After more than 10 years, "The Picture" - the Hive's unofficial terraining contest has returned!

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Description:
The goal of this contest is to challenge terrainers to adapt to their situation, you are presented with a template that has certain aspects you cannot change and certain objects you cannot remove, you are locked to a specific camera angle and you have to work around these limitations to create something unique and wonderful of your own. So, without further ado, here's the rules:

The Rules:

• Contestants must use the "The Picture" camera angle/asset for their submissions and cannot alter the camera object in any way.
• Contestants cannot alter the elevation (topography) that has already been changed, although so long as the distinctive height variation stays the same, you may make small changes.
• "Flat" surfaces can be changed.
• Contestants cannot delete, resize, or hide doodads that are already placed in any way, the final submission must contain these objects visibly.
• Contestants can change tile-set, fog-setting, time of day, place, and tint doodads in any way they want and otherwise add any details they want.
• Contestants can use custom models and assets in their entries.
• Contestants can submit HD and SD entries.

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Are you a fan of immersive fantasy worlds, filled with rich lore and intriguing characters? ​

If so, then you're in for a treat! Nyctaeus shared a captivating update about the hosted project "Exodus". The article titled "Codex Entries 01-02-03: Jiluun, The Enclave, The Cleansers" awaits your discovery.

This article offers a glimpse into the enigmatic realm of Jiluun. With its finely crafted prose and meticulous attention to detail, it promises to transport you to a world brimming with magic, mystery, and adventure.

In "Codex Entries 01-02-03," you'll uncover tantalizing insights into the lore surrounding Jiluun. From the enigmatic Enclave, shrouded in secrecy, to the formidable Cleansers who safeguard its borders, each entry unveils a new layer of this fantastical universe.

But why stop there? The full version of the article promises an even deeper dive into the intricacies of Jiluun's lore. As you read, you'll find yourself drawn further into its spellbinding narrative, eager to uncover its many secrets.

Whether you're a seasoned fantasy enthusiast or simply seeking an escape into a world of wonder, Exodus offers something for everyone. So why wait? Embark on an adventure like no other and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Jiluun today. Click here to read the full article and begin your journey into the unknown.

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One of the Hiveworkshop's longest-standing projects - The Legends of Arkain True Story is now fully released and playable! A few words from the series creator:​

Shar Dundred said:

8th January 2024
Ladies and gentlemen,

it is my honor to announce that today is the day of the full release of the True Story of Arkain!
From this day on, it is no longer called a "demo".

After three years of production and over nine years of Arkain on the Hive Workshop, the True Story has finally been finished.

The new update features the Epilogue as well as another cinematic that will be unlocked by watching the epilogue.

I want to thank all of you who have followed the True Story for all this time, I appreciate each and every one of you.

Both @Kasrkin and I are proud to announce this full release together and want to thank EVERYONE who has helped us
to get to this point - whether that was through a bug report, a resource, support, by giving your opinion or any other
means is not relevant, we appreciate all of you.

We are proud to have built such a strong community over the years - both the ones that have been with us since the
start as well as those who have joined us later.

The True Story has finally reached its conclusion - but the story of the Legends of Arkain is far from over!

Stay tuned but first... enjoy the cinematics.

You can find them here in the Map Section.

Sincerely,

Arkain Industries


Kasrkin & Shar Dundred

Click to expand...

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Read more about the project and download it here:

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Warcraft: Chronicles of the Second War - A Fan-Made Triumph​

In the world of gaming, passion knows no bounds. A testament to this truth is the fan-made project that has set the Warcraft community ablaze with excitement - Warcraft: Chronicles of the Second War. Crafted by a group of dedicated Warcraft fans of the Hive Workshop community, this ambitious endeavor promises to breathe new life into the iconic narrative of Warcraft II: Tides of Darkness. In this article, we explore the origins, features, release date, and the future of this labor of love by the Warcraft community.

The Origins of Chronicles of the Second War:​

Chronicles of the Second War is the brainchild of a group of passionate Warcraft fans who, enamored by the rich lore and gameplay of Warcraft II, took it upon themselves to revive and enhance this classic gaming experience in Warcraft III: Reforged graphics. Operating independently from Blizzard, this community-driven project showcases the power of the Warcraft community and the desire to see a beloved franchise thrive even outside the official channels.

Official Launch Trailer:​

For a sneak peek into the immersive world awaiting you, don't miss the official launch trailers, set to unveil the epic visuals, engaging storylines, and the passion poured into this fan-made triumph. Get ready to embark on a journey that transcends nostalgia and ushers in a new era for the Warcraft community. The adventure awaits, and the trailer is your ticket to the Tides of Darkness.

Features that Define the Project:​

1. Faithful Remastering: Chronicles of the Second War endeavors to stay true to the roots of Warcraft II while bringing the game into the modern era. The project includes a faithful remastering of the original graphics, ensuring that the essence of the Second War is preserved while benefiting from contemporary technology.
   
   
2. Expansive Storytelling: Building upon the foundation laid by Warcraft II, the fan-made project introduces expanded storytelling, adding depth to characters and narratives. By incorporating additional lore and cinematics, Chronicles of the Second War aims to provide fans with a fresh perspective on the events that unfolded during this pivotal moment in Azeroth's history.
   
   
3. Community Collaboration: What sets this project apart is the collaboration with the Warcraft community. From beta testing to voice acting, the fans have played an integral role in shaping the direction of Chronicles of the Second War. This collaborative approach ensures that the project resonates with the expectations and desires of the dedicated player base.
   
   
4. Visually Breathtaking Terrain: Adding to the allure of Chronicles of the Second War is the beautifully created terrain. Every landscape, from lush forests to foreboding deserts, has been crafted with precision and care. The attention to detail in the terrain design enhances the immersive quality of the game, making each mission a visually stunning journey through the diverse landscapes of Azeroth.
   
   
5. Talented 3D Model Artists: Central to the visual splendor of Chronicles of the Second War are the talented 3D model artists who have dedicated countless hours to bring the characters, buildings, and environments to life. Their skill and passion shine through in the intricately designed units, capturing the essence of the Warcraft universe in stunning detail. These artists have not only remastered the classic models but also introduced new ones, adding an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the fan-made project.

Release Date and Community Anticipation:​

As the clock ticks down, the release date for Warcraft: Chronicles of the Second War is set for January 5th, 2024. The development team, comprised of devoted fans, has meticulously worked to create an experience that not only pays homage to the original but also introduces new elements that enhance the overall gameplay.

The anticipation surrounding the release is palpable, with fans eager to embark on a nostalgic journey through Azeroth's history. The community support has been overwhelming, showcasing the collective dedication to keeping the spirit of Warcraft alive and thriving beyond the official confines of the gaming industry.

Campaign Features:​

The Chronicles of the Second War campaign promises an extensive and immersive experience, featuring 17 Orc missions that delve into the lore and characters of the original game. Players can explore side quests that add layers of depth to the narrative, providing insights into the rich history of Azeroth. Custom voice lines, meticulously crafted cinematics, and new unit models contribute to the overall enhancement of the gaming experience.

The Long Journey and Challenges Overcome:​

The road to Warcraft: Chronicles of the Second War has been marked by a long and challenging journey. The dedicated fan developers faced numerous obstacles, particularly dealing with issues caused by Warcraft 3 patch updates. Adapting to changes in the underlying game engine and addressing compatibility issues required painstaking effort. However, the team's resilience and commitment to delivering a polished product have seen them triumph over these challenges, ensuring that the community will soon have a faithful and enhanced Warcraft II experience to enjoy.

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Future Plans for Chronicles of the Second War​

As the release of Warcraft: Chronicles of the Second War draws near, the dedicated fan developers are already looking ahead to the future of the project. After three and a half years of arduous development, the team recognizes the need for a well-deserved breather. However, the commitment to delivering engaging content remains unwavering, and the developers have devised an innovative plan to ensure a steady flow of new material.

Post-Release Human Campaign:​

Following the initial release, the Human Campaign, titled "Rise of the Alliance," is set to unfold. However, in a strategic move to balance the need for a respite with the desire for continuous content delivery, the team has decided to release the campaign in a serialized format. Instead of waiting for the completion of the full campaign, the developers will release individual Acts at regular intervals. This approach not only ensures a faster delivery of content but also facilitates easier development.

The Human Campaign: Rise of the Alliance will be divided into four Acts, each unveiling a segment of the narrative. Once all Acts are released, the team plans to compile them into a comprehensive campaign, maintaining the cohesiveness and immersive storytelling that Chronicles of the Second War is known for.

Expansion Packs and Further Campaigns:​

In addition to the Human Campaign, the developers have ambitious plans for expansion packs, providing players with more opportunities to explore the rich lore of Azeroth. The Orc Campaign, titled "Horde of Draenor," will serve as the first expansion pack, offering a fresh perspective on the Horde's struggles in Draenor.

Following that, the Human Campaign will continue with "Beyond the Dark Portal" as the second expansion pack. These expansions promise to introduce new challenges, characters, and storylines, expanding the Warcraft universe and delivering an enriched gaming experience.

Warcraft: Chains of Conquest:​

The grand finale on the roadmap for Chronicles of the Second War is "Warcraft: Chains of Conquest." This ambitious project will retell the tale of the First War, starting from the "Rise of the Horde" and the Draenei genocide, all the way to the destruction of Stormwind. The development of Warcraft: Chains of Conquest will also follow the "Acts" format, ensuring a consistent release schedule and faster content delivery.

In summary, the future of Chronicles of the Second War is brimming with exciting plans. The team's commitment to delivering quality content is evident in their innovative approach to campaign releases and the promise of expansion packs. With each Act, players can expect to be drawn deeper into the intricate tapestry of Azeroth's history, ensuring that the fan-made triumph continues to captivate and inspire the Warcraft community for years to come.

Downloadable assets!​

In a gesture of generosity and a commitment to community engagement, the Chronicles of the Second War development team has announced that all unit models, sounds, and various assets created during the project will be made available for download here on the Hive Workshop. This move is aimed at not only showcasing the team's dedication to fostering creativity within the Warcraft community but also providing aspiring modders and enthusiasts with the tools to explore and expand upon the meticulously crafted content.

Already setting the stage for this collaboration, some of the Dwarven, Orc and Human models from Chronicles of the Second War are currently accessible for download on Hive Workshop's HD Model Section. These intricately designed assets, ranging from units to buildings, showcase the level of detail and dedication invested in the project. As the fan-made triumph gains momentum, players and modders alike can anticipate a treasure trove of resources becoming available on Hive Workshop, enabling them to weave their own tales within the expansive canvas of Azeroth.

Conclusion:​

Warcraft: Chronicles of the Second War stands as a testament to the enduring love and creativity within the gaming community. Crafted by fans, for fans, this project represents a unique collaboration that transcends traditional boundaries. As the release date of January 5th, 2024, approaches, the excitement among Warcraft enthusiasts continues to build, underscoring the profound impact that dedicated fans can have on the legacy of a beloved gaming franchise. Get ready to relive the Second War and witness the magic that can happen when passionate fans take the reins.