what's the best way to become a Modder?

[Nagel]

I just glanced at my download/upload ratio and as of now it stands at 30/0. now I realize that the last thing anyone wants is for some novice to start flooding the site with shoddy, bug-filled mods, but I sure would like to become a bit more self sufficient here. (and maybe, in time, start contributing a bit)
I figure this is light years beyond the old hex editor stuff I used to do with Aces, but I sure would like to give it a try.
any advice or input would be most appreciated

[Hans Witteman]

I just glanced at my download/upload ratio and as of now it stands at 30/0. now I realize that the last thing anyone wants is for some novice to start flooding the site with shoddy, bug-filled mods, but I sure would like to become a bit more self sufficient here. (and maybe, in time, start contributing a bit)
I figure this is light years beyond the old hex editor stuff I used to do with Aces, but I sure would like to give it a try.
any advice or input would be most appreciated

Hi mate,

First prepare to stop playing for awhile because modding required lot's of hours into it.

Next read everything you see here and specially the archives for early modding tips that will be greatly simplify by S3D editor.

Don't believe the hype that you need a hex editor for complex stuff that was true in 2007 not anymore because of s3d editor.

Still for hacking the code you will need a hex editor but this is call reverse engineering in a word illegal Ubi will surely contact you if you go this way.

Next learn everything you can from any 3d package you like anyone will do ex; Blender(free), milkshape(free i think), 3ds max,(Gmax free version) maya(free for non commercial work), xsi etc.

This step is the hardest one many will just drop the ball when they see the amount of knowledge required to master such a software, some will persevered but most of the time they will have multiple errors in their mesh and game engine are sometime pretty naughty regarding bad mesh.

Next learn a painting program anyone will do like : Gimp(free) can do the same work as photoshop and cost nothing.

Photoshop most use program in the industry(Prohibitive pricing)

Most important thing forget about social life or your work will be ready in 2035 and probably release in a post apocalyptic world!

The perfect profile is a loner type guy who already have some knowledge of game design and game engine who devoted all is spare time to modding.

This not apply to the casual modder who release the classic dirty shirt for crew or green Atlantic mod or happy meal for crew 1.0!

So in a word it depend on the complexity of the mod you want to achieve and if you ever consider to go the supermod way prepare to suffer!

Best regards Hans

[Nagel]

thanks again!
you've pointed me in the right direction. that's just what I was hoping for.
Cheers!:salute:

[postalbyke]

Hans has it about right!

Download S3Ditor, Gimp, and I prefer mixing and matching 3DS and Sketchup (for hack n slashing those hard-to-make objects), ummm Lithunwrap for UV's...

And yeah, you will have to figure out how much of your day you want to play SH, how much you want to go out with your girl/fam/whatever, and how much you want that sweet new space or function in SH!
Also, the forums here are a great place to get constructive (and not-so-constructive) criticism, great support, and good ideas!
Also, digging through Maik's everything ever site has always helped me!