Map Help

This page provides instructions on how to create your own Grand Strategy map. There are three basic components to a Grand Strategy map: the image, xml and database.

Image

You need to to have basic image manipulation skills. I suggest using either the Gimp or Photoshop to create your image. I prefer the Gimp.

Check out this URL: http://www.pslover.com/click/7666

The article found there describes the mechanics of creating a simple map. They can be applied to both Photoshop or the Gimp.

I recommend using images from google maps as the basis for your maps.

Download the the GIMP file found here and review it to see how a map image is composed.

XML

You need to be familiar with XML. Download the example file (map.xml) found here. The map.xml file demonstrates the basic format of a Grand Strategy map. To create your own XML file you should update the map.xml example.

If you are not familiar with XML or do not have time to become familiar but you do have the artistic and design talents necessary to only create the image for your map, contact bryanbrun@yahoo.com about assisting with your XML.

Down the java program found here. This program assists in the creation of the territory coordinates for the map XML.

Database

Once your map has been created and validated, it may be imported into the Grand Strategy database.