Where to start making total conversion?

[forestgxd]

I have spent a fair amount of time recently using Ultimate Doom Builder and a little bit of slade to make custom maps and get the hang of using sectors/nodes and just basic map making tools. This is essentially only to familiarize myself with how Doom Builder works as I really don't have that much interest in just making doom maps. I've had ideas for a couple games throughout the last decade or so but am just now getting the motivation and inspiration to follow through on something. Have played a few Horror doom wads recently that have really inspired me (Soundless mound and divine frequency in particular. Also the games Cultic and Blood have set my mind in motion as of late.)

 

I want to work towards making a total conversion mod. I have experience making simple textures and sprites, as well as simple animations but need to learn to code (had some java experience in the past but not much). Am also pretty experienced with making music/sound effects, etc.

 

Just not sure how to go from making maps to making a TC. Am really not sure what I need other than Slade/Doom Builder (can you make TC with doombuilder?) and GZDoom. I've heard mention of Decorate but am not really sure what that is. 

I'm also looking for any resources/tutorials beyond just basic map-making and this seems like the ideal place to ask

[Kappes Buur]

To make a TC usually is a two part undertaking,

1. to realize the  artistic vision
2. the execution of that vision

There are several tutorials on how to accomplish the artistry of a TC, refer to Amuscaria here on Doomworld and on the ZDoom forum for his spriting tutorials, in context to Hell Forge. I do believe that he is using ZBrush.

 

Maybe you can have a look at what Nash has done with his TC named DISDAIN, which is available on Steam. Or, in the same vein, have a look at Bridgeburner's TC named The Age of Hell, also available on Steam.

 

On the execution side you need a map editor, for example Ultimate Doom Builder, and a lump editor, for example Slade3. It is absolutely imperitive to learm the ins and outs of both, in order to exploid their full potential.

 

Obviuosly your TC is not a project done in a few weeks, more like months or even years. However, if you need help there are some excellent mappers here and on ZDoom forum to give assistance.

Edited May 23, 2023 by Kappes Buur