Here's how 'Minecraft' Creates Its Gigantic Worlds

Have you wondered how Minecraft can create massive worlds that are full of tiny details, such as elaborate waterfalls and cliff faces? PBS' Game/Show is more than happy to explain the process in an updated video. Swissrocketman.Com As you'll see below Mojang's game is based on procedural generation, which automatically creates objects and environments that are at once random, but governed by rules that provide the same logic. For example, mountains are usually rough and covered in snow and low-lying areas are often dotted with trees and grass.

Minecraft is specifically using Perlin noise calculations, similar to those you'd employ to create a rough texture for a 3D model. It begins on a broad scale, painting an initial topographical map and then adds "noise" through more fine-grained terrain details like trees, lakes and animals. It allows for unexpected delights like the elaborate rock structure above. As in the real world, there's the desire to discover what's just around the corner.

Procedurally-generated game content certainly isn't new. The Diablo series and Spelunky use it to keep their environments fresh, while Borderlands utilizes the same code to create unique weapons. It's crucial for the seemingly endless amount of worlds in No Man's Sky. It's safe to say Minecraft's dependence on math is what makes it special. Every game is unique and there's so much to explore and do that it can take an extended period of time before you've explored every last nook and cranny.

[Image credit: Federico, Flickr]