But I'm not really sure where to start, or how. I've done a bit of programming before, I've completed a basic Python course at university. I don't much like the idea of using Python compared to something like C++ or Java though, even though those languages are more complex.

I'm just lost. For instance, how would I store separate maps? Do I just write them to and read them from a text file? Or...?

And drawing things to the screen... considering isometric display with heights and bridges/overhangs and characters walking and having to jump to different heights and all that... AND making it look smooth... ugh.

Any guidance you can give will be appreciated. Thanks.

You can store them in a custom binary format, or some custom text format that you create (as you suggested). There are many possibilities.



I would begin with the map editor. Get the terrain rendering and don't worry about characters or anything until later.

Is this going to be isometric sprites. or 3d rendered in isometric view? Is there a game with the same isometric style you want? Any more detailed information would help us help you.

Hmm, I see. Thanks, that helps me visualize how to do this a little better now.


Map editor... alright. Sounds possible if I put my mind to it. Thanks for the help.

I was thinking isometric sprites just because it's easier to start with, I should think. But the style I want to work up to is as it was done in Final Fantasy Tactics, except with both 3d terrain and characters.

If I am not mistaken final fantasy tactics uses 3d terrain (with a blocky isometric style to it) and isometric sprites for characters.

You will probably want to start with figuring out how to render a 3d cube (which you can easily change into an isometric tile for your game). Making terrain will just be a matter of rendering a lot of them at different 3d coordinates.

If you haven't decided on a language yet, let me recommend C# + XNA.