Designing a standalone module

[JMarso]

Okay, I've started playing around with the toolset, looking at some tutorials, and so on. I'm just about ready to dive in and start working on my first custom module, which I plan to be a standalone. I also know from past experience that getting started is going to be a frustrating trial and error sort of thing. Scripting in particular will be a problem for me as I have no modern programming knowledge, but that's a bridge I'll cross when I come to it. Looks like there is plenty of scripting 'help' in the tutorials.

 

So here's my basic question, in an effort not to totally screw myself out of the gate: which is the proper order to do everything? My guess (and it's just that) is that I ought to go something like this:

 

1. Plan what I want to do on paper. (Basically a checklist with some story and plot points, etc)

 

2. Create a new module.

 

3. Create the levels

 

4. Create the areas and do the placeables.

 

5. Populate the areas with people and creatures.

 

6. Do the various conversations / plotting

 

7. Do the scripts.

 

I'm going to need a world map for travel between locations as well, but currently have NO IDEA how to make that work in game. Read a tutorial on it but it hasn't gelled int he slightest yet.

 

Does that sound right, or should the order of things be different? Some folks have probably forgotten more about modding this game than I may ever figure out, so hints and help would be much appreciated.

 

Here's my general outline for my first try:

 

When the module starts, generate a LVL 1 character. Player's choice as to race, class, etc, although the storyline will favor either a human or dwarf. They'll start in a wilderness area on the way to the village that will sort of be their central base for most of the module. This will be sort of a viking/nordic setting, something along the lines of the Icelandic Sagas set in a harsh, cold climate rife with dangers, but set in THEDAS and mostly true to DragonAge lore. Dwarves will be major players alongside the humans, with the Dalish having a small showing as well. From the village, the player will pick up their first quests, form their first associations, recruit allies, and sally forth on their upcoming adventures. Most of it will be as straightforward as I can make it, given it's my first attempt at this.

 

If I can make this one work, my next project will be the 'Teryn of Gwaren' mod that I outlined in the mod request thread, but that's way too complex a deal for me to cut my teeth on.

 

Anyway, anyone who can sort of help me 'flowchart' the best order to tackle the various tasks involved, please chime in. Thanks!

Edited March 14, 2011 by JMarso

[JMarso]

Another question (maybe a dumb one):

 

Do 'Areas' happen inside 'Levels', or is it the other way around? I'm having trouble figuring out what the basic difference between an 'area' and a 'level' is.