Hello
As this seems to be a London week in the SC4Devotion, it is a good opportunity to open my BAT thread.
I have been active in the Simtropolis and uploaded a small number British inspired BATs. I haven't used a 3D program before and I have had very limited skills with paint programs. So all this has been a huge learning experience for me.
I have improved with every building I have made, but I still have a lot to learn. I am no master batter and my aim is to offer filler buildings.
Anyway to honour the London theme, I offer a preview of what I am working with currently. A row of Georgian Townhouses.
Those of you who know me from the Simtropolis, know that I have a perverse affection for all things Georgian. ;D Don't ask me why. ::) For some reason I like those simple lines. Not to mention that the symmetry and simplicity make easier to BAT.
This one is a residential row with cornershops. It is based on a real buildings from London, Clerkenwell Close, in Clerkenwell.
During the autumn I switched to 3DS MAX 2014 and this is my first Max project. So Dark Night lighting is on the do list. And this will include the customs foundations, naturally. However, I have problems. For some reason 2014 version do not well in my computer. I can't get sharp render with the normal setting. I need to set the quality extra high to get sharp render and then it literally take hours to render even a small building. Thus I don't know when I am able to upload the final product.
This fuzzyness can be seen on the Corner Pub model. The row itself is quite sharp render, but it took me some time to do it.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerkenwellClose2_zps4qaruwki.jpg&hash=72d694ed6e92f401b1146c1ce2a9b5287e368181) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/ClerkenwellClose2_zps4qaruwki.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerkenwellPub_zps47xhuqwl.jpg&hash=24327500f9554b4aa667adee7d8ca47ee6a77e3c) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/ClerkenwellPub_zps47xhuqwl.jpg.html)
Beautiful! You folks make this look so easy but it sure isn't.
Cheers
Willy
These buildings look wonderful! Stupid question really, but they will be W2W right?
That Georgian brick row is absolutely gorgeous
Assuming I can render the files in 2011, worst case scenario, I'm willing to render them for you if it helps. In the meantime I urge anyone with the know-how of 2014's quirks to get in touch, I would hate to see your motivation stifled by a problem I'm sure others have had and solved.
Great to see some more buildings, corner pieces are really useful, great to see some new content from you as always. :thumbsup:
The models are lovely.
I posted this on Simtropolis, but I'll also post here for Batters who may not visit ST. On the weekend my 3yr license for 3DS 2013 expired, so I upgraded to 2014. It is certainly less compatible with Bat4Max than 2013.
These are the steps I take each time I create a new scene:
• Set the grids & snaps
• Click 'Let there be light' under utilities and set the sky and the day rig (this is to ensure the Arch and Design materials are available in the Material Editor)
• Click on the Rendering Tab -> Render Set Up -> Renderer and set the Sampling Mode to "Classic / Raytraced"
• Then, while still in the Render Set Up -> Global Illumination and select "Skylight illumination from Final Gather (FG)" button
It still leaves a faint grey outline around models once exported, which happens on a lot of 3DS-made bats, but at least the blurriness is resolved.
A warm welcome to you and your BAT thread ;D
The BATs look amazing, they are too good to be called 'fillers' :thumbsup:
Regarding the fuzziness, not sure if I can help really, I use 2012. Just a couple of thoughts:
- When you say you have set the 'quality extra high', do you mean the Sampling Quality?
- Have you tried changing the filter type?
- Perhaps post a screenshot of your settings if possible?
A beautiful and promising start! Welcome.
Just as Matt said. Since 3dsmax 2014 Autodesk switched the default sampling method, which makes SC4 Renders blurry and ultimately have a white grey outline. Unfortunately there is no way to change that definitely, but each time you're going to preview or render, you'll have to check the sampling method because it reverts back after a render.
I made this picture when I explained to Noahclem over skype how to resolve it. It shows what Matt said about the sampling method but also how to effectively reduce the outline by playing around with the environment map. Credit goes to Jasoncw over at ST who's the first person to explain to me when I had render problems too.
click for full size
(https://i.imgur.com/7jrlbSW.png)
Nice bat.
What you could do is set up a scene with all the settings that Art described.
Then every time you start a new bat, you open up that scene and a save it with a new name.
Art: Have just saved your image.
Welcome bombardiere!! Those buildings look fantastic! :thumbsup:
Love these filler buildings.
Thank you everyone for your kind words.
Yes, these are W2W. I cannot see a Georgian townhouse row in any other way :) The row is 2x1, and with additional props hopefully 2x2 yard version. The corner is 1x1 and I have an extension ready for an 1x2 option. The idea is to offer commercial corners also as a plop options.
My render settings are exactly as in Art's picture including Global illumation, with an exception of mr Physical sky colour. At this point the grey line is least of my worries.
RDQ. "Quality" I meant "samples per pixel"
I have read the advices given to other 2014 users, but for some reason those do not work on my computer.
My English is not good enough to describe it all and I don't know technical terms. However, some kind of strange voodoo magic is in work in my 2014.
No matter what I do, my first render or preview is always fuzzy. Classical setting or not. However I have developed a strange ritual. I do first a SD render. It will be fuzzy. Next I go through all rotations, S E N W. Then I do all zoom levels, 1, 2, 3, 4 ,5 . I need to let the viewport to focus and wait few moments. Then I can do a HD preview. I may need to repeat this process a few times and perhaps reset the camera and LODs, but suddenly I get a sharp preview. And when get a sharp preview, then I can do a sharp render.
Honestly this does not make any sense and I know that someone 3DS MAX guru will explain that what I did describe is not possible.
I haven't been able to isolate that what is here that triggers the sharp render, so until then I must stick with my strange ritual. It is frustating as I may need to repeat the process, but at least I don't have to wait two hours for my old computer to finish the rendering with extra high quality.
I attach a picture of my settings. Here you can see two sharp previews, but equally the same setting can cause, and usually do, a fuzzy rendering.
This is very frustrating say the least.
I will forward you a scene which was created under 3dsmax 2012 with already day light set up.
Try 2 things:
1Render the scene as it is to see what kind of render you obtain
2You will just merge in this scene only your objects ( Don t merge sky, camera, ...). Don t click day. You should be able to render directly by clicking any direction.
Sure, okey, thanks. :)
Great to see you start up a bat thread over here; welcome :) The projects look excellent and should make a very nice contribution English city building possibilities. I quite like the way the 2-tile long row houses are split into 5 units instead of 4 (or 2) since it downplays the presence of SC4's grid system. Custom foundations/slope tolerance adds an important detail that will add to the usefulness of these models and of course I'm very happy that you're planning dark night renders now that you've switched to 3DS Max.
Regarding 3DS Max 2014, I've been trying to start using it as well and certainly can share some of your frustration. My only idea was to suggest what Arthur already suggested to me--poor guy has had to deal with my cries for 3DS Max help incessantly in the last week or so :D I hope you're able to figure things out :thumbsup:
Just came back from travelling.
Try this https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/19293845/Scene3dsmax2012.rar
EDIT: with my comments
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/19293845/Images/ClerkenwellClose2_zps4qaruwki.jpg%7Eoriginal.jpg)
Girafe I appreciate your help, but sadly not a success.
I tried to open your file, but it gave me error.
The Scene XRef file: "E:\Autodesk\3ds Max 2012\gamepacks\BAT\scenes\CamLightRigs\TB2_CameraLightRig.max" can not be found
After looking for non existing camera it tried to find some texture again from drive E. I connected it with my 2014 camera on dirve c. Then your scene wanted some texture and I skipped it. However no object appear and it gave a render error for nonexisting textures.After my building file, 3DS MAX gave up and didn't want to preview anything.
About the texture. Now that you mentioned, the roof is slightly purple. It is more purple in the jpg picture than in the render and I need to check it in the game. However I reduced the red a little bit. And yes I am aware of the repetition on the roof. I am also working at the windows.
The roof ledge and the steps are textured, but yes I agree, those kind of clean or uniform. I added some dirt and grime.
Could you post a screenshot of the problem when you try to open
Sorry Girafe, I think I was hasty. Errors attached. Textures may not matter? I can skip those. And I may have caused the object error.
Your scene is empty, but that is supposed be so? I can see the cameras.
So I merged my BAT to the scene. I did automatic LODs, but not day setting. I am honestly puzzled, but yes, I did severial trials and constantly got sharp previews. &apls I need to test more.
However, I don't get it. Your settings are almost same than mine. Expect you have marked "Lock samples" and bucket width is slightly higher. And that is not the issue as I tested one of my scene with "Lock samples" and I got fuzzy.
I don't get it. It must be my camera, not render settings, but what might be wrong with the camera? (or light?)
Prob 1: does not matter
Prob 2: keep it like this
Prob 3: do new LODs
What I gave you is settings working for day rendering from a scene I created under 3dsmax 2012. I removed all object and keep all settings (cameras).
You should be able to merge your BAT (only objects, no camera), you can merge your LODs.
You should be able to do sharp previews
Yes, I am able to do sharp previews now. :)
I do get "deleted scene object" error, Prob3, if I try to open a new scene and try to render it. Then the 3DS MAX frozes and I have to restart the program. But it works fine if I just delete old model and merge a one and do the LODs again.
Thank you
The last one is an annoyance of mine. I get that message whenever I try to preview a model after reopening it if I don't select day or night first. I know Girafe said not to, but I think it might be unavoidable, since otherwise the script simply won't see it, suggesting it's not there until you turn it on.
Alrighthy. :) Thanks for Girafe's scene I have got the render process moving on. I have studied his scene, but so far I haven't spotted where my error is. There is something in my scene that makes it prone to be fuzzy, but I haven't figured it out. Honestly, I really wish that I would know where my mistake is. Must be something elementary. ()what()
I am finalising the day scenes and working with the night ones. First time with 3DS and Dark Night, so I have a lot to learn still.
Uhuh, talk about the learning. This has been a long and hard learning process. There has been so many new things that my little brain has been exhausted. %confuso
The next thing is to set the background using MR Phycial Sky, so that the grey lining would be minimal. ART128's instruction should be clear enough that even I can follow it. :D
Those of you who know me from Simtropolis, might already know that my projects tend to escalate. Instead of making one building, I have a bad habit to use the base model for all kinds of variations. And it happened this time too. ::) Sorry, this post is picture intensive.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerken1_zpspnov7qso.jpg&hash=be8d8c4454d13a946bdfc98572f72f4d5e259537) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Clerken1_zpspnov7qso.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerken2_zpsud8h13kq.jpg&hash=285e9c6e349594bffb9e2146949b89e1e275605a) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Clerken2_zpsud8h13kq.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerken3_zps7zbbkwl9.jpg&hash=013f4d26919a550e8f44e34bf3d045e1f7abd485) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Clerken3_zps7zbbkwl9.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerken4_zps7grim1sk.jpg&hash=1b25094ab3e5e170a4869c64d68941b499c94d9e) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Clerken4_zps7grim1sk.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerken5_zpsovyz6ibx.jpg&hash=b4d079fb7c1bfc3215e2d455446270b74df4a9fa) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Clerken5_zpsovyz6ibx.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerken6_zpsogkdyive.jpg&hash=ce6fe59f933d2a3cd27b53021545a4538e9af885) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Clerken6_zpsogkdyive.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerken7_zpshygua7gs.jpg&hash=e68f62b76bbd8f9da4d3eca7a2ab5a36ed606f22) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Clerken7_zpshygua7gs.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerken8_zpsiqtxami5.jpg&hash=87d1d776844199907258a43d7e6cfb7532adc42e) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Clerken8_zpsiqtxami5.jpg.html)
Georgian bliss! Those look fantastic
Look really nice! I don't think you need to worry about the repetition, this kind of houses lend themselves very well to only subtle variations.
Great to see you opened a BATting thread on SC4D as well!!
Your timberframe manors (and water well :)) have already found their way into my region. I really like your other BATs, too, and the latest row houses are no exception. I will be following developments here with great interest! :thumbsup:
Oh these are just beautiful!! &apls &apls
Look forward to the day they get released ;)
They look wonderful!! I like the nightlights a lot, but I fear some of the windows need a bit less contrast, especially the reddish ones, IMHO. (It's a matter of taste, I'm not able to do anything similar ;))
Great work!! &apls
Thank you belfastsocrates, Themistokles, vortext, TheTeaCat and romualdillo.
@vortext I am no master batter and I still struggle. I am glad that you have found use for those. At the moment I am toying with the Georgian theme, but I may do more historical, medieval buildings in the future.
@romualdillo. Yes, the red one and the one with side curtains are very strong. I need to adjust those. However, my night light window are not anything special. I just used self-illumated material and textured a few window picture.
I have had more troubles and according to very good advices given by Mattb325 and Jasoncw, I have changed my main textures.
I now have a yellow brick texture, which is very close to real life building from which I took the inspiration. Also I have desaturated my textures, as I have learned that the SC4 game uses very desaturated colour palette. Obvious now, but a quite eye opener for me.
On the left are adjusted textures. Desaturated a little bit and lightened on the roof. On the right are the base textures as those are. I am planning to use ones on the left with some changes.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerkenSatTestHD_zpsdyue5yrh.jpg&hash=b3b47ca42a985f04b2d831aa783da64b03987cda) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/ClerkenSatTestHD_zpsdyue5yrh.jpg.html)
I made a comparison with the Google Earth photo. The lighting looks very different, but when I use the Eye Dropper tool and compare the colour shades, those are surprisingly close. I don not plan to exactly match the real life buildings, just to get my reference right.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerkencomparison_zpsfonpcthm.jpg&hash=5e0c29151d772b8cb8e96215f65c0f4ed7a87ae4) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Clerkencomparison_zpsfonpcthm.jpg.html)
So, I am not yet close to upload.
I think it's coming along nicely, it's great that you are taking on board all the feedback to improve these. Hard to say looking at the render alone, but I have a feeling the brick now would look a little bright in-game? However the roof is a huge improvement, it's a much more natural colour now.
Every model I've moved from SC4BAT to 3DS Max has needed major texture adjustments though, the two are completely different. That said, I find SC4BAT would allow you to be sloppy with textures, the added quality from 3DS Max highlights such things pretty quickly. But for new models, I'm also finding I don't have to adjust the textures as much.
I really looking forward to seeing the final results of all your improvements, I'm certain these will be your best models yet :).
They look fantastic!! Too "clean" for my taste, but I love them!!
Quote from: bombardiere on February 27, 2016, 04:49:35 AM
I now have a yellow brick texture, which is very close to real life building from which I took the inspiration. Also I have desaturated my textures, as I have learned that the SC4 game uses very desaturated colour palette. Obvious now, but a quite eye opener for me.
Saturation... :D I had sooo many problems with that... And still have!!!
No need to worry. These are not going to be clean. :)
Hopefully these will be last preview pictures.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerkMaxis1_zpsbyxbj3et.jpg&hash=be9421c5916cf0bb1185dcc739e2da60187fa72f) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/ClerkMaxis1_zpsbyxbj3et.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerkMaxis4_zpsqizkaq0n.jpg&hash=645192c379adae6b1075ae5b9dab9fe8dcd940eb) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/ClerkMaxis4_zpsqizkaq0n.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerkMaxis2_zpsksxjrbrb.jpg&hash=38490e48744070f24cf6c3f2964b53ec569f3b06) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/ClerkMaxis2_zpsksxjrbrb.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FClerkMaxis3_zpsxbfyrwsr.jpg&hash=6d923c4414f8be93aa0d2906d33ba1edec0820b1) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/ClerkMaxis3_zpsxbfyrwsr.jpg.html)
I am doing a SD, HD, Dark Night and maxis Night versions, so I will be quite busy rendering. And I did some extra props, Pub Benches, Newspaper and pub sandwich boards. I will update my British Boxes prop pack to add these street items.
The building looks very nice :thumbsup:
When you make the foundation, if you import the walls of the building and then set the wall object(s) to not be visible to the camera, you can get rid of the sunny spots on the foundation (i.e. the invisible building walls will cast a shadow onto the steps and projections of the foundation).
You would do this by selecting the wall object(s), then right-clicking in the viewport, hit "properites", and unchecking the "Visible to Camera" checkbox. (In my version of 3dsmax, anyway.)
On the slope of the stairs do not look correct. &mmm
@Alan_Waters, I think the point is to clearly show they are slope-tolerant. I don't think the intention is to use them on such steep slopes, even if you did have more stairs continuing, that would always look terrible, just a limit to how tolerant to slopes things can be really.
None the less it's an extremely useful addition, that I'm so pleased you've taken the effort to include. If British buildings are lacking, slope torrent ones are practically non-existent, I have a number of situations where these will be replacing what's there now :). They are looking excellent in-game too if I may say.
Saw that does not look very nice - decided to tell. And in general - it's a great job and, of course, will be used by me in my cities. &apls &apls &apls
Quote from: c.p. on March 01, 2016, 08:02:00 AM
When you make the foundation, if you import the walls of the building and then set the wall object(s) to not be visible to the camera, you can get rid of the sunny spots on the foundation (i.e. the invisible building walls will cast a shadow onto the steps and projections of the foundation).
You would do this by selecting the wall object(s), then right-clicking in the viewport, hit "properites", and unchecking the "Visible to Camera" checkbox. (In my version of 3dsmax, anyway.)
Thanks. Damn, I did not notice that until you mentioned it. ::) Guess who just finished foundation renders. :)
Well, Jasoncw suggested a tighter LODs in the foundation, so I have rework to be done. That trenchline is quite awful and I have to see what I can do with. But otherwise, it is as Robin said, these building are not suited for steep slopes. I think couple meters would be maximum.
However, other problems have emerged. Three of my renders are distorted. It is not too bad from 12 building (HD and SD ver) and 12 foundation (HD SD), but still another issue to be dealt with. :(
Jasoncw has already suggested that I should increase the height of the LOD. It may very well solve the issue, but I do know that this distortion is relatively common, and it can be fixed with iLives reader. However, I can't make any sense of the number. I try to double or halve the numbers but it only distort more. I post the picture here too if some overhere understand the numbers better.
Are your LODs the correct size?
When you export from 3DS and import the LODs into SC4BAT, don't forget you need a different LOD for SD or HD versions. Click Preview (under BAT Rollout) and make sure the correct setting is selected before rendering the LOD.
This could explain why your UV mapping does not match the LOD/Texture. From a cursory glance at your screenshot, I'm certain this is the problem. The texture as applied to the model is totally out of proportion, even if the UV mapping was wrong. If the LOD was twice the size (which HD is), then the texture here should not look so squashed. That's not to say the UV mapping isn't potentially also an issue.
The issue where BAT messes up and halves the UV mapping I think may be related to something in the scripts for BAT4Max. Note how the "box" around the texture in the UV mapping is twice the width it looks like it should be?
It's a simple fix, copy everything in the UV colums (you can do them all at once) into Excel (or another Spreadsheet). Put these in columns A+B. Then in column C use "=A1*2" and in D use "=B1*2". You can then highlight C1/D1, and drag from the bottom right edge to cover the number of rows you need. It will copy the formula's in A1/B1, adjusting the cell incrementally for you. Eh Voilla, you have very quickly a set of values that are doubled. Now copy/paste colums C+D back into the U/V settings of reader.
:edit:
Maybe that's a bad example, if the box is twice the size as you show here, change the "*" for "/" to divide not multiply the UV numbers.
Quote from: mgb204 on March 02, 2016, 07:57:30 AM
Are your LODs the correct size?
Yes. I have repeated that so many times that there is no human error involved. This affects only level 4 zoom east - west views if SD and level 5 north- south views if HD. All other renders are fine.
I tried Jason's suggestion of increasing the height of hte LOD, but that didn't help. I made the LOD to be 50 % taller, but the result was same.
Interestingly, when I increased the size of the building, 1 % for HD and 2 % for SD then the render was fine. All zooms and views normal.
It is something to do with the shape and size of that particular building. This is the shop corner. Almost similar pub corner's renders were all fine. It is weird, but this not something I see first time. Even in my early days in GMAX, some building sizes and shapes simply refuse to be rendered.
I may try your excel trick. It would be easier rather than manually calculate each individual value.
That box in the picture is the correct size of the building, so I think it is UV mapping porblem.
Indeed the UV Map is wrong, it could only cover the extremes of the building in the texture. If it covers the black part (alpha channel) then it will require adjustment.
Instead of fighting with this, if you are having real problems, send me the model and I can probably get to the bottom of it.
Thanks. I attach three offending buildings.
I just don' get it. I try double and halve the values in the Reader, but I don't get a breakthrough.
I haven't yet done the nightlights.
I am currently trying to figure out how to do customs tight LODs for the foundation. It turns out it wasn't as simple as I thought.
I think I see the problem.
I can't explain UV mapping well, I struggle with it enough, even if I understand what it's doing. Think of a texture, the top left is grid point 0,0 the bottom right is 1,1. Anything that is lower than 0 or higher than 1 in these terms will repeat the texture. One axis is the width (U), the other is the height (V).
Look at the model Clerkenwell Alley_SD_DN. For the faulty S3Ds, you can see that the box (UV Mapping) around the model is clearly not big enough, hence the texture is compressed or squashed. Bearing this in mind, look again at the U and V values, note how any value above .5 when doubled will be more than 1. Since we know this texture should not be repeated, that means that value must be correct (or at the least, doubling it isn't the solution). In short, for these problems, it's only the U value that needs adjusting by a factor or two.
Whereas the other two models, you can clearly see the box (UV Mapping) in these cases is much larger than the area of the texture. This means for those we have to half the values, but once more only the U value is affected.
So that's really all you were doing wrong in the end, adjusting both the height and the width. Hopefully understanding the UV mapping a little better you will be able to determine what adjustment is required for a given situation in future.
See attached fixed models, I hope that puts this problem to bed :).
Thank you. :thumbsup: I appreciate this. :)
I will try to study the files to better understand what I did wrong. Oh yes. first I tried the V column and then both U and V, so no wonder it did not do anything useful, ::)
I still have do the nightlight, so I assume that this distortion show up again. But hopefully I only need to follow your numbers and get it right. :)
I am bit struggling with the foundations. The way I built those makes an annoying trench. My first idea didn't work, but I have now two more things to try. If those will not work, I think I just do a compromise. I am not taking the prop foundation / prop building route for this building.
Fantastic job, these models are a fantastic add to the game. There are a lot of office buildings and Highrises from UK but there are not to many w2w buildings. Thanks for your job !
Quote from: bombardiere on March 02, 2016, 11:59:49 PM
I still have do the nightlight, so I assume that this distortion show up again. But hopefully I only need to follow your numbers and get it right. :)
The nitelights will only generate new FSH files, so the S3D settings should be fine for both sets. It's the process of rendering the LODs in SC4BAT where the issue is created. So assuming you don't need to change the LODs, that should be over.
QuoteI am bit struggling with the foundations. The way I built those makes an annoying trench. My first idea didn't work, but I have now two more things to try. If those will not work, I think I just do a compromise. I am not taking the prop foundation / prop building route for this building.
Reading between the lines, I think these models have had a difficult development. Not surprising given the switch to 3DS and all the problems that's thrown up. The good news though is that I'm confident, despite your struggles, that the improvements you are making huge strides towards better modelling. I know sometimes I need to get something finished and released before it destroys my motivation to continue. If that means you need to remove the foundations, I totally understand, so wouldn't look to pressure you on this. Whilst I've yet to explore this particular side, I know it's going to come up when I start making buildings. As such, I'm happy once more to take a look and see if I can't help you with the issue. For this I'd need the 3DS files/resources. Hopefully 2014 files open in 2011 without too much faff :/. LODs are something I have a bit of experience with, since those for the Rail Depot were really quite complex in the end. Necessary to ensure props could be placed inside the depot. In any case, it's always something you could add later if it doesn't work out now. It's certainly not a big enough deal IMO for anyone to ignore what are some really fantastic models. :thumbsup:
Quote from: bombardiere on March 02, 2016, 11:59:49 PM
Thank you. :thumbsup: I appreciate this. :)
I will try to study the files to better understand what I did wrong. Oh yes. first I tried the V column and then both U and V, so no wonder it did not do anything useful, ::)
I still have do the nightlight, so I assume that this distortion show up again. But hopefully I only need to follow your numbers and get it right. :)
I am bit struggling with the foundations. The way I built those makes an annoying trench. My first idea didn't work, but I have now two more things to try. If those will not work, I think I just do a compromise. I am not taking the prop foundation / prop building route for this building.
As the angles on the foundations are giving you grief, why not render the stairs as an underground prop? That way the main foundation will be a simply rectangle and there will be no need for complex LODs.
Quote from: mattb325 on March 03, 2016, 11:40:50 AM
As the angles on the foundations are giving you grief, why not render the stairs as an underground prop?
That is an interesting idea. :) Actually I have tried something similar before, but that time the Building LOD and the ground cut into the prop and it did not look good. But I may need to study this more.
I was able to fix light and the shadows accordingly C.P.'s advise so that is gone.
QuoteThat way the main foundation will be a simply rectangle and there will be no need for complex LODs.
Could you explain this a little bit, please? I tried to do a complex LOD for the foundation. So that the LOD would follow the steps and other bits. However it had no effect on the trench. Either I don't know how to do a complex LOD or the game doesn't recognise a complex LOD. Or could the Building LOD affect underground? I also tried to make the foundation LOD smaller, in similar way that many batters make props' LODs small boxes, but again either I don't know how to do it correctly or it does not do anything. I have tried the foundation as a prop, and I got interesting results. And a hovering main building :), but I am not taking that route as it would require the building to be a prop too.
QuoteThere are a lot of office buildings and Highrises from UK but there are not to many w2w buildings
Kelis, it could be that the UK is often seen like that. Especially by the foreigner like me. :) When I visit the London, the most obvious thing I see is the skyscrapers in the City and Canary Wharf and when I go outside of the centre then sooner or later I usually stumble across to a huge council block. (Mind you I have lived in one. :D ) If I travel by train then I see row after row low rise terraces or semi detached with their back gardens.
Last ones are provided by Gascooker, so in this sense SC4 has a image of England. Of course there are more, but for example in London and outside of the Bloomsbury the original Georgian terrace rows are gone. There are individual building almost everywhere, but no more of that symmetry. I may be batting a time long gone. :D
QuoteReading between the lines, I think these models have had a difficult development. Not surprising given the switch to 3DS and all the problems that's thrown up. The good news though is that I'm confident, despite your struggles, that the improvements you are making huge strides towards better modelling. I know sometimes I need to get something finished and released before it destroys my motivation to continue. If that means you need to remove the foundations, I totally understand, so wouldn't look to pressure you on this. Whilst I've yet to explore this particular side, I know it's going to come up when I start making buildings. As such, I'm happy once more to take a look and see if I can't help you with the issue. For this I'd need the 3DS files/resources. Hopefully 2014 files open in 2011 without too much faff :/. LODs are something I have a bit of experience with, since those for the Rail Depot were really quite complex in the end. Necessary to ensure props could be placed inside the depot. In any case, it's always something you could add later if it doesn't work out now. It's certainly not a big enough deal IMO for anyone to ignore what are some really fantastic models. :thumbsup:
Thank you. Robin, you are reading right. I have had all kinds of problems, many very strange, and there has been moments when I have wanted to cry or scream out of frustration. However many problems I have, are due of my inexperience. Although my 3DS MAX is simply weird, that cannot be explained :D
It is not all in vain, I have learnt. :) For example last night I was doing the Yard props, one of those was distorted. However, now that I understand better UV mapping and what to look in the iReader, I was able to fix it. :) So your advises adn the fix were very useful.
QuoteI know sometimes I need to get something finished and released before it destroys my motivation to continue
This time is now. :D I know there are still some bugs but this model is going to the production line. :) I will learn and next one will have still more improvements.
Robin after I have had some time to take breath, I think we need to discuss about the automata. Hopefully you got my picture of a vertically challenged Routemaster. I think there is potential there, but I don't know what. ()what()
Anyway, I would like to thank you all for the support you have given.. I am still surprised on how much friendly support and advise I have got. Both here and at Simtropolis. &apls It certainly has helped me to push this project along and makes me think positively about further projects.
Quote from: bombardiere on March 04, 2016, 01:18:19 AM
Quote from: mattb325 on March 03, 2016, 11:40:50 AM
As the angles on the foundations are giving you grief, why not render the stairs as an underground prop?
That is an interesting idea. :) Actually I have tried something similar before, but that time the Building LOD and the ground cut into the prop and it did not look good. But I may need to study this more.
I was able to fix light and the shadows accordingly C.P.'s advise so that is gone.
QuoteThat way the main foundation will be a simply rectangle and there will be no need for complex LODs.
Could you explain this a little bit, please? I tried to do a complex LOD for the foundation. So that the LOD would follow the steps and other bits. However it had no effect on the trench. Either I don't know how to do a complex LOD or the game doesn't recognise a complex LOD. Or could the Building LOD affect underground? I also tried to make the foundation LOD smaller, in similar way that many batters make props' LODs small boxes, but again either I don't know how to do it correctly or it does not do anything. I have tried the foundation as a prop, and I got interesting results. And a hovering main building :), but I am not taking that route as it would require the building to be a prop too.
Sorry, I probably didn't make it clear enough.
The shape of your terraces are essentially just a box, so continue the foundation for those terraces as you are doing: these foundations are also just a box (until you add the stairs, which of course adds angles and protrusions, and hence the glitches you are seeing). So I would separate the brick 'foundation' and stairs into five separate models. One foundation would be for the standard terrace and another foundation for the corner terrace and three props would be the stairs: one small ortho for the doorways, one large ortho for the carriageway and one diagonal. Also with this method, you will be able to make the slope tolerance more extreme as the stairs will be props and can then overhang the lot (whereas the foundation can't).
I would add some extra detail to the foundation, eg: basement windows, continue the downpipe, etc. which will really make it as lively as the main model ;)
I have finally done with the fine tuning lotting etc. Hurray! It only took a month or so. :D
To celebrate this I have made my first uploads to the LEX. Two versions of the townhouses, HD and SD and my British Boxes props.
All versions can exist in the same city as the Bats, lots and desc are separate. But I see no reason for that. ;)
Something new might be coming. And yes, it is Georgian and from Clerkenwell. :D
Congrats and thank you for the release! &apls
The models are very nice, and the additional props are great as well. Looking forward to your new project! :thumbsup:
Yep, Congrats and thank you for the release, some nice buildings :thumbsup:
Congratulations and thank you for the release! Keep the good work!! &apls
I think many has seen it already, but I post a few photos of my latest project here too.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FLibrarytest1_zpsyzywswlc.jpg&hash=27fd21ccc2db447e34511ded72dd8bab4436dbc4) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Librarytest1_zpsyzywswlc.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FLibararytest2_zps8ksyf1dm.jpg&hash=24e5a330744ef14e4e9ecb1caecf014484b02cf3) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Libararytest2_zps8ksyf1dm.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FLibrarytest3_zpszmixljne.jpg&hash=c3fae44e8c6e994d7c57912d39432000b09a70e0) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Librarytest3_zpszmixljne.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FOfficetest1_zpsjaxtaph0.jpg&hash=726f59714826b5a5b302f35ebe6f956f5d4881e5) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Officetest1_zpsjaxtaph0.jpg.html)
I call this as Clerkenwell Library as I need small wall-to-wall civic buildings really bad. Well, as I know how to bat, I can fulfil my own needs. :D
This is based on a real life building, the Karl Marx Memorial Library. No, not at the former East Germany, but in London's Clerkenwell. :) Actually just around the corner where the buildings I based on the terrace row is located.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marx_Memorial_Library
I am still working with the textures and I have changed the red brick version from this picture. The bricks are too prominent and I have made some changes.
By the way. I did ask this at Simtropol, but I didn't got help I was looking for, so I ask it here. I am looking for a Photoshop / Gimp brush for water stains and marks. On the roof line at the top of the wall. I like to use ready made brushes and may be someone can point me towards a suitable brush for rainwater streaks.
Excellent!!
Now we need a building along those line for a turn of the century rail station.....
Nick
Very nicely done :thumbsup:
(Unfortunately I don't know of any Photoshop/Gimp water stain brushes :( )
Some of you probably have seen my latest work at the Simtropolis, but I think it is time to show it here too.
My historical Scrab Metal Yard. Steptoe % Son.
Simmer2 has been a huge help in creating custom textures and with the lotting. He really brought out my idea well. And that is quite nifty STR rail garbage disposal depot. He got the STR paths to function so that freight and passenger trains can pass the lot. Great job and once again thank you Simmer2
I love this idea! I think I'm going to copy your concept someday... ::) :D The lots look awesome. Great work you both!
I'm very glad I could help.
Bombardiere I will be working on those other models very soon.
I have a lot on my plate at the moment.
Nick
Quote from: romualdillo on June 21, 2016, 10:56:02 AM
I love this idea! I think I'm going to copy your concept someday... ::) :D
What they say in the art world, "Copying is the the greatest complement?" :D I got my idea from CasperVG's recycle yard. http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=3296
But that was too modern to my taste, so I wanted to create my own. ;) And add some special function. May be you can do a Spanish version. That would be interesting to see. :)
I have now uploaded this lot to LEX too.
http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=3380
And it seems that I managed to mispell the title. Urgh I spell like dyslectic little puppy. Is there a way to correct the title without having to re-upload everything? If I use the author's tools and edit, then it goes to re-upload the all. :(
Anyway, while I am in it, I show a quick preview of my current work. Nothing very exciting, in my usual small Georgian building style.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FPosthousepreview1_zpsa5owmeya.jpg&hash=a8093033fc8f780fbd280e55af0923e75e7a5453) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Posthousepreview1_zpsa5owmeya.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FPosthousepreview2_zpsvqh2o4h5.jpg&hash=507530c81a0068616ae7bfd57e6f48d2edc7d4c1) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Posthousepreview2_zpsvqh2o4h5.jpg.html)
It is based on a real building in a place called Godmanchester. Somewhere in the Cambridgeshire I believe. A small rural buidling which I plan to offer as CO$$. I am in need of small commercial buildings, so I can fill the caps.
Inspiration comes from weird places and this one I found while browsing Sketchup's 3Dwarehouse. The Sketchup models do not make a good SC4 BAT and anyway I don't want take someone's work and claim its mine, but those are a great source of inspiration and data.
https://3dwarehouse.sketchup.com/model.html?id=3fd8639865c21a54dec1b3e5b450774
I didn't do an exact copy and I added an extension, which can be seen in the Google Earth. This is just my impression of typical English house from late 18th or early 19th Century.
This is a preview only and I am working with the colouring and saturation and I would welcome feedback. :)
That looks excellent! A nice array of small commercial buildings like these would be fantastic. So many opportunities to create a small village with things like a pub, post office, bakery and so on...
Lovely! &apls
There'll never be too many small w2ws!! $%Grinno$% :thumbsup:
A quick preview to show that I have not completely dropped batting. :)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedfordtest5_zpsepkunj3y.jpg&hash=d503520687482d6abef00aa159e1c3a0be691f0b) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Bedfordtest5_zpsepkunj3y.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedfordtest7_zpssynpmfmj.jpg&hash=de7e0a967ba4b2822832289e7d9296a6c31e9db6) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Bedfordtest7_zpssynpmfmj.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedfordtest6_zpsfq7o4n73.jpg&hash=70cb2a20a9537a3d3ee7227904535496e4edb95d) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Bedfordtest6_zpsfq7o4n73.jpg.html)
I am again up to my Georgian antics. :) This one is a bit more ambitious than the ones I have done before. I still need to add some details such as drainpipes and I need to decide what I want to do with the yard.
I am happy how my modelling skill are improving. While I like the aesthetics of the Georgian architecture, I might get adventurous and try some Victorian later on. May be even Victorian Gothic. :D But it is the texturing that makes or breaks the BAT.
I am not sure if a quiz is a good idea, but I am going to do one anyway. ;) Can anyone guess where this building is located? It is based on a real London building. I have changed or simplified some details, but it might be recognisable.
10 Downing Street ? ;D
Looks great so far btw. I like the fact the basement's windows can get some light with that 'hole' (there must be another name, but I don't even know it in my own language) in front of the building, that's something original in comparison with all the SC4 BATs already available :thumbsup:
Can I recommend a custom query sound for the lot?
https://youtu.be/uhyORjJ00Rk (https://youtu.be/uhyORjJ00Rk)
Don't think its Downing Street... $%Grinno$%
It looks very much identical to 6 Bedford Square, Bloomsbury.. but that seems pretty random lol...
Great work in any case :thumbsup:
Quote from: reddonquixote on March 24, 2017, 03:04:08 PM
It looks very much identical to 6 Bedford Square, Bloomsbury..
Well, perhaps because I based it on the 6 Bedford Square. :D :D :D :thumbsup:
https://www.google.fi/maps/@51.5192822,-0.1291734,3a,89.7y,53.86h,103.6t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s-ta9ntJeCJ3uIr0mLu-rqA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656!6m1!1e1
And I thought it would be too hard to identify the house. ::) Well, for me it is very promising if the model is so easily recognisable. :) But it is the textures which make or break this BAT.
@matias93 So no exit song for David. ;) Although I have found a good set of plans of the 10 Downing Street as it was on the 30's, so it is in my things to do list. ;) The facade is quite simple, but whole Downing street is a complex. I don't want to do it leaving out the numbers 11 and 12 the Chancellor's house.
@feyss. I believe the "hole" is called as an area or open well. At least in the English architecture. I thank you, but this is not a SC4 first. There are a number of sunken plazas and etc which use the same underground modelling technique and about a year ago Jasoncw upload his Warwick Square BATs at the STEX. Those are from slightly later period, but have similar dugouts. I so I just copy methods someone else has invented. :)
Yeah, that's true, I forgot about those sunken plazas. Anyway, it's still uncommon regarding W2W buildings (except Jasoncw's work as you said), so it's a great idea to do other BATs like that ;)
Modeling looks nice :thumbsup:
Great to see you are still at it.
The modelling looks great and given the texturing of your last Georgian houses was superb, I'm confident you will dazzle us with the eventual result. :thumbsup:
Thank you all for your kind words.
Quote from: mgb204 on March 27, 2017, 07:11:38 AM
The modelling looks great and given the texturing of your last Georgian houses was superb, I'm confident you will dazzle us with the eventual result. :thumbsup:
I wish I had your confidence. ::) The modelling was pretty easy. It took me some 4 evenings to do it. But now I have spent a week struggling with the textures. :'( Textures which look perfectly fine in the GIMP program get pixelated in the 3DS MAX, I am not happy with the bricks and what is the colour of the white? :P
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedfordS_zpsxegpfkqv.jpg&hash=0efae7ec8e4e613c1a58d6877b4970739ee39758) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/BedfordS_zpsxegpfkqv.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedfordN_zpsrhmolsi6.jpg&hash=1d6785735be0b8d9a14b89145ffd7b586a859442) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/BedfordN_zpsrhmolsi6.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedfordE_zpsikt8lt2f.jpg&hash=67efeefa3e0358264d8cc6aea43775b50204a105) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/BedfordE_zpsikt8lt2f.jpg.html)
Well this is what I got. It is a clean version. No effects or saturation fixes. Just the basic texture.
One area which has given me a much of headache is the brick texture. I can't make up my mind if the brick should oversized or not. I have noticed that many batters have made brick and similar tiles oversized. However they mostly have made their BATs as SD, so I am not sure how a brick texture such as i have used actually work in HD environment. I tried to make smaller brick, but the result was pixelated and at least for the moment I stick with larger than real life brick.
@Girafe Could I ask a favour from you. I am very grateful for the render setup you made for me. I would not be Batting, if your render setup wouldn't solved the fuzziness problem. However, could I ask you to do me similar setups for Maxis and Dark Nights. That would save me time and effort when making nightviews.
Fantastic your model looks 10 times better then the original. Love the bricks I should not change it:)
It is shaping up quite nicely &apls
The dark bricks look great, in my opinion, as does the roof. :thumbsup: The mortar joints of white brick seem a little too dark/thick/intense to me.
Looks awesome and I really like the foundation &apls Can't offer much advice on textures and the like but quite like it already.
I like it a lot :thumbsup:
Thanks. Great. I got in the texture mood yesterday. :satisfied:
Quote from: c.p. on April 02, 2017, 11:06:00 AM
The dark bricks look great, in my opinion, as does the roof. :thumbsup: The mortar joints of white brick seem a little too dark/thick/intense to me.
Agree ;) That was my bump map test. A slight change and tadaa the black lines are gone. To paraphrase the Snickers ad, "Better?" Better. :)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedford1_zpswnrjxanj.jpg&hash=9280cc6f014e22f2853bb986ea4ad9d4396c1f0b) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Bedford1_zpswnrjxanj.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedford2_zpsvfuns3pd.jpg&hash=3cd9283afa3d6ed95113159673efb3c5637d6293) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Bedford2_zpsvfuns3pd.jpg.html)
Sure I dip it in mud but I want to see some patina in my buildings. :D After all this is a 200 years old building.
This may be the last preview. I may do some minor changes, but over all I think this is it. However, I got ambitious and I might do a full row. Smaller building in plain brick.
A side note. That brick is interesting to me. The Bedford Square is relative famous and in many architecture books. And some of you may have visited that square. I have. So my first impression was that the brick is brownish and dark. But when I use google Earth and look at close, I can see the houses are made of yellow brick. Quite typical in central London. However the time and dirt has made it look vaguely brown. That is why I chose a dark brown texture, even though I now know that the original colour was Yellow Brown.
Very nice wear and tear! &apls
Maybe the facade could use a tad more smudges here and there (e.g. underneath windowsills), other than that looks really nice. :thumbsup:
Great modeling and the texturing is coming along nicely :thumbsup:
Love the patina &apls
The texturing looks absolutely lovely! And I love the subject!
I do like the yellow-clay London stock bricks...it really gives that sense of place. In photoshop/gimp you could use a burn tinted slightly ochre to emulate 'cleaner' areas where the pollution hasn't really stuck.
Here is an up-close image of bricks from Bedford square: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_stock_brick#/media/File:London_stock_brick.jpg
Great job on the dirt streaks and textures in general :thumbsup:
Fantastic work there. The modelling looks terrific and you did a great job on the textures. Except, I have to second vortext, the facade could use one or another slight traces of age. Other than that, all I can do is repeat myself. Fantastic work. &apls
Wow it's looking very good!!
Looks outstanding &apls Can't wait to try it out!
Matt's Harrods has prompted me to show update on my London project. It has been delayed because I keep adding variations of the main building.
Here is one with back extensions and mews.
Another one is a row of Bedford Square buildings. Loosely based on numbers 3 to 5, next to number 6 on the middle. I have tried Matt's suggestion and added some ochre to brown brick. I think I need to desaturate and tone it down, but at least on the front the effect is interesting.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedford31_E_zpsb0qowgig.jpg&hash=d15f34a052cb54940f46461a26fe996de675475d) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Bedford31_E_zpsb0qowgig.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedford31_N_zpsfamr3nuu.jpg&hash=a4e206a321d61738c5456e4702d67e1a1aee9645) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Bedford31_N_zpsfamr3nuu.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedford25_S_zpsv8ohcsim.jpg&hash=606f04decdcc4c1a40344dea2ae133747e6b1190) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Bedford25_S_zpsv8ohcsim.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedford25_E_zpsifhmrexe.jpg&hash=b0c7def4862c6741531cbcc72c4d3e2abe440832) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/Bedford25_E_zpsifhmrexe.jpg.html)
Great work.
:thumbsup:
Great to see an update from you buddy :)
These are looking like they will be your best creations yet. As always, hungry for more residentials like this.
Wonderful work. :thumbsup: I'd suggest adding a railing attached to the wall for the court's stairs and maybe even on top of the parapet.
Your texturing and modeling is wonderful! I can't believe how much you have improved since your first foray into BATing (and it wasn't even that long ago). &apls
Beautiful! :satisfied: The texturing is sublime.
I love the little underground courtyards.
O my holy.... those are just beautiful :o &apls &apls &apls
I love your work on the details :thumbsup: and textures are great too &apls
I must say I'm tempted to persuade you to model a bit of interior, those big windows are just asking for it ;)
Meticulous details and crisp renders... very nice &apls &apls
Really beautiful work on these &apls Definitely looking forward to getting my hands on them :)
It doesn't get much better than that &apls
Thank you. When the best batters and modders give such high complements, I feel elevated. ()stsfd() I am a slow worker, but this keeps me pushing onwards. :)
@ MGB204 One day we will be able to do a virtual British city in SC4. It may take 20 years, but I am heading to it. :D
@ Praiodan Yes, I guess it could use a railing or fence, but as it is not very noticeable, I think I am done with the modelling.
@ Simcoug. Thank you, but when one starts from zero, there is only one way to go. :D Inexperience makes me slow and I perhaps need more time to finish a Bat than others who have more skills with 3D modelling. And it seems that I have more ideas than I have time or energy to materialise, but perhaps one day we could have a talk to see if there would be anything I could do for the Historic Harbour.
@ Seraf Sure, but I am not tempted. :) Nightlights are not my forte and interior would be calling a spectacular lighting and I am not yet ready open that Pandora's Box. May be later. :)
To prove that I could actually fin(n)ish something, I have uploaded my Post House model.
http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=3527
A simple house model, but it has been laying around for a long time, because I have wanted to BAT a few other houses from the same street. That has been inactive for so long that I think it is best just to share the model and continue another day with a new upload. This way I can at least finish something.
I am quite satisfied with the yellow stucco. I feel that is my best texture so far. I tried a number of yellow whitish stucco textures, but none really worked. So I made the texture myself. I wanted this faded sunburnt light shade, but same time to give an instant impression of yellowness. I think this proves Madhatter's saying that "good textures are made, not found" ;)
More of the Bedford Square. I also wanted some corners, so I did so. :) I have done the most of the lots and still need to do the nightlights. Then I should be ready to share this and finally move on to another project.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedfordCornerside3_zps4fvz1vqv.jpg&hash=b0b19f4a2d17b8d3c124cfa2bea28770339d8c69) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/BedfordCornerside3_zps4fvz1vqv.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedfordCornerside1_zpszme8iasb.jpg&hash=9a6b3707c71c29a283cef97ea3a1ce3e8bbb370c) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/BedfordCornerside1_zpszme8iasb.jpg.html)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1381.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fah207%2Fbombardiep108%2FBedfordCornerside2_zpsvpa7ykma.jpg&hash=118fb1e68fd3fb2acbe8ca39fee42b4610563616) (http://s1381.photobucket.com/user/bombardiep108/media/BedfordCornerside2_zpsvpa7ykma.jpg.html)
Very beautiful work! It's great to have more London buildings in game :)
Great work. :thumbsup:
Beautiful work!! &apls
Absolutely gorgeous :thumbsup:
As with other, I have lost my Photobucket pictures. I have not yet decide where I replace those. Bit of a problem.
Anyway, meanwhile I have been finally able to finish my Bedford Square pack. This was a harder project than I though. In total 12 BAT models. Plus I made 8 diagonals as a bonus. I hope these are useful for someone.
http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=3534
The download file contains both Maxis and Darknite version. This means that two times 20 HD BAT equals one very big file. 38 MB. But after you choose the night version and if you leave the diagonals out, then the play file is about 10 mb. Addiction to HD is costly. ::)
No new preview this time. Not only because the Photobucket but also that I have very little to show. I have done some small industrials, but I have not yet decide what will be the next major project. Although I have been eyeing at Nash original London County Fire Office and I need something Victorian to compete with Freytag Building which has taken over my commercial district in one of my plays.
A great addition to the game, thank you for sharing this with us! :thumbsup:
Thank you - absolutely gorgeous &apls
It has been a long time. ::) I have not quit, just been busy with other things.
I would like to make a quick post to show that I can still Bat. I have been quietly working with a small project. I am in need of old time industry buildings. Especially mechanical and out buildings. Most industrial buildings are anchors and not many are doing out buildings. I suppose people are using Maxis ones, but I wanted something else.
So let me introduce my small industry pack. These are from late 19th and early 20th century, so red brick is dominant colour. This time not all model are based from the UK, but some are German or Central European. Well, red brick industry style is pretty universal.
I have taken inspiration again from railway model kits. Those are really useful for reference. The boiler house is a Faller plastic kit. I did build it many years ago, but it is still in the shelve with no place. :( Now it is in 3D form.
I am also working with a diagonal power plant. It is still an idea and working model. I need to better familiarise with diagonal geometry.
I have more models in progress so lotting this lot will take some effort.
That's really beautiful, and you are right, there is a serious need for more mechanical and out buildings. This ones will be fantastic on that role!!
You can indeed still BAT.. very beautifully in fact :thumbsup: &apls &apls
Very much needed models &apls
Nick
Ah, so you are still here! And teasing us with these models without a download button...? ? ? Bad bombardiere, but making such a nice stuffs good bombardiere! &apls &apls &apls
Any chance that you could make separate props from those brick walls? That would be awesome, more variety to our industrial areas. Simmer gave some very nice concrete walls recently, and however I like the IRM versions, but more variety could be awesom!
Really nice work here! :)
- Tyberius
Quote from: Tyberius06 on March 04, 2018, 02:27:28 AM
Any chance that you could make separate props from those brick walls? That would be awesome, more variety to our industrial areas. Simmer gave some very nice concrete walls recently, and however I like the IRM versions, but more variety could be awesom!
Oh you wanted walls. :D I got some walls. :D I just thought that the walls would be too boring so that is why I did not include those in the preview. ::)
Wall in the diagonal picture is just a test sample to see how the yard and the buildings would interact. Not a final product. But i have made some wall props earlier.
I am probably going to Bat diagonal versions of all of buildings and props, although I may not do diagonal lots. Besides of this power plant.
Great models, really! Such small industrial buildings are very useful :thumbsup: However, are they going to have those base 3D surface as final, or is it just for showing purposes?
Great to see you back at the BAT. The models look splendid. I really love the little workshops :thumbsup: Are you going to mod them to over-ride some of the Maxis out/ and mech/ buildings?
The dreaded thing happened. My 3DS MAX student licence expired. No more Sim City batting. :crytissue:
It seems that I have been three years. I have not been active lately and I did not open 3DS MAX for a month or two, so the end of the licence was surprise to me. But an obvious one of course.
Any ideas on what to do next?
It might be possible to open second account at Autocad and get a new student licence. But I am not sure if it would be worth of it. It would be the latest version and it may or not work with Bat4Max. %confuso
I did a few models during the spring. If anyone is interested, I could donate SC¤models if anyone is interested. But these models are not finished and non have night render. Only daytime render in HD.
This is sadness. I sympathize. :(
Excellent models. I really want to see the final product. :thumbsup:
3DS max is still alive, newer versions may need to be tweaked, according to this posting (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=17967.msg522510#msg522510). Of course it's hard to say for how long, given the ever-shifting nature of Autodesk's products. But assuming you get a new licence, you can keep one of the currently supported versions for the next few years at least.
I wanted to come back, but no, I still have issues with 3DSMax.
I went and got a licence. 2016 MAX. I read this post to learn how to work with later version of a 3DSMAX
http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=17967.msg522510#msg522510
So I applied the Fix, gamma fix and run 3DSMAX as admin to overcome Win10 user right issues. But no, I am not able to make BATs. I get this dreadful Error 6 message.
Any ideas of what is going wrong?
I know that Error 6 is just general something went wrong and doesn't pinpoint where the problem lies.
Before I applied MGB204's fix file, I got this same error message than Reddonquixote describes at the beginning of the thread. It is now gone, but Error 6 has replaced it. :(
Code 6: the generic error that doesn't help us to understand the problem :(.
Try opening a new scene and exporting a simple shape like a box, does that bring up the Error? If it doesn't, the issue relates to your file/model somewhere. If this is a file from a previous version of 3DSMax, there is a chance that there is some incompatibility. But it could equally be an error in your geometry somewhere.
As you say, error code 6 is too generic to assist us.
In your screen shot, on the 'Frame Buffer Type', do you have the option to select 'Integer 16Bits per channel' from the drop down rather than the Floating 32 bits that it is now (this is an obvious difference between my set up on 2014 and yours on 2016). Otherwise, try making a simple box as the previous poster suggested
That box was a very good idea, but no joy. :( I also tried different folders than my documents, just in case it is some esoteric Win 10 user right issue. But no. Error 6 is there. :(
I did removed 2017 fix and it gave error Finalgatheruseradiousinterpolation. Oddly enough it allowed to do preview, but again with full export, the error 6 appeared.
I have tried to read a few threads and I am not sure if anyone has been successful with 2016 version. Perhaps that fix only works with 2017 version. I really do not know. :(
The specific error you are showing is the very line that the fix outlined by RDQ should have removed. This feature no longer exists and when the scripts call it, it creates an error. So check again you've correctly overridden the right file when installing the fix.
SF_LtbL_functions.ms in $INSTALLDIR\gamepacks\BAT\scripts
Run a search system-wide for this file, perhaps you've multiple instances confusing the issue?
Lastly, know that Windows10 may restore any files to their originals, if they are modified and located in a "system folder". This is basically a security feature, but if it's preventing the fix, you may need to give the folder/file sufficient privileges to work around that.
Alternately, you can open this file with Notepad or similar and just edit the text, search for an remove this line:
myRen.FinalGatherUseRadiusInterpolation = true
Note: this appears twice, so both instances need to be removed (one for Day and one for Night renders). That's pretty much all my modified file has done.
DOH! I am having a Major DOH moment.
What is one of the most important rules if you have issues with a computer programs? Check updates!!!!
So I had not updated my 2016. It turns out that it has 4 service packs. I have now installed SP4 and you know what? It works.
I feel stupid.
Thanks guys for your support. :thumbsup:
I have now three more years of Batting.