Data-driven Strategy / AAA Level Design Pipeline

  • Create world in Blender/Houdini

  • Export objects as JSON

  • "Convert JSON → Binary (.lvl, .dat)"

  • Load the world directly into the game

  • Ex :

    • Bethesda

      • Elder Scrolls uses JSON/XML for NPC and quest metadata.

    • Ubisoft

      • JSON in level design tools.

    • CD Projekt RED

      • Uses CSV for balancing in The Witcher 3.

    • Rockstar Games

      • Open worlds like GTA and Red Dead Redemption.

      • Also uses the proprietary .RPF  format (used in GTA and RDR).

    • id Software

      • Doom Eternal loads maps in binary.

    • Crytek

      • Uses the proprietary .CRY  format (CryEngine format).

    • id Tech

      • Uses the proprietary .BSP  format (used in Quake, Doom).