Palette Designer
From The Game-Maker Archive
Release type: Retail (Game-Maker suite)
Release date: 1991 (original release)
Author: G. Andrew Stone
Related tools: Graphics Image Reader, Block Designer, Character Maker, Monster Maker, Map Maker, Integrator, Xferplay
Produces and edits .PAL format files. Programmed by Gregory Stone.
Version history
1994 - Version 3.00
Tips
Techniques
- Be sure to set color #255 (Clear) to a neutral color that you are unlikely to confuse for a solid color used in your character or monster sprites. Try a deep grayish blue, for instance R:5 G:10 B:20.
- Experts use multiple palettes for a more dynamic, colorful game. If you can, try to narrow down the most important colors for your game.
- Which colors will make up your characters and weapons?
- Which will you use for monsters?
If you reserve those colors in the same static palette slots, then on a level-by-level basis you easily can change up the colors in the remaining slots to allow for more range and subtlety in the backgrounds -- or conversely, to alter sprite colors for dramatic or atmospheric effect. Is the level dark? Darken the character's colors. Is there a sickly cast to the lighting? Add a little green to each color.
