What this book covers

Chapter 1, Level Design HQ will explain how to download and install UDK. It will show you how to launch the editor, how to move and rotate around the editor, and finally explain briefly about BSP brushes and static meshes.

Chapter 2, Hello UDK covers the most essential tools and functions you need to know to get started with UDK. You'll be able to quickly jump into UDK and begin feeling comfortable using the most commonly used functions.

Chapter 3, Applying Lighting Effects covers the different types of lighting used in developing and designing an environment in UDK, and how light maps are used on CSG surfaces and static meshes to reflect light off objects.

Chapter 4, Battling the Elements looks at UDK's particle editor (Cascade) works. It will quickly walk you through the interface of the editor and explain how a basic smoke particle, water, height, and fog can be set up.

Chapter 5, Movement with Movers introduces you to the world of animated level geometry in UDK, doors, and elevators, which are activated using InterpActors or triggers.

Chapter 6, Terrain will explain the reader how to set up and modify terrain in UDK.

Chapter 7, Adding Gameplay Elements into your Map explains how to get all of the basic gameplay elements into your map. In this section, we'll set up a Deathmatch map, which is the easiest type to create.

Chapter 8, Complex Event Sequences introduces the reader to UIScenes, for creation of HUD elements, menus, and things like subtitles and titles.

Chapter 9, Materials will explain the basics of creating a material. We'll build some basic (but extremely useful) materials from scratch, and in the process, learn how the material editor works.