Spark Editor is the Editor for making maps/levels for Natural Selection 2. Spark Engine is a proprietary engine from Unknown Worlds.
Launching Spark Editor[]
Go to ..\Steam\SteamApps\common\Natural Selection 2
Run "LaunchPad.exe", create a new project, then launch "Editor"
General Layout[]
1/ Toolbar : used to creates Lines, Faces, Entity, Lights, change texture and more
2/ Layers : Layers are used to display and mask object from the views. Wherever it's a big entity that you don't need to see everytime (like locations), or just an object in the way that bothers you. Some Layers have a special Effect (Vents)
3/ Groups : Regroup faces, vertices or any object to one thing. Some groups have a special Effects.
4/ Browser or Properties : this will display the Properties depending of the tool you are currently using
5/ General View : Can be either 1 angle or 4 angles
6/ Selection Filter : You can filter with object you are selecting with your mouse
7/ View Properties : You can change from 2D to 3D view, also wireframe and Lit (= With light preview) or Unlit (no Light Preview)
Creating Faces[]
This this official tutorial on Youtube. Old but still ok :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRnF6MuzqAk
Natural Selection 2 Spark SDK Mapping Tutorial -1 (Spark Level Editor)
Internal Ressources[]
Spark Editor : Spark Editor
Game Entity : Spark Game Entity
Entity List : Spark Entity List
Decals : Spark Decals
Creating Custom Textures : Spark Custom Materials
Creating Custom Skybox : Spark Custom Skybox
Lightining : Spark Lights
Sound : Spark Sounds
From Valve Hammer to Spark Editor : Valve Hammer to Spark
Known Troubleshootings : Spark Troubleshooting
Beginners Trick : Spark Beginner Tricks
Final Checklist before publishing : Spark Editor Final Checklist
External Ressources[]
Example map : https://forums.unknownworlds.com/discussion/155728/ns2-veil-layout-example-map
Wiki : Spark Editor
Console command : Console Commands
Guides and Ressource : https://forums.unknownworlds.com/discussion/129290/ns2-mapping-guides-and-resources
Editor Layer/Group list (+ hidden tools/features) : https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=351327660
Spark Editor - Maps • Spark Editor • Spark Game Entity • Spark Entity List • Spark Decals • Spark Custom Materials • Spark Custom Skybox • Spark Lights • Spark Sounds • Valve Hammer to Spark • Spark Troubleshooting • Spark Beginner Tricks • Spark Editor Final Checklist