Map generator

Generation

The map generator (world generator) is based on modificated Perlin noise algorithm. A more detailed description is in the API docu.

Article, which describes the generation.

Starting area

To have the maps not totally unfair, you can define also the size of a starting area, which tries to set all most needed resources in a small area.

Generating when exploring

The map is endless (if not defined with limits). However the whole map isn't generated from start. A new Chunk of map is generated, when explored. This means you come to the current visible borders and then the needed chunks are generated. Or you placed some Radar.

Map seed / Map Exchange String

http://www.factorioforums.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=6447&p=50336#p50318

Map Seed - random number generator seed

Map Exchange String - All settings for the map creation (Map Seed, settings for resources, settings for size, etc.)

See also

• The Map Generator hates your guts, or dude where is my coal?
• Some technically info
• Temperature based biome-model (how trees are placed)