New Unit Images

[bailey.5050]

Okay, so I have spent several hours playing with Gimp and trying to get the images of units to actually look decent. I have been able to:

1. Create the unit in the database.
2. Copy the *00.png file to the proper folder and have it appear in the unit database.
3. Image shows up in a test game.

Problem is, image looks like crap because I do not know what specific options to select when exporting the Gimp file to png.

My ultimate goal: create new image units that look like the NATO counters from the game Warplan. https://imgur.com/sCnAexG

When playing Empire, the color of the player might be green or blue (controls allow us to change the color scheme before starting the game). Problem is, I do not know what parts to make transparent.

Anyone have any ideas? And please explain it to me like I am 2. I will not get insulted. I prefer step-by-step instructions.

[bailey.5050]

I found the FG and BG colors for image 00 (standard) and get the colors to match now. Just gotta make it pop now.

[backwardcadence]

Here's a link to the template I use for all my units that accounts for scaling and the indicators applied on top of the icons:
https://worldsofnations.com/2019/06/11/empire-deluxe-unit-template-edut-version-1-2/

sounds like you already found the primary and secondary player colors. The thing that will get you is the integer scaling that is applied when the map zooms in and out. EDUT was my approach, but you may have to just test it until you understand how it adds/removes pixels. Especially icons with an X on it usually need an additional level of thickness to look right.

Also, don't be afraid to make colorful images and just swap out the background to be specific to a player color. Feel free to use my icons as a base if it helps get you going.

[bailey.5050]

Thanks for the link. I have not had much time recently due to real life working but hope to eventually make some units. My NATO infantry unit worked but it does not pop like I want it to. I might need to add a 2 pixel border.

[gryphin.rampant]

Not sure if this helps:
1) I created a template
a) 512x512 pixels, (I need it that big to see it. Yours can be as small as 128sq pixels)
b) With the Red, (FF0000), and Green, (00FF00) colors
c) In game I use solid red background and black forground

2) I use generic 'light grey' Background for Sentry, ('02') units
3) I create my units at a larger size and then shrink them to fit

4) AI units are designed for even higher visibility
a) AI units are black forground with Green background
b) In game I change the background to something light for higher contrast.

I'll be happy to upload them for your perusal.