HL2 models in a TF2 map?

[Baysin]

So I've got the Orange Box, and I'm working on my first TF2 map. Early on I noticed that some of my models in Hammer aren't showing up in the game. I've determined that it seems to be only HL2 models that are unreliable... some seem to work, others don't, but TF2 models always work. For instance, HL2 furniture seems to mostly be no good, but the HL2 vehicles work fine.

So, a couple of questions regarding this. First of all, I hadn't even realized until this point that HL2 stuff was mixed in with TF2 stuff. I've decided that it's probably best to stick with just TF models for thematic reasons, and I know how to filter out the HL models. However, should I decide that a HL2 model really would be nice to use, will this cause any problems for the users? In other words, if someone else, whether the server or the player, only has TF2 and not HL2 on their machine, will the model and the map still work for them? I've searched a bit and the answer seems to be "yes" but I'm not real clear on that point.

Secondly, what about textures? Will there be any conflicts come up if I use HL2 textures on a TF2 map? This is something that seems a lot more likely to be useful without clashing with the standard TF2 stuff. Honestly I haven't even been paying attention to which game my textures are coming from, though my map is still in very early stages and I'm not doing much with them yet, so it wouldn't be a big deal to swap some out.

Oh yeah, and thirdly... why was I having some, but not all, of the HL2 models poop out on me? Not a big deal, but it seems odd to me, so I'm just curious if anyone has an answer.

 

[Snipergen]

Yes, the guys that dont have episode 2 will see a giant ERROR floating.

You really should stick to the tf2 models itself, you said it too: for the thematic reasons.

 

[Scotland Tom]

Regarding your HL2 models problem: I have no clue about how the HL2 models work in TF2, if they do, which ones might or might not work. I've reserved myself to TF2 models exclusively, so I have no experience with others.

As far as textures go. I'll caution you right now, you're probably about to get a few replies saying, "For the love of God, don't put HL2 textures in TF2!" "I don't want to see crappy HL2 textures in TF2!" "It won't fit the style, don't do it!" "HL2 textures in TF2 suck! Don't even think about it!" "Don't be stupid! Use only the TF2 textures!" And I'd have to say that I wholeheartedly agree. TF2 has a very specific and unique flavor and style. Mucking it up with the realism of the HL2 textures tends to nullify that. It becomes a weird hodgepodge of clashing styles that don't seem to look right together.

I realize there isn't a whole lot of variety in the current TF2 texture pack and models, but the highest quality maps are the ones that put the TF2 style to good use. I'd rather see a few more good dusty, desert type maps than a ton of maps using HL2 textures that destroy the flavor of the TF2 universe.

 

[fartron]

While TF2 is thematically distinct from HL2 and CS:S the real problem is that people who bought TF2 stand-alone won't be able to see the textures and models you're using. A few extra choices aren't worth excluding a portion of your potential audience.

 

[spaceweasels]

why was I having some, but not all, of the HL2 models poop out on me? Not a big deal, but it seems odd to me, so I'm just curious if anyone has an answer.

Different models are in different GCF files. Some have shared resources, which HL2 and TF2 can interchange, others are strictly for use with only one game. Which GCFs are shared, and what they contain, I'm not 100% sure.

 

[Baysin]

Well, that sounds like it's settled, then. I thought at least some of the textures would be good for details or small brushes here and there, without contrasting much with the overall theme, but if that means that even a handful of folks will have buggy maps, then it's not even an option for me. I know I'd be pretty pissed if I couldn't play on a map or had to endure glaring placeholder models or textures just because I didn't own a second game. So HL2 stuff is right out, then.

Different models are in different GCF files. Some have shared resources, which HL2 and TF2 can interchange, others are strictly for use with only one game. Which GCFs are shared, and what they contain, I'm not 100% sure.

I confess I don't know what a GCF file is, but that nonetheless makes sense. It then makes me wonder why Valve was inconsistent in how these resources are used and shared, but that's getting beyond the point where I really care anymore.

Thanks, all, for the input, that's what I needed to hear before I went much further with my project.

 

[A Boojum Snark]

Hello, I am a link, and I am desperate to be clicked D:

 

[bazola]

Well based on buster charlies thread, it looks like all of the base half life 2 textures, and some others, are included in any TF2 install.

Personally, I think the extremely limited texture set is causing most new maps to look pretty much the same. That is probably part of the reason why people like Orange maps. I would rather people start making maps out of all HL2 textures then to keep fighting in the same concrete hallways with the same tile floor over and over.

That being said I think it's important that these maps be made out of all HL2 textures, and be in the HL2 style. We all know how awesome HL2 was aesthetically. On top of that, TFC used all realistic textures, so it is not like the 9 class dynamic doesn't work in a realistic environment.

I think most of the anti HL2 texture feelings come from people mixing the two art styles without realizing that, side by side, the different textures look bad.

 

[l3eeron]

I would love to see an all HL2 texture only map for TF2. But I still think it would be a weird clash with the player models. I'm sure it would be possible to make it good. *Stars in eyes* Or even make HL2-friendly player models for TF2

 

[Baysin]

Ah.... well... hmmm... sounds like it's a mixed bag, then. Interesting that some HL2 textures are actually used in the official stock maps, if only for small details. That's pretty much how I was expecting to use them anyway, if at all, so maybe I will sneak a few in there if they look right. I think the models are right out, though... I'm going to have to get rid of my lovely wrecked cars. *sigh*

And... "A Boojum Snark"? As in beware the Jub-Jub Bird, and shun the frumious Bandersnatch?

If so, I highly approve.

ooooooh hey, Badlands is out.... what am I doing, not playing the new map?!?

 

[YM]

Just say no! To non TF2 style assets in maps.

If you wan't to put HL2/CSS textures/models/stuff into your TF2 map without first altering it to look like it was intended for TF2 then you can go...well, you know where you can go! It aint pretty there to give you a clue.

Using HL2/CSS stuff in TF2 is more damaging to the game than orange maps. and you only have to ask snipergen how much I hate those. So I think this discussion is pretty much over: You can put them in, but you won't.

[/Thread]

 

[A Boojum Snark]

And... "A Boojum Snark"? As in beware the Jub-Jub Bird, and shun the frumious Bandersnatch?

If so, I highly approve.

Indeed. Lewis Carroll is much win, and has provided me with a wonderfully unique alias. (google says I'm the only one using it <_<) Cookies for you, too, #7 person to recognize it in seven years of using this name.