first post, just got the ultimate license and installed

[GeroSam]

Hello out there, a long time 1e ad&d DM. I enjoy the game, but I haven't played in a number of years. I hope to get back to doing that this year.

What did I do since I stopped DMing ? Made a plethora of maps. Learned how to make better maps. I actually get compliments on my maps now.

I was going to add something besides osric to my setup, but that will have to wait.

Have lots of reading to do, pdfs galore.

I know I have to read the basics about loading maps from my hard drive, creating character sheets, etc.

Anything else ?

Thanks.
Jim

[JohnD]

Hi Jim. Welcome back to the hobby.

Using FG has a learning curve. Best to get some experience as a player in basic functionality and then build the DM foundation. I say that because learning what a player needs to know helps set the basics for the DM side. Also, when you are DMing, your players will look to you for guidance when they aren't sure about how to do something.

You might want to get on Discord if you aren't already. The FG Discord is a good option for chatting and quick(ish) questions and answers.

I would also suggest some classes at FG Academy, which should help you through your learning curve.

[GeroSam]

I found the map sizes, 1k x 1k. Most of mine are 1000 x 800 pixels. I've learned how to import maps. Once I found it, it was right there. I just had to adjust what verbiage I had to know.

The free maps don't have dungeon debris. Is that normal for all the maps here ? I can add debris, etc. in, but not animation, with CC3+ which I have all of the add-ons, etc.

edit: One of my relatives has ultimate as well. I'll see if I can watch an adventure or three with that group.

[Zacchaeus]

Map size recommendation for Unity is no more than 16M pixels (4kx4k) and keep the size reasonable (about 2-4Mb) max. More details here https://fantasygroundsunity.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/FGCP/pages/2037547009/Developer+Guide+-+Product+Guidelines

[GeroSam]

I bought 2 generic map packs; villages, windmill, etc. to better understand what makes up a map for FG. Not sure I'll have much time this week to look things over. But if it rains like predicted, I'll be stuck inside instead of the backyard putting a do it myself small building.

I have watched 2 'how to use the interface' videos today. And downloaded them. I need to make notes. But I do have the old gamer standby; yellow note pads, pencils, and erasers.

[LordEntrails]

Most maps I've found also don't have debris on them. Like you, I appreciate some ambiance :)
On the PF forums there is a script myself and Mattekure wrote for CC3+ that will let you export your maps at a predefined resolution (like 50 or 100 pixels per 5 feet square). If you need help finding it, let me know (PM probably). Been a couple years since I've done much with CC3+, but it is my mapping program of choice.

Also, consider a free class or two with FG Academy. And when you can't figure something out, ask us :)

[damned]

Welcome GeroSam

For me the most important things to learn are:

loading modules (and showing players how to load the player versions)
creating characters
basic story, reference manual, image usage (sharing an image, grids, lighting)
basic combat

After that get a game running and start your trial by fire.

[GeroSam]

I got a generic module set. I can get the map assets onto the screen for use. I think I have figured out how to load modules... I can see the assets, maps, etc.

I know I can turn off aspect ratio in CC3+ and get the 1000 x 1000 pixel map output.

LordEntrails I recognize your name, you will know who I am by my catch phrase 'I make maps'.

When I first did pencil and paper, I took a month and read through the books, ran some practice combats, and still made mistakes but hopefully they were fewer in number than otherwise.

Thanks for the help and the welcomes.

Jim