maps with as much realism as I can. Consequently -- just like in real life -- not all areas of the map are equal nor can all areas be developed.

If interested, you can download Leonard Lake on the STEX.

Read Me Information

Map Details and Information

Map Type:  Fantasy
config.bmp size: 8 x 8 pixels
Grayscale Map Image size: 513 x 513 pixels

Screenshots

Original map as rendered in SC4 without any mods

Original map as rendered in SC4 with the listed mods (below)

Mods used in the modded render of all maps are as follows:
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Coumbus Textures for jeronijs mod
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13804

Cycledoggs Columbus Terrain Snowcapped mod Lower
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13815

PEG ROCK MOD 1 - I used the Limestone_205.dat
http://www.jphayden.com/pegprod/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=57

Ocean River MOD final ver. 1.1 - I used ShallowWater_669966.dat and DeepSea_669999.dat files.
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=11628

Installation

Installing the map:  Unzip the map file saving all files into a temporary folder. Follow the standard SC4 Region Creation instructions to render the map.

Un-Installing the Maps:  Delete the region created using this map. The region typically will be found in the following path:

C:My DocumentSimCity 4RegionsCreated_Region where Created_Region is the name you gave the region when creating the region.

WARNING: Deleting a region will complete remove it and any cities that you have developed.  Make sure this is what you wish to do!

Dependencies:
There are no dependencies for this map.

Disclaimer:
The usage of these map downloads is at your own risk. I test my maps extensively, and they should work without problems. Feel free to modify these maps for your own use and use it to build a region or show in a city journal. The original rights to and credits for the maps are retained by me and I would appreciate credit given if any of the maps are used. Also, I would greatly appreciate a link to where your version of a particular map is located in order to see how you implemented it. Thank you.

Credits:
Thanks to Andreas for the original formatting of this Read Me template.

If you're interested, Leonard Lake can be downloaded from the STEX.

Regards,

Vandy

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

---

Hi, All.

UPDATE ON NEW MAP

I've had a chance to work some more on my newest map and first map made completely in SC4TF.  I've added my first draft of rivers.  I'm not sure I'm completely satisfied with them and certainly believe I have some further work to do on them.

JP, I would certainly love to have your comment and offer your own "tips and tricks" for making rivers in SC4TF.  I very much appreciate your willingness to share your style.  It is an absolute joy to have another person in the mapping community willing to share.

Here is the picture of the map so far.  I look forward to your comments and suggestions:

Regards,

Vandy

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

---

Hi, All.

Aecheson Crater field was originally created on February 5, 2006.  Here is the repost of that map's information:

STORYLINE:  Final plans have been put in place concerning the first colonization of Mars.  The Aecheson Crater Field has been picked as the best of all possible sites for the first Mars colony.  Named after amatuer astronomer Jonathan Aecheson who discovered the crater field in 1931, the Aecheson Crater Field has a terrain suited for development of living spaces for the colony as well as the potential for precious and exotic mineral extraction from the surrounding land area.  With the development and incredible progress made in Planetary Terraforming, it is quite possible that the Aecheson Crater Field area could prove to be the first large-scale terraforming success story for humankind.

Some of the city tiles will present challenges in building on them if they can be built on at all.As you will see, I try to create my maps with as much realism as I can. Consequently -- just like in real life -- not all areas of the map are equal nor can all areas be developed.

The grayscale image for this map was a bit map of beaded water on the hood of a car.  I enhanced the image in Paint Shop Pro, v9.01 and used Landscape Designer to check and set the elevation.  Enjoy.

Read Me Information

Map Details and Information

Map Type:  Fantasy
config.bmp size: 8 x 8 pixels
Grayscale Map Image size: 513 x 513 pixels

Screenshot

Original map as rendered in SC4 without any mods (I didn't render a modded version of this map as I didn't think it would be look right given the map's theme):

Installation

Installing the map:  Unzip the map file saving all files into a temporary folder. Follow the standard SC4 Region Creation instructions to render the map.

Un-Installing the Maps:  Delete the region created using this map. The region typically will be found in the following path:

C:My DocumentSimCity 4RegionsCreated_Region where Created_Region is the name you gave the region when creating the region.

WARNING: Deleting a region will complete remove it and any cities that you have developed.  Make sure this is what you wish to do!

Dependencies:
There are no dependencies for this map.

Disclaimer:
The usage of these map downloads is at your own risk. I test my maps extensively, and they should work without problems. Feel free to modify these maps for your own use and use it to build a region or show in a city journal. The original rights to and credits for the maps are retained by me and I would appreciate credit given if any of the maps are used. Also, I would greatly appreciate a link to where your version of a particular map is located in order to see how you implemented it. Thank you.

Credits:
Thanks to Andreas for the original formatting of this Read Me template.

If you're interested, Aecheson Crater Field can be downloaded from the STEX.

Regards,

Vandy

[blade2k5 1,523]

Hello there Vandy!  I have to say your new map here look great.  I just love the way you alighned the rivers the way you did, and those small islands, that really adds more realism to this map.  I can imagine some low rolling hills situated in-between some of the rivers, the possibilities are numerous. 

I am myself learning all the tricks of sc4tf and have been terraform practicing for nearly two weeks now and have loved the results I've gotten so far.  I can see that you're already ahead of me drawing in the rivers with the program.  I've just started to play around with that function and have a ways to go before I master it.

I'll be checking back to see how this new map develops.

[Vandy 110]

Hi, Blade.

Hey, thanks for your comments.  They are very much appreciated and I always enjoy them.

I'm really enjoying SC4TF and believe I'll be using it quite a bit more as time goes on.

Looking forward to chatting with you again.

Regards,

Vandy

[blade2k5 1,523]

I've almost completley quite the map drawing with Paint, only use it when I want to mix and match the dozens of terrain templates I've drawn over the past several months. Right now though, I'm going through my catalog of maps and cherry picking some to be re-envisioned as they were meant to be with SC4Terraformer, learning how the program works and honing my skills. This is a very simple program to use and I'm getting a handle on it rather quickly. I'm pretty sure you'll be a master with the program in no time.

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

---

Hi, All.

Puerta Del Dios was originally created on February 12, 2006.  Here is the repost of that map's information:

Puerta Del Dios is a fantasy map.  The map reminds me of a gateway connecting, through a mountanous gap, a lowland coastal area to a river valley -- hence, the name Puerta Del Dios (God's Gate).   I used Terragen to hand-draw the original terrain.  I screen-captured it, saved it as a bit map and loaded it into Landscape designer where I did some initial adjustments to the elevation and did some smoothing. Then, I did some heavy modifications in Paint Shop Pro v9.01,changing the elevations, deepening the water, smoothing and softening some of the terrain features, etc.

The map features a coastal plain with a small river delta emptying into a large bay.  The coastal plain rising to a single mountain range through which the river flows and empties into a river valley where another river branches off the main one.  Between the coastal plain and the river valley, there is ample opportunities to create and develop a number of cities, towns and villages.  The challenge will be in creating a transit system to ties together both sides of the mountains.  Ceratainly, God-Mode and Mayor-Mode terraforming can enhance the map's terrain features, if desired.

Some of the city tiles will present challenges in building on them if they can be built on at all.As you will see, I try to create my maps with as much realism as I can. Consequently -- just like in real life -- not all areas of the map are equal nor can all areas be developed.

Read Me Information

Map Details and Information

Map Type:  Fantasy
config.bmp size: 8 x 8 pixels
Grayscale Map Image size: 513 x 513 pixels

Screenshot

Original map as rendered in SC4 without any mods:

Original map as rendered in SC4 with the listed mods (below):

Mods used in the modded render of all maps are as follows:
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Coumbus Textures for jeronijs mod
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13804

Cycledoggs Columbus Terrain Snowcapped mod Lower
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13815

PEG ROCK MOD 1 - I used the Limestone_205.dat
http://www.jphayden.com/pegprod/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=57

Ocean River MOD final ver. 1.1 - I used ShallowWater_669966.dat and DeepSea_669999.dat files.
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=11628 


Installation

Installing the map:  Unzip the map file saving all files into a temporary folder. Follow the standard SC4 Region Creation instructions to render the map.

Un-Installing the Maps:  Delete the region created using this map. The region typically will be found in the following path:

C:My DocumentSimCity 4RegionsCreated_Region where Created_Region is the name you gave the region when creating the region.

WARNING: Deleting a region will complete remove it and any cities that you have developed.  Make sure this is what you wish to do!

Dependencies:
There are no dependencies for this map.

Disclaimer:
The usage of these map downloads is at your own risk. I test my maps extensively, and they should work without problems. Feel free to modify these maps for your own use and use it to build a region or show in a city journal. The original rights to and credits for the maps are retained by me and I would appreciate credit given if any of the maps are used. Also, I would greatly appreciate a link to where your version of a particular map is located in order to see how you implemented it. Thank you.

Credits:
Thanks to Andreas for the original formatting of this Read Me template.

If you're interested, Puerta Del Dios can be downloaded from the STEX.

Regards,

Vandy

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

---

Hi, All.

Eas and West Constantina's Isles were originally created on March 4, 2006.  Here is the repost of the two map's information:

Read Me Information

Map Details and Information

Map Type:  Fantasy
config.bmp size: 8 x 8 pixels
Grayscale Map Image size: 513 x 513 pixels

East Constantina's Isles

Constantina commented that she would like to see a map that had a more rugged coastline and snow-capped mountain peaks. I worked on her request and have created two maps for her (and for all of you, as well). The two maps are variations on each other. They are both island groups with a variety of islands, coastlines and mountains. One has a number of islands with rugged coastlines and tall moutain peaks (snow covered if using a terrain Mod) and the other has a single dominating and rambling island with a few smaller islands, a smoother coastline and lower mountains (again, snow covered if using a terrain Mod).

The map was originally created in SC3000 Terrain Generator, elevation checked and smoothed in Landscape designer, edited using PaintShopPro and a final elevation check and smoothing done in Landscape Designer.

East Constantina's Isles is a fantasy map that has a single dominating and rambling island, a smoother coastline and lower mountains. (If using a terrain Mod, they will have some snow cover.) The map features a medium height, rolling mountainous terrain with a very large rambling island, two lakes and two or three small isthmus "choke points". There is one very large bay centered around the rambling island and a number of small bays and inlets. Finally, there are several small islands around the large island. I would classify this map as medium to difficut to build on. There are several areas of low coastal land and a number of high valleys suitable for development. Skilled God-Mode and Mayor-Mode terraforming will be required to enhance the map's terrain features, if desired. 

Some of the city tiles will present challenges in building on them if they can be built on at all.As you will see, I try to create my maps with as much realism as I can. Consequently -- just like in real life -- not all areas of the map are equal nor can all areas be developed.


Screenshot

Original map as rendered in SC4 without any mods:

Original map as rendered in SC4 with the listed mods (below):




West Constantina's Isles

Constantina commented that she would like to see a map that had a more rugged coastline and snow-capped mountain peaks. I worked on her request and have created two maps for her (and for all of you, as well). The two maps are variations on each other. They are both island groups with a variety of islands, coastlines and mountains. One has a number of islands with rugged coastlines and tall moutain peaks (snow covered if using a terrain Mod) and the other has a single dominating and rambling island with a few smaller islands, a smoother coastline and lower mountains (again, snow covered if using a terrain Mod).

The map was originally created in SC3000 Terrain Generator, elevation checked and smoothed in Landscape designer, edited using PaintShopPro and a final elevation check and smoothing done in Landscape Designer.

West Constantina's Isles is a fantasy map that has a number of islands with rugged coastlines and tall moutain peaks (snow-covered when using a terrain Mod). The map features a high, mountainous terrain with a number of small bays and inlets. I would classify this map as difficut and challanging to build on as the coastlines tend to rise quickly from the water's edge. There are some high flat lands that can be developed. Certainly, most coastal areas will need to be terraformed to provide enough flat land for development to take place. Skilled God-Mode and Mayor-Mode terraforming will be required to enhance the map's terrain features, if desired. 

Some of the city tiles will present challenges in building on them if they can be built on at all.As you will see, I try to create my maps with as much realism as I can. Consequently -- just like in real life -- not all areas of the map are equal nor can all areas be developed.


Screenshots

Unmodded (Original) render of Region: 

 

Modded render of Region: 

Mods used in the modded render of all maps are as follows:
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Coumbus Textures for jeronijs mod
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13804

Cycledoggs Columbus Terrain Snowcapped mod Lower
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13815

PEG ROCK MOD 1 - I used the Limestone_205.dat
http://www.jphayden.com/pegprod/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=57

Ocean River MOD final ver. 1.1 - I used ShallowWater_669966.dat and DeepSea_669999.dat files.
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=11628 
 

Installation

Installing the map:  Unzip the map file saving all files into a temporary folder. Follow the standard SC4 Region Creation instructions to render the map.

Un-Installing the Maps:  Delete the region created using this map. The region typically will be found in the following path:

C:My DocumentSimCity 4RegionsCreated_Region where Created_Region is the name you gave the region when creating the region.

WARNING: Deleting a region will complete remove it and any cities that you have developed.  Make sure this is what you wish to do!

Dependencies:
There are no dependencies for this map.

Disclaimer:
The usage of these map downloads is at your own risk. I test my maps extensively, and they should work without problems. Feel free to modify these maps for your own use and use it to build a region or show in a city journal. The original rights to and credits for the maps are retained by me and I would appreciate credit given if any of the maps are used. Also, I would greatly appreciate a link to where your version of a particular map is located in order to see how you implemented it. Thank you.

Credits:
Thanks to Andreas for the original formatting of this Read Me template.

If you're interested, East Constantina's Isles and West Constantina's Isles can be downloaded from the STEX.

Regards,

Vandy

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

---

UPDATE ON NEW MAP

Hi, All.

I've been busy at work developing my newest map using SC4TF.  I must say they more I use this application the more I am absolutely LOVING IT!!

I've developed the Northwestern corner of my map.  It consists of a rather "hefty" mountain range that somewhat abruptly lets down to a river plain.  Here are some screen shots of the range:

Overall view of Mountain Range in SC4TF




Close-Up View #01 of Mountain Range in SC4TF




Close-Up View #02 of Mountain Range in SC4TF




Close-Up View #03 of Mountain Range in SC4TF




Close-Up Overall View of Mountain Range in SC4TF




Overall View of Mountain Range (taken in Region Census).  Click on the picture to be taken to a bigger picture of the view.



I'll be developing the area between the river and the shore next (the Southwestern corner of the map).

Let me know what you think, okay?

Thanks to all who are following this thread.

Regards,

Vandy

[beskhu3epnm 8]

Nice stuff. I like the underwater detail, as that kind of detail is very rare!

I am liking your vision as far as maps are concerned, you seem to "see" what the map will look like, and then perform it exactly to your specifications with no compromises. At least that is what I am detecting.

Already you have butchered all of my SC4TF efforts.... (sigh). That is some great work you got going on in that last post!

Keep it up!

=vandy

[blade2k5 1,523]

SC4TF is addicting isn't it? It's all I seem to do now that I got it installed properly. You're proving me true when I said I'm pretty sure you'll be a master with the program in no time. I'm liking a lot with what you have done so far and definately can't wait to see what you add in next..

[moganite 4]

Youve got great water detailing maybe you should release a tutourial on detailing water

[jplumbley 5]

Vandy.... I must say that mountain range is awesome!!!

Your coming along nicely with SC4TF, and I cant wait to see what you'll turn out with in the end of this one!! This I think will be your best map ever!!

JPlumbley

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

---

Hi, All.

The Lake District was originally created on March 4, 2006.  Here is the repost of that map's information:

The Lake District is a fantasy map. I would give the map a medium to difficult rating for development. The map features a rolling, mountanous terrain with a number of lakes (big and small) throughout it. I chose to leave the finished map a little "rough" rather than continuing to smooth it in order to preserve some of the smaller islands and features. Some careful God-Mode or Mayor-Mode terraforming on the obvious land connections for the islands will complete them.

The map was originally created in SC3000 Terrain Generator, elevation checked and smoothed in Landscape designer, edited using PaintShopPro and a final elevation check and smoothing done in Landscape Designer. There is both level land in valleys and high mountain plains that can be developed. The coastlines tend to be a bit steep but careful God-Mode and Mayor-Mode terraforming can enhance the map's terrain features, if desired.

Some of the city tiles will present challenges in building on them if they can be built on at all.As you will see, I try to create my maps with as much realism as I can. Consequently -- just like in real life -- not all areas of the map are equal nor can all areas be developed.

Read Me Information

Map Details and Information

Map Type:  Fantasy
config.bmp size: 8 x 8 pixels
Grayscale Map Image size: 513 x 513 pixels

Screenshot

Original map as rendered in SC4 without any mods:

Original map as rendered in SC4 with the listed mods (below):



Mods used in the modded render of all maps are as follows:
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Coumbus Textures for jeronijs mod
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13804

Cycledoggs Columbus Terrain Snowcapped mod Lower
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13815

PEG ROCK MOD 1 - I used the Limestone_205.dat
http://www.jphayden.com/pegprod/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=57

Ocean River MOD final ver. 1.1 - I used ShallowWater_669966.dat and DeepSea_669999.dat files.
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=11628 


Installation

Installing the map:  Unzip the map file saving all files into a temporary folder. Follow the standard SC4 Region Creation instructions to render the map.

Un-Installing the Maps:  Delete the region created using this map. The region typically will be found in the following path:

C:My DocumentSimCity 4RegionsCreated_Region where Created_Region is the name you gave the region when creating the region.

WARNING: Deleting a region will complete remove it and any cities that you have developed.  Make sure this is what you wish to do!

Dependencies:
There are no dependencies for this map.

Disclaimer:
The usage of these map downloads is at your own risk. I test my maps extensively, and they should work without problems. Feel free to modify these maps for your own use and use it to build a region or show in a city journal. The original rights to and credits for the maps are retained by me and I would appreciate credit given if any of the maps are used. Also, I would greatly appreciate a link to where your version of a particular map is located in order to see how you implemented it. Thank you.

Credits:
Thanks to Andreas for the original formatting of this Read Me template.

If you're interested, The Lake District can be downloaded from the STEX.

Regards,

Vandy

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

---

Hi, All.

With this post, I  have posted all 10 of my original maps.  The next two I will post have recently (September 11 and 12) been created and are currently posted on Pegasus Productions.

Poseidon's Passage was originally created on March 4, 2006.  Here is the repost of that map's information:

Poseidon's Passage is a fantasy map. I would give the map a medium to difficult rating for development. The map features two distinct land masses separated by a very narrow water passage -- hence the name, Poseidon's Passage. I chose to leave the finished map a little "rough" rather than continuing to smooth it in order to preserve some of the smaller islands and features. Some careful God-Mode or Mayor-Mode terraforming on the obvious land connections for the islands will complete them as well as open the bay at the bottom left-hand corner of the map.

The map was originally created in SC3000 Terrain Generator, elevation checked and smoothed in Landscape designer, edited using PaintShopPro and a final elevation check and smoothing done in Landscape Designer. There is both level land in valleys and high mountain plains that can be developed. The small isthmus at the water passage would make for interesting development. The coastlines tend to be a bit steep but careful God-Mode and Mayor-Mode terraforming can enhance the map's terrain features, if desired.

Some of the city tiles will present challenges in building on them if they can be built on at all.As you will see, I try to create my maps with as much realism as I can. Consequently -- just like in real life -- not all areas of the map are equal nor can all areas be developed.

Read Me Information

Map Details and Information

Map Type:  Fantasy
config.bmp size: 8 x 8 pixels
Grayscale Map Image size: 513 x 513 pixels

Screenshot

Original map as rendered in SC4 without any mods:

Original map as rendered in SC4 with the listed mods (below):



Mods used in the modded render of all maps are as follows:
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Columbus Textures for jeronijs mod
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13804

Cycledoggs Columbus Terrain Snowcapped mod Lower
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13815

PEG ROCK MOD 1 - I used the Limestone_205.dat
http://www.jphayden.com/pegprod/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=57

Ocean River MOD final ver. 1.1 - I used ShallowWater_669966.dat and DeepSea_669999.dat files.
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=11628 


Installation

Installing the map:  Unzip the map file saving all files into a temporary folder. Follow the standard SC4 Region Creation instructions to render the map.

Un-Installing the Maps:  Delete the region created using this map. The region typically will be found in the following path:

C:My DocumentSimCity 4RegionsCreated_Region where Created_Region is the name you gave the region when creating the region.

WARNING: Deleting a region will complete remove it and any cities that you have developed.  Make sure this is what you wish to do!

Dependencies:
There are no dependencies for this map.

Disclaimer:
The usage of these map downloads is at your own risk. I test my maps extensively, and they should work without problems. Feel free to modify these maps for your own use and use it to build a region or show in a city journal. The original rights to and credits for the maps are retained by me and I would appreciate credit given if any of the maps are used. Also, I would greatly appreciate a link to where your version of a particular map is located in order to see how you implemented it. Thank you.

Credits:
Thanks to Andreas for the original formatting of this Read Me template.

If you're interested, Poseidon's Passage can be downloaded from the STEX.

Regards,

Vandy

[cmdp123789 710]

Hi, well you've got really nice maps, but there's something that I've been looking for and nobody did! what I been looking for it's a map of manhattan, with the manhattan island straight instead of being at an inclinated angle and with an accurately size. please it would be awesome for me if you can consider doing this map for me, please will u do it? and if so. How much time would it take u to do it?

[Vandy 110]

Originally posted by: cmdp123789 Hi, well you've got really nice maps, but there's something that I've been looking for and nobody did! what I been looking for it's a map of manhattan, with the manhattan island straight instead of being at an inclinated angle and with an accurately size. please it would be awesome for me if you can consider doing this map for me, please will u do it? and if so. How much time would it take u to do it?quote>

 

Hello, cmdp123789.

Thank you for your comments concerning my maps.  Right now, I'm pretty much concentrating on fantasy maps and don't have any current plans to work on any "real life" maps.  Have you considered posting a request in the Official Mapping Community Requests thread?

Regards,

Vandy

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

---

Hi, All.

Originally posted by: beskhu3epnm Nice stuff. I like the underwater detail, as that kind of detail is very rare!

I am liking your vision as far as maps are concerned, you seem to "see" what the map will look like, and then perform it exactly to your specifications with no compromises. At least that is what I am detecting.

Already you have butchered all of my SC4TF efforts.... (sigh). That is some great work you got going on in that last post!

Keep it up!
=vandyquote>

 

Hi, beskhu3epnm.

(Whew!  That is a mouthful!  Is there a story benind your screen-name?)

Thanks for your comments on my progress so far.  I have to admit that "playing" with water detail is just another one of the great pluses of SC4TF.  I never knew how much fun it would be to "build" an ocean.

You are correct in what you said about the way I create a map.  I pretty much see the map in my head and then recreate it in the application.  Of course, there are always changing as the map develops as I think of a better way to present a feature of capitalize of a mistake.  Nonetheless, the basic map structure gets pretty much reproduced from the image in my brain.

----------
Hi, Balde.

Originally posted by: blade2k5 SC4TF is addicting isn't it? It's all I seem to do now that I got it installed properly. You're proving me true when I said I'm pretty sure you'll be a master with the program in no time. I'm liking a lot with what you have done so far and definately can't wait to see what you add in next..quote>

Yes, I am 110% addicted to SC4TF.  What a GREAT application.  It's an easy application to learn and the results are just fantastic.  Thanks for your nice comments.  I appreciatre your feedback.

----------
Hi, moganite.

Originally posted by: moganite Youve got great water detailing maybe you should release a tutourial on detailing waterquote>

 

Thank you for your comments on my water detailing.  I will take your suggestion on writing a water detailing tutorial under advisement.  It actually would be fun writing this.  I'll certainly give it some thought.

----------
Hi, jplumbley.

Originally posted by: jplumbley Vandy.... I must say that mountain range is awesome!!!

Your coming along nicely with SC4TF, and I cant wait to see what you'll turn out with in the end of this one!! This I think will be your best map ever!!

JPlumbleyquote>

 

Thaks for your comments on the mountain range.  I really enjoyed working on that.  I especially like using the brushes to accentuate the mountain spines.  I have to agree that this will probably be my best map to date.  But then, the application lends itself to allowing the map maker to create really great maps.

UPDATE ON NEW MAP

Well, I've had a chance to do some more work on my yet-to-be-named map.  (Hmmm.  Maybe I should have a contest to find a name?)  I've divided the map into three parts -- the Western Part, Central Part and Eastern Part.  I'm pretty much finished with the Western Part now including the off-shore islands.  I wanted to share some pictures of my progress.

As always, your comments are not only welcome but are solicited.

Here are the newest preview pictures:

1)  Overhead view using Region Census

2)  Overview of Western Part from the South Looking North

3)  Overview of Western Part from the East Looking West

4)  Overview of the Western Part from the North Looking South

5)  Overview of the Western Part from the West Looking East

6)  Large Off-Shore Island on the Western Side of the Western Part

7)  Central Off-Shore Island Group of the Western Part

  Eastern Off-Shore Island Group of the Western Part

Hope you enjoy these previews and I look forward to your feedback.

Regards,

Vandy

[wouanagaine 86]

hi vandy

really great usage of SC4TF !!

I like the rivers, and islands !

[beskhu3epnm 8]

Vandy,

You gotta be spending time on this like crazy. It seems that the curve that you operate on is quite high with regards to SC4TF

I can see that the Western Portion of the map is developing into something incredibly realistic. I am anxious to see the development of the other sections of flat terrain intow whatever you have visioned.

Maybe I got something weird with regards to patience, but I can't do that type of

"art" that you (all) are performing on SC4TF. I stick to scale mapping, it is quick and dirty!!

P.S.

Screen name beskhu3epnm is a song title on the Aphex Twin album drukqs. It is kernow (celtic) for "best be prepared" or something or other..... pronounced besktzep with the three making a hard Z sound.... plus I try to make sure no one remembers me!!

[Vandy 110]

   Map This! -- Cartography Services

---

Hi, All.

Vicki's Sound

This post finally "catches up" with my more recent maps.  Vicki's Sound was originally created on September 11, 2006.  Here are the particulars for this map:

After the last ice age, the retreating glaciers scoured out a very large bay which quickly filled with water melting from the glaciers and mixed with water from the surrounding sea.  Over time, the bay and surrounding areas settled into the familiar landscape known today.  Vicki's Sound, as it is now known, has very deep and chilly waters which are frequently visited by whales returning to breed and rest during the migratory journey.

This map was originally made using Landscape Designer and then heavily modified using PaintShop Pro, v9.1x.  There is ample opportunity to develop both the upper bay and all around the sound as well as an interesting opportunity to tie the lake into the bay by cutting a canal across the small isthmus separating the two.

As you travel inward from the sound above the first range of hills/mountains, you will find several valleys well suited for development into villages, towns and -- who knows? -- even cities.

There should be little need for terraforming other than personal preferences or personal changes to the landscape itself. 

Some of the city tiles will present challenges in building on them if they can be built on at all.As you will see, I try to create my maps with as much realism as I can. Consequently -- just like in real life -- not all areas of the map are equal nor can all areas be developed.


Read-Me Information

Map Specifics

Map Type: Fantasy
config.bmp size: 8 x 8 pixels
Grayscale Map Image size: 513 x 513 pixels


Screenshots

Original map without any mods



Original map as rendered in SC4 with the listed mods (below)



Modded map rendered using the following mods:
----------------------------------------------------------
Coumbus Textures for jeronijs mod
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13804

Cycledoggs Columbus Terrain Snowcapped mod Lower
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=13815

PEG ROCK MOD 1 - I used the Limestone_205.dat
http://www.jphayden.com/pegprod/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=57

Ocean River MOD final ver. 1.1 - I used ShallowWater_669966.dat and DeepSea_669999.dat files.
https://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=11628


Installation

Installing the Maps:  Unzip the map file saving all files into a temporary folder. Follow the standard SC4 Region Creation instructions to render the map.

Un-Installing the Maps:  Delete the region created using this map. The region typically will be found in the following path:

C:\My Document\SimCity 4\Regions\Created_Region where Created_Region is the name you gave the region when creating the region.

WARNING: Deleting a region will complete remove it and any cities that you have developed.  Make sure this is what you wish to do!


Dependencies:
There are no dependencies for this map.


Disclaimer:
The usage of these map downloads is at your own risk. I test my maps extensively, and they should work without problems. Feel free to modify these maps for your own use and use it to build a region or show in a city journal. The original rights to and credits for the maps are retained by me and I would appreciate credit given if any of the maps are used. Also, I would greatly appreciate a link to where your version of a particular map is located in order to see how you implemented it. Thank you. 


Credits: 
Thanks to Andreas for the original formatting of this Read Me template. 

If you're interested, Vicki's Sound can be downloaded from the STEX.

Regards,

Vandy