Animation Script Creator - A Plugin for GenesisII

Function
GenesisII 2.4 adds support for running animation scripts. This beta plugin can create simple animation scripts for 'fly-throughs' with independently controllable camera and target paths. The full release will additionaly include support for cloud, water and lighting animation as well as more control and feedback about camera/target paths.

Setting up and using the plugin
Simply copy the animator.glg file to your GenesisII plugins directory. The plugin is used to create a GenesisII script file (*.srp) which should be run using the Run Script menu option for the Fractal or Overlay renderer.

Options
The plugin displays a dialog box used to create and edit an animation script. The dialog contains the following sections:

1. A 2D representation of the current map. Path control points can be added or edited on here using the mouse - left click to add a new point or select an existing point to reposition, right click on an existing point to move the target position for that point.

2. A height profile representation of the animation path. You can move camera and target positions on this profile by left or right clicking with the mouse.

3. Parameters. These are grouped by section as follows:-

Legend
This section displays basic Legend information for the animation path drawn.

Path Parameters
This section specifies information about how the path will be created.

• Default height above surface: Sets the default height for the control points.
• Minimum Height: A minimum height for the camera path. Note that the target is not restricted by this parameter.
• Speed: Animation speed - actually the number of frames drawn between control points.

Action Buttons

• Generate: Paths are largely generated automaticaly as parameters are changed, but this button forces a regenerate.
• Load Script: Loads data from a previosuly saved script file.
• Save Script: Saves the current animation as a script.
• Reset: Clears all control points and resets the animation.
• Close: Closes the plugin.