Sprite applications
· Using sprites to create shadows · example · Using sprites to split walls · Using sprites for text on walls · Creating two locations of activation and only one occurrence · Sprite App: Using lotag 31 or 32 ie. for a door under water introduction
There are some neat sprite tricks that one can pull off with some thought but first a little on sprites in general. There are enough sprites to do just about anything and using multiple sprites to pull off several effects in sequence or simultaneously is quite cool. The master switch sprite has moved to the top of my list of favourite sprites and you'll see why by the end of this section on sprites. The only way to delay an event in Duke 3D is by using the master switch sprite. The player usually enters each new area expecting some thing to happen. If you can delay an event for a few seconds or even a bit longer, then the event is pretty much unexpected and some times startling. If you can design effects that startle the player, then you've done a good job with the effect. Part of designing a map calls for some psychology 101. Think about the effect you'd like to have and try to make it happen. I can only give you a couple of examples of effects I've wanted to make happen and how I did those but you should dream up some of your own effects and try to make them work. Don't give up because it doesn't work by trying what you know has worked before; try to make the effect by reworking the sprites and testing as many times as you have to. You're not getting paid to make the map and at best you might get some recognition for your work. So? What do you have to lose? Think up some cool effect and try to make it.
|