Note: I can't be as active with Minecraft as I used to be because of work, so if you notice anything on this thread that's wrong, outdated, or see something that I should add, contact me via PM or on Skype (Delirious_Doc). I will give 100% credit where credit is due. Thanks.
I've been fairly active here on the Maps forum over the past couple of days and I've noticed a trend of new posters who either make the same mistakes or lack the same knowledge.
So, instead of either replying individually to each and every post or copy+pasting the information and inflating my post count, why not have one thread that will cover all of this? Makes it easier to access for the general public and when I'm not able to post, people can still read my advice!
Let's begin, shall we?
Table of Contents
Pictures. Why you should use them and how to get them. Mods. Why I encourage (most of) them and which I recommend. Tools. Other programs that I find useful for map editing or showing off my work. Sharing your map. How to let others download your map. Installing a map. How to install a map that you've downloaded. Get noticed.Quick tips to help your map get noticed. Flat Maps.User-created maps that have been flattened out and how to request one.
We have all heard the cliche' "A picture's worth a thousand words." This not only applies to photographs in real life, but also on the internet. Without pictures, most people simply will not download your map because they want a quick glimpse of something that sparks on interest of theirs before they dedicate the time/bandwidth/space to install and play your map.
Not only this, but a picture also lets the viewers and potential players have a good sense that you're not sharing malware, a virus, or whatever. If you're really amazing, though, you can head on over to VirusTotal and upload your map (more about this at sharing your map.) This website has a 20mb cap, but it scans a file across 41 different antivirus programs for free.
Sounds fair. But not everyone knows how to get a picture on the internet, let alone how to take one in Minecraft. I'm here to help. That's what this thread is for.
This is a very short, simple guide to let you take pictures in Minecraft.
1. Load up Minecraft and play on the map that you want to take pictures of.
2. Move to a location that you want to digitally capture.
3. Press F1 to hide the UI (Action bars, health, etc.)
4. Press F2 to take a picture.
5. If you want more than one picture, either press F1 to get your UI back and move or just move and press F2 again.
You will need an image hosting website. A friend (LunaticLawyer) has recently turned me to the image hosting site imgur. This site is simple, easy, and allows you to just drag-n-drop directly into your browser. If you don't like imgur, you can always turn to a Google Search.
Okay. So you're at an image hosting website. Now what? Hit the Upload button. Silly.
This should open up an explorer menu that allows you to search through your computer to find the screenshot(s) that you want to upload. But, I haven't told you where to find them... yet. So that's a problem. The location of your screenshots depends on what operating system that you're running.
If you're running Windows, your screenshots are located here:
Press the Windows Key and R at the same time. In this dialogue type (or copy and paste) the following
%appdata%\.minecraft\screenshots
If you're running on a Mac, your screenshots are located here:
/Users/*username*/Library/Application Support/minecraft/screenshots/
If you're running Linux, your screenshots are located here:
`/.minecraft/screenshots
After you've navigated to the folder and selected the screenshot(s), go ahead and hit "Open" on the explorer and it will start the upload. After the upload is complete, it should either ask you to add tags, a name, and description or re-direct you to the image that you've uploaded.
There should be a couple links that the image host provides. You will need either the "IMG code" (for basic pre-formatted link that you can just post on the forums) or the "Direct link" that requires you to add [.IMG] BBCode** around the image in order to have it embedded on the forums.
Just throw either one of these bad boys onto the forum and BAM! You have a screenshot that everyone can see online with little-to-no hassle on your behalf!
**There is a button to do this. When replying to a topic or creating a new thread, it is the "Img" button above the text box.
There has been at least one thread, meaning there will be countless more, asking about using mods to create a map -- more specifically, using an inventory editor to get items handed to you.
My view on this is that I fully recommend and sometimes prefer that you use an inventory editor. It's like having an Easy button on Minecraft that allows you to worry less about gathering the materials to make your map and actually focus on the design of it.
Plus, if you're creating a map for other people to download to either play in single player or multiplayer, what happens if you've stripped all of the resources near the awesome castle that you've to build out of copious amounts of stone, iron, and diamond blocks? Less for the player(s) to get on their own, meaning a less enjoyable experience. The less that you impact the world around your structures, the better off your map will be for players.
Most of the community know this, so they either use mods themselves or don't mind if you use them. Meaning that you will not be flamed for using an inventory editor, fly mods, or whatever. It's almost expected.
For general purpose Map making, you might only need to use one or two of these; however, I feel like it's much easier to have all three going at the same time.
Note: These are only a mere suggestion. I'm not saying that you're a worthless map creator if you don't use these, they're just some of the more popular mods that I've used when creating a map.
NOTE:All of the installation instructions are on the mod threads themselves. I implore you to read these before trying to install by yourself as some have unique installations.
TooManyItems
This is an in-game Inventory Editor. What does that mean? Well, you open up you inventory (default is E post 1.4) then press "O". A huge list of items appears showing you most, if not all, items available to you in-game. Flick through the list and left-click for a stack to be added to your inventory or right-click for just one. There are more features to this, but this alone should convince you.
zombe's Mod pack
zombe's Modpack currently consists of 20 mods that all vary in purpose. It is mostly known for having a fly mod, though, which allows you to get places faster, build structures higher, and overall, get stuff done at a faster rate. It also comes with "Classic Build" mode. This Allows you to have infinite stacks of whatever you want, destroy blocks instantly, and other neat features.
SinglePlayer Commands This is for more advanced map makers as it really makes you get your feet wet with commands and other nonsense, but it is also the most powerful. This mod allows you to do, make, and edit nearly every aspect of the game. Want to make a sphere? Easy. One easy command will make it instantly!
MORECREATIVE
This mod gives you ready access to more blocks not normally available in creative mode including all potions and extra spawner eggs! You can create customs lists (for easy organization), search items, and create your own shortcuts to make item creation a cinch. It also lets you control all enchantments, instant mine on survival, toggle gamemode, toggle weather effects, change mob spawner types, change paintings, and so much more! (Thanks Sutoraika for the suggestion!)
I don't recommend any mods that force others to have the same mod in order to play your map. I understand that some things can't be done without some mods, but if you're releasing a map for general consumption you need to keep this in mind:
The easier something is to obtain, the more people will use it. People pay bigggg money for convenience.
If you simply cannot go without getting around this, fine. But I've warned you that generally people don't want to have to install a mod just to play on your map.
These are by no means essential, but I find them really helpful for different things.
The most popular question that I've been getting here recently has been asking how to change the map type from Creative to Survival. Luckily, thedarkfreak created (and xIGBClutchIx added some modifications to) The Minecraft Gametype Changer. This tool is able to be run on PC, Mac, and Linux and allows you to very, very easily change your maps from Creative mode to Survival mode. Enjoy.
Next up is the very popular MCEdit. The About section from the thread:
Quote from "codewarrior" »
About
MCEdit is a versatile map editor, designed for moving blocks from one level to another. With it, you can open a level of nearly any type and fly around in glorious 3D with multiple levels of detail! Select millions of blocks and clone them anywhere else in the level. Fill a boxy selection with the block of your choice, or replace one kind of block with another. Export blocks to a "schematic" file for later use. Import a schematic or an entire level into any world using the crane. Move the player or his spawn point. Create and and remove chunks from the world. Fill blackened areas with light. Find bugs!
Remember: Control-Z to undo, Control-S to save.
Next up is another popular Cartograh G. Basically what Cartograh G does is it gets a top-down view of your entire world. This is not only useful for seeing where a good mountaintop is, but when you're posting a map that is HUGE, it allows people to see how big it really is. Just check out some of the images that it has created and you'll understand what I mean.
As per request, INVedit is making an appearance. INVedit allows you to modify your inventory without having to modify anything in your Minecraft client. However, this tool is best used on a Windows computer, as it requires much more effort on behalf of Mac and Linux users because it is a .exe and requires .NET framework. If you got past all of that tech babble, this is what the author says that it can accomplish:
Quote from "copyboy" »
Here's a list of features:
• Loads blocks from the enclosed files (items.txt and the .pngs).
• Groups for faster access of individual blocks.
• Search box lets you filter items.
• If possible, displays item damage as bar.
• Stacks items almost like in the game itself.
• Tabs for editing multiple inventories simultaneously.
• Moving items from one tab to another is possible.
• Quick load and save.
• Automatic updating.
Minecraft Structure Planner is a companion application for the insanely popular sandbox game Minecraft. The Structure planner allows anyone to quickly and easily create a variety of structures for building in the game, Structures are defined using a simple set of number fields, texture drop-downs, or option check boxes, and the results are then displayed in three different ways:
A height map, showing you exactly how high each piece of your structure will be,
A layer-by-layer plan view that shows you very clearly how to build your structure from the ground up, as well as the exact amount of each building material required during construction,
A 3D view of your newly created structure, giving you an accurate idea of exactly how it'll look when it's finally completed in-game.
So you have a map and you want people to download and play it, how do you do that? It's pretty easy. Just follow my directions and you'll be ready to share your latest creation in no time!
Just like hosting images online, you will need to find a website to host files for you. There are dozens of popular file hosting websites. I prefer to use MediaFire because it allows you to upload with or without an account. There are bonuses to get the free account, however, like a file manager that allows you to access all of the files you've uploaded to delete them or whatever. If you don't want to use MediaFire, you don't have to. It's just personal preference. Google comes up with great alternatives.
Alright, so now you have a file host, but that still doesn't solve everything. You need to navigate to your saves folder and compress your folder to upload.
If you're running Windows, your saves are located here:
Press the Windows Key and R at the same time. In this dialogue type (or copy and paste) the following
%appdata%\.minecraft\saves
If you're running on a Mac, your saves are located here:
/Users/*username*/Library/Application Support/minecraft/saves/
If you're running Linux, your saves are located here:
`/.minecraft/saves
To compress the folder (of the map, don't do the whole saves folder please) just right click -> Send to... -> Compressed (Zipped) Folder
This will create a .zip file that's ready to upload. Just head back over to the file hosting website, hit the "Upload" button, and using the explorer menu navigate to the .zip folder you created and hit "Open." Your file should start to upload now and you'll be armed with a link to post on the site soon!
This should be another quick tutorial to get a map from the internet onto your hard drive and then into your saves.
1. Find a map that you want to download. If they require you to get a mod, make sure that you install that first.
2. Download the map to a place that you will remember (Downloads folder, Dekstop, wherever)
3. Unzip or Unrar the file using your archiver of choice (WinRAR, 7Zip, etc).
4. Copy the folder that was unzipped, unrared, etc., and navigate to your Minecraft saves folder:
If you're running Windows, your saves are located here:
Press the Windows Key and R at the same time. In this dialogue type (or copy and paste) the following
%appdata%\.minecraft\saves
If you're running on a Mac, your saves are located here:
/Users/*username*/Library/Application Support/minecraft/saves/
If you're running Linux, your saves are located here:
`/.minecraft/saves
5. Paste the folder and re-name it if you desire.
6. Play Minecraft with the new map!
Here's a user video that explains this. His first technique that he uses to locate the .minecraft folder should be universal (across any operating system).
This is something that takes a while to do, but it's worth it. People are more likely to download your map if it has “pretty pictures” and your thread doesn't look like an illiterate five-year-old wrote it.
The first place that I suggest that you look is the Minecraft Forums - “Tips and Tricks” thread. This thread goes over the basics of BBCode, advanced BBCode, shortcuts in the editor, and a ton of other forum goodness. However, just knowing the BBCode to do some of this cool stuff doesn't solve your problem. You need to take your time when posting your map and don't forget about the “Preview” button. This button allows you to see how your thread will be posted without actually posting it. I use this button frequently before I throw an update to this thread or else I have to slap the “Edit” button more times than I want.
Something that goes along with Presentation is what you name your map and thread. If you haven't read over the MUST READ: Title Formatting and an Important Message thread, you really should before you post your thread. This thread goes over adding subject prefixes to your map thread to make sure that everyone gets a general idea about what to expect before they open your thread. Likewise, if you name your map in relation to some video game, movie, or whatever, people will expect to see how that media influenced your map.
If you have a giant wall of text – meaning no paragraphs – you will undoubtedly be skipped over by most of the forumgoers. We don't want to have to read 20+ lines of text that are bunched together. It's pretty difficult to keep our attention. That being said, don't feel bad if you are taking up more of their screen space by hitting the “Return” key (but don't overdo it!). If you feel like there are definite sections, look into adding some anchor tags. I use them here to provide quick navigation between sections or get you back to where you were.
One last tip that I have for this Presentation section (at this time), is to look into getting a Texture Pack. Everyone likes some variety and it is an easy way to make your map pictures stand out. Plus, they make Minecraft look better. Just remember that if you use a texture pack, let everyone know in your first post what it is and where you got it. You will have people ask you and it will save you the hassle later on.
This is something that you cannot expect to do overnight. Getting a good feeling for your audience is the best way to get more downloads. If you are creating a map that's labeled as [Surv] (survival), your audience will expect a more hardcore experience than a map that's labeled as [Creation]. So, your audience will generally be more older players who are looking for a challenge and don't mind the “honor” rules that you will throw in to make sure that the players have the experience that you want them to.
Something that you can do to get a good, quick view of your audience is to check out the “successful” map threads. Those few people who have over 5,000 downloads had to do something right, and you can learn from them.
Another sticky here at the Maps Forum is the Official Map List (OML), hosted by the user Mzaq, and while submitting to the OML won't get you noticed immediately, it will make your map easier to find in the long run (beats breaking rules by bumping your thread). Now, to get on the OML you have to either PM Mzaq or post a reply on the topic. When you do submit your map, make sure that you follow the format or your map will NOT be added:
Map Name:
Author Name(s):
Description:
Mod(s) or Texture pack needed:
Picture or Video (LINKS ONLY):
Download Link:
Additional Information:
NOTE: The OML is being re-organized right now, so if your map doesn't get on the list immediately, don't worry; Mzaq assure me that you can expect your map to be added in the next update.
Seeing that this is the most requested map type out there and a few collections already completed, this needed to be added sooner or later. If the links that I have provided don't have a flat map that you're looking for, check out the Requesting a Flatmap section.
These flatmaps:
Are 1024x1024x128 Blocks.
Do not generate more Flatland outside of the border (but normal land does)
Have bedrock walls.
Have a bedrock floor.
The flatmaps come in 5 heights:
Highlands - 119 above bedrock. (Only good for tunnels)
Upperlands - 91 above bedrock. (Not good for towers)
Middlelands - 63 above bedrock. (Perfect all-rounder)
Lowerlands - 35 above bedrock. (Harder to make deep tunnels)
Lowlands - 7 above bedrock. (Lags)
Next up we have a set of flat maps that have been updated for 1.0.0. These maps come in two sizes (256x2565 or 1060x1060), are in creative mode, have no snow, and have various options for a retaining wall (none, big, small, low, high).
Finally we have [Creaton] Tyken's Test World.
Hello fellow crafters. Are you tired of wasting precious time and materials testing out things in your world? Don't have enough space or even the materials to do it with? Fear not! For I have the answers to your woes!
Tyken's Test world! Its a completely flat, open world for you to build what ever you want! Whats that? Materials? No problem! inside my test world there is an underground bunker full of chests with all the materials you could possibly need to build even the most epic invention!
I find that the more information that you give about a flat map, the easier it is to get it back to you fast. Just follow this template and you should have less problems getting it created for you:
Size (in blocks):
Material(s):
Height from Bedrock:
Do you want walls? (If yes, what material?):
Other details:
I was starting to wonder if anyone had actually found this useful and if the hours that I spent throwing this together was worth it. Helping just one person makes it all worth it. :smile.gif:
You should add a subsection with tips about specific genres of maps.
My #1 complaint for the Survival (Surv) genre of maps, is map makers who make survival island-style maps, and don't make the ocean large enough.
You shouldn't see anything out on the horizon, but a lot of them only have water for maybe 40 or 50 blocks, and you can clearly see normal Minecraft terrain, which totally kills the experience.
You should add a subsection with tips about specific genres of maps.
My #1 complaint for the Survival (Surv) genre of maps, is map makers who make survival island-style maps, and don't make the ocean large enough.
You shouldn't see anything out on the horizon, but a lot of them only have water for maybe 40 or 50 blocks, and you can clearly see normal Minecraft terrain, which totally kills the experience.
I'll see what I can do about genre-specific tips-and-tricks. If you would like to help me with some of those, please do. It would be a lot faster to find a trend if other people let me know about it. :tongue.gif:
This man is a genious! And yes i am writing in big font because he helped me so much!
And I'm glad that I could help you. As you've noticed, I'm just a PM away with a plethora of knowledge and problem-solving skills. If I don't know the answer right away, I'll be sure to look it up too!
:smile.gif: Thanks so much! It will be much more useful for the new folk now that it's much easier to find!
Again, if anyone knows of something that would be helpful to someone new to the Map forum, please let me know about it so I can add it to the Tutorial. Thanks.
You should consider adding INVedit to the tools section. While it's very similar to TooManyItems, it does not have any complicated install directions, just a simple download and then it's ready to use. Also, not sure if you can do this with TMI, but INVedit allows for you to make weapons/armor/items with unlimited health, so you don't have to continuously give yourself new items.
Edit: Yes SP Commands can do all of this, but many people may have trouble with how to install mods or don't want to risk having something go wrong. INVedit requires no real installation and has no risk of doing anything to your minecraft as it never touches the .jar
Good it's sticked, it's really helpful. Also, do you have some tips to attract folks?
"You should consider adding INVedit to the tools section. While it's very similar to TooManyItems, it does not have any complicated install directions, just a simple download and then it's ready to use. Also, not sure if you can do this with TMI, but INVedit allows for you to make weapons/armor/items with unlimited health, so you don't have to continuously give yourself new items."
I had all tools he said, INVedit, SSC and TMI. I used INVedit for many time, but there's some tips for how can you use INVedit features:
With SSC, use '/instantmine'. It'll instantly mine. Now, you need fall from a hardcore place? '/fly' or '/health inf', which is obviously told how to do. And to beat INVedit, '/infiniteitems', '/drops', and get any block you want from Minecraft with the previously commands. Done, you have everything ready to build a nation
You should consider adding INVedit to the tools section. While it's very similar to TooManyItems, it does not have any complicated install directions, just a simple download and then it's ready to use. Also, not sure if you can do this with TMI, but INVedit allows for you to make weapons/armor/items with unlimited health, so you don't have to continuously give yourself new items.
Added a section for INVedit and made sure that highlight that it's pretty much Windows specific. Even the creator said that unless you know what you're doing in Linux/Mac to use something else. I also added a link to your post so you'll get props. :smile.gif:
Quote from Amesthi Claybeast »
Good it's sticked, it's really helpful. Also, do you have some tips to attract folks?
A lot of that varies on the type of map that you're creating. I can give general tips for helping to encourage downloads, but it won't be a fix-all.
Quote from Amesthi Claybeast »
I had all tools he said, INVedit, SSC and TMI. I used INVedit for many time, but there's some tips for how can you use INVedit features:
With SSC, use '/instantmine'. It'll instantly mine. Now, you need fall from a hardcore place? '/fly' or '/health inf', which is obviously told how to do. And to beat INVedit, '/infiniteitems', '/drops', and get any block you want from Minecraft with the previously commands. Done, you have everything ready to build a nation
I personally don't use (and have never used) INVedit because the plugins that I've listed can do what INVedit can and much, much more. Like you've stated, there are tons of commands in Singleplayer Commands that achieve the same effect that used to be INVedit exclusives. But for the sake of offering choices, I added it to the OP.
i have a request can u post something that will tell us how to post the same map over and over not just copy and paste because i dont really no how to use this forum thing?
i have a request can u post something that will tell us how to post the same map over and over not just copy and paste because i dont really no how to use this forum thing?
If you can elaborate on what you need me to explain, I would be more than willing to help out. :smile.gif:
The information that you have given me, this far, has confused me. :/
what i mean as in you no how maps have like 2000 views and like 20 posts and they can just keep posting that same thing like this this thing just stays here and the others move along and how do they bring it back here so they can keep the same forum post going instead of another one each time?
what i mean as in you no how maps have like 2000 views and like 20 posts and they can just keep posting that same thing like this this thing just stays here and the others move along and how do they bring it back here so they can keep the same forum post going instead of another one each time?
Alright. I think that I know what you mean:
When you create a thread by hitting the "New Thread" button, it creates your post, but because this is the map thread with tons of people bumping their thread (in order to get it on the first page) and new map submissions daily, it has undoubtedly moved off of the first page and becomes buried, per say, in the pages of the map forum. If you want to keep the same thread (which is what I recommend as duplicate threads are not necessary), then make sure that you bookmark the link to your new thread upon creation and visit it every now and again to post some new information that's relevant to your post.
There is an "Edit" button that allows you to make changes to your posts in order to correct mistakes, add ore remove information, or whatever. However, hitting the "Edit" button does not bring the thread to the top of page 1 on the forum because there is no new posts. A thread only goes to the top of page 1 on the forum when it is created or has new posts.
what i mean as in you no how maps have like 2000 views and like 20 posts and they can just keep posting that same thing like this this thing just stays here and the others move along and how do they bring it back here so they can keep the same forum post going instead of another one each time?
Alright. I think that I know what you mean:
When you create a thread by hitting the "New Thread" button, it creates your post, but because this is the map thread with tons of people bumping their thread (in order to get it on the first page) and new map submissions daily, it has undoubtedly moved off of the first page and becomes buried, per say, in the pages of the map forum. If you want to keep the same thread (which is what I recommend as duplicate threads are not necessary), then make sure that you bookmark the link to your new thread upon creation and visit it every now and again to post some new information that's relevant to your post.
There is an "Edit" button that allows you to make changes to your posts in order to correct mistakes, add ore remove information, or whatever. However, hitting the "Edit" button does not bring the thread to the top of page 1 on the forum because there is no new posts. A thread only goes to the top of page 1 on the forum when it is created or has new posts.
Is that the information that you were seeking?
thanks dude this really helped i just now uploaded my new map with your name in it so well =P thanks for the help dude and if u ever need anything just ask ....
thanks dude this really helped i just now uploaded my new map with your name in it so well =P thanks for the help dude and if u ever need anything just ask ....
:smile.gif: I'm just glad that I can be of assistance. I know my ins-and-outs of forums, so I'm more than happy to share what I know.
am sorry to say but lol the pic u used looks like one of those famous doctors looking at someone ready to do surgury on them and its like a never ending staring contest XD
Note: I can't be as active with Minecraft as I used to be because of work, so if you notice anything on this thread that's wrong, outdated, or see something that I should add, contact me via PM or on Skype (Delirious_Doc). I will give 100% credit where credit is due. Thanks.
I've been fairly active here on the Maps forum over the past couple of days and I've noticed a trend of new posters who either make the same mistakes or lack the same knowledge.
So, instead of either replying individually to each and every post or copy+pasting the information and inflating my post count, why not have one thread that will cover all of this? Makes it easier to access for the general public and when I'm not able to post, people can still read my advice!
Let's begin, shall we?
Mods. Why I encourage (most of) them and which I recommend.
Tools. Other programs that I find useful for map editing or showing off my work.
Sharing your map. How to let others download your map.
Installing a map. How to install a map that you've downloaded.
Get noticed.Quick tips to help your map get noticed.
Flat Maps.User-created maps that have been flattened out and how to request one.
How to upload pictures to the Internet
We have all heard the cliche' "A picture's worth a thousand words." This not only applies to photographs in real life, but also on the internet. Without pictures, most people simply will not download your map because they want a quick glimpse of something that sparks on interest of theirs before they dedicate the time/bandwidth/space to install and play your map.
Not only this, but a picture also lets the viewers and potential players have a good sense that you're not sharing malware, a virus, or whatever. If you're really amazing, though, you can head on over to VirusTotal and upload your map (more about this at sharing your map.) This website has a 20mb cap, but it scans a file across 41 different antivirus programs for free.
Sounds fair. But not everyone knows how to get a picture on the internet, let alone how to take one in Minecraft. I'm here to help. That's what this thread is for.
This is a very short, simple guide to let you take pictures in Minecraft.
1. Load up Minecraft and play on the map that you want to take pictures of.
2. Move to a location that you want to digitally capture.
3. Press F1 to hide the UI (Action bars, health, etc.)
4. Press F2 to take a picture.
5. If you want more than one picture, either press F1 to get your UI back and move or just move and press F2 again.
It really is that easy.
You will need an image hosting website. A friend (LunaticLawyer) has recently turned me to the image hosting site imgur. This site is simple, easy, and allows you to just drag-n-drop directly into your browser. If you don't like imgur, you can always turn to a Google Search.
Okay. So you're at an image hosting website. Now what? Hit the Upload button. Silly.
This should open up an explorer menu that allows you to search through your computer to find the screenshot(s) that you want to upload. But, I haven't told you where to find them... yet. So that's a problem. The location of your screenshots depends on what operating system that you're running.
If you're running Windows, your screenshots are located here:
Press the Windows Key and R at the same time. In this dialogue type (or copy and paste) the following
%appdata%\.minecraft\screenshots
If you're running on a Mac, your screenshots are located here:
/Users/*username*/Library/Application Support/minecraft/screenshots/
If you're running Linux, your screenshots are located here:
`/.minecraft/screenshots
After you've navigated to the folder and selected the screenshot(s), go ahead and hit "Open" on the explorer and it will start the upload. After the upload is complete, it should either ask you to add tags, a name, and description or re-direct you to the image that you've uploaded.
There should be a couple links that the image host provides. You will need either the "IMG code" (for basic pre-formatted link that you can just post on the forums) or the "Direct link" that requires you to add [.IMG] BBCode** around the image in order to have it embedded on the forums.
Just throw either one of these bad boys onto the forum and BAM! You have a screenshot that everyone can see online with little-to-no hassle on your behalf!
**There is a button to do this. When replying to a topic or creating a new thread, it is the "Img" button above the text box.
Mods that I would AVOID
There has been at least one thread, meaning there will be countless more, asking about using mods to create a map -- more specifically, using an inventory editor to get items handed to you.
My view on this is that I fully recommend and sometimes prefer that you use an inventory editor. It's like having an Easy button on Minecraft that allows you to worry less about gathering the materials to make your map and actually focus on the design of it.
Plus, if you're creating a map for other people to download to either play in single player or multiplayer, what happens if you've stripped all of the resources near the awesome castle that you've to build out of copious amounts of stone, iron, and diamond blocks? Less for the player(s) to get on their own, meaning a less enjoyable experience. The less that you impact the world around your structures, the better off your map will be for players.
Most of the community know this, so they either use mods themselves or don't mind if you use them. Meaning that you will not be flamed for using an inventory editor, fly mods, or whatever. It's almost expected.
For general purpose Map making, you might only need to use one or two of these; however, I feel like it's much easier to have all three going at the same time.
Note: These are only a mere suggestion. I'm not saying that you're a worthless map creator if you don't use these, they're just some of the more popular mods that I've used when creating a map.
NOTE:All of the installation instructions are on the mod threads themselves. I implore you to read these before trying to install by yourself as some have unique installations.
TooManyItems
This is an in-game Inventory Editor. What does that mean? Well, you open up you inventory (default is E post 1.4) then press "O". A huge list of items appears showing you most, if not all, items available to you in-game. Flick through the list and left-click for a stack to be added to your inventory or right-click for just one. There are more features to this, but this alone should convince you.
zombe's Mod pack
zombe's Modpack currently consists of 20 mods that all vary in purpose. It is mostly known for having a fly mod, though, which allows you to get places faster, build structures higher, and overall, get stuff done at a faster rate. It also comes with "Classic Build" mode. This Allows you to have infinite stacks of whatever you want, destroy blocks instantly, and other neat features.
SinglePlayer Commands This is for more advanced map makers as it really makes you get your feet wet with commands and other nonsense, but it is also the most powerful. This mod allows you to do, make, and edit nearly every aspect of the game. Want to make a sphere? Easy. One easy command will make it instantly!
MORECREATIVE
This mod gives you ready access to more blocks not normally available in creative mode including all potions and extra spawner eggs! You can create customs lists (for easy organization), search items, and create your own shortcuts to make item creation a cinch. It also lets you control all enchantments, instant mine on survival, toggle gamemode, toggle weather effects, change mob spawner types, change paintings, and so much more! (Thanks Sutoraika for the suggestion!)
I don't recommend any mods that force others to have the same mod in order to play your map. I understand that some things can't be done without some mods, but if you're releasing a map for general consumption you need to keep this in mind:
The easier something is to obtain, the more people will use it. People pay bigggg money for convenience.
If you simply cannot go without getting around this, fine. But I've warned you that generally people don't want to have to install a mod just to play on your map.
These are by no means essential, but I find them really helpful for different things.
The most popular question that I've been getting here recently has been asking how to change the map type from Creative to Survival. Luckily, thedarkfreak created (and xIGBClutchIx added some modifications to) The Minecraft Gametype Changer. This tool is able to be run on PC, Mac, and Linux and allows you to very, very easily change your maps from Creative mode to Survival mode. Enjoy.
Next up is the very popular MCEdit. The About section from the thread:
Next up is another popular Cartograh G. Basically what Cartograh G does is it gets a top-down view of your entire world. This is not only useful for seeing where a good mountaintop is, but when you're posting a map that is HUGE, it allows people to see how big it really is. Just check out some of the images that it has created and you'll understand what I mean.
As per request, INVedit is making an appearance. INVedit allows you to modify your inventory without having to modify anything in your Minecraft client. However, this tool is best used on a Windows computer, as it requires much more effort on behalf of Mac and Linux users because it is a .exe and requires .NET framework. If you got past all of that tech babble, this is what the author says that it can accomplish:
Finally, I bring you MinecraftStructurePlanner. Directly from their website:
So you have a map and you want people to download and play it, how do you do that? It's pretty easy. Just follow my directions and you'll be ready to share your latest creation in no time!
Just like hosting images online, you will need to find a website to host files for you. There are dozens of popular file hosting websites. I prefer to use MediaFire because it allows you to upload with or without an account. There are bonuses to get the free account, however, like a file manager that allows you to access all of the files you've uploaded to delete them or whatever. If you don't want to use MediaFire, you don't have to. It's just personal preference. Google comes up with great alternatives.
Alright, so now you have a file host, but that still doesn't solve everything. You need to navigate to your saves folder and compress your folder to upload.
If you're running Windows, your saves are located here:
Press the Windows Key and R at the same time. In this dialogue type (or copy and paste) the following
%appdata%\.minecraft\saves
If you're running on a Mac, your saves are located here:
/Users/*username*/Library/Application Support/minecraft/saves/
If you're running Linux, your saves are located here:
`/.minecraft/saves
To compress the folder (of the map, don't do the whole saves folder please) just right click -> Send to... -> Compressed (Zipped) Folder
This will create a .zip file that's ready to upload. Just head back over to the file hosting website, hit the "Upload" button, and using the explorer menu navigate to the .zip folder you created and hit "Open." Your file should start to upload now and you'll be armed with a link to post on the site soon!
This should be another quick tutorial to get a map from the internet onto your hard drive and then into your saves.
1. Find a map that you want to download. If they require you to get a mod, make sure that you install that first.
2. Download the map to a place that you will remember (Downloads folder, Dekstop, wherever)
3. Unzip or Unrar the file using your archiver of choice (WinRAR, 7Zip, etc).
4. Copy the folder that was unzipped, unrared, etc., and navigate to your Minecraft saves folder:
If you're running Windows, your saves are located here:
Press the Windows Key and R at the same time. In this dialogue type (or copy and paste) the following
%appdata%\.minecraft\saves
If you're running on a Mac, your saves are located here:
/Users/*username*/Library/Application Support/minecraft/saves/
If you're running Linux, your saves are located here:
`/.minecraft/saves
5. Paste the folder and re-name it if you desire.
6. Play Minecraft with the new map!
Here's a user video that explains this. His first technique that he uses to locate the .minecraft folder should be universal (across any operating system).
While there is no end-all solution to guarantee that you will get your map noticed, here's a couple tips:
Presentation
Know your audience
Submit to the Official Map List
The first place that I suggest that you look is the Minecraft Forums - “Tips and Tricks” thread. This thread goes over the basics of BBCode, advanced BBCode, shortcuts in the editor, and a ton of other forum goodness. However, just knowing the BBCode to do some of this cool stuff doesn't solve your problem. You need to take your time when posting your map and don't forget about the “Preview” button. This button allows you to see how your thread will be posted without actually posting it. I use this button frequently before I throw an update to this thread or else I have to slap the “Edit” button more times than I want.
Something that goes along with Presentation is what you name your map and thread. If you haven't read over the MUST READ: Title Formatting and an Important Message thread, you really should before you post your thread. This thread goes over adding subject prefixes to your map thread to make sure that everyone gets a general idea about what to expect before they open your thread. Likewise, if you name your map in relation to some video game, movie, or whatever, people will expect to see how that media influenced your map.
If you have a giant wall of text – meaning no paragraphs – you will undoubtedly be skipped over by most of the forumgoers. We don't want to have to read 20+ lines of text that are bunched together. It's pretty difficult to keep our attention. That being said, don't feel bad if you are taking up more of their screen space by hitting the “Return” key (but don't overdo it!). If you feel like there are definite sections, look into adding some anchor tags. I use them here to provide quick navigation between sections or get you back to where you were.
One last tip that I have for this Presentation section (at this time), is to look into getting a Texture Pack. Everyone likes some variety and it is an easy way to make your map pictures stand out. Plus, they make Minecraft look better. Just remember that if you use a texture pack, let everyone know in your first post what it is and where you got it. You will have people ask you and it will save you the hassle later on.
Something that you can do to get a good, quick view of your audience is to check out the “successful” map threads. Those few people who have over 5,000 downloads had to do something right, and you can learn from them.
NOTE: The OML is being re-organized right now, so if your map doesn't get on the list immediately, don't worry; Mzaq assure me that you can expect your map to be added in the next update.
Seeing that this is the most requested map type out there and a few collections already completed, this needed to be added sooner or later. If the links that I have provided don't have a flat map that you're looking for, check out the Requesting a Flatmap section.
First up we have the very popular [Collection] Draghi's Custom Flatmaps.
Finally we have [Creaton] Tyken's Test World.
I find that the more information that you give about a flat map, the easier it is to get it back to you fast. Just follow this template and you should have less problems getting it created for you:
Thanks.
Lol. I should make a "tl;dr Google it."
Thanks. :smile.gif:
YESSSSS! THANKS SO MUCH BROSKII!
I was starting to wonder if anyone had actually found this useful and if the hours that I spent throwing this together was worth it. Helping just one person makes it all worth it. :smile.gif:
So, thank you!
My #1 complaint for the Survival (Surv) genre of maps, is map makers who make survival island-style maps, and don't make the ocean large enough.
You shouldn't see anything out on the horizon, but a lot of them only have water for maybe 40 or 50 blocks, and you can clearly see normal Minecraft terrain, which totally kills the experience.
I'll see what I can do about genre-specific tips-and-tricks. If you would like to help me with some of those, please do. It would be a lot faster to find a trend if other people let me know about it. :tongue.gif:
And I'm glad that I could help you. As you've noticed, I'm just a PM away with a plethora of knowledge and problem-solving skills. If I don't know the answer right away, I'll be sure to look it up too!
:smile.gif: Thanks so much! It will be much more useful for the new folk now that it's much easier to find!
Again, if anyone knows of something that would be helpful to someone new to the Map forum, please let me know about it so I can add it to the Tutorial. Thanks.
Edit: Yes SP Commands can do all of this, but many people may have trouble with how to install mods or don't want to risk having something go wrong. INVedit requires no real installation and has no risk of doing anything to your minecraft as it never touches the .jar
"You should consider adding INVedit to the tools section. While it's very similar to TooManyItems, it does not have any complicated install directions, just a simple download and then it's ready to use. Also, not sure if you can do this with TMI, but INVedit allows for you to make weapons/armor/items with unlimited health, so you don't have to continuously give yourself new items."
I had all tools he said, INVedit, SSC and TMI. I used INVedit for many time, but there's some tips for how can you use INVedit features:
With SSC, use '/instantmine'. It'll instantly mine. Now, you need fall from a hardcore place? '/fly' or '/health inf', which is obviously told how to do. And to beat INVedit, '/infiniteitems', '/drops', and get any block you want from Minecraft with the previously commands. Done, you have everything ready to build a nation
Added a section for INVedit and made sure that highlight that it's pretty much Windows specific. Even the creator said that unless you know what you're doing in Linux/Mac to use something else. I also added a link to your post so you'll get props. :smile.gif:
A lot of that varies on the type of map that you're creating. I can give general tips for helping to encourage downloads, but it won't be a fix-all.
I personally don't use (and have never used) INVedit because the plugins that I've listed can do what INVedit can and much, much more. Like you've stated, there are tons of commands in Singleplayer Commands that achieve the same effect that used to be INVedit exclusives. But for the sake of offering choices, I added it to the OP.
If you can elaborate on what you need me to explain, I would be more than willing to help out. :smile.gif:
The information that you have given me, this far, has confused me. :/
Alright. I think that I know what you mean:
When you create a thread by hitting the "New Thread" button, it creates your post, but because this is the map thread with tons of people bumping their thread (in order to get it on the first page) and new map submissions daily, it has undoubtedly moved off of the first page and becomes buried, per say, in the pages of the map forum. If you want to keep the same thread (which is what I recommend as duplicate threads are not necessary), then make sure that you bookmark the link to your new thread upon creation and visit it every now and again to post some new information that's relevant to your post.
There is an "Edit" button that allows you to make changes to your posts in order to correct mistakes, add ore remove information, or whatever. However, hitting the "Edit" button does not bring the thread to the top of page 1 on the forum because there is no new posts. A thread only goes to the top of page 1 on the forum when it is created or has new posts.
Is that the information that you were seeking?
thanks dude this really helped i just now uploaded my new map with your name in it so well =P thanks for the help dude and if u ever need anything just ask ....
:smile.gif: I'm just glad that I can be of assistance. I know my ins-and-outs of forums, so I'm more than happy to share what I know.