Flash MX 2004 Games : Art to ActionScript

Flash MX 2004 Games
better to export the image as a bitmap from Flash and then import the bitmap as a replacement
for the vector art. A bitmap can be as complex as you want and yet make no difference to the
speed of updating. A bitmap is still slower than a simple vector graphic, but a bitmap is much
faster than complex vector art. If the image is never scaled, then you will not suffer a big reduction
in picture quality moving from vector to bitmap. If, however, you intend to use scaling
in the game then you will get much better imagery using vector art. Commercial artists have
always had to balance the problems of delivery and aesthetic and Flash artists have very similar
problems.
When you create your background art make sure that it does not overshadow your characters;
make sure that they have the space to move around and are not overconfined by the
design. Also consider using several layers so that your characters can appear from behind a
section of the background. Figure 5.6 shows a simple medieval room set; the design allows
the central magician character to walk up the stairs, disappearing behind the wall as he climbs
the spiral steps. The design incorporates the chimney for the magician’s cauldron on a separate
layer so that the character can go behind this element of the set, giving extra depth to the
animation.
Figure 5.6 Give your characters space
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