Correct values for far_Z_clip on env_fog_controller?

Correct values for far_Z_clip on env_fog_controller?

Re: Correct values for far_Z_clip on env_fog_controller? Posted by Bender on Fri Sep 8th 2006 at 11:51pm
Bender
38 posts
Posted 2006-09-08 11:51pm
Bender
member
38 posts 34 snarkmarks Registered: Aug 18th 2006 Occupation: Middle School Technology Teacher Location: U.S.A.
I was hoping that someone could explain how the value for the far z clip plane works. Since my map is rather wide open, i've decided to try using fog to increase performance, and from what i've heard, an effective way to do this is to have this far z clip plane values set so it "clips the plane" at the edge of the fog. I havent found anywhere on valve or here exactly what the value represents, its just set at -1? OK -1 what? Pixels? Inches? Are there any other specific settings that are key to maximize use of the env_fog_controller for performance? Thanks for the expertise and the time!

~BENDER
Re: Correct values for far_Z_clip on env_fog_controller? Posted by Campaignjunkie on Sat Sep 9th 2006 at 4:25am
Campaignjunkie
1309 posts
Posted 2006-09-09 4:25am
1309 posts 329 snarkmarks Registered: Feb 12th 2002 Occupation: Student Location: West Coast, USA
It represents the distance from the player at which it will stop rendering visible geometry. For example, a value of "3000" means the camera will stop rendering visible geometry 3000 units away from the player. "-1" means it renders ALL visible geometry. Ideally, you will want to use fog to hide the fact that portions of your level are being hidden. For instance, the edges of the water brushes in the HL2 coast levels.

There aren't any "correct" values. You set them according to your needs with your level.
Re: Correct values for far_Z_clip on env_fog_controller? Posted by Dark_Kilauea on Sat Sep 9th 2006 at 6:19am
Dark_Kilauea
629 posts
Posted 2006-09-09 6:19am
629 posts 123 snarkmarks Registered: Apr 15th 2005 Occupation: Fast Food Location: USA
Play with the clip, but make sure it is behind the max visable distance of the fog, or it will look bad.

Try 1024 for starters :smile:
Dark_Kilauea
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