The Benefits of Mapping [LIST]

Kube

Kube

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Aug 31, 2014
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Lately, I've felt the urge to compile a somewhat comprehensive list of the formal benefits that come with mapping using the Hammer Editor. However, I have come to realize that many of the members here have dealt with explaining this sort of thing first-hand, both to close friends/relatives and to professional interests, colleges, etc. So, I'd life to take the time to ask what the community thinks are valid skills and proficiencies gained by using the Hammer Editor. I am asking mainly for the technical advantages Hammer Editor users have in a business/workplace environment, and less for things such as 'the ability to express yourself freely' and similar thoughts. Thanks in advance to all who contribute!

The List:
Ms. Mudpie said:
Teaching people to save early and save often.

I learnt it the hard way.
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RubbishyUser

L7: Fancy Member
Feb 17, 2013
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Are you talking about the Hammer Editor explicitly over other 3D engines like Unreal or are you talking about level design in general?
 
Kube

Kube

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Aug 31, 2014
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RubbishyUser said:
Are you talking about the Hammer Editor explicitly over other 3D engines like Unreal or are you talking about level design in general?
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This is going to come out a bit confusing, but...

I am talking about the Hammer Editor explicitly, but including it along with aspects of general level design, using the Hammer Editor. So, anything skill that includes either using the Hammer Editor or participating in level design with the Hammer Editor is fair game. Using external resources along with the Editor (PakRat, etc.) also counts.

Hope this helped!
 
Vel0city

Vel0city

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Dec 6, 2014
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Hammer reads materials and models from both the tf/custom folder and the tf/materials-tf/models folder. However, for organizing's sake, place every custom material you have and every custom model you have into tf/custom so you know what belongs to the stock game and what does not. Not only for organizing, but also for testing if you've packed your map properly. It's pretty difficult to test for missing custom content if you have packed your custom content on your own computer since TF2 can always find it since you've used it in Hammer. If you place your stuff in tf/custom however, simply moving that folder to another location makes it so the game looks like a stock TF2 installment. After that, anything that isn't packed with your level will show up clearly as either big ERROR signs or black/purple checkerboard textures. Simply relocate the custom folder into the tf/ directory, pack the content, and then check again.
 
Bull

Bull

L4: Comfortable Member
Aug 30, 2011
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I find that my insight has increased from mapping; let it be setting up plans for layouts or general time-planning. I've become better from planning in general and I think that mapping helps me getting more disciplined to start projects, no matter the size. (Not just maps, also other projects.)

Just my opinion.
 
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