How to Use the Deep Desert Mapping Tool
Basic Controls
- Left-click a subcell (3x3 grid within each cell) to open the icon picker.
- Right-click a grid cell to toggle explored/unexplored status.
- Drag & Drop icons from the legend panels to place them on the map.
- Escape key closes any open modal (icon picker or help).
Icon Management
- Each cell is divided into a 3x3 subcell grid for precise icon placement.
- Icons automatically scale based on quantity in the same subcell (1-4+ icons).
- House icons can only be placed once per map and show as grayed out when already placed.
- Click an icon in the picker again to remove it from the subcell.
Map Features
- Explore All - Mark all cells as explored at once.
- Undo/Redo - Revert or replay your last actions (up to 100 steps).
- Clear Map - Reset the entire map (requires confirmation).
- Unexplored cells appear with a dark overlay (70% opacity).
- Grid coordinates are shown in each cell (A1-I9).
Export & Sharing
- Export JSON - Save your map data to a file for backup.
- Import JSON - Load a previously saved map file.
- Export PNG - Generate a high-quality image with legends and timestamp.
- Share Link - Create a shortened URL to share your map with others.
- Combine Maps - Link to external tool for merging multiple maps.
Storm Timer
- Shows countdown to the next storm for your selected server region.
- Toggle between UTC and Local time display.
- Storm phases: Normal, Active.
- Supported regions: Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Oceania.
Tips & Shortcuts
- The map auto-saves to your browser's local storage.
- PNG exports include transparent legend boxes with all icons labeled.
- The tool is mobile-responsive with adjusted layouts for smaller screens.
- Icons in subcells support up to 4 in specific layouts, 5+ in dynamic grid.