Mapster32 vs NetRadiant

Mapster32 is a free map editor for creating Duke Nukem 3D maps in.MAP files. It is part of the EDuke32 project and is included with EDuke32. The editor is described as an advanced upgrade of the original BUILD Editor. Its 2D mode handles map layout and object placement; 3D mode edits textures, heights and shading. Mapster32 can also create levels for NAM, WWII GI, Redneck Rampage and other games. It supports scripts in a language derived from CON, loaded as.m32 files or entered through the editor console. The tool checks loaded maps for corruption and can attempt repairs in some cases. Serious corruption may still require manual expert resolution. EDuke32 lists Windows, Linux and macOS support. The Mapster32 plan is listed at free. There is no free trial because the product is provided as a free plan.

NetRadiant is a free, open-source 3D game level editor that uses brushes to build levels. It has first-class compatibility with Xonotic and Unvanquished and supports about 30 other games, with support varying by game. The project is driven by Xonotic, receives support from Unvanquished, and is maintained by a community of gamers, mappers, modders and game developers. It originated as a fork of Id Software’s GtkRadiant project. Listed downloads include Linux 64-bit, Windows 32-bit and 64-bit, macOS 64-bit and FreeBSD 64-bit builds. The builds include daemonmap for Unvanquished navmesh generation and q3map2 patches for Smokin’ Guns. Released Xonotic files work without an extra mapping support package. Linux use requires a working GTK2 and OpenGL environment. Windows builds offer optional Mesa3D rendering, described as a workaround for some older Intel chips on Windows 10. A 2022 project post described macOS support as new and potentially rough, including possible multi-screen configuration problems. The download page lists version 1.5.0-20220628.