So after I got a dynamic database running that allows you to browse through all available items in EVE, I sat down for another project. This time I wanted it to be something more epic and something that has not been done before, at least not that I know of.
Pretty recently I learned about the pretty amazing capabilities of the in-game browser of EVE Online. It has certain Javascript-calls built-in that allow to directly access in-game windows, information, or even directly manipulate your gameplay. For example it is possible to alter your course from the built-in browser. I thought this could be pretty cool when combined with something fancy.
Of course there is an in-game map in 3D and so on, but it is very limited as to what information it can provide. So I decided to bring that map to the browser. In 2D at least. The result is Cerberus Maps, a web-based map of the EVE-Universe. Why Cerberus? Because the corp I have founded and that I am in is called Cerberus Network.
First of all you need to sit down and get the basics straight, like zooming and moving – that was easy. The real problem is to accurately calculate the position of each system, on the map. This was quite an interesting challenge, seeing that CCP stores spatial coordinates in exponential values. The engine I for that is something I’m so proud of, I gave it a name… in fact, so proud, that I just had to give it some metal.
But just talking about it is boring. I’d love to show the stuff to you! Some screenies.
Maps in the in-game browser. Since the browser has a modified Chrome under the hood, this is no problem. The map is completely movable, the “+” and “-” buttons zoom in and out. The dots represent a solar system, each with its own stations, planets, asteroid belts, and moons. They are also colored by their security level. The more red they are, the less secure they are. When the mouse hovers over one, the name and security level is shown (very true to actual in-game mechanic). Hovering also automatically fills the search field.
Clicking the “Search” button displays the Detailed Information pane. Useful data is displayed such as Stargate connections, their securities, and in which region and constellation they are located. Stations and planets are linked. In this example I clicked a link for a station, which opened the in-game info for that location.
When you click on the link of the system you are viewing, the autopilot of your ship will set a course to that system. If however you are unsure what the route looks like, you can click the Map icon beside the name, which will open the in-game map without setting a course – but it will tell you how far it is on your current autopilot setting.
And that’s all I wanted to show you right now. Over time I’ll improve it, but I guess for now it’s a pretty good start.
Have fun!
Cerberus Maps
IGB will request trust. You have to accept this as otherwise the navigation functions will not work.
CAPTAIN’S BLOG, SUPPLEMENTAL
Those that came before us:
Landmark Support has now been added for in-game browser. The top-right now has a checkbox which will enable landmark beacons. Clicking on one will open more information about the landmark.
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