Installing Maps

I'm new to all this. How do I install a map?
Installing a map is very easy, and these instructions should always be included with maps in a 'readme' file. Remember to note the requirements of each map you download. For example, some maps may require official patches or bonus packs. These files are always recommended anyway! You can find these from all major sites, or the official Unreal site. Once you have downloaded a map, find the location you downloaded the map to and open the .zip file. You now need to put each file in its relevant folder.

For example, for UT2004;
.ut2 files should be placed in your maps folder.
.utx files should be placed in your textures folder.
.ogg files should be placed in your music folder.
.u files should be placed in your system folder.

If you have other types of files, it shouldn't be too difficult to work out where they belong by exploring your installation folder. Once you have placed all the files in their relevant folders, you can then open the game. The map should be listed in your map list for that specific game type. You will also be able to join online games on servers which include that map.

I downloaded a map from a server whilst playing online, but I can't find the map to play?
Maps that you download from a server are stored in a 'cache' and are not added to the map lists. You can download a program that will extract the map from this 'cache' and enable to play them offline. (See our tools & resources page to find one)

It's worth noting that maps you download from servers may not be complete. This is because you will only download what you need to play. So for example, if a map has a new music track, this will not have been downloaded from the server.

Where can I find some excellent resources to download maps?
There are several massively popular places where you can expand your game with player-made maps, game types, and even weapons and vehicles. Custom add-ons always vary in quality. A good indicator on weather a map is worth downloading is a screenshot, detailed description, and reviews and user comments. Here are some great links:

• Unreal Playground
• Map Raider
• Nali City

Level Creation

How do I start making my own levels? What do I need?
Depending on your game, you are probably all ready to begin making levels right away. In the Unreal series, you will find the level creator, UnrealED, in your start menu group or your system folder (e.g. C:\UT2004\System). You may want to create a shortcut on your desktop for future access. This program is all you need. Some Unreal Engine based games require you to download a seperate kit (called an SDK - Software Developers Kit) to enable you to make levels; the game's official site is a good place to start looking.

A good amount of free time is essential, especially at first! Your next task is to find a good beginners tutorial that will get you started with UnrealED right away. Depending on how quickly you pick it up, note that it could take several days before you are able to start on your own project; and many months to master.

I just hit a problem/How do I.. Where can I get UnrealED help?

• Unreal Playground (Forum)
• Unreal Developers Network (Tutorials)
• Atari Community (Forum)
• Unreal Wiki (UnrealED Documentation)

This site also has a small selection of tutorials and resources which may be useful. The linked page also features external tutorial links.

UnrealED gives me a white screen when I open it...?
This is common issue. Basically, all the editing windows are closed, leaving a white background. It's easy to fix; to open them again, click on 'View' at the top of the editor and go down to the bottom of the drop down list to 'View ports', and from the side menu that pops up, click 'Configure'. Then choose your view port style and hit OK.

I can't select anything in UnrealED...?
This is another common issue. Ensure your graphic cards Anti Aliasing settings are set to 'off' or 'application preference'. This can be done through your display properties.

Why do people spend hours creating levels, and release them for free?
Check out our Mappers Questionnaire for an interesting insite by some of the communities currently upcoming and most innovative mappers.

Miscellaneous / Site Related

What is Outpt.co.uk?
Basically a collection of all my game-related projects and writings. Outpt (a dodgy spelling of Output? an abbreviation of Outpatient, perhaps?) is just a label I attach to my work. I wanted something unique as opposed to a real name or nickname, and I also wanted a label with a sense of mystery - something that intrigues other fans of unique work to explore. Just think of it being something like a music label.

Are you looking for any articles or tutorials?
I'm always on the lookout for useful additions to the site - therefore I can host any tutorials or articles you create with full credit and links. Your work must be of decent standard, be thourough, clear, and easy to follow. Your work must not already be hosted on other mapping sites (Forums are fine). Anything submitted will be made to fit into our template (See current tutorials as an example). You will reserve the right to edit, remove, or change your work as you see fit. Please contact me using the address at the bottom of each page if you are interested. We can also link to good articles tutorials.

What did you get your fonts?
All fonts can be found at DaFont.
Current Outpt Logo: 'Beyond Wonderland' by Chris Hansen.
Page Titles: Blutter by (Unknown).
Project Titles: Various.

Who are all these scary people? Where am I?
Welcome to the internet.