Wednesday, January 19, 2011
One hour dungeon map
I was admiring the one-hour-dungeon-maps at Aeons & Augauries, and decided to do one of my own (click for a print quality TIFF version):
That got me thinking about how I draw dungeon maps. The method I've been using lately is to think of a dungeon level as 4-6 clusters of 8-16 rooms each:
What's your thought process or strategy when you sit down to draw a map?
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At the core of the process I start drawing and if it's starts to look like something I hammer that into the shape I need.
ReplyDeleteI've been trying to develop a methodology to finish more of the maps I start. The cluster approach seems to work OK.
ReplyDeleteI also need to start a list of the stuff I usually forget on the first draft, like including vertical movement within the level.
this is working for me so far to get the basic ideas down: http://dndwithpornstars.blogspot.com/2011/01/megadungeon-design-unicorns-dead-elves.html
ReplyDeleteMostly I plonk an octagon down (If I'm working on somewhere the Octagon People built), and start drawing. I just, you know, do whatever pops into my head at the time, although I have been doing a Reversals thing lately.
ReplyDelete@Zak, I saw that when you posted it. It leaves me full of awe.
ReplyDeleteI think I understand your keying system, but I'm not sure how you keep track of the dimensions and exact spacial relations between rooms. Do your players graph their own map based on your descriptions, or does your group treat that aspect of play in more approximate terms?
Also, I tend to deface my maps with lots of scribbled notes.