I am experimenting with a high down vertical scroller, with a perspective digicam, NOT orthogonal.
(It is unclear how ‘pixelated’/pixel artwork I’ll need the graphics however that is one other query)

The map could be longer/taller than it’s broad, and include squares, the picture of which is completely different for every sq.. I would like to have the ability to have 3 ranges of peak within the map. A lot of the map could be flat sq. surfaces at these heights, however with occasional slopes between them. Some or the entire flat surfaces could be animated, eg water, and there could be buildings and so on. scattered round.
The map will ultimately be procedural however for now I can hand-make it.

This type of factor, however with extra ranges and presumably a special graphical model (therefore ‘experimenting’):

I am contemplating one of the simplest ways to do that. Looks as if three choices:

1. three tilemaps, one for every degree. Create further 3D objects, or a some optimized mesh objects, for the slopes. Word: if that is environment friendly then I might in all probability use different tilemaps for eg bushes, buildings and different decor on the degrees, so presumably double the variety of tilemaps
2. a 3D terrain. Separate objects for the buildings and bushes.
3. An optimized mesh for the terrain. Separate objects for the buildings and bushes.

Word 1: I do not thoughts having pretty giant tiles for the bottom, to scale back mesh complexity and so on.

What do I imply by ‘finest’? Clearly a few of these are tougher or extra sophisticated than others, and the relative simplicity of eg (2) or (3) appears good (and I think that it will produce other advantages, graphical and in any other case). However pace could be a consideration, in all probability the primary or solely consideration in the long run.

Word 2 : making this for cell will not be a excessive precedence, however it will be good to get it so it really works for that too with out a full rebuild. I hear that may omit choice (2)

What’s my most suitable option? Or is there a greater methodology I have never thought of?
With no matter you recommend, is there the rest I ought to look in to (eg instancing as a substitute of separate fashions, and so on.)?