DIY Cork Map of Westeros: A Unique Tool for Video Game Development
Building fictional worlds is at the core of video game development. One striking example is Westeros, the captivating setting from Game of Thrones. Developers often need physical or visual tools to plan and execute the design of such worlds. A DIY cork map of Westeros can be one such creative and functional asset.
Why a Cork Map?
Physical maps serve as great tools for visualizing storylines, quests, and even gameplay mechanics. Cork maps, in particular, offer interactivity. Imagine pinning important landmarks, plotting journeys, or even marking key battle locations that could directly influence level design. Cork maps aren’t just decorative—they’re brainstorming tools for developers.
How to Create Your Cork Map of Westeros
Creating a DIY cork map of Westeros is a hands-on process. Follow these simple steps to get started:
- Find a Map of Westeros: You can either print one or sketch the outline. Look for one that has clear demarcations of important regions like King’s Landing, Winterfell, and the Wall.
- Transfer the Map to Cork: Place tracing paper over the map, trace the outline, and then transfer the traced map onto a large corkboard. Be sure to mark the major cities and landmarks.
- Cut Out Shapes (Optional): If you want a 3D effect, cut out the different regions of Westeros from thinner cork sheets. Glue these onto the main map for a layered look.
- Customize with Pins: Use different colored pins to mark storylines, NPC (non-playable characters) locations, or even routes for quests. This will help in world-building, ensuring that every location has its narrative flow and purpose.
- Use for Brainstorming: Have the map visible while you work on game development. It’s especially useful for open-world or role-playing game development, where having a clear layout is crucial to pacing and design.
Benefits for Game Development
- Visual Reference: A cork map gives developers a tangible reference point, making it easier to visualize the in-game world.
- Story Planning: Pinning key events on the map can help structure storylines and manage the pacing of gameplay.
- Collaborative Tool: The physical nature of the map encourages team collaboration. Team members can interact with the map during meetings, using it to plot out quests, battles, and more.
Enhancing Immersion with Real Maps
Many game designers use real-world methods to make fictional lands feel more believable. A cork map allows developers to add real-world elements, such as geographical landmarks or natural barriers, into the game. This makes the world more immersive and cohesive. By layering these elements on the map, developers can visualize terrain, travel distances, and how different regions connect with each other in the game.
Inspiration for Creativity
Developing open-world games is a challenge, but a DIY cork map can serve as a constant source of inspiration. With a map hanging in the studio, developers may find new creative directions by simply glancing at it. Whether it’s coming up with new towns, battlefields, or even hidden dungeons, a cork map is a helpful tool.
Final Thoughts
Game development requires creativity and the right tools to organize ideas effectively. A DIY cork map of Westeros is not only a unique decorative piece but also a functional asset for your game design process. From visualizing storylines to improving world-building, the map brings new dimensions to the art of crafting virtual worlds.