About J.A.C.K.

Application description

J.A.C.K.: The Ultimate Level Editor for Classic FPS Games

J.A.C.K. (Just Another Creation Kit), formerly known as Jackhammer, is a cutting-edge, cross-platform level editor designed for games utilizing a Quake-style BSP architecture. Are you a passionate modder or aspiring game developer looking for a powerful and versatile tool? J.A.C.K. aims to be the definitive level design solution, incorporating the best features of editors like Valve Hammer Editor and Q3Radiant, while offering modern improvements and expanded capabilities.

Despite the legacy of classics like Quake and Half-Life, a vibrant community continues to create mods and games based on these foundational titles. J.A.C.K. addresses the limitations of older editors, providing a streamlined and intuitive workflow for crafting immersive and engaging environments. This isn't just about the classics either! J.A.C.K. is evolving to support newer engines, including future plans for the Source Engine and Unity. Embrace the power of a truly universal level editor!

Supported Games and Game Engines

Half-Life: Create stunning levels for the original Half-Life, its mods, and even Gunman Chronicles.
Quake: Design intricate maps for Quake, its expansive modding scene, and Quake-based games like Hexen II.
Quake II: Unleash your creativity with advanced mapping capabilities for Quake II and its mods.
Quake III Arena: Master arena design using J.A.C.K.'s tools for Quake III, mods, and idTech3 engine games like Tremulous.

Key Features of J.A.C.K.

Cross-Platform Level Design: Enjoy seamless level creation whether you're on Windows or Linux.
64-bit Architecture: Harness the full power of your system with 64-bit support, overcoming the limitations of previous 2GB memory restrictions.
Massive Map Support: Build sprawling worlds with dimensions up to 262144 x 262144 units.
Plugin Extensibility: Expand J.A.C.K.'s functionality with a robust plugin system, tailoring it to your specific workflow.
Multi-Format Compatibility: Preview models and sprites from various games and open a wide array of map formats, from MAP to VMF.
Realtime Texture Effects: Visualize your creations with transparency, texture animation, scrolling, and Quake III shader script support, enhancing your development process.
Integrated Shader Editor: Dive deep into shader creation for Quake III and idTech3 games with a user-friendly embedded shader editor.
Curved Surface (Patches) Support: Craft complex and organic shapes with support for curved surfaces used in idTech3 engine games.
Dynamic Sky Rendering: See your skyboxes rendered accurately, mimicking the in-game experience.
Customizable Color Schemes: Personalize the editor's look and feel to match your preferences.
Autosave & Cloud Backup: Protect your hard work with configurable autosave and Steam Cloud integration, safeguarding your projects from crashes and errors.
Advanced Level Design Tools: Benefit from features like brush merging, triangulation, UV-Lock, multiple visgroups, 2D model preview, intuitive 3D selection, and preservation of internal connections.