How to Create a World Map in RPG Maker XP

Creating your own roleplaying video game has become infinitely more accessible since the release of Enterbrains' RPG Maker XP. The flexible utility allows the user to create a whole universe of characters, items, buildings, battles, quests and locations. For this type of old-school RPG, building a world map is the starting point to your creative adventures.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Create a new game by opening the application, clicking on the "File" menu and selecting "New Project."

2. Specify the program title, file name and save directory.

3. Determine your map's dimensions. Right click the map title from the map list menu in the lower left corner and choose "Map Properties." Specify tileset and map dimensions. Select appropriate background music and sound effects.

4. Click on the "Lower Layer" button located on the top menu to lanscape the world map. Place land effects, rivers and paths and other tiles that represent elements that are found on the ground.

5. Populate the world by clicking the "Middle Layer" button from the top menu. Select various icons located in the tileset menu to place plants, trees, buildings, bridges and other items that sit on top of the ground.

6. Save the world map. Click the "File" menu and select the "Save" option or click the "Save" button from the top menu.

Tips & Warnings

• Use correct layers to place items and events. Set ground related items in the lower layer, and plants and trees in the middle layer. Place items that appear overlapping on the map in higher layers.
• Program actions and events into the world map. Utilize the "Events" layer to create NPCs, doors, teleports and other elements that trigger an in-game event.