SLT_Assistant Help

Index
Overview
Utility Buttons and Controls
Adding A Second Level Of Detail To An Object
Sample LOD Models
Credits

Download v2.0 here!


Overview

The SLT_Assistant utility is designed to aid in the editing tasks necessary when fine tuning custom objects for Motocross Madness 2 (MCM2). It also gives the ability to build a second level of detail (LOD) into MCM2 objects that was previously only available to the game designers: Rainbow Studios. Since this utility is based off of undocumented information, and no further assistance can be acquired through Rainbow Studios, this help file will not try to explain every aspect multiple LOD objects and will only act as a guide for using the utility. This utility and help file assumes previous knowledge of how to use and design custom objects for MCM2.

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Utility Buttons and Controls

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Adding A Second Level Of Detail To An Object

I will not attempt to explain the process of designing and exporting a custom object using 3D Studios MAX, but basically what you need to do is export two versions of your object: A high detail SLT file and a low detail SLT file.

The high detail SLT file is referred to as LOD 0 by MCM2 and is the one displayed when you are very close to the object and/or you have the graphics quality turned way up. This version of the object typically has a high poly count since you're looking for good detail.

The low detail SLT file is referred to as LOD 1 by MCM2 and is the one displayed when you are further away on the track and/or you have the graphics quality turned down. This version of the object will typically have a lower poly count since you aren't really concerned about the detail when further away. The following two pictures demonstrate this concept with a stock MCM2 object:

High resolution Dump Truck (left) and low resolution Dump Truck (right)

The beauty of the two LOD design is that you get the best of both worlds: high detail up close and better frame rates when further away (typically when racing the track). For complex objects, this method could certainly make the difference between an unrideable and rideable track!! Although it does require extra time and planning during the object design stage, the benefits to all are well worth the effort!

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Sample LOD Models

Located in the folder where you installed this utility you will find the following sample files:

These samples are provided for learning how to use this utility as well as for use on MCM2 tracks. As with all custom objects, rename and reskin them as you wish but please acknowledge who provided them to you. Enjoy!! :-)

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Credits

This utility was designed by Twisted DIRT member Jeff Hamblin (VRT_MCMnut) with the guidance of Bruce Atkinson (AMA_DirtTwister). We hope that you find this utility helpful and use it to its fullest potential on custom objects for MCM2.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our Twisted DIRT 3D Studio MAX guru, Fraser, for his help with building the two LOD models for this utility.

Your feedback is important! Please send all comments, questions, and suggestions to:

Jeff Hamblin
jhamblin0@aol.com

You can also visit the message boards at Twisted DIRT and let us know what you what you think. Thanks!

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SLT_Assistant Help File - Last updated 2/17/02