If you use the default Smile Tool map editor, you'll know it saves large files. This program aims to take all or individual map layers and export them into PRG3 as DATA instructions with the "WriteMap" function and redraw the entire map with that DATA in the "DrawMap" function. This saves more space than saves from the Smile Tool and produces the same results. All layer data can be exported into a single file as well. This tool is intended to be used to reduce the file size from existing DAT files produced by the Smile Tool map editor. I may or may not create a map editor with these functions integrated in the future.

Instructions:

Copy either your map DAT:SC_ files into this program folder or copy READMAP into your own program. Run the READMAP program. Choose one of the following:

• Choose from file

  This option is best for converting individual layers. Choosing this option will give you a drop down to select a single file. Only SC_ saves are compatible.
• Input file name

  This option allows you to input the name of your map and convert all layers simultaneously (if SC_ saves exist). You must exclude the file type and layer number part of the file name. As an example, only input the bold: DAT:SC_TESTMAP_L0

Choose whether or not you want to test the output of the map data (this dialog box still prompts, even if you've input the file name incorrectly, this may be corrected in a minor update in the future) Manually save the generated code in PRG3 and copy into your program folder if necessary. Copy the "DrawMap" and/or "Test" function into your program.

usage

DrawMap LabelNameString$, Layer number, 64

You may edit this program into a FOR loop to draw multiple layers simultaneously or use included function

Test LabelNameString$, 1'if global variable SIZE%=64

There are included map files for testing if you wish to use them.

Notes:

Revisions

Version 2.0

• Changed the WriteMap function to export tile data, x and y location so that empty spaces are not exported
• Changed the DrawMap function to accommodate the WriteMap function
• Added the option to input the map name to convert all layers simultaneously

Version 1.0

• Initial release