Arma 3 Tools vs TrenchBroom

Arma 3 Tools is a free Windows suite for producing content for the Real Virtuality engine used by Arma 3. Terrain Builder lets creators construct virtual worlds, while Object Builder creates, edits, and configures 3D models. Addon Builder converts source data into engine-readable formats and packages it into one archive; it can also sign PBOs with a digital key for secure servers. Publisher sends complete mods to Steam Workshop. Game Updater is intended to simplify switching between Steam branches, and Tools Launcher checks parts of an installation, runs suite tools, and can detect and interact with Mikero’s tools and Poseidon Tools. Distributed through Steam, the suite supports terrain, model, addon, mod, and script-related workflows, with PBO and FSM formats listed. Installation requires a valid Steam account, internet connection, and at least 1.1 GB of free disk space. Use is free for non-commercial work; commercial use requires Bohemia Interactive permission and acceptance of the BI Tools EULA.

TrenchBroom is a free level editor for brush-based engines such as Quake, Quake 2, and Hexen 2. It provides a 3D workspace alongside up to three 2D views. Brush editing includes vertex changes, clipping, scaling, shearing, and constructive solid geometry operations for merging, subtracting, or hollowing shapes. A UV view handles textures and supports multiple material collections. The entity browser accepts drag-and-drop placement and definitions from FGD, ENT, and DEF files, while model display includes mdl, md2, md3, bsp, and dkm formats. An issue browser filters map problems, helps resolve them, and offers automatic quick fixes. TrenchBroom can call external compilers and launch game engines, but those compilation tools are separate. It supports several Quake, Valve, Hexen 2, and package formats. The 2026.2 requirements list Windows 10 1903+, Linux with glibc 2.33+, or macOS 13+, with OpenGL 2.1 and GLSL 1.2 hardware.