S3D Files, "Depth Test", and prop layering on lots

[ncamferdam 1,503]

Hello.

I recently posted in the Bugs & Technical Issues forum about a graphical issue with the NAM ped mall FLUPs, where the tiles layer themselves in the foreground, obscuring most props which are placed in front of them. The thread is below, but @memo has very kindly solved this specific problem already. The issue was apparently with the FLUP S3D file, and the "Depth Test" setting being disabled. As shown in the thread, the patch memo provided solved the problem.

This made me realize though that this is not the first time I've dealt with this problem. I've often had to abandon lotting efforts because of this exact issue, where certain props will ruin the visual by obscuring anything in the foreground. For example, I'm currently trying to add some props to the Heretic Shinjuku station lot, but the station prop itself blocks everything. Of course, it's also a problem for other lots placed nearby in-game, in the same way as the palm trees in the above thread.

My question is if I can recreate memo's trick with the FLUPs on any other prop. If so, I assume it would be done through iLive Reader. I have a decent amount of experience with that tool, but I've never done anything with 3SD files, and I don't really understand how they work. I haven't even been able to find the Depth Test setting.

I'm sure in-depth guides for this exact problem already exist somewhere either here or on the old SC4D forums. In any case, any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again.

[ncamferdam 1,503]

Updating this, I did find the Depth Test setting (just needed to scroll down, lol). Continuing to use the Shinjuku station model as an example, I checked through each material in all of the S3D files, and as far as I can tell the settings below are true for all of them. Depth Test seems to be checked for everything, so perhaps that's not the problem. Is there any other avenue that I can pursue?

[Girafe 1,729]

I guess the example of the FLUP was really specific. It's was a flat model so the LODs should be flat too. 

The issue which you are referring to is mainly due to the LODs of the building and/ or props which collide with each others while they are too close. 

Nothing you can do. Modelers can do tighter LODs but it's not always easy. 

[ncamferdam 1,503]

Ah, understood. I'll work around it as before.

Appreciate the clarification.