Microsoft Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings Official Scenario Design Toolkit

Comment: I just recently got this book and have already been able to make professsional quality maps. I used to wonder how maps I played on the zone such as Castle Blood were made. But thankx to this map I found out how. It tells you how to use all of the options and features of the scenaio creator as well as share tips and secrets to make a great scenario. If you want to make your own maps but don't know how or where to start then buy this book. You might even want to anyway because most people won't know every trick and tip in the creator unless you read this book.

Comment: I just happened on this incredible piece of work- it's a true symphony of the artist/designer & the aspiring (or never tried)programmer. The book allows one to learn the actual mindsets of both- & gives plenty of oportunity to explore ones own creations. The accompanying CD is a real find with its readily available AI. Not only has it enhanced my own pleasure in this series of games, but I have also utilized it as a training tool. I am really grateful to the authors for sharing their expertice, & for Ensemble, MS, & Sybex for recognizing how wonderful a chance this is to those of us who have the imagination- but neither the time or the computer knowledge to actually design a game.

Comment: It is exceptionally difficult to find a book that actually helps to crack open the mystery behind solid scenario, mission, or level design. This book actually helps guide the reader - novice or adept - through the steps necessary to develop solid, enjoyable scenarios. Whether or not the reader has aspirations to enter the game industry, this book will help to generate an understanding both what makes a game fun and how to create entertaining game experiences. Note that this guide is specific to the game AOE2: The Age of Kings. The general design tips and tricks, however, can be applied to level/mission/scenario design for any game.

Comment: Very helpful and easy to read. The CD-ROM has many helpful utilites and ideas. There are some drawbacks: No Index made searching for topics difficult. The AI section could have explained the different actions and conditions in sighlty more detail. Color pictures would have been nice.

Comment: If you like creating scenarios and campaigns I recommend you this book. (You know, to have the same effects as the campaigns, for example make scenarios like the first Genghis Khan level.