Hello everybody,
I implemented a version of a Dual-Grid Tile System based on what is shown in jess::codes video on the topic:
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEWFSv3ivTg&t=0s)
The project linked below features the basic outline that Jess shows in her video. The concept is to draw your levels on a base TileMap while your visuals are drawn on a different TileMap which has been shifted. This allows for TileSets to be drawn using fewer tiles than a traditional 8-neighbored TileSet.
In Jess’s video she only shows drawing grass and dirt tiles, this implementation uses four “Display TileMaps” allowing for any number of TileSets to be used. Another feature is the ability to define alternate patterns which allows you to extend what tiles are available to draw with. For instance, this allows you to have square cornered tiles and round cornered tiles which work together without redrawing an entire new TileSet. The last feature is TileMaps can trim their edges which permits making chunks with smooth transitions.
The project has a simple camera which you can move with ‘WASD’ and zoom with the mouse wheel.
Check it out and if you have suggestions for improvements I’d be glad to hear them.
Note: Determining what tiles to draw on large TileMaps is quite expensive and is the main limitation of the system in this form.
I have not used GitHub before so please advise if you experience any issues