[REQ] Depth charts

[tomoose]

This would seem to be a simple mod considering the amazing work that the mod gurus have done but I haven't seen anything referring to depth charts.

What I'm requesting is a map with depths labelled. Not necessarily for the entire pacific as that would be a lot of work but perhaps for key enemy locations/harbours. The game map indicates, by colour, the depth changes particularly near shorelines/harbours etc but the skipper has no idea what that actual depth is unless you do an active ping which can be dangerous in enemy waters and is IMHO not realistic. Is it not possible to label those areas with depth figures. It would be very handy when trying to sneak into an enemy harbour knowing ahead of time that, for example, the lighter blue area on my map indicates a depth of 160ft.

I think the real skippers had access to maps/charts with known 'surveyed' depths indicated. I think having the same in the game adds yet another small layer of realism so to speak. I know if my charts told me an enemy harbour had a max depth of 100ft, I'd think twice about venturing in there (especially for one of those suicidal photo missions, LOL!!!). Conversely I'm sure charts had certain areas which had not been 'surveyed' and for which there would be no data, this in itself would normally be indicated on your chart would it not? Currently that applies to the entire map, LOL.

Perhaps someone's already done this and I'm just too dopey to have found it.

Comments/advice is appreciated, thanks.
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[dmlavan]

I'm not sure how to "pull" that info from the game engine. One option is to build a mission using the mission editor (so there are no enemy units to worry about) and sail your sub to various spots in the harbor, use the depth finder for depth under the keel, and add to your sub's depth. This would obviously take a considerable time commitment, although if you could get a group of volunteers to each take some harbors it might be reasonable.

The other question is how to add the data to the map. I know there are modders out there who have added labels to various straits and islands - I'm sure it's the same process.

If you decide to "take the lead" on volunteers to take soundings, you can count me in.

[tomoose]

I was afraid the Editor method was the only way to go. I was hoping that perhaps the depth info was 'hidden' somewhere in the game files and it would just be a matter of 'labelling' the map.

I haven't touched the Editor as I found the SHIII one very convoluted and intimidating. But I'll have a go as you suggest and post my findings. It's the least I can contribute given the amount of work the real modders do!!
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