If I wanted to make a mod

[Disrupted_Hunter]

Would would I essentially need; besides a programmer, mapper, ect. Basically, what programs would I need to use including Source SDK?

 

[Pesmerga]

Steam generates C++ source files and also creates a folder for your mod with all appropriate subfolders.

MSVC++ is a C++ compiler that is required to use to compile the C++ source files into structured data. It is a free download from Microsoft.

Hammer Editor makes maps (found on Steam).

Photoshop 7 or greater is the most accepted image editing program for skinning and textures.

3dsmax, Blender, Maya, and any other 3d modeling program makes models.

Ta-da.

 

[Ennui]

take what Pes said and add knowledge, experience, and a shitload of free time.

 

[Disrupted_Hunter]

If I have DEV C++, would that work? And I know Photoshop costs money, and I'm guessing the rest of the programs cost money?

 

[Pesmerga]

As far as I know, MSVC++ is the only compatible software that will correctly compile Source.

Photoshop costs $$$ to purchase legally, as does 3DSmax. You can probably find a "lite" free version of Maya on their website, and Blender is free. Hammer Editor is free.

 

[Disrupted_Hunter]

Ah okay. Hammer Editor, I know my way around a bit, and I was trying to make a mod, but it says I need Microsoft Visual Studio, I tried searching for it and I found MSVC++ and I thought that wasn't the right one. But now I do know. Thanks alot for the help. Hopefullt oen day I can make a mod and find a good team

 

[Ennui]

A few healthy tips if you want to get into mod development:

1) Pick a discipline to focus on (like mapping, modeling, or coding) and focus on learning that first. You can pick up other skills along the way (a modeler may pick up texturing, or a level designer may want to make a few small prop models for his map) but you should have one area you're good at.

2) Learn that area. Start small, work your way up. If you picked mapping, for instance, learn the basics of Hammer and level design theory, and start making little maps.

3) When you feel you're ready and able to contribute to a team, join a pre-existing mod team and help make that mod. This will not only give you something to show for your time (a mod!) but also teach you a ton about modding in general and a lot of valuable experience in working in a team environment.

 

[Pesmerga]

Or just abandon all hope and pursue a more lucrative career like foreign business.

 

[kupocake]

Don't forget the GIMP as a free alternative to Photoshop. Can be a pain in the bum though.

 

[tschumann]

I think there are efforts to compile the source with MinGW. Have a look on the Developer Community.

 

[Crispy]

Also GMax is I think a free modeling program based on 3DSMax but it is no longer being developed for, so I don't know if it's got everything you need for making models for Source. Might be worth checking out to get a feel for it, though.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gmax

 

[Disrupted_Hunter]

I'm sorry to bring this back, but I want to download MSVS. And the only ones I can find are Visual C++ 2008 Express Edition and Visual Studio Express Edition. I'm guessing I should go for the 2008 Express Edition? I just want to double check before I download

 

[Hells Angel]

The only difference if i'm remebering right is Visual Studio Express is the suite of tools for all coding formats such as C# and C++ not just specifically C++ like 2008

 

[Disrupted_Hunter]

Well I installed 2008, and It was the right one. I tried following the mod on here: http://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/My_First_Mod. I got so confused lol. But I made my own mini map with Hammer. So I made some progress atleast