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Create a BlueprintIn a graphics editor, open the height map you plan to use for reference. Add a layer above it. Paint your roads on the top layer in white with a 12px brush to match in-world road size. Add outlines of lots. A 64x64 lot is 64px square, and so on. Keep in mind that you will need quite a bit of room to smooth hils near roads and that lots require some space between.
You'll need to flatten the image for export, so save a copy of the version with layers for editing. For the exported image, you'll need a 100% black background behind your white blueprint, and the height map (if it isn't pure black) should be hidden.
Import the blueprint as a terrain layer and give it a texture that will stand out against your other colors. Ta-da! You'll see exactly where you want to place roads and lots. When you are done, simply delete the terrain layer. Making additional blueprints to map out things like lakes, unroutable high-density forests, or signs can also be helpful. |