Layer Splines

Landscape Splines and Layers

• Spline Layer Setup:

  • Reserve layer for splines (prevents other editing)
  • Commonly used for roads/paths
  • Can be locked to prevent accidental modification

• Creating Splines:

  • Control + Click: Add control points
  • Connect points to create segments
  • Can create closed loops
  • Landscape automatically conforms to splines

• Key Settings:

  • Half Width: Distance from center to edge
  • Side Falloff:
    • Controls slope transition
    • Can be different per side
    • Range: 0 (sharp) to large values (gradual)
    • Recommended: ~2500-5000 for natural look

• Mesh Implementation:

  • Can attach static meshes to spline segments
  • Important settings:
    • Vertical offset (raises mesh above terrain)
    • Shadow casting options
    • Segment properties

• Practical Tips:

  • Use separate layers for:
    • Roads/paths (splines)
    • Base terrain
    • Detail work
  • Paint appropriate ground texture under roads
  • Adjust falloff for natural terrain blending

The system allows efficient creation of roads and paths that naturally integrate with the landscape while maintaining separate editing layers.