The next generation of Traipse maps has so many features inside and out, it would be best to explain the inner core of the map and how it differs. Despite all the features the next generation map has, the software is actually more efficient and uses less system resources. This part is going to be rather technical, but we promise the others will not be. So if you don't want to read the technical details go ahead and skip this article. **We think it's worth a read though**

Objects are objects...

... not pseudo objects that are drawn onto the map. Specifically referring to this grid, each cell is an object on the map, it is not a series of lines that appear to create a grid. Because grid cells are individual objects, each cell can hold data and operate intelligently. When a map object is moved across the map it does not need to find a certain pixel to position itself, the cell grid does all of the position for map objects. Grid cells are not the only map objects that follow the mantra 'objects are objects', each and every map object is an object to itself.

This includes textures, miniatures, lines, texts, tiles and all other manor of objects you can place on the map. Because each map object is different it can 'think' for itself. Miniatures you place on the map are no longer just images you manipulate, they are objects that can contain their own data.

The idea that map objects are secular is a lot to take in, and in the Pious Paladin release this will not be used to it's full capacity either. It's a big change going from simple map images to map images that are border line intelligent. Take a peek deeper into how this is accomplished.

Objects are classes...

... not just objects that are drawn onto the map. Unless you are technologically savvy I am sure that flew right over your head. I am referring specifically to the internal code. Not only are map objects separate objects, they are code classes onto themselves. Because each object is a class object inside the python script it can contain it's own methods and functions.

This is not going to mean much to the casual user. Developers, on the other hand, take note ... objects in Pious Paladin are designed in such a way intelligence can be added.

Map objects will communicate with each other through the map. Objects can discern their neighbours, can understand a type of map object, and will be able to interact with objects.

What all this means to you the player

We understand this article is going over the heads of a lot of readers. While this article is aimed primarly at budding developers, the changes this article brings up should also relay what is being discussed in a way users can understand. Think of the contents this way.

• When an item is placed on the map it takes care of it's own data.

If a wall is drawn on the map, the map itself doesn't need to worry about the wall as anything but an object ... the wall however is allowed to contain data about itself. If it has a certain hardness, if it is constructed of a certain type of material. That and other important information is tucked away inside the item on the map.

This is an exciting new way for the map to think. Each object on the map will be able to communicate with other objects on the map using the map itself as a gateway for information to pass. The objects themselves will decide what to do with the information they are passed. The new map design is truly designed to be intelligent.