I have almost finished a utility that works inside the Map editor. It is a more advanced copy/paste program that surfs on top of SOM_MAP.exe. It allows you to copy regions of your maps and save them as "Brushes" which then can used to create maps faster and better. You can save up to 100.
The strong points of the utility are, you can now rotate parts of your map, paste them on top or below existing drawn map areas or "tiled" areas. Also you are no longer limited to a rectangular region, you now can copy/paste any shape region because the program allows you to ignore UNUSED tiles. So you can paste in either Solid or Clear mode. The interface is "live" so you see what you are copying/pasting/rotating at all times. You can slide your copied region around the map with ease, instantly see it rotate, and slide it over or under other map sections. You can use arrow-keys for fine movement or the mouse-pointer for instant movements.
One of the strongest features of this utility is the ability to copy/paste and delete Objects, Items, NPC's and Enemys. They too can also be rotated with the copied tile region. These 'things' are saved with your Brush and will not cause Event errors (since they don't copy events with them) You can quickly duplicate and perfectly align those tediously designed rooms, halls, cathedrals, castles, hovels, lakes etc !! With all the items, objects and NPC's included both inside and out. Once you save the map (through pumkinPaster's interface) it makes sure that all events are protected, and conflicts will not occur. The map is saved as work.map with matching work.evt and work.mpx files (simply rename them to use them in your game)
The interface is a little rough right now, but I think it's very powerful. Took about 4 days to write. :) Also this utility relies HEAVILY on map slot #63 so if you have a 63.map you have to rename it before running or you will lose it.
I need a few people to Beta-Test it, I am completely open to revisions....and changes to make it more friendly and useful. You need to play with it for at least 30 minutes and dont use it on a project that is not BACKED UP.
P.S. Enemy Entry Data is also recorded and stored in the "Brush" in case you were wondering.
