How Big is too big ?

[tegeus]

With map size I mean.

I create maps for my module from e-tiles and they run pretty big. I have not tried to run them in a campaign yet. Is 8 mb too big?

tegeus

[leozelig]

Map sizes are 200-300kb mostly for the current module I am running, up to 500kb. I make liberal use of the 'preload' function as well, so load times are virtually instantaneous if I plan it right.

I recommend keeping them under 1Mb at the most. I save my maps as 8 bit .png files, which helps. You can also go black and white to further reduce file size, but I like color maps, especially for the detailed tiles in the published modules. Also, check the pixel size of one 5 ft tile. I try for around 32 pixels per 5 ft tile as a guideline for image scaling.

[Spyke]

You can also export your maps to a module and send that to your players so that they can preload them, though there are a few disadvantages to this. There are various threads on this forum covering the process.

Spyke

[EugeneZ]

I've used 15 MB map files before (!) with no problem. I don't believe there's a physical limit, it's all a matter of what your internet pipes can handle.

To pre-distribute the maps as a module, I believe the method recommended by the devs is:

1) Place your maps in your image folder like normal. Make sure only the maps you want to export are in there.

2) In FG2, type /export into the chatbox and hit enter.

3) A box will pop up. Make sure the checkbox next to images, and ONLY the one next to images is checked.

4) In that same row, make sure the checkbox underneath "H" is checked. This will make it a host module.

5) Fill out the fields at the top, paying particular attention to the filename field.

6) Right click and select the action for Export.

7) There is now a file with the filename you specified in your mods directory. Distribute this to your players. They must place it in their mod directory before they start Fantasy Grounds.

I've had two primary issues with this method:

1) If the filename is identical to one you've used in the past with non-pre-distributed maps, you will have major problems. Make sure to rename the files before exporting.

2) Every time you share the map with a player, they do not recieve the mask. They do recieve updates to the mask afterwards, up until you close the map or they disconnect. Hence, you can't pre-draw the mask (well, you can but you need to redraw it after they've got the map) and every a player disconnects, you need to redraw yet again. Annoying but useable.

[tegeus]

Thanks for all of the feedback. I decided to reduce my resolution by 50% the maps still look good and now the files are under 2 mb. I may exporting them to a mod at some point. The GM in a game I am a player in goes that route and we have had a few issues with it. I am not ready for that yet as a new GM.

thanks,
tegeus