A map editor (also called a level editor, campaign editor, or scenario editor) is a tool used to design levels, maps or campaigns for game.
Heroes of Might and Magic[]
A public map editor tool has been available in every Heroes of Might and Magic game, allowing users to create their own custom maps. Map editors vary in appearance and function slightly between games, but generally retain the same overall design. The map editor has not always been included in the base version of every game, however it is added in expansions. For example, Heroes of Might and Magic V did not have a public map editor until one was introduced in Hammers of Fate.
The following image shows a breakdown of the typical map editor, taken from Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Shadow of Death.
- 1. The toolbar. This section contains tools for the map editor as well as options to create a new map, load a map, save, undo/redo, change visibility, switch to the subterranean level, and edit the scenario information. The toolbar can be rearranged or even detached from the rest of the menu by clicking and dragging any part outside of a button.
- 2. The map. This section display the map that's being created, although with some placeholder items such as the random monster indicators seen in multiple places in the screenshot. It can be navigated by using the scroll bars. Right clicking on objects will bring up an options menu, including the properties tab that allows the objects properties to be edited if able. Double-clicking an object will bring the properties menu immediately. The exterior of the map also often includes X and Y coordinates which display the location of the cursor.
- 3. The placement menu. This is used to select different options based on what's selected from the tool menu. On tabs like terrain, it allows the user to choose which terrain to create and what size of brush to use. On objects tabs such as the displayed tab, users can click and drag objects from the menu on to the map to place them.
- 4. The minimap. This displays the minimap of the current map, exactly as it will appear in-game. Clicking on any part of the minimap will bring the screen to that spot.
Heroes of Might and Magic III has a second editor program called the campaign editor, which allows the user to create custom campaigns by loading in maps and adding cutscenes, campaign text, and the starting bonus screen between them. This feature is included within the map editor itself in future games.
Might and Magic[]
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A map viewer was integrated in Might and Magic VII.