Guide:Creating and Developing your Platforming Map

The process of creating EX Crew's "Oh Shit Bears" world from beginning to end

Players that have become familiar with Everybody Edits may eventually attempt to create a gaming experience for other players, most commonly in the form of a Platforming Map. In the same way that Everybody Edits allows players to make varied and unique creations with the various bricks, a Platforming Map can be as new and original as its designer's imagination. Mapmaking consists of five common phases. Below are some guidelines that can both help first-time designers who are overwhelmed by the process of mapmaking, as well as provide insight to experienced players looking to refine their craft.

HAIL HITLER

Releasing and Editing

When the map is ready for your finishing touches, add any last minute artistic changes and a title or URL link to an external chat or webpage if applicable, then prepare it for a public 'beta' test. Change the map name to the correct title and fill it up by inviting people, or, if necessary, join the game with multiple windows.

There is alot of opportunity for editing during the beta phase, as having a large amount of random players makes for an unbiased test of difficulty and enjoyment. Watch for bottlenecks: 'clump-ups' of players in a room that is more difficult than would be appropriate for its placement. If many players are stuck at the same place, it is usually a sign that place is in need of some editing. If you are willing, make the challenge a little easier by adding or removing some blocks or arrows, then see if the players are able to proceed. If you have any co-designers, have them keep a close eye on player progress in various locations, fixing exploits or making changes when necessary. Pay close attention to the chat as well, since you will likely receive a lot of early feedback especially with things people really like or dislike.

Don't worry too much if the map didn't turn out perfectly, most of the time it's impossible to make a map that completely satisfies your initial plans and goals, but that does not mean your map is poor. Make sure to learn from the mistakes you made while making the map to avoid making the same ones in the future. The more you build and learn, the better you will become at making maps, and the more people will enjoy them.

Make a final save with a version you are happy with, and, finally, have a go at the map yourself! ;