View source for Adding More Detail to a map (Black Mesa)

{{Tabs|Adding More Detail to a map|bms=1|source=1|main=source}}
{{Back|Black Mesa Level Creation}}
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=Guide to Detailing=
Adding detail to your {{bms|3}} map can make it look more convincing and it's pleasing to the eye. This can also apply to other {{src|4}} games, but mostly {{bms|4}}.
==Support Beams and Pillars==
One of the most simplest ways to add a lot of detail, is to create pillars along corridor walls, or outdoor buildings. This makes it look like the room/building is actually being held up by something, rather than no supports at all. You can also add beams like a i-beam along ceilings of corridors/buildings, then you may add a light strip suspended on the i-beam. Make sure, if you are using [[brushes]] for either the pillars/supports, that you tie them to a [[func_detail]]. This will greatly help with [[VIS]]. There are i-beam [[prop_static|static props]] in {{bms|3}}, that you may add instead of making detail [[brushes]].

==Decals==
Probably one of the easiest ways to detail you map is by using [[decals]]. Just by adding waste or dirt decals into an industrial area, makes it look like people actually had a job there, or that the floor hasn't been mopped in a while. You can also add posters, signs, cracks, papers, and trash decals to add even more detail. Make sure not to overuse [[decals]] though, as this will make your map look too cluttered or over-detailed.

==Props==
The most obvious way to detail your map, is by using different props. You probably will mostly use the [[prop_static]] to detail. Static props are used for objects that will not move, and are just for looks and to create atmosphere. You might use static props for metal crates, shelves, inaccessible doors, forklifts, desks, tables, counters, computers, and other things that will detail your map. The [[prop_physics]] will also probably be used more frequently. Physics props encourage the player to explore the world around them, and making a fun world as well. You can use them for puzzles or debris from an explosion for example. They are used for radios, chairs, stools, crates, (see [[item_crate]]), computers, monitors, wooden boards, and much more. Another type of prop that can be used is the [[prop_dynamic]], which is used for props with animations, for example, a security camera that moves from side to side.
==Locked/Static Doors==
Locked/static doors are seen a lot throughout {{bms|3}}. They are created to make it seem like Black Mesa is way bigger than the player's bounds. The static doors are [[prop_static|static props]] and they are placed inside a door frame. The player cannot interact with the doors. There are 14 skins for the door, suiting it for all types of areas, the door can also be used to block off areas that the player can't get to or get to ''yet''. Some of the doors seen in {{bms|3}} have signs next to them that say "AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY" or "MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL ONLY", etc.. Those signs can give the idea of where the doors lead to, along with other methods. The locked lab door/sliding door can also be used when in lab areas. You can give the lab door the "buzz" sound when the player tries to enter it when it's locked, indicating that they are not authorized to enter. They also use the locked/red texture on the doors, (the door is made from a [[func_door]].)

Also see: [[Static Doors]].