Livingston's Guide to becoming a Grandmaster Elonian Cartographer! (No Map checks!)
Tobias Funke
Quote:
Originally Posted by SilentVex
I've been stuck at 99.9 all frickin day, but I thought I'd post a mini-guide on exploring the only non-straightforward zone, that being Tihark Orchard mission. You have to do it in the actual mission, since there is no explorable zone.
1. Set up with a build to solo a lvl 20 blood necro and a couple running skills, enter mission.
2. Dance with the little girl, re-enact the fight, and kill the lady with the rare artifact (do the other 2 mini-games if you're going for bonus), and go talk to the princes.
3. After the cutscene, all the guards blocking the stairs will have left their posts to attack the skree. Now's your chance to simply run outside and explore the whole zone.
It turned out to be about 1.5% I believe.
Edit: I got it.
Assembling the map now.
You can most deffinently explore the orchard without doing the mission. You have to bring Talkora because she's royalty.
1. Set up with a build to solo a lvl 20 blood necro and a couple running skills, enter mission.
2. Dance with the little girl, re-enact the fight, and kill the lady with the rare artifact (do the other 2 mini-games if you're going for bonus), and go talk to the princes.
3. After the cutscene, all the guards blocking the stairs will have left their posts to attack the skree. Now's your chance to simply run outside and explore the whole zone.
It turned out to be about 1.5% I believe.
Edit: I got it.
Assembling the map now.
You can most deffinently explore the orchard without doing the mission. You have to bring Talkora because she's royalty.
SilentVex
That's funny, because the gate is open for me, and it leads into the nightfallen garden which isn't a part of the main map.
Hengis
Is it my imagination, or is GMC going to be a lot easier to get in Nightfall than it was in the previous two games.
I decided that I would make sure that I have 100% of each area before moving to the next, so I have been wall hugging each area before moving on.
Here is what I noticed yesterday. I was farming sunspear points in Yohlon yesterday and did a basic scout round to find the edges of the map. When I got enough points I decided to wall hug the zone properly, so I opened my title tracks to see how much I gained by wall hugging. After doing the entire edge I gained ZERO%. I am really suprised by this as you never clear an area, especially a big area first time withour wall hugging it.
My theory is that you dont need to get right up to the walls in this game to un-fog the edge of the map.
I have GMC in Tyria and Cantha, so I am pretty experienced at exploring and mapping and was really surprised to gain nothing by wall hugging an area that I had only made a rather basic exploration of previously.
Anyone else seen this happen or have any comments?
I decided that I would make sure that I have 100% of each area before moving to the next, so I have been wall hugging each area before moving on.
Here is what I noticed yesterday. I was farming sunspear points in Yohlon yesterday and did a basic scout round to find the edges of the map. When I got enough points I decided to wall hug the zone properly, so I opened my title tracks to see how much I gained by wall hugging. After doing the entire edge I gained ZERO%. I am really suprised by this as you never clear an area, especially a big area first time withour wall hugging it.
My theory is that you dont need to get right up to the walls in this game to un-fog the edge of the map.
I have GMC in Tyria and Cantha, so I am pretty experienced at exploring and mapping and was really surprised to gain nothing by wall hugging an area that I had only made a rather basic exploration of previously.
Anyone else seen this happen or have any comments?
Cyclades of Knossos
Hey Congrats!!!
I'm at about 80% but I've only done 10 missions.
I'm at about 80% but I've only done 10 missions.
gabrial heart
I've gotten quite a bit by wall hugging in many areas, but yes, overall i think you don't have to as much for most of the map.
BloodyHeap
All the wall hugging adds up in the end it might not be .1% but it sure will add those last few points added together to give it to ya.
Juhgis
Hey everyone, I was about to make my own thread, but I'll say it here. Got 100,0% explored of elona on monday and made a map today, I'll give you the link as soon as the host person "wakes up". Stay tuned.
Vesital
Congrats guys, and any info you have posted and will post will prove a great aid while I slowly wall hug my way through Elona
Juhgis
There's the map:
http://gw-qnet.basiq.org/img/maps/GW...Fall_Final.jpg
http://gw-qnet.basiq.org/img/maps/GW...Fall_Final.jpg
AvroeArrow
Would someone please post a zoomed out 100% map at 1280x1024. I actually prefer the old map flipping trick for doing my mapping. Oh, and congrats to all the Elonian GMCs! Man you guys are fast, the game has only been out for 5 whole days. 
Zegorzalek
Quote:
Originally Posted by Hengis Stone
Is it my imagination, or is GMC going to be a lot easier to get in Nightfall than it was in the previous two games.
I decided that I would make sure that I have 100% of each area before moving to the next, so I have been wall hugging each area before moving on.
Here is what I noticed yesterday. I was farming sunspear points in Yohlon yesterday and did a basic scout round to find the edges of the map. When I got enough points I decided to wall hug the zone properly, so I opened my title tracks to see how much I gained by wall hugging. After doing the entire edge I gained ZERO%. I am really suprised by this as you never clear an area, especially a big area first time withour wall hugging it.
My theory is that you dont need to get right up to the walls in this game to un-fog the edge of the map.
I have GMC in Tyria and Cantha, so I am pretty experienced at exploring and mapping and was really surprised to gain nothing by wall hugging an area that I had only made a rather basic exploration of previously.
Anyone else seen this happen or have any comments?
I noticed this also when clearing Marga coast yesterday...had cleared mobs, then went back to "hug" the southern edge by the sea...expecting to get at LEAST .1-.2...and like you, got nothing. Made me think a bit...however, experience in tyria, then cantha has taught me that wall hugging is the easiest way to NOT need to come back.... ;] I shall make the most of this moment, because I may not pass this way again....
I decided that I would make sure that I have 100% of each area before moving to the next, so I have been wall hugging each area before moving on.
Here is what I noticed yesterday. I was farming sunspear points in Yohlon yesterday and did a basic scout round to find the edges of the map. When I got enough points I decided to wall hug the zone properly, so I opened my title tracks to see how much I gained by wall hugging. After doing the entire edge I gained ZERO%. I am really suprised by this as you never clear an area, especially a big area first time withour wall hugging it.
My theory is that you dont need to get right up to the walls in this game to un-fog the edge of the map.
I have GMC in Tyria and Cantha, so I am pretty experienced at exploring and mapping and was really surprised to gain nothing by wall hugging an area that I had only made a rather basic exploration of previously.
Anyone else seen this happen or have any comments?
I noticed this also when clearing Marga coast yesterday...had cleared mobs, then went back to "hug" the southern edge by the sea...expecting to get at LEAST .1-.2...and like you, got nothing. Made me think a bit...however, experience in tyria, then cantha has taught me that wall hugging is the easiest way to NOT need to come back.... ;] I shall make the most of this moment, because I may not pass this way again....
SilentVex
All the mapping skills that applied to the previous 2 campaigns apply to NF. Having to wait a couple seconds in corners like you did in Factions is not necessary, as it never got me anything. One feature you might take advantage of (I think it helps even more than comparing maps) is the zoom feature on the U map. When you zoom in on some of the closer levels, you can totally tell that the shaded areas have smooth color, while the explored areas are all grainy (like old film grain). Use this to your advantage, look for smooth areas near or overlapping walls, and you know you missed a spot. Also, be sure to get the center of the zones thoroughly. My last .1% was in the middle of Barbarous Shore and couldn't see any shading from it.
Lothiron
I have 1.9% of Elona left to map, and the only area I do not have access to is the Dynastic Tombs.
How the hell do I get there?
How the hell do I get there?
SilentVex
The Remains of Sahlahja is a challenge mission. It's basically like pac man with a wurm, and you have to score 60 points to unlock 4 areas. It took me about an hour to get 60 points and explore it, but maybe I just suck. When you play, I'd recommend exploring the areas as you unlock them, because exploring is a lot less safe than scoring points in the middle area. If you die while exploring, you don't want to have spent the time for the 60.
squirrelfang
I'm currently at 56% and counting....scraping everything that I see...
SnipiousMax
Quote:
Originally Posted by Hengis Stone
Anyone else seen this happen or have any comments? There are still those snag points you'll never clear if you don't hug the walls. No specific examples with nothing to compare to... but there have been a few .005 pieces I would have missed without hugging the walls.
That said, it doesn't seem quite so touchy as Cantha was (and to a lesser extent Tyria).
=HT=Ingram
there is a ton of forgiveness on map exposure. Cartography 100% is actually about 98% of the over-world. none of the underground areas, and None of Realm... so . yea...
As you can see on the best map so far there are several areas that need skirting. and a few areas that need expanded in the middles... There is still more to do, but Great work so far..
As you can see on the best map so far there are several areas that need skirting. and a few areas that need expanded in the middles... There is still more to do, but Great work so far..
SilentVex
I'm not sure you realize how big a percent really is. 99.5% I could maybe believe, but 2 whole percent is the equivalent of a mid-sized zone.
Livingston
We now have our first lot of 100%ers. If you wish to try and claim the 10K prize, please send me a PM telling me that you are entering. This way I don't have to stuff around with people who don't want it.
I will still verify the first person on the thread to actually get the title, and post their name here, then I will announce whom the first person was who wished to stake claim to the prize. This may or may not be the same person. We shall see. All contenders have 3 days from the time quoted on this post to PM me with their claim to the 10K prize. And congratulations to you all, you do us proud.
Livingston
I will still verify the first person on the thread to actually get the title, and post their name here, then I will announce whom the first person was who wished to stake claim to the prize. This may or may not be the same person. We shall see. All contenders have 3 days from the time quoted on this post to PM me with their claim to the 10K prize. And congratulations to you all, you do us proud.
Livingston
Xenrath
Can someone post a zoomed out 1280x1024 map please, to try out the difference layer technique (see if that works this time round)
Also, please can you update the original post in the thread to have links to the maps.
Also, please can you update the original post in the thread to have links to the maps.
Livingston
Quote:
Originally Posted by Xenrath
Can someone post a zoomed out 1280x1024 map please, to try out the difference layer technique (see if that works this time round)
Also, please can you update the original post in the thread to have links to the maps. Yeah, yeah, I'm working on it. Time doesn't grow on trees you know... oO!
And from the looks of it the difference layer will probably be the best method for Elona.
Livingston
Also, please can you update the original post in the thread to have links to the maps. Yeah, yeah, I'm working on it. Time doesn't grow on trees you know... oO!
And from the looks of it the difference layer will probably be the best method for Elona.
Livingston
Kayla Slays
Quote:
Originally Posted by Luciora
Ok so I started the mapping process with my ele. Started Island is done as far as I can see. Did all the usual wall creeps and not found any funny map glitches yet.
My total for the starter bit is 22%, can anyone collaborate on what they found thusfar? Grrr. This is exactly the thread I was looking for, but my Tyrian Character has 21.5% of noob/starter island. (She has 99.6% of Cantha , 97.7% Tyria). So is your ele a new char- with all of the tutorial area exposed? I have not done the consulate mission with this character yet because it takes you off the island - I was looking for a true starter Island mapping benchmark, so that might be .4% (ish) I can hope!
My total for the starter bit is 22%, can anyone collaborate on what they found thusfar? Grrr. This is exactly the thread I was looking for, but my Tyrian Character has 21.5% of noob/starter island. (She has 99.6% of Cantha
garethporlest18
Well after using that 100% map I got myself up to 96.5%. I have no idea where 3% is, cause I know of about .5% I can get. But other than that, I'm stumped really.
SilentVex
I keep meaning to get my zoomed out map posted. I'll get it up as soon as I'm home. If you still can't get it gareth, post your zoomed out map at 1280 and I or someone else will try to help.
Cyclades of Knossos
Well I'm now on 97.8%
I'm currently struggling with that kill the insect game with the ghost. Sheesh. I can't even get one area unlocked. lol!
I am concerned that there isn't 2.2% left to expose here though.
I'm currently struggling with that kill the insect game with the ghost. Sheesh. I can't even get one area unlocked. lol!
I am concerned that there isn't 2.2% left to expose here though.
SilentVex
My zoomed out map is here.
Cyclades, there's right around 2% there. Use Junundu tunnel and just before it ends, use Junundu Bite. You'll get an instant kill and 500 health. Then just keep running around in circles in the middle and you'll be fine.
Cyclades, there's right around 2% there. Use Junundu tunnel and just before it ends, use Junundu Bite. You'll get an instant kill and 500 health. Then just keep running around in circles in the middle and you'll be fine.
Cyclades of Knossos
Thanks silent! I'll give that a try and just keep practicing.
Zophar
Here's my 1024x768 zoomed out map. (100% explored, of course)
I'll see if I can manage to get a PC that can handle 1280x1024, but I can't promise anything
I'll see if I can manage to get a PC that can handle 1280x1024, but I can't promise anything
Dougal Kronik
The "difference" method works on Elona. I've done a few maps for members of my guild that needed Istan completed before moving to the mainland.
The Desolation areas may need a bit of TLC when analyzing, because they show up in a bluish color that makes it a bit tricky to pick out fine details.
The Desolation areas may need a bit of TLC when analyzing, because they show up in a bluish color that makes it a bit tricky to pick out fine details.
SilentVex
I still think one of the best ways to find pieces you've missed is to zoom in on the U map. Uncovered areas are smooth and blury, while covered areas are grainy. Just look along the walls of each zone for a blury section that comes closer than it should, or in the middle of a zone where things look foggy/faded.
And Dougal, if the color on the desolation is bad for difference comparing, hit ctrl+U in photoshop and change the hue of the desolation to something that will come out better (just be sure to write down the hue shift settings, and do the exact same to the other map being compared).
And Dougal, if the color on the desolation is bad for difference comparing, hit ctrl+U in photoshop and change the hue of the desolation to something that will come out better (just be sure to write down the hue shift settings, and do the exact same to the other map being compared).
Guinevere Ac
Quote:
Originally Posted by Zophar
Here's my 1024x768 zoomed out map. (100% explored, of course)
I'll see if I can manage to get a PC that can handle 1280x1024, but I can't promise anything nice. can u please take a clean screen of your zoomed out map? might be missing something in cities and icons doesnt help
shitf screen would be usefull ty
99.4% here btw. any idea about how an old character can explore the very starter area? dont seem to be able to clean those bits.. should be a 0.2% there it' a nice boost if possible
I'll see if I can manage to get a PC that can handle 1280x1024, but I can't promise anything nice. can u please take a clean screen of your zoomed out map? might be missing something in cities and icons doesnt help
shitf screen would be usefull
ty99.4% here btw. any idea about how an old character can explore the very starter area? dont seem to be able to clean those bits.. should be a 0.2% there it' a nice boost if possible
Livingston
Quote:
Originally Posted by Guinevere Ac
nice. can u please take a clean screen of your zoomed out map? might be missing something in cities and icons doesnt help
shitf screen would be usefull ty
99.4% here btw. any idea about how an old character can explore the very starter area? dont seem to be able to clean those bits.. should be a 0.2% there it' a nice boost if possible I believe it is the equivelent of the Monastery Overlook in Cantha. So non-Elonians can't access it for the time being.
Livingston
shitf screen would be usefull
99.4% here btw. any idea about how an old character can explore the very starter area? dont seem to be able to clean those bits.. should be a 0.2% there it' a nice boost if possible I believe it is the equivelent of the Monastery Overlook in Cantha. So non-Elonians can't access it for the time being.
Livingston
QoH
Quote:
Originally Posted by Guinevere Ac
btw. any idea about how an old character can explore the very starter area? dont seem to be able to clean those bits.. should be a 0.2% there it' a nice boost if possible
It was possible, luckily i started mapping there on the first day and could go through those closed gates. Unfortuantely one of the updates killed this glitch.
edit: yes, it's exactly 0.2% .
edit: yes, it's exactly 0.2% .
Mentor73
Ok, grats to all who made it 100 %. Im still arround 25. Have one question, how can u fully explore Gandara, The Moon Fortress after mission. Gates are closed and still miss small fort next to Gantara.
Ty for your help.
Ty for your help.
YunSooJin
Can someone please provide a full 100% bitmap map (not zoomed out) pieced together without cloud cover? =P.
Would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Would be much appreciated. Thanks.
=HT=Ingram
BTW guys After I already had the map compiled and was doing the Map ID numbers for the Xfire plugin and I found this. lol
I noticed we all forgot to add it. lol
Oh well...
I'll add it back in later...
I noticed we all forgot to add it. lol
Oh well...
I'll add it back in later...
Guinevere Ac
how could i miss the arena... :/
Zophar
Quote:
Originally Posted by Guinevere Ac
nice. can u please take a clean screen of your zoomed out map? might be missing something in cities and icons doesnt help
shitf screen would be usefull ty
99.4% here btw. any idea about how an old character can explore the very starter area? dont seem to be able to clean those bits.. should be a 0.2% there it' a nice boost if possible Here's the "clean" map for you:
And by the way: I played Nightfall only with my Tyrian Monk so far, so it's definately possible to get 100% in Elona on foreign characters, even if there are Elonian-only areas (which I don't think there are). The screenshot of my char is a few pages back, you can confirm that my Monk is Tyrian there.
That "starter area" you refer to: Is it the very first mission outpost? You can access that by talking to the NPC in the training area, south of Kamadan.
My experience is, that the Elonian GMC is much easier to get than the Tyrian and Canthan ones. On my first play-through (without revisiting area's) I got to 99,9% in Elona. In Cantha I had 93,3% at that time and 95% in Tyria. It seems like it's a lot easier to uncover everything in Elona, without having to run into EVERY possible edge of the map. Still, this doesn't mean you can just run by and expect to get everything. (Maybe it's also just Cartographing experience, since this is my 6th GMC title: 3 in Tyria, 2 in Cantha and 1 in Elona now)
shitf screen would be usefull
99.4% here btw. any idea about how an old character can explore the very starter area? dont seem to be able to clean those bits.. should be a 0.2% there it' a nice boost if possible Here's the "clean" map for you:
And by the way: I played Nightfall only with my Tyrian Monk so far, so it's definately possible to get 100% in Elona on foreign characters, even if there are Elonian-only areas (which I don't think there are). The screenshot of my char is a few pages back, you can confirm that my Monk is Tyrian there.
That "starter area" you refer to: Is it the very first mission outpost? You can access that by talking to the NPC in the training area, south of Kamadan.
My experience is, that the Elonian GMC is much easier to get than the Tyrian and Canthan ones. On my first play-through (without revisiting area's) I got to 99,9% in Elona. In Cantha I had 93,3% at that time and 95% in Tyria. It seems like it's a lot easier to uncover everything in Elona, without having to run into EVERY possible edge of the map. Still, this doesn't mean you can just run by and expect to get everything. (Maybe it's also just Cartographing experience, since this is my 6th GMC title: 3 in Tyria, 2 in Cantha and 1 in Elona now)
garethporlest18
Well I got up to 97% just exploring the rims of a couple places. Still not sure where 3% is, but i guess I have to re-explore everything.
SnipiousMax
^Compare your map to the clean map above you. Use the tactics outlined in Livingstons other GMC thread. It'll save you having to edge the whole map again.