where can I find a tutorial on how to...

[lexsis]

where can I find a tutorial on how to...

- import 3D objects (I have a map for a game, I want to use some 3d model trees that somebody else made., how do I import a 3d model onto my map.

- how to use the scatter feature., so once Ive imported the 3d object, I can use the scatter feature to scatter the trees around the map.

thnx.

[polyman]

1. Well, to do something like that you usualy need to have some program specialized for the game you're working on so you could open that type of file, EXCEPCT if you can import that type to e.g. 3ds max. But, it usualy goes like this: you make something in a 3d program (like max), than export to some file type that can be imported by program you use for the game.
2. Are you using 3ds max?

[lexsis]

yes, Im using 3DSM.

I have everything I need to export my map to my game., I just need to know how to add trees & stuff to my map which is in .max format so I can then export it again back to to .map which is the format the game uses.

exporting to game is no problem at all., I just need to know how to add objects to my map while its in .max format.

[polyman]

1.Here's how Scatter works:

Say you want to scatter a cone over a plane (make sure that the cone's pivot is oriented so that z axis shows to thw objects upper part).

Note: I used inversed cone.

Select the cone.

[polyman]

2. In the command panel click on scatter button.

[polyman]

3. In the rollout, find & click 'Pick Distribution Object' button. Select the plane (or terrain map in your case).

[polyman]

4. Set the duplicates to the number of scattered objects you want to have.

[polyman]

5. In the 'Distribution Object Parametars' there is 'Distribute Using:' group, where you can select distribution way (I gues you'll want to use 'Even' option).

[polyman]

6. And one more thing:
Because your terrain is probably bumpy, you will have to make sure that 'Perpendicular' is unchecked, because if not, look what will happen with your trees.

[lexsis]

polyman,

thanks a million, this is exactly the kind of help I need.., one question though,

I use the import option to get the tree that I want to scatter., it then asks if I want to

- merge objects with current scene.
- completely replace current scene.

if I choose merge with current, I dont see anything happening.,
if I choose completly replace, then I get the tree displayed but not my map.

is it possible to import the .3ds tree AND still be able to see my map?

[polyman]

You should chose:
- merge objects with current scene
I'm not sure why you dont see your object, but it's probably this:

When you import the object it usualy isn't scaled as you would expect - it's too small, or too big.

Pres N to open Select by name dialog, and look up for your tree in the list. Select it. Try to scale it. (You could also zoom in or out to try to see your object before you scale it).

[Duff_Man]

ya, I had that happen too. it is probably too small to see.
and remember, with the scatter.. only show a small percent(under display tab in scatter) so you cut down on lag and memory usage.

[sublevel4]

Thanks for the great info on scatter. Cleared some things up for me.