Procedural Terrain Generation

Github Link

Overview

This is a C++ programmed OpenGL application that generates a square shaped terrain of odd numbers (3×3, 9×9 etc.). The Diamond – Square algorithm was used to generate the terrain, incorporating a random value at each vertex, weighted by the values of it’s surrounding vertices. This gave the terrain a more natural feel. Every time this program is run, the terrain will be generated differently.

Skills Learned

• Advanced implementation of OpenGL functionality beyond previous projects through the use of commands like glPolygonMode, glUniform4fv.
• Vertex Array Object (VAO) and Vertex Buffer Object (VBO) creation methods
• Diamond – Square Algorithm Implementation
• Vertex and Fragment Shader Implementation
• Camera Controls allowing for three dimensional movement as well as rotational control through radian based trigonometry functions

Future Features

• Texturing to create realistic environments based on vertex height
• Additional randomly generated items such as trees or rocks constrained by a set of criteria
• Mouse camera control implementation

Screenshots

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Code Snippets

Terrain Colour Struct definition

Diamond – Square Algorithm Implementation

Terrain and Diamond – Square Initialisation

Advanced Camera Control Snippet

Vertex Shader Setup