lords-of-ash/docs/REQUIRED_ASSETS.md

Required Visual Assets — Lords of Ash

Complete inventory of every visual asset needed across all milestones, from placeholder icons to publication-ready map art.

Summary

Category	Count	Format	First Needed
Trait icons	~26	DDS (uncompressed ARGB), 120x120	M8
Modifier icons	~53	DDS (uncompressed ARGB), 60x60	M4/M8
Decision illustrations	~10	DDS (DXT1), 1100x440	M8
Loading screens	3-5	DDS (DXT1), 3840x2160	M8
Bookmark art	6	DDS (DXT1/DXT5), 1920x1080 + UI sizes	M8
Coat of Arms emblems	12-15	DDS (uncompressed ARGB), 128x128	M3/M8
Religion icons	4-5	DDS (uncompressed ARGB), 100x100	M3/M8
Men-at-Arms icons	5	DDS (DXT5), 60x60	M8
Event scene backgrounds	16	DDS, 1592x848	M4/M8
Custom map files	20+	PNG/BMP/DDS/CSV (see specs)	M8
Portrait assets	varies	DDS (DXT5), 1024x1024	M8
Building icons	5	DDS (ARGB 32bpp), 60x60	M3/M8
Lifestyle assets	~45+	DDS, various (see 4d)	M4
Activity assets	~8+ per activity	DDS, various (see 4e)	M4
Scheme icons	2	DDS, 120x120	M4
Bookmark art	6	DDS (DXT1/DXT5), various	M8
Frontend art (optional)	2	DDS (DXT1), 3840x2160	M8
Workshop thumbnail	1	PNG, 512x512	M8
Total unique assets	~230+

Current State

Completed: 26 trait icons, 21 modifier icons, 5 loading screens, 1 bookmark background. Remaining ~175+ assets still needed. All culture graphics fall back to vanilla western_*_gfx packs. No custom map data exists.

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DDS Production Guide

All CK3 icon and illustration assets use the DDS (DirectDraw Surface) format.

Compression & Format Types (verified from CK3 v1.18 game files)

Use case	Format	Mipmaps	Notes
Trait icons (120x120)	Uncompressed ARGB 32bpp	No	Full alpha channel. NOT DXT compressed.
Modifier icons (60x60)	Uncompressed ARGB 32bpp	Yes (6 levels)	Full alpha channel.
Decision illustrations (1100x440)	DXT1 / BC1	No	No alpha needed. Some DLC use 2x (2200x880).
Loading screens (3840x2160)	DXT1 / BC1	No	Full 4K resolution.
Faith icons (100x100)	Uncompressed ARGB	No	Full alpha.
CoA colored emblems (128x128)	Uncompressed ARGB 32bpp	No	Required for color mask system. B8G8R8A8 Linear.
CoA patterns (256x256)	DXT1 / BC1	—	Opaque.
Tenet icons (260x400)	DXT5 / BC3	—	Tall format, with alpha.
Portrait textures	DXT5 / BC3	Yes	1024x1024 typical.
Map terrain textures	DXT5 / BC3	Yes	Tiling textures.
Bookmark backgrounds (1920x1080)	DXT1 / BC1	No	Opaque illustrations.
Bookmark character overlays (1920x1080)	DXT5 / BC3	No	With alpha for compositing.

Tools

• GIMP + NVIDIA DDS plugin (or GIMP 2.10+ built-in) — supports uncompressed ARGB export
• Paint.NET + DDS FileType Plus plugin — reliable, easy UI
• texconv (Microsoft DirectXTex) — CLI batch conversion from PNG to DDS
• Photoshop + Intel Texture Works plugin
• Blender / Maya — for portrait 3D model work (with CK3 export addon)

Workflow

1. Design at exact target resolution in PNG with transparent background
2. Export to DDS with the correct format per asset type (see table above)
3. Generate mipmaps only where required (modifier icons: yes; trait icons: no)
4. Place in correct gfx/ subdirectory with exact filename matching code reference

Common Pitfalls

• Trait icons must be uncompressed ARGB, not DXT5 — wrong format causes invisible icons
• Trait icons are 120x120, not 60x60 — wrong resolution causes scaling artifacts
• Missing mipmaps on modifier icons cause blurry scaling
• Anti-aliased edges in province maps crash the game
• CoA emblems must use uncompressed ARGB for the color mask system to work
• DDS files must match the exact filename referenced in code (case-sensitive on Linux)
• Loading screens are 4K (3840x2160), not 1080p — lower res will appear blurry

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M1: Foundation

No visual assets required. M1 is about data correctness — province history, scripted triggers, game rules, vanilla suppression. All visual display uses vanilla fallbacks.

Assets needed: 0

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M2: The Metallic Arts

No visual assets required. M2 validates and completes all metallic arts mechanics (traits, events, MaA balance). Trait icons will show as blank placeholders until M8, which is acceptable for testing.

Assets needed: 0

(Trait icon paths are defined in code during M2 but the actual .dds files are created in M8. Missing icons produce a "missing texture" log warning but don't crash the game.)

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M3: The Final Empire

Canonical characters, religions, buildings, kandra. Some assets benefit immersion but are not strictly required for functionality.

3a. Coat of Arms Emblems (Optional, polish in M8)

Custom dynasty and house crests for the 10 Great Houses, Lord Ruler, and special factions. In M3 these can use vanilla auto-generated CoA; custom emblems add polish.

Directory: gfx/coat_of_arms/colored_emblems/

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
ce_house_venture.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	House Venture — silver tower
ce_house_hasting.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	House Hasting — crossed swords
ce_house_elariel.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	House Elariel — rose motif
ce_house_lekal.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	House Lekal — shield/lion
ce_house_erikeller.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	House Erikeller — crest
ce_house_tekiel.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	House Tekiel — merchant scales
ce_house_bylerum.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	House Bylerum — crest
ce_house_getrue.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	House Getrue — crest
ce_house_urbain.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	House Urbain — crest
ce_house_entrone.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	House Entrone — crest
ce_house_rashek.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	Lord Ruler's house — atium/sun motif
ce_terris_synod.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	Terris Synod — metalminds
ce_kelsier_crew.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	128x128	Kelsier's crew — mistcloak/coin

Color mask system: Colored emblems use three recognized mask colors:

• Color 1: #000084 (blue)
• Color 2: #00FF94 (light green)
• Color 3: #FF0084 (magenta)

The engine tints these regions at runtime based on the CoA color definition. Emblems must use uncompressed ARGB 32bpp (B8G8R8A8 Linear) — DXT compression breaks the color mask system.

Emblem registration: Each emblem needs an entry in a definition file at gfx/coat_of_arms/colored_emblems/:

ce_house_venture.dds = {
    colors = 3        # Number of color channels (1, 2, or 3)
    visible = yes     # Show in CoA designer
}

CoA definitions go in common/coat_of_arms/coat_of_arms/ and auto-match by keyname (dynasty/house/title key = CoA key).

Also needed:

• Patterns in gfx/coat_of_arms/patterns/ — 256x256, DXT1 (optional, can reuse vanilla)
• CoA mask at gfx/coat_of_arms/coa_mask_texture.dds — 256x256, DXT1 (optional, vanilla default works)

Count: ~13 emblems

3b. Religion Icons (Optional, polish in M8)

Faith icons — gfx/interface/icons/faith/

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
steel_ministry.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	100x100	Steel Ministry sigil — vertical lines/spikes
terris_worldbringers.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	100x100	Keeper symbol — metalminds
survivorism.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	100x100	Survivor symbol — scars/mist
ruin_religion.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	100x100	Ruin symbol — cracked/destructive

Referenced in religion definition via icon = <name_without_extension>.

Doctrine icons (optional) — gfx/interface/icons/faith_doctrine_groups/

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
Custom doctrine group icons	DDS (ARGB)	120x120	One per custom doctrine group

Tenet icons (optional) — gfx/interface/icons/faith_doctrines/

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
Custom tenet icons	DDS (DXT5)	260x400	Tall format. One per custom tenet.

Count: 4 faith icons (required) + doctrine/tenet icons (optional)

3c. Building Icons (Optional, polish in M8)

Special buildings defined in M3 (Kredik Shaw, Pits of Hathsin, Conventical of Seran, Great Library of Tathingdwen, Urteau Canal) need icons for the holding view.

Asset	Path	Format	Resolution	Description
Kredik Shaw	gfx/interface/icons/buildings/building_kredik_shaw.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Spired fortress
Pits of Hathsin	gfx/interface/icons/buildings/building_pits_of_hathsin.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Mining pit / caves
Conventical of Seran	gfx/interface/icons/buildings/building_conventical_seran.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Dark monastery
Great Library	gfx/interface/icons/buildings/building_tathingdwen_library.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Grand library
Urteau Canal	gfx/interface/icons/buildings/building_urteau_canal.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Canal/waterway

Count: 5 icons

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M4: Scadrial on the Map

The vanilla map feels like Scadrial. Province modifiers, custom CBs, schemes, lifestyles, activities, and rethemed court content.

4a. Province Modifier Icons

New province modifiers defined in M4 need icons.

Asset	Path	Format	Resolution	Description
Heavy Mists	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_mist_heavy.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Thick swirling mist
Fertile Ashland	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_fertile_ashland.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Green sprout in grey ash

Count: 2 icons

4b. Custom Casus Belli Icons

Asset	Path	Format	Resolution	Description
Rebellion CB	gfx/interface/icons/casus_belli/cb_rebellion.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Raised fist / broken chain
House Conquest	gfx/interface/icons/casus_belli/cb_house_conquest.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Sword over noble crest
Reclaim Dominance	gfx/interface/icons/casus_belli/cb_reclaim_dominance.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Crown / territory map

Count: 3 icons

4c. Scheme Icons

Scheme definitions reference icons via icon = icon_scheme_<name> which maps to gfx/interface/icons/scheme_types/icon_scheme_<name>.dds.

Asset	Path	Format	Resolution	Description
Noble Infiltration	gfx/interface/icons/scheme_types/icon_scheme_noble_infiltration.dds	DDS	120x120	Masked figure at a ball
Skaa Recruitment	gfx/interface/icons/scheme_types/icon_scheme_skaa_recruit.dds	DDS	120x120	Hidden handshake

Schemes also reference an illustration field pointing to an event scene DDS for the scheme window background (see section 4f event backgrounds).

Count: 2 icons

4d. Lifestyle Assets

5 Mistborn-themed lifestyles planned in M4, each with a tree of perks. CK3 lifestyles require multiple asset types (verified from game files):

Lifestyle strip icons: gfx/interface/icons/lifestyles/

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
allomantic_lifestyle.dds	DDS	480x160	3-frame sprite strip — burning metals motif
political_lifestyle.dds	DDS	480x160	Noble court / intrigue motif
underworld_lifestyle.dds	DDS	480x160	Shadowy thieving crew motif
keeper_lifestyle.dds	DDS	480x160	Terris keeper with metalminds motif
military_lifestyle.dds	DDS	480x160	Hazekillers / Koloss battle motif

Focus icons: gfx/interface/icons/focuses/ — 140x140 DDS, ~3 per lifestyle

Lifestyle	Focus count (est.)	Example names
Allomantic	3	allomantic_burning_focus, allomantic_pushing_focus, allomantic_enhancement_focus
Political	3	political_authority_focus, political_scheming_focus, political_diplomacy_focus
Underworld	3	underworld_thieving_focus, underworld_smuggling_focus, underworld_recruitment_focus
Keeper	3	keeper_knowledge_focus, keeper_breeding_focus, keeper_preservation_focus
Military	3	military_command_focus, military_hazekiller_focus, military_koloss_focus

Perk tree backgrounds: gfx/interface/icons/lifestyle_tree_backgrounds/ — 348x812 DDS (tall strip), one per perk tree (~15 total for 5 lifestyles x 3 trees)

Lifestyle background illustrations: gfx/interface/illustrations/lifestyles_background/ — 608x1552 DDS (very tall vertical sidebar art), one per lifestyle

Perk node icons: gfx/interface/icons/lifestyles_perks/ — 180x60 DDS per node type

Count: 5 lifestyle strips + ~15 focus icons + ~15 tree backgrounds + 5 sidebar illustrations + perk nodes = ~45+ assets

4e. Activity Assets

Rethemed activities (Noble Ball, Mist Patrol). CK3 activities require multiple visual asset types (verified from game files):

Activity icons: gfx/interface/icons/activities/ — 80x80 standard + 164x164 header variant

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
activity_noble_ball.dds	DDS	80x80	Ball activity icon
activity_noble_ball_header.dds	DDS	164x164	Ball header variant
activity_mist_patrol.dds	DDS	80x80	Mist patrol icon
activity_mist_patrol_header.dds	DDS	164x164	Mist patrol header

Activity header backgrounds: gfx/interface/illustrations/activity_header_backgrounds/ — 1100x440 DDS

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
activity_noble_ball.dds	DDS	1100x440	Grand ballroom panoramic
activity_mist_patrol.dds	DDS	1100x440	Soldiers in mist panoramic

Activity type illustrations (vertical sidebar): gfx/interface/illustrations/activity_types/ — 460x1100 DDS

Activity phase icons (optional): gfx/interface/icons/activity_phases/ — 140-160px DDS

Activity intent icons (optional): gfx/interface/icons/activity_intents/ — 60x60 DDS

Count: 4 icons + 2 headers + optional type/phase/intent icons = ~8+ assets per activity

4f. Event Background Themes

Custom event themes so events don't use vanilla European backdrops. Vanilla has 205 event scene illustrations at 1592x848 (verified from game files).

Directory: gfx/interface/illustrations/event_scenes/

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
mistborn_court.dds	DDS	1592x848	Noble court with ash-stained windows
mistborn_streets.dds	DDS	1592x848	Luthadel street scene, ash and mist
mistborn_wilderness.dds	DDS	1592x848	Ash plains with distant ashmount
mistborn_ball.dds	DDS	1592x848	Ballroom scene, chandeliers, nobility
mistborn_dungeon.dds	DDS	1592x848	Dark dungeon / Pits of Hathsin caves
mistborn_temple.dds	DDS	1592x848	Steel Ministry canton interior
mistborn_battlefield.dds	DDS	1592x848	Battle scene with Koloss, ash
mistborn_mists.dds	DDS	1592x848	Dense mist scene, mysterious

Flavor event backgrounds (needed for M7 task 7.14 — see docs/events-registry.md):

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
mistborn_underground.dds	DDS	1592x848	Secret resistance hideout, torchlit underground passage
mistborn_fighting_pit.dds	DDS	1592x848	Underground fighting arena, crowd, torchlight, blood
mistborn_ruins.dds	DDS	1592x848	Pre-Ascension ruins deep underground, alien metalwork
mistborn_plantation.dds	DDS	1592x848	Skaa plantation, ash-covered fields, overseers
mistborn_private_chamber.dds	DDS	1592x848	Noble private study, candlelight, intimate setting
mistborn_market.dds	DDS	1592x848	Trade district or black market, shadowy stalls
mistborn_ashmount_close.dds	DDS	1592x848	Volcanic eruption close-up, glowing lava and ash
mistborn_clear_night.dds	DDS	1592x848	Rare clear night sky with stars — eerie absence of mist

Event background definitions go in common/event_backgrounds/:

mistborn_court_background = {
    background = {
        reference = "gfx/interface/illustrations/event_scenes/mistborn_court.dds"
        environment = "environment_event_courtroom"
        ambience = "event:/SFX/Events/Backgrounds/castle_interior"
    }
}

Event themes go in common/event_themes/ and reference the backgrounds:

mistborn_court_theme = {
    background = { reference = "mistborn_court_background" }
    icon = { reference = "gfx/interface/icons/event_types/type_intrigue.dds" }
}

Events reference themes via theme = mistborn_court_theme.

Event type icons (optional): gfx/interface/icons/event_types/ — 148x148 DDS

Count: 16 scene backgrounds + definition files

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M5: The Crew

Kelsier's unlanded adventurer band. Bookmark rework.

5a. Bookmark Character Portraits

Bookmark characters need curated portraits. CK3 uses the DNA/gene system for portraits, not separate image files. However, the bookmark screen shows a rendered portrait panel.

No separate image files needed — character appearance is controlled via has_scripted_appearance = yes and custom DNA strings in history files. But the DNA strings must be carefully crafted for:

• Kelsier (scarred arms, confident look, skaa features)
• Vin (small, young, dark hair, mistrustful expression)
• Elend Venture (noble, scholarly appearance)
• Straff Venture (older, stern noble)

Count: 0 image files (DNA is data, not art — but requires careful design)

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M6: The Plan

Core narrative arc events. No new visual asset categories introduced.

6a. Additional Modifier Icons

New modifiers introduced in M6 event arcs:

Asset	Path	Format	Resolution	Description
Full Crew Assembled	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_full_crew.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Circle of figures

Count: 1 icon

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M7: The Deepness

All event arcs, atium economy, political intrigue, Mistborn duels.

7a. Additional Modifier Icons

Asset	Path	Format	Resolution	Description
Eleventh Metal Insight	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_eleventh_metal_insight.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Golden metal shard
Duel Veteran	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_duel_veteran.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Crossed coin and sword
Atium Contract Holder	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_atium_contract_holder.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Atium geode with scroll
Mist Empowerment	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_mist_empowerment.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Swirling mist with glow
False Flag Framed	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_false_flag_framed.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Two crests with knife
Skaa Scandal Shame	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_skaa_scandal.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Broken noble mask
Beauty in Ash	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_beauty_in_ash.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Flower against grey
Hero of Ages	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_hero_of_ages.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Radiant figure in mist
Ashmount Eruption	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_ashmount_eruption.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Erupting volcano
Mist Fear	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_mist_fear.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Cowering figure in fog
Post-Empire Chaos	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_post_empire_chaos.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Crumbling tower
Terris Breeding Program	gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/modifier_terris_breeding.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Intertwined metalminds

Count: 12 icons

7b. Additional Decision Illustrations

New decisions from M7 event arcs:

Asset	Path	Format	Resolution	Description
Raid Noble House	gfx/interface/illustrations/decisions/decision_raid.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Night raid on a noble keep
Challenge Allomancer	gfx/interface/illustrations/decisions/decision_duel.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Two Allomancers facing off in mist
Assault Kredik Shaw	gfx/interface/illustrations/decisions/decision_assault_kredik_shaw.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Siege of Lord Ruler's palace

Count: 3 illustrations

7c. Flavor Event Modifier Icons

New modifiers introduced by the flavor events expansion (task 7.14 — see docs/events-registry.md for full event catalog).

Directory: gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
modifier_underground_network.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Skaa resistance network — hidden tunnels
modifier_keeper_advisor.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Terris Keeper serving as advisor — metalmind glow
modifier_pewter_gate_champion.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Fighting pit champion — fist and laurel
modifier_mist_scholar.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Scholar studying mist behavior — book and swirl
modifier_mist_warden.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Guardian against mist threats — shield and mist
modifier_mist_denier.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Willful ignorance of mist changes — closed eye
modifier_ruin_pact.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Accepted Ruin's bargain — dark handshake
modifier_ministry_insider.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Obligator informant — Ministry sigil with whisper
modifier_combat_veteran.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Survived the pewter gate — scarred knuckles
modifier_underground_contacts.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Underworld connections — shadowed handshake
modifier_house_rivalry.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Active feud with another house — crossed crests
modifier_cautious_ruler.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Learned caution from Lord Ruler attention — wary eye
modifier_defiant_confidence.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Hardened by defying the Lord Ruler — raised chin
modifier_paranoid_ruler.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Paranoia from attention experience — fractured mirror
modifier_mist_sickness.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Province: mist sickness outbreak — sick figure in fog
modifier_ashfall_crisis.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Province: severe ashfall — buried buildings
modifier_metal_shortage.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Metal supply disrupted — empty scales
modifier_skaa_loyalty.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Skaa population supportive — clasped hands
modifier_skaa_resentment.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Skaa population hostile — clenched fist
modifier_double_agent.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Running a turned spy — two-faced mask
modifier_artifact_corruption.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Ruin-tainted artifact — cracked relic with red glow

Count: 21 icons

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M8: The Art of Metals

Custom map, full graphics, publication polish. This is the primary art milestone where most visual assets are created.

8a. Custom Map Files

The single highest-risk and most labor-intensive asset category. CK3 maps require pixel-perfect files that work together as a set. All dimensions are relative to a base map size (W x H). Width must be >= height (known bug since v1.9: north part of heightmap renders black if height > width).

Recommended base size: 4096x2048 for a focused total conversion. Vanilla is 8192x4096. Power-of-2 dimensions recommended.

Directory: map_data/

Core Map Files (required)

File	Format	Dimensions	Depth	Description
provinces.png	PNG	W x H	24-bit RGB	Province boundaries. Each province is a unique RGB color. No anti-aliasing, no gradients, no alpha. Every pixel must match exactly one color from definition.csv. Pencil tool only — never brush. Black (0,0,0) = impassable.
heightmap.png	PNG	W x H	16-bit greyscale, RGB mode	Elevation data. Must be RGB mode, not RGBA (RGBA causes white fog rendering bug). Requires companion heightmap.heightmap declaring original_heightmap_size { W H }. After changes, must repack via CK3 map editor. Auto-generates indirection_heightmap.png (W/32 x H/32) and packed_heightmap.png.
rivers.png	PNG (indexed)	W x H	Indexed RGB	River network. No anti-aliasing, no transparency (causes CTD). River pixels must be orthogonally adjacent to max 2 other river pixels; splits/joins max 3.
definition.csv	CSV (; delimited)	—	—	ID;R;G;B;Name;x; — Province ID to RGB mapping. IDs must be sequential or game crashes. ~160 rows.
default.map	Text	—	—	Master config. Province type flags: blank=land, R=rivers, L=lakes, O=oceans, W=wasteland, IS=impassable seas, IM=impassable mountains.
adjacencies.csv	CSV	—	—	From;To;Type;Through;start_x;start_y;stop_x;stop_y;Comment. Types: sea, river_large. Must end with -1;-1;;-1;-1;-1;-1;-1; or infinite load.

River color conventions:

Color	RGB	Meaning
Green	#00FF00	River source
Red	#FF0000	Tributary junction
Yellow	#FFFC00	River split
Magenta	#FF0080	Sea/lake/navigable water connection
White	#FFFFFF	Land (no river)
Blue gradient	Various	River flow (darker = wider)

Scadrial heightmap values: Ashmounts: 220-250, Terris mountains: 180-220, Central plains: 40-60, River valleys: 20-35, Ocean: 0.

Terrain Files

File	Format	Dimensions	Description
Terrain masks (*_mask.bmp)	BMP (greyscale)	W x H	One per terrain type (e.g., plains_01_mask.bmp). Max height 4096px.
Terrain diffuse (*_diffuse.dds)	DDS (BC3/DXT5)	Tiling	Albedo/color texture per terrain type. With mipmaps.
Terrain normal (*_normal.dds)	DDS (BC3/DXT5)	Tiling	Normal map per terrain type.
Terrain properties (*_properties.dds)	DDS (BC3/DXT5)	Tiling	PBR: R=unused, G=specular, B=metalness, A=roughness.
detail_index.tga	TGA	W x H	Detail texture index map.
detail_intensity.tga	TGA	W x H	Detail texture intensity.
colormap.dds	DDS	W/2 x H/2	Overall color overlay at quarter resolution.
flatmap.dds	DDS	W x H	Paper/flat map view texture.
materials.settings	Text	—	Maps texture sets to mask files.

Province terrain assignment is defined separately in common/province_terrain/00_province_terrain.txt using the format province_id = terrain_type. 14 vanilla terrain types: plains, farmlands, hills, mountains, desert, desert_mountains, oasis, jungle, forest, taiga, wetlands, steppe, floodplains, drylands.

Water & Environment Files

File	Path	Format	Dimensions
flowmap.dds	gfx/map/water/	DDS	W/2 x H/2
foam_map.dds	gfx/map/water/	DDS	W/4 x H/4
watercolor_rgb_waterspec_a.dds	gfx/map/water/	DDS	W/√2 x H/√2
surround_mask.dds	gfx/map/surround_map/	DDS	W/√2 x H/√2
surround_fade.dds	gfx/map/surround_map/	DDS	W/4 x H/4
surround_tile.dds	gfx/map/surround_map/	DDS	Tiling

Map Object Placement (3D objects on map)

File	Path	Format	Description
building_locators.txt	gfx/map/map_object_data/	Text	Holding/building positions per barony
combat_locators.txt	gfx/map/map_object_data/	Text	Army combat positions
player_stack_locators.txt	gfx/map/map_object_data/	Text	Raised army positions
siege_locators.txt	gfx/map/map_object_data/	Text	Siege weapon positions
positions.txt	map_data/	Text	City/unit/text positions per province

Locator files can be auto-generated using the CK3 map editor's auto-nudge tool.

Defines (required for custom map dimensions)

File	Key	Value
common/defines/00_defines.txt	WORLD_EXTENTS_X	W - 1
common/defines/00_defines.txt	WORLD_EXTENTS_Z	H - 1
common/defines/00_defines.txt	WATERLEVEL	Height for ocean/lake
common/defines/graphic/00_graphics.txt	PANNING_WIDTH	W
common/defines/graphic/00_graphics.txt	PANNING_HEIGHT	H

Dimension Relationships Summary

All dimensions relative to base map (W x H):

File	Size
provinces.png, rivers.png, heightmap.png	W x H
flatmap.dds, detail_index/intensity, terrain masks	W x H
colormap.dds, flowmap.dds	W/2 x H/2 (quarter)
watercolor.dds, surround_mask.dds	~W/1.4 x H/1.4 (half area)
foam_map.dds, surround_fade.dds	W/4 x H/4 (sixteenth)
indirection_heightmap.png	W/32 x H/32

Map geography should depict:

• Roughly circular landmass with Luthadel at center
• Terris mountains in the north
• Ashmounts scattered throughout (5+ volcanic peaks)
• River Channerel flowing south through Central Dominance
• Pits of Hathsin in the south
• Remote Dominance at the edges / frontier
• Ocean or impassable wasteland beyond the Empire borders

Recommended approach: Start with 4096x2048 for prototyping. The Atlantis TC template provides a clean starting scaffold for total conversion map_data structure.

Count: ~20+ image/data files across map_data/ and gfx/map/

8b. Trait Icons

Every metallic arts trait defined in common/traits/ needs a custom icon.

Directory: gfx/interface/icons/traits/

Allomancy Misting traits (12 icons):

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
trait_misting_coinshot.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Steel — blue/silver pushing-coins motif
trait_misting_lurcher.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Iron — dark pulling-metals motif
trait_misting_thug.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Pewter — fist/strength motif
trait_misting_tineye.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Tin — eye/enhanced senses motif
trait_misting_soother.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Brass — calming wave motif
trait_misting_rioter.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Zinc — flame/emotion motif
trait_misting_smoker.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Copper — cloud/shield motif
trait_misting_seeker.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Bronze — detection/pulse motif
trait_misting_augur.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Gold — mirror/past-self motif
trait_misting_oracle.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Atium — eye-of-the-future motif
trait_misting_duralumin.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Duralumin — amplification burst
trait_misting_nicroburst.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Nicrosil — external amplification

Mistborn (1 icon):

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
trait_mistborn.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	All-metals motif, mist-swirling figure. This is the signature icon — make it striking.

Allomantic strength (3 icons):

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
trait_allomantic_weak.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Dim/faded metal glow
trait_allomantic_strong.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Bright metal glow
trait_allomantic_savant.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Intense/dangerous glow with cracks

Allomantic potential (2 icons):

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
trait_allomantic_potential.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Dormant spark, hidden potential
trait_mistborn_potential.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Brighter dormant spark (Mistborn-level)

Feruchemy (2 icons):

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
trait_feruchemist.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Metalmind/arm-band motif, Terris styling
trait_feruchemy_potential.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Dormant metalmind motif

Hemalurgy (6 icons):

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
trait_hemalurgist.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Dark spike motif, blood/corruption
trait_hemalurgic_steel.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Steel spike — thin, precise
trait_hemalurgic_pewter.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Pewter spike — thick, brutal
trait_hemalurgic_bronze.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Bronze spike — warm-toned
trait_hemalurgic_atium.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Atium spike — rare, glowing
trait_knows_hemalurgy.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	120x120	Book/knowledge with dark undertone

Count: 26 icons

8c. Modifier Icons

Every modifier needs a unique icon. Several currently share placeholder paths.

Directory: gfx/interface/icons/modifiers/

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
modifier_compounder.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Golden dual-power (Allomancy + Feruchemy fused)
modifier_lord_ruler_attention.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Red eye/gaze of the Lord Ruler
modifier_lord_ruler_attention_1.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Amber eye (Tier 1 — warning)
modifier_lord_ruler_attention_2.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Red eye (Tier 2 — investigation)
modifier_lord_ruler_attention_3.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Burning eye (Tier 3 — retribution)
modifier_steel_ministry_favor.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Steel Ministry sigil, gold/positive
modifier_steel_ministry_displeasure.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Steel Ministry sigil, cracked/red
modifier_ash_blight.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Grey ash covering land
modifier_koloss_rampage.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Blue koloss fist/destruction
modifier_great_house_status.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Noble house crest with gold frame
modifier_atium_supply.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Atium geode, shimmering
modifier_breeding_for_allomancy.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Intertwined bloodlines motif
modifier_ruin_influence.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Dark red corruption veins
modifier_steel_inquisitor_power.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Spiked eye sockets, menacing
modifier_mist_heavy.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Dense mist (also in M4)
modifier_fertile_ashland.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Green in grey (also in M4)
modifier_full_crew.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Circle of figures (also in M6)
modifier_eleventh_metal_insight.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Golden metal shard (also in M7)
modifier_duel_veteran.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Crossed coin and sword (also in M7)
modifier_atium_contract_holder.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Atium geode with scroll (also in M7)

(Plus 12 from M7a and 21 from M7c — see M7 sections above.)

Count: ~20 base + 12 from M7a + 21 from M7c = ~53 total modifier icons

Note: Many of these are listed in both the milestone where they're first referenced in code (M4/M6/M7) and here in M8 where they're physically created. Create all modifier icons together during M8 for consistency.

8d. Decision Illustrations

Large artwork panels shown behind decisions in the decision detail view.

Directory: gfx/interface/illustrations/decisions/

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
decision_host_ball.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Noble ball scene — chandelier, dancing
decision_snapping.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Character in pain, awakening power
decision_hemalurgy.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Dark ritual with metallic spike
decision_hire_kandra.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Shapeshifter in shadows
decision_breed_allomancy.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Noble house genealogy with metal glow
decision_smuggle_atium.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Cloaked figure with atium geode
decision_recruit_skaa.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Skaa allomancer hiding powers
decision_crack_down_skaa.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Noble overseeing skaa workers
decision_improve_conditions.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Compassionate scene with skaa
decision_raid.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Night raid on noble keep (also in M7)
decision_duel.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Allomantic duel (also in M7)
decision_assault_kredik_shaw.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1100x440	Siege of the spired palace (also in M7)

Count: ~12 illustrations

8e. Loading Screens

Custom loading screen art replaces vanilla during game load.

Directory: gfx/interface/illustrations/loading_screens/

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
ls_luthadel_skyline.dds	DDS (DXT1)	3840x2160	Luthadel skyline — ash, mists, spired buildings
ls_kredik_shaw.dds	DDS (DXT1)	3840x2160	Kredik Shaw palace — towering spires
ls_ashmounts.dds	DDS (DXT1)	3840x2160	Ashmounts at sunset — volcanic glow
ls_vin_mists.dds	DDS (DXT1)	3840x2160	Vin leaping through mist — action pose
ls_kelsier_overlooking.dds	DDS (DXT1)	3840x2160	Kelsier on rooftop overlooking Luthadel

CK3 automatically cycles through images. Configuration is via loadscreen_settings.txt in the same directory:

luthadel_skyline = { priority = 2 }
kredik_shaw = { priority = 2 }
ashmounts = { priority = 2 }
vin_mists = { priority = 2 show_first = yes }

Format: <filename_without_extension> = { priority = <int> }. Use show_first = yes to prioritize a specific screen.

Count: 3-5 images + 1 config file

8f. Bookmark Art

The "End of an Empire" bookmark needs multiple art assets (verified from vanilla).

Multiple files per bookmark:

Asset	Path	Format	Resolution	Description
Main background	gfx/interface/bookmarks/bm_end_of_an_empire.dds	DDS (DXT1)	1920x1080	Mist-shrouded Luthadel with Kredik Shaw, ash falling
Kelsier character overlay	gfx/interface/bookmarks/bm_end_of_an_empire_bookmark_kelsier.dds	DDS (DXT5)	1920x1080	Kelsier character art with alpha for compositing
Vin character overlay	gfx/interface/bookmarks/bm_end_of_an_empire_bookmark_vin.dds	DDS (DXT5)	1920x1080	Vin character art with alpha
Elend character overlay	gfx/interface/bookmarks/bm_end_of_an_empire_bookmark_elend.dds	DDS (DXT5)	1920x1080	Elend character art with alpha
Big icon	gfx/interface/icons/bookmark_big/bm_end_of_an_empire.dds	DDS	336x152	Thumbnail in bookmark selection list
Button	gfx/interface/icons/bookmark_buttons/bm_end_of_an_empire.dds	DDS	580x160	Bookmark selection button

Character overlays are composited on the background. Each shows a single character in their position = { x y } as defined in the bookmark definition. Use DXT5 (alpha) for overlays, DXT1 (opaque) for the background.

Count: 6 assets (1 background + 3 character overlays + 2 UI elements)

8g. Portrait & Ethnicity Assets

Custom ethnicity definitions for the three Scadrial cultures, plus portrait modifiers for Hemalurgic characters.

Custom ethnicity definitions (data files, not images):

File	Description
common/ethnicities/00_scadrial_ethnicities.txt	scadrial_noble (pale), scadrial_skaa (darker/weathered), scadrial_terris (dark-skinned per lore)

Portrait modifier textures (optional, for Hemalurgic spike visuals):

Portrait modifiers are defined in gfx/portraits/portrait_modifiers/ (33 files in vanilla). They use dna_modifiers blocks with modes: add, replace, modify. Weight-based selection triggered by traits, culture, religion, rank.

Asset	Path	Format	Resolution	Description
Inquisitor spike overlay	gfx/portraits/portrait_modifiers/inquisitor_eyes.txt	Text + DDS	—	Modifier definition + textures

For visual spike effects, options:

• Option A (simpler): Scripted DNA with has_scripted_appearance = yes for named Inquisitors. Uses existing disfigured/scarred appearance genes.
• Option B (complex): Custom portrait modifier triggered by traits. Requires custom accessory meshes and textures (Blender + CK3 export addon).

Culture graphics packs (optional, aspirational):

To fully replace the vanilla Western aesthetic, a complete custom gfx pack includes (all textures DXT5, 1024x1024 unless noted):

Category	Path	Format	Resolution	Count (est.)
Clothing diffuse	gfx/models/portraits/m_clothes/ & f_clothes/	DDS (DXT5)	1024x1024	~20 per gender
Hair textures	gfx/models/portraits/m_hair/ & f_hair/	DDS (DXT5)	1024x1024	~10 per gender
Headgear textures	gfx/models/portraits/m_headgear/ & f_headgear/	DDS (DXT5)	512-1024	~10 per gender

These are major art projects requiring 3D modeling. For v1.0, using vanilla western_*_gfx with custom ethnicity settings is acceptable. Custom culture graphics are a post-launch enhancement.

Frontend / Main Menu (optional polish):

Asset	Path	Format	Resolution	Description
Frontend background	gfx/interface/illustrations/frontend/frontend_bg.dds	DDS (DXT1)	3840x2160	Custom main menu background — Scadrial themed
Pause background	gfx/interface/illustrations/frontend/pause_bg.dds	DDS (DXT1)	3840x2160	Custom pause screen

Count: 1 data file + optional portrait/clothing/frontend assets

8h. Men-at-Arms Custom Icons

Replace the generic vanilla icon references with custom Mistborn-themed icons.

Directory: gfx/interface/icons/regiments/

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
hazekillers.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Elite warrior with obsidian weapons
koloss.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Blue-skinned giant with crude sword
mistborn_agents.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Mistcloaked figure in shadow
skaa_levies.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Ragged peasant militia
noble_guard.dds	DDS (ARGB 32bpp)	60x60	Armored house guard

To use custom MaA icons, update common/men_at_arms_types/00_mistborn_maa.txt from icon = heavy_infantry to icon = hazekillers (custom type) and register the icon type.

Count: 5 icons

8i. Steam Workshop Thumbnail

Asset	Format	Resolution	Description
thumbnail.png	PNG	512x512	Mod logo — Mistborn silhouette, metallic arts symbol, or Scadrial landscape. Must read clearly at small sizes.

Placed at lords_of_ash/thumbnail.png.

Count: 1 image

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Asset Totals by Milestone

Milestone	New Assets	Cumulative	Categories
M1	0	0	—
M2	0	0	—
M3	0 (23 optional)	0 (23)	CoA emblems, religion icons, building icons
M4	0 (98+ optional)	0 (121+)	Province modifier icons, CB icons, scheme icons, lifestyle assets (~45+), activity assets (~16+), event backgrounds (16)
M5	0	0 (121+)	DNA strings only
M6	0 (1 optional)	0 (122+)	1 modifier icon
M7	0 (36 optional)	0 (158+)	33 modifier icons (12 existing + 21 flavor events), 3 decision illustrations
M8	~230+	~230+	Everything — map (20+), all icons, loading screens, bookmark (6), portraits, thumbnail

Strategy: All visual assets can be deferred to M8 without breaking functionality. Icons show as blank/missing-texture in earlier milestones, which is acceptable during development. Creating assets incrementally during each milestone is ideal for iterating on style, but all can be batched in M8.

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Priority Order for Art Production

If creating assets incrementally rather than all in M8:

Priority 1 — Map files (M8.1)

The map is the riskiest, most complex, and most impactful visual change. Start early and test obsessively.

Priority 2 — Trait icons (M8.4, 26 icons)

Most player-facing icons. Visible in character sheets, tooltips, dynastic views. Establish the visual language of the metallic arts here.

Priority 3 — Loading screens + Bookmark art (M8.5, 4-6 images)

First impression art. Players see these before gameplay. High impact on perceived quality.

Priority 4 — Decision illustrations (M8.5, ~12 images)

Visible whenever players interact with decisions. Moderate effort, high return.

Priority 5 — Modifier icons (M8.5, ~53 icons)

Visible in tooltips and character modifiers. Important but can survive as placeholders longer.

Priority 6 — Event backgrounds (M4f, 16 images)

Replace vanilla European backdrops. High immersion value for events.

Priority 7 — Lifestyle assets (M4d, ~45+ assets)

Multiple asset types per lifestyle (strips, focuses, tree backgrounds, sidebar illustrations, perk nodes). Use a consistent visual template per lifestyle.

Priority 8 — Everything else

CoA emblems, religion icons, building icons, MaA icons, portrait modifiers, workshop thumbnail. These are all polish-level assets.

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Art Style Guide

All visual assets should follow a consistent Mistborn aesthetic:

• Color palette: Muted greys, dark blues, burnt oranges, metallic silvers and golds. The world is perpetually overcast with falling ash.
• Motifs: Metal symbols (steel, iron, pewter, tin, etc.), mist swirls, falling ash, spires (Kredik Shaw), spikes (Hemalurgy), metalminds (Feruchemy)
• Tone: Dark fantasy with moments of hope. Gritty but not grimdark.
• Typography reference: Angular, metallic — inspired by the Mistborn book cover designs
• Icon style: Clean silhouettes on transparent backgrounds. Each metallic art icon should be immediately distinguishable at 60x60 pixels.
• Illustrations: Painterly style with dramatic lighting. Mist and ash should be present in outdoor scenes. Interior scenes feature candlelight and metal fixtures.

---

Directory Structure (Final)

lords_of_ash/
├── common/
│   ├── defines/
│   │   ├── 00_defines.txt                # WORLD_EXTENTS_X/Z, WATERLEVEL
│   │   └── graphic/
│   │       └── 00_graphics.txt           # PANNING_WIDTH/HEIGHT
│   ├── province_terrain/
│   │   └── 00_scadrial_terrain.txt       # Province-to-terrain assignment
│   └── ...
├── gfx/
│   ├── coat_of_arms/
│   │   └── colored_emblems/              # ~13 house/faction emblems
│   ├── interface/
│   │   ├── bookmarks/                    # 6 bookmark assets (bg + overlays + UI)
│   │   ├── icons/
│   │   │   ├── bookmark_big/             # 1 bookmark thumbnail (336x152)
│   │   │   ├── bookmark_buttons/         # 1 bookmark button (580x160)
│   │   │   ├── buildings/                # 5 building icons
│   │   │   ├── activities/                # activity icons (80x80 + 164x164)
│   │   │   ├── activity_intents/         # intent icons (60x60)
│   │   │   ├── activity_phases/          # phase icons (140-160px)
│   │   │   ├── casus_belli/              # 3 CB icons
│   │   │   ├── faith/                    # 4 faith icons (100x100)
│   │   │   ├── faith_doctrine_groups/    # doctrine group icons (120x120)
│   │   │   ├── faith_doctrines/          # tenet icons (260x400)
│   │   │   ├── focuses/                  # ~15 focus icons (140x140)
│   │   │   ├── lifestyle_tree_backgrounds/ # ~15 tree bgs (348x812)
│   │   │   ├── lifestyles/               # 5 lifestyle strips (480x160)
│   │   │   ├── lifestyles_perks/         # perk nodes (180x60)
│   │   │   ├── modifiers/                # ~53 modifier icons (60x60)
│   │   │   ├── regiments/                # 5 MaA icons
│   │   │   ├── scheme_types/             # 2 scheme icons (120x120)
│   │   │   └── traits/                   # 26 trait icons (120x120)
│   │   └── illustrations/
│   │       ├── activity_header_backgrounds/ # activity headers (1100x440)
│   │       ├── activity_types/           # activity sidebars (460x1100)
│   │       ├── decisions/                # ~12 decision illustrations (1100x440)
│   │       ├── event_scenes/             # 16 event backgrounds (1592x848)
│   │       ├── frontend/                 # 2 optional (menu bg, pause bg; 4K)
│   │       ├── lifestyles_background/    # 5 lifestyle sidebars (608x1552)
│   │       └── loading_screens/          # 3-5 loading screens (4K) + settings
│   ├── map/
│   │   ├── map_object_data/              # building/combat/siege locators
│   │   ├── surround_map/                 # surround_mask, surround_fade, surround_tile
│   │   ├── terrain/                      # terrain masks, diffuse/normal/properties DDS
│   │   │   └── materials.settings        # texture-to-mask mapping
│   │   └── water/                        # flowmap, foam_map, watercolor
│   └── portraits/
│       └── portrait_modifiers/           # 2 optional portrait overlays
├── map_data/
│   ├── definition.csv                    # Province ID -> RGB color mapping
│   ├── default.map                       # Master map config
│   ├── provinces.png                     # Province boundary map (W x H)
│   ├── heightmap.png                     # Elevation (16-bit greyscale)
│   ├── heightmap.heightmap               # Declares original_heightmap_size
│   ├── rivers.png                        # River network (indexed RGB)
│   ├── positions.txt                     # Province positions
│   ├── adjacencies.csv                   # Strait/river crossings
│   ├── colormap.dds                      # Color overlay (W/2 x H/2)
│   ├── flatmap.dds                       # Paper map view (W x H)
│   ├── detail_index.tga                  # Detail texture index (W x H)
│   ├── detail_intensity.tga              # Detail texture intensity (W x H)
│   └── geographical_regions/
│       └── 00_scadrial_regions.txt
└── thumbnail.png                         # Workshop thumbnail (512x512 PNG)