Difference between revisions of "Custom Track Tutorial"

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==Introduction==
+
== Introduction ==
 +
This is the main page of the '''Custom Track Tutorial'''. Here, you'll see a brief overview of the [[SZS]] (track) file, a listing of programs you might need to edit them and in-depth tutorials on creating and editing each of the files. The tutorials are presented in an order, however, you will find yourself jumping to previous and later steps, as it's impossible to define a strict "order" of building the track. During this process, it's common, even for advanced track makers, to run into issues or freezes of unknown origin. This is also addressed in the tutorial.
  
−
This page contains a brief overview of custom track files, a listing of the programs used to create [[Custom Track]]s, and links to in-depth tutorials.  
+
You can use the [[{{PAGENAME}}#Links|blue links box]] at the bottom of each page to navigate faster through the tutorials. If you have any questions, you may post them on the [[{{TALKPAGENAME}}|talk page]] (please sign your posts with <nowiki>--~~~~</nowiki>).
  
−
If you have any questions, you may post them on the [[Talk:Custom Track Tutorial|Talk]] page or [http://www.mariokartwii.com/f72/official-mario-kart-wii-model-hacking-new-39114.html in the custom track thread at mariokartwii.com].  
+
== Overview of a Custom Track File ==
 +
[[File:Replacing a KCL File in CTools.png|256px|thumb|A view of [[SZS Explorer]] showing [[SZS]] file structure.]]
 +
Mario Kart Wii uses SZS files to store track data; all of the original tracks can be found and extracted from the game's ISO using a program such as [[WiiScrubber]] or [[Wiimms ISO Tools]]. You will mainly be working with the following files when creating a custom track; they are all required for your track to load and work.
  
−
==Overview of a Custom Track File==
+
*'''Your [[SZS]]'''
 +
::SZS is an archive format used by Nintendo for many types of data, and is similar to a ZIP or RAR file.  Your SZS file will contain all the files needed by your track, including:
 +
 
 +
:*'''course_model.[[BRRES|brres]]''' and '''vrcorn_model.brres'''
 +
:::BRRES files contain 3D models and textures. They have no solidity of their own. The '''course_model.brres''' defines the main course model of the track and '''vrcorn_model.brres''' defines the model of the background, usually the sky.
 +
 
 +
:*'''map_model.brres'''
 +
:::This is the [[minimap]] model, which is a textureless 3D model that is displayed in-game from a birds-eye viewpoint.
 +
 
 +
:*'''course.[[KCL|kcl]]'''
 +
:::This is the 3D model that defines collision data. It determines what parts of the level can be driven on, where the walls and boost pads are, and which parts of the level are out of bounds.
  
−
[[File:Soliditykh.png|200px|thumb|A view of [[SZS Explorer]] showing [[SZS]] file structure.]]
 
−
You will mainly be working with the following files when creating a custom track.
 
−
*'''[[SZS]]'''
 
−
Your custom track will have a name like MyTrack.szs. SZS is an archive format used by Nintendo, similar to a zip file.  It contains all files needed by a track, including:
 
 
:*'''course.[[KMP|kmp]]'''
 
:*'''course.[[KMP|kmp]]'''
−
:This is file controls the placement of all [[object]]s in a level, including item boxes, trees, enemy routes, start position, checkpoints and intro and replay cameras.
+
:::This is a binary data file which controls the placement of all [[object]]s in a level, including item boxes and other animated objects such as trees, as well as enemy routes, start positions, checkpoints, and intro and replay cameras.
−
:*'''course.[[KCL|kcl]]'''
+
 
−
:This is collision data. This file determines what parts of the level can be driven on, where the walls and boost pads are, and which parts of the level are out of bounds.
+
:*'''posteffect''' folder
−
:*'''course_model.[[BRRES|brres]]'''
+
:::This folder contains data for effects such as fog, glow, bloom and lightning, simulating the natural environment of the world.
−
:This is the model of the level displayed in-game. It has no solidity of its own, but can be used to generate collision data.
+
 
−
:*'''map_model.brres'''
+
An '''SZS''' archive typically contains many other files: [[Object]]s are usually composed of one or more files, and all associated files must be present for the track to load and the object to function properly. They might include '''BRRES''' files, which contain models, textures, "bones" and multiple types of animation and '''KCL''' files for objects with collision (although some solid objects do not use KCLs for collision). You may also find folders labeled '''effect''' and '''brasd'''. '''Effects''' include water splashes (Pocha), snow and fireworks (Hanabi). The '''brasd''' folder contains animations, needed for Goombas (Kuribo), Chain Chomps (Wanwan), flags, cannons, and other items. Files can also be imported, exported or deleted from an SZS file as needed.
−
:This is the [[minimap]].
+
 
 +
== Programs and Files ==
 +
The following programs and files aide in the track creation process.
 +
 
 +
*'''Track Files'''
 +
::You will need to obtain the SZS files of Mario Kart Wii's original tracks to obtain objects and any associated effects. You can see how to extract them from your Wii game disc in the [[Obtain Original Track Files]] page.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Wiimms SZS Tools]]'''
 +
::These command-line tools can perform many tasks efficiently. They allow the creation of compressed SZS files automatically using scripts (batch files) and checking/fixing errors in KMP, KCL and SZS files. It can adjust the minimap automatically and can generate KCL files directly from OBJ imports.
 +
::*'''[[Wiimm's Tool Manager]]''' is a simple GUI for Wiimms SZS Tools.
 +
::*You can download a pack of batch files with simple scripts which can be used on this tutorial [http://www.mediafire.com/file/bb30qwtrrh0ilfw/CTTutorial_WiimmsSZSTools_ScriptPack.zip here].
 +
 
 +
*'''[[3D Tool]]'''
 +
::Most 3D model editors can be used to create a Mario Kart Wii track. Common editors include [[3ds Max]], [[Blender]] and [[SketchUp]].
 +
 
 +
*A '''[[BRRES]] Editor'''
 +
::*'''[[BrawlBox]]/[[BrawlCrate]]'''
 +
::::Originally created for Super Smash Bros. Brawl, this is the primary tool for editing BRRES files. BrawlCrate is an updated version of BrawlBox.
 +
::*'''[https://github.com/riidefi/riistudio RiiStudio]'''
 +
::::Hottest new editor in the west. Still in alpha, but specifically designed for Mario Kart Wii and features many quality-of-life improvements.
 +
 
 +
*A '''KMP Editor''':
 +
::*'''[[Lorenzi's KMP Editor]]'''
 +
::::Most comprehensive editor. Highly recommended.
 +
 
 +
::*'''[[KMP Cloud]]'''
 +
::::A 2D editor, with useful features such as a line tool, or display of objects within a spreadsheet format.
 +
 
 +
::*'''[[KMP Modifier]]'''
 +
::::A tool giving an overview of the whole KMP file and is able to add/delete/move points with a click of the mouse button. For more complex models, an imported map model OBJ file can be used to directly calculate the height values.
 +
 
 +
::*'''[[Wiimms SZS Tools|wkmpt or wszst (Wiimms SZS Tool)]]'''
 +
:::: Both tools convert a KMP file into a text file, which can be edited with any text editor. Both tools use an [http://szs.wiimm.de/info/kmp-guide.html internal compiler] to re-create the KMP.
 +
 
 +
::*'''[[KMP3D]]'''
 +
::::KMP3D is a plugin for Google SketchUp 6 and later that can help custom track authors with the KMP.
 +
 
 +
::*'''[[MagicY]]'''
 +
::::MagicY is a tool which works together with KMP Cloud to [[Automated height correction|automatically calculate Y coordinates]] for KMP entries.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Hexadecimal|Hex Editor]]'''
 +
::This technique is for experienced devs or experimental purposes only. Some files, such as post-effects and animation files, cannot be edited with the current suite of programs. Hex Editing is the only option in cases like these and can lead to greater understanding of these files.
 +
 
 +
== Tutorials ==
 +
If you're creating your first custom track, you should begin with the [[Modeling with 3D Editor]] page or check out the [[Video Tutorials]].
 +
 
 +
=== Main Tutorials ===
 +
These tutorials cover all the normal procedures for making a Custom Track.
 +
 
 +
==== Model Related ====
 +
*'''[[Texturing]]'''
 +
::How to import and export textures to and from BRRES files.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Scale]]'''
 +
::How to make sure your track will be the right size; not too big or too small. And make sure that all drivable points (or the complete track) use coordinates between -131071 and +131071. Otherwise items will cause problems. While this can be remedied by [[LEX]]:[[LEX#HIPT|HIPT]], not all distributions support this.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Modeling with 3D Editor]]'''
 +
::Guidelines on making your track's model with a 3D model editor.
 +
:::*'''[[Creating a BRRES with BrawlBox]]'''
 +
::::How to convert your model to a BRRES file that Mario Kart Wii can load using BrawlBox.
 +
:::*'''[[Creating a BRRES with RiiStudio]]'''
 +
::::How to convert your model to a BRRES file that Mario Kart Wii can load using RiiStudio.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Creating a Minimap]]'''
 +
::How to create a minimap for your level.
 +
 
 +
==== KCL Related ====
 +
No dedicated tutorial, but it is fairly common to use [[Gabriela_]]'s [[https://github.com/Gabriela-Orzechowska/Blender-MKW-Utilities|MKW-Utilities]] for KCL editing within Blender.
 +
*'''[[Solidity]]'''
 +
::Guidelines on creating an optimized collision model, assigning properties such as boosts, walls, and off road to surfaces in your level.
 +
:::*'''[[Creating a KCL with Wiimms Tools]]
 +
::::How to convert your optimized collision model into a KCL using [[Wiimms SZS Tools]].
 +
 
 +
==== KMP Related ====
 +
*'''[[KMP Editing]]'''
 +
::How to set up objects, routes, checkpoints and many other important things.
 +
:::*'''[[Object Editing]]'''
 +
::::How to import objects from other tracks.
 +
::::How to edit other models (sky dome, item boxes, etc.) in your track.
 +
:::*'''[[KMP Editing/Cameras|Camera Editing]]'''
 +
::::How to set up intro and replay cameras in your level for a professional look.
 +
:::*'''[[Cannon|Cannons]]'''
 +
::::How to set up a cannon using a KCL trigger and a KMP destination point.
 +
 
 +
==== Other ====
 +
*'''[[Post-effects|Editing post-effects]]'''
 +
::How to change data for effects such as fog, glow, bloom and lightning of the world.
 +
*'''[[Video Tutorials]]'''
 +
::Index of video tutorials on various subjects.
 +
 
 +
=== Miscellaneous Tutorials ===
 +
These tutorials cover additional topics.
 +
 
 +
==== Model Related ====
 +
*'''[[BrawlBox Tricks]]'''
 +
::Various things that can be done with your BRRES in BrawlBox, either to make the track look better or fix issues.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Animations]]'''
 +
::How to create and edit model or texture animations using BrawlBox.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Shadows]]'''
 +
::How to add shadows so your track doesn't look like the floor emits its own light.
 +
 
 +
==== KCL Related ====
 +
*'''[[Moving Terrain]]
 +
::How to create moving terrain in your track.
 +
 
 +
==== KMP Related ====
 +
*'''[[Battle Arena (Custom Track Tutorial)|Battle Arena]]'''
 +
::How to create a custom battle arena.
 +
*'''[[Extended presence flags/Track Tutorial|Extended presence flags: Track Tutorial]]'''
 +
::How to setup objects with [[Extended presence flags]]
 +
 
 +
==== Other ====
 +
*'''[[Custom Music]]'''
 +
::How to convert music into the BRSTM format used by Mario Kart Wii and many other Nintendo games.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Importing 3D models]]
 +
::How to extract an existing model (such as from [[Nintendo]] or another custom track) from a BRRES back into the 3D model editor.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Porting Tutorial]]'''
 +
::How to port 3D levels from other games such as [[Mario Kart 64]], [[Mario Kart: Double Dash!!]] or ''[[mariowiki:Super Mario 64|Super Mario 64]]''.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[LE-CODE/Track FAQ|LE-CODE Track FAQ]]'''
 +
::How to add advanced features provided by [[LE-CODE]].
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Custom Effects]]'''
 +
::How to edit on-screen effects (such as Blooper ink or Lightning).
 +
 
 +
=== Testing and Reviewing ===
 +
In all phases of the development, it is important to test the track. This is especially true before releasing the new track.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Testing a Track]]
 +
::Testing check list.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[wkmpt DRAW|Visual Review]]
 +
::Create an OBJ file and import it in a 3D tool to make a visual review of your track.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Track Transformation]]
 +
::Scale your track, if it is too small or too large.
 +
 
 +
==== Crashes and Bugs ====
 +
These pages cover various glitches and errors that may occur in your course.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Common Crash Causes]]
 +
::Common reasons why your track might freeze the game.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Harry Potter Effect]]
 +
::Problems with transparent textures.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[KCL Glitches]]
 +
::A little discussion about often found KCL glitches.
 +
 
 +
*'''[[Moiré pattern]]
 +
::A visual artifact caused by repeated textures.
  
−
The '''SZS''' contains many other files, including many BRRES files, which are the models of [[objects]] used in the level.  You will also find a folder labeled '''posteffects''', and sometimes folders labeled '''effects''' and '''brasd'''.  '''Post effects''' include fog ([[BFG]] files) and bloom settings ([[BBLM]]).  '''Effects''' include watersplashes (Pocha) and fireworks (Hanabi.)  The '''brasd''' folder contains animations, needed for Goombas (Kuribo), Chain Chomps (Wanwan), flags, banners and other items.  Please note that you will also need the corresponding BRRES file in your SZS if you plan to use any item with effects or brasd animations, otherwise your level will not load.
+
*'''[[Position Jump Bug]]
 +
::How to fix various problems with checkpoints.
  
−
==What You Need==
+
*'''[[Slow Motion Bug]]
 +
::Slow frame rates can make a fun level a dread to play.
  
−
* '''[[CTools Pack]]'''
+
*'''[[Ultra Shortcut]]
−
This is a collection of Custom Track tools including:
+
::A way to skip a large portion of a course by a glitch or skipping the first checkpoint.
−
:*'''[[CTools Pack#SZS Explorer|SZS Explorer]]'''
 
−
:This program is used to manage the files inside an SZS archive (such as objects, route data, and textures, etc.)
 
−
:*'''[[CTools Pack#BRRES Editor|BRRES Editor]]'''
 
−
:This program is used to view models and import OBJ files (exported with 3D modeling programs) to the [[BRRES]] model format used in Mario Kart Wii.
 
  
−
* '''[[SZS Modifier]]'''
+
*'''[[Underground Camera Bug]]
−
This program is the predecessor of CTools. It's required for editing things that CTools currently cannot edit, such as the object and route data in [[KMP]] files.  It is also better for certain tasks that CTools can handle, such as creating minimaps and editing KCL data. Unlike CTools, SZS Modifier ''cannot'' expand files.
+
::If your viewpoint when playing gets stuck under your level, this tutorial is for you.
  
−
* '''[[KMP Modifier]]'''
+
*'''[[Z-fighting]]
−
This program can edit and expand KMP data. It allows you to add or remove extra objects, checkpoints, respawn points, et cetera.  
+
::When two overlapping polygons/faces "fight" to be seen, which causes flickering in-game.
  
−
* '''Model Editor'''
+
== Tutorial Archive ==
−
:* '''[[Modeling With 3D Editor|Google Sketchup]]''' ''(Recommended)''
+
The following programs and tutorials are outdated and/or obsolete and not recommended.
−
:* Any other 3D modeler program; must be used along with '''[[Modeling With 3D Editor|Blender]]'''.
 
  
−
* '''Track files'''
+
==== Software ====
−
You can base your level on one of Mario Kart Wii's track files, such as ''beginner_course'' (Wii Luigi Circuit), ''castle_course'' (Wii Mario Circuit) or ''old_mario_64'' (N64 Mario Raceway.) These levels all have fairly easy to understand KMPs. ([[Obtain Original Track Files|How do I get them?]])  You can also base your track off of another custom track.  [[Rooster Island]] works very well for this as it can replace almost any track and is based on castle_course's KMP.  [[Fishdom Island]] is another good choice if you need more complex item and enemy routes.  Or you can create an SZS file from scratch using CTools.  If you create the SZS with CTools you will need to extract the KMP and the KCL file from another custom or original track.
+
*'''[[SZS Modifier]]'''
 +
::This program is the predecessor of CTools. It can be used for editing things that CTools currently cannot. It is also better for certain tasks that CTools can handle, such as creating minimaps and editing KCL data, as both of these features in CTools have problems that will produce glitches in-game. Unlike CTools, SZS Modifier ''cannot'' expand files to make them larger than the originals.
  
−
===Optional===
+
==== Tutorials ====
−
*'''Image Editor'''
+
*'''[[Creating a BRRES with CTools]]'''
−
Photoshop, GIMP, and Paint.NET are just a few examples. Since they are free, GIMP and Paint.net are recommended.
+
::How to convert your model to a BRRES file that Mario Kart Wii can load using the CTools Pack BRRES Editor.
−
* '''[[Wiimms SZS Tools]]'''
 
−
These command-line tools replace some functions of [[SZS Modifier]] and [[CTools Pack#SZS Explorer|SZS Explorer]]. They allow the creation of SZS files automatically using scripts (batch files.)
 
−
* '''[[Hex Editing]]'''
 
−
For experienced hackers or experimental purposes only.  Some files, such as post effects and animation files, cannot be edited with the current suite of programs.  Hex Editing is the only option is cases like these, and can lead to greater understanding of these files.
 
  
 +
*'''[[Adding Mipmaps for CTools Models]]'''
 +
::How to add mipmaps to BRRES files created in CTools.
  
−
==Tutorials==
+
*'''[[KCL Tutorial (CTools and SZS Modifier)]]
 +
::How to convert your collision model into a KCL using [[CTools]] and [[SZS Modifier]].
  
−
If you're going to create a [[Texture Hack]] you need to follow the [[Texturing]] tutorial. Otherwise you should begin with the [[Modeling With 3D Editor]] tutorial.
+
*'''[[Remaking Paint Levels in SketchUp]]'''
 +
::How to remake a Paint level in SketchUp using an image, while maintaining the original scale and position of the track.
  
−
====Basic====
+
*'''[[Modeling with Paint]]'''  
−
* '''[[Texturing]]'''
+
::How to make your track with MS Paint and import into a BRRES file.
−
:How to import and export from BRRES files.
 
−
* '''[[Modeling With 3D Editor]]'''
 
−
:How to make your track with a model editor and convert it to a [[BRRES]] file that Mario Kart Wii can load.
 
−
* '''[[Solidity]]'''
 
−
:How to make your track solid.
 
−
* '''[[Important Stuff (Custom Track Tutorial)|Important Stuff]]'''
 
−
:* How to create the minimap
 
−
:* How to make a cannon
 
−
:* How to texture and model hack things other than the course (e.g. objects, skydome)
 
−
:* How to import objects from other levels
 
−
:* How to swap out posteffects
 
−
* '''[[KMP Editing]]'''
 
−
:How to set up objects, routes, checkpoints and many other important things using SZS Modifier. Expanding KMP files is also covered in this tutorial.
 
  
−
====Miscellaneous/Advanced Tutorials====
+
*'''[[Creating a Minimap with SZS Modifier]]
−
* '''[[Porting Tutorial]]'''
+
::How to make your minimap using SZS Modifier and/or BRRES Editor.
−
: How to Port 3D levels from other Mario Kart Games.
 
−
* '''[[Swapping Animations | How To Swap Animations]]'''
 
−
:How to swap texture animations out from other models and import model animations.
 
−
* '''[[Modeling With Paint]]''' ''(OBSOLETE AND NOT RECOMMENDED)''
 
−
:How to make your track with MS Paint and import into a BRRES file.
 
−
* '''[[Remaking_Paint_Levels_In_SketchUp|Remaking Paint Levels in SketchUp]]'''
 
−
:How to remake a MS Paint level in SketchUp.
 
−
* '''[[Custom Music]]'''
 
−
:How to convert music into BRSTM files, readable by many Nintendo games.
 
  
 
== Links ==
 
== Links ==
 
{{Custom Track Tutorial}}
 
{{Custom Track Tutorial}}
 
[[category:Tutorials]][[category:Custom Track Tutorial]]
 
[[category:Tutorials]][[category:Custom Track Tutorial]]

Latest revision as of 18:06, 4 July 2023

Introduction

This is the main page of the Custom Track Tutorial. Here, you'll see a brief overview of the SZS (track) file, a listing of programs you might need to edit them and in-depth tutorials on creating and editing each of the files. The tutorials are presented in an order, however, you will find yourself jumping to previous and later steps, as it's impossible to define a strict "order" of building the track. During this process, it's common, even for advanced track makers, to run into issues or freezes of unknown origin. This is also addressed in the tutorial.

You can use the blue links box at the bottom of each page to navigate faster through the tutorials. If you have any questions, you may post them on the talk page (please sign your posts with --~~~~).

Overview of a Custom Track File

A view of SZS Explorer showing SZS file structure.

Mario Kart Wii uses SZS files to store track data; all of the original tracks can be found and extracted from the game's ISO using a program such as WiiScrubber or Wiimms ISO Tools. You will mainly be working with the following files when creating a custom track; they are all required for your track to load and work.

SZS is an archive format used by Nintendo for many types of data, and is similar to a ZIP or RAR file. Your SZS file will contain all the files needed by your track, including:
  • course_model.brres and vrcorn_model.brres
BRRES files contain 3D models and textures. They have no solidity of their own. The course_model.brres defines the main course model of the track and vrcorn_model.brres defines the model of the background, usually the sky.
  • map_model.brres
This is the minimap model, which is a textureless 3D model that is displayed in-game from a birds-eye viewpoint.
This is the 3D model that defines collision data. It determines what parts of the level can be driven on, where the walls and boost pads are, and which parts of the level are out of bounds.
This is a binary data file which controls the placement of all objects in a level, including item boxes and other animated objects such as trees, as well as enemy routes, start positions, checkpoints, and intro and replay cameras.
  • posteffect folder
This folder contains data for effects such as fog, glow, bloom and lightning, simulating the natural environment of the world.

An SZS archive typically contains many other files: Objects are usually composed of one or more files, and all associated files must be present for the track to load and the object to function properly. They might include BRRES files, which contain models, textures, "bones" and multiple types of animation and KCL files for objects with collision (although some solid objects do not use KCLs for collision). You may also find folders labeled effect and brasd. Effects include water splashes (Pocha), snow and fireworks (Hanabi). The brasd folder contains animations, needed for Goombas (Kuribo), Chain Chomps (Wanwan), flags, cannons, and other items. Files can also be imported, exported or deleted from an SZS file as needed.

Programs and Files

The following programs and files aide in the track creation process.

  • Track Files
You will need to obtain the SZS files of Mario Kart Wii's original tracks to obtain objects and any associated effects. You can see how to extract them from your Wii game disc in the Obtain Original Track Files page.
These command-line tools can perform many tasks efficiently. They allow the creation of compressed SZS files automatically using scripts (batch files) and checking/fixing errors in KMP, KCL and SZS files. It can adjust the minimap automatically and can generate KCL files directly from OBJ imports.
  • Wiimm's Tool Manager is a simple GUI for Wiimms SZS Tools.
  • You can download a pack of batch files with simple scripts which can be used on this tutorial here.
Most 3D model editors can be used to create a Mario Kart Wii track. Common editors include 3ds Max, Blender and SketchUp.
Originally created for Super Smash Bros. Brawl, this is the primary tool for editing BRRES files. BrawlCrate is an updated version of BrawlBox.
Hottest new editor in the west. Still in alpha, but specifically designed for Mario Kart Wii and features many quality-of-life improvements.
  • A KMP Editor:
Most comprehensive editor. Highly recommended.
A 2D editor, with useful features such as a line tool, or display of objects within a spreadsheet format.
A tool giving an overview of the whole KMP file and is able to add/delete/move points with a click of the mouse button. For more complex models, an imported map model OBJ file can be used to directly calculate the height values.
Both tools convert a KMP file into a text file, which can be edited with any text editor. Both tools use an internal compiler to re-create the KMP.
KMP3D is a plugin for Google SketchUp 6 and later that can help custom track authors with the KMP.
MagicY is a tool which works together with KMP Cloud to automatically calculate Y coordinates for KMP entries.
This technique is for experienced devs or experimental purposes only. Some files, such as post-effects and animation files, cannot be edited with the current suite of programs. Hex Editing is the only option in cases like these and can lead to greater understanding of these files.

Tutorials

If you're creating your first custom track, you should begin with the Modeling with 3D Editor page or check out the Video Tutorials.

Main Tutorials

These tutorials cover all the normal procedures for making a Custom Track.

Model Related

How to import and export textures to and from BRRES files.
How to make sure your track will be the right size; not too big or too small. And make sure that all drivable points (or the complete track) use coordinates between -131071 and +131071. Otherwise items will cause problems. While this can be remedied by LEX:HIPT, not all distributions support this.
Guidelines on making your track's model with a 3D model editor.
How to convert your model to a BRRES file that Mario Kart Wii can load using BrawlBox.
How to convert your model to a BRRES file that Mario Kart Wii can load using RiiStudio.
How to create a minimap for your level.

KCL Related

No dedicated tutorial, but it is fairly common to use Gabriela_'s [[1]] for KCL editing within Blender.

Guidelines on creating an optimized collision model, assigning properties such as boosts, walls, and off road to surfaces in your level.
How to convert your optimized collision model into a KCL using Wiimms SZS Tools.

KMP Related

How to set up objects, routes, checkpoints and many other important things.
How to import objects from other tracks.
How to edit other models (sky dome, item boxes, etc.) in your track.
How to set up intro and replay cameras in your level for a professional look.
How to set up a cannon using a KCL trigger and a KMP destination point.

Other

How to change data for effects such as fog, glow, bloom and lightning of the world.
Index of video tutorials on various subjects.

Miscellaneous Tutorials

These tutorials cover additional topics.

Model Related

Various things that can be done with your BRRES in BrawlBox, either to make the track look better or fix issues.
How to create and edit model or texture animations using BrawlBox.
How to add shadows so your track doesn't look like the floor emits its own light.

KCL Related

How to create moving terrain in your track.

KMP Related

How to create a custom battle arena.
How to setup objects with Extended presence flags

Other

How to convert music into the BRSTM format used by Mario Kart Wii and many other Nintendo games.
How to extract an existing model (such as from Nintendo or another custom track) from a BRRES back into the 3D model editor.
How to port 3D levels from other games such as Mario Kart 64, Mario Kart: Double Dash!! or Super Mario 64.
How to add advanced features provided by LE-CODE.
How to edit on-screen effects (such as Blooper ink or Lightning).

Testing and Reviewing

In all phases of the development, it is important to test the track. This is especially true before releasing the new track.

Testing check list.
Create an OBJ file and import it in a 3D tool to make a visual review of your track.
Scale your track, if it is too small or too large.

Crashes and Bugs

These pages cover various glitches and errors that may occur in your course.

Common reasons why your track might freeze the game.
Problems with transparent textures.
A little discussion about often found KCL glitches.
A visual artifact caused by repeated textures.
How to fix various problems with checkpoints.
Slow frame rates can make a fun level a dread to play.
A way to skip a large portion of a course by a glitch or skipping the first checkpoint.
If your viewpoint when playing gets stuck under your level, this tutorial is for you.
When two overlapping polygons/faces "fight" to be seen, which causes flickering in-game.

Tutorial Archive

The following programs and tutorials are outdated and/or obsolete and not recommended.

Software

This program is the predecessor of CTools. It can be used for editing things that CTools currently cannot. It is also better for certain tasks that CTools can handle, such as creating minimaps and editing KCL data, as both of these features in CTools have problems that will produce glitches in-game. Unlike CTools, SZS Modifier cannot expand files to make them larger than the originals.

Tutorials

How to convert your model to a BRRES file that Mario Kart Wii can load using the CTools Pack BRRES Editor.
How to add mipmaps to BRRES files created in CTools.
How to convert your collision model into a KCL using CTools and SZS Modifier.
How to remake a Paint level in SketchUp using an image, while maintaining the original scale and position of the track.
How to make your track with MS Paint and import into a BRRES file.
How to make your minimap using SZS Modifier and/or BRRES Editor.

Links

Custom Track Tutorials

Main Tutorials
Introduction – Textures – Scale – Modeling ⇒ Using Blender – BRRES: CTools
BRRES: BrawlBox – BRRES: RiiStudio – Minimap – Solidity – KCL: Wiimms Tools – KMP Editing
Object Editing – Cameras – Cannons – Post-effects – Videos

Battle Arenas
Battle Arenas – Enemy routes in battle arenas ⇒ Using Wiimm's Tools – Coins

Misc. Tutorials
Getting Files – BrawlBox Tricks – Animations – Shadows – Mipmaps
Custom Effects – Moving Terrain – Music – Ports – Paint Remakes – Tutorial Archive
Extended presence flags: Track Tutorial – LE-CODE Track FAQ

Testing and Reviewing
Testing a Track – Visual Review – Track Transformation – Fixing Errors

Software
3D Tools – BrawlBox – CTools Pack – KMP3D – KMP Cloud – KMP Modifier
Lorenzi's KMP Editor – MagicY – Material Tool – Post-Effect Editor – Wiimms SZS Tools – Wiimm's Tool Manager

Other
KMP Objects – Custom Objects – Model Database – Tutorial Archive

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