Methods for Procedural Terrain Generation: A Review

Advances in computer graphics allow to simulate ever growing virtual worlds with a higher level of realism which can even be created in real time. An integral part of these worlds are the terrains which are the physical features of the land. Despite the capabilities of modern computer systems, the creation process still demands high amounts of man-hours. To automatically generate coherent, realistic-looking and useful content is still and open problem, and research focuses on how to automatize these processes while allowing users to exert a certain degree on control over the generated content. This survey goes over the different techniques used for the automatic generation of terrains, which include different land formations such as mountains, valleys, rivers, shores, etc. These terrains have different uses such as simulation or entertainment which translates on different needs over the desired realism of the terrain and the degree of control that users have. Through time, different approaches have been proposed: repeating patterns that resemble those seen in nature; using software agents that imitate geological processes; using artificial intelligence techniques for pattern recognition and imitation of landscapes; or allowing users to interact with the system to draw desired terrain features. This review presents an overview of the area and discusses how different techniques adapt to the different needs and different stages of terrain creation.