No Creek Map Progress Update: Bringing it to Life

Greetings, FS fans. It is time for another update on the progress that has been made with the map. If you have been a part of this process with me before, you know that one of the things I focus on most is bringing substantial updates to each beta version that is released. This takes time, but I think most would agree that it is worth it when they see the additions that have been made. I've still got some small things and a few major things to implement before beta 2.0 is available, but rest assured, it is getting closer.

Testing of the early beta has gone well. Through information gathered with the polls, it is apparent that the map loads in the timely fashion and that FPS is good for nearly every player. This should be the case when the map doesn't have many of the assets that it will when finished, but I wanted to have it for a baseline to see how things change as the project moves forward. I'm being more cognizant of view distances and a few other factors on objects in an effort to keep framerates as high as possible. From what many have said and experienced, 4x maps work FS25 more so than maps this size have in other renditions of the game.

Each addition seems to breathe a little more life into the map; it has been fun seeing it start to have more of a polished feel. Here's an update on the latest progress:

-You can now safely traverse all the creeks and ditches on the map with the addition of several bridges. Most of which are custom created and resemble what was in the area when I was a kid. Several have been updated since then, but I like these better. You may have to plan your route when moving equipment as some bridges won't accommodate the largest in your fleet.

-In addition to using some of the base game decals for tractor tracks, I took the time to make a set of vehicle tire tracks in various lengths and curves to mimic gravel road tracks. These were placed in areas to smooth the transition between the gravel road decal that is used as well as to add some character in other areas.

-Custom signs were modeled, scaled, textured, and placed in real life locations. Even though this map is very rural, there are over 50 signs on it! This feature really helps to increase immersion if you ask me.

-Over 150 field entrance paths have been created. This included adding road tubes, shaping the terrain, adding track decals, repainting ground textures, and adjusting foliage. So many maps have paths that are unrealistic as far as their widths and/or looks go; I try to make mine as realistic as the game will allow with its limitations.

-Lots of time has been spent adding details to the creeks that run through the map. As you are working a field and you get near a creek, you might spot some old logs, sand bars, or a tree that has sloughed off the bank due to erosion. Again, in an effort to create realism, attention was paid to how water flows around bends and its effect on the creek bed.

-This will be the first map that I've made with a train that has railcars that vary. I'm really excited about this detail as you almost never see a train have the same railcar brand for its entire length. Its just a little detail that didn't take too long, but continues to push for the map toward a more authentic feel.

Everything you see in these images will be a part of the beta 2.0. Like I mentioned earlier, there is still work to be done before its release, but major progress has been made! Thank you for your support and patience as No Creek comes to life!

Back to work,

No Creek Farms