Overlay

Overlays

An overlay is a layer drawn over a visualization to illustrate different properties. They do not contain all the information of a given visualization, but serve as a supplement to a base. By adding these properties onto the same view, the additional information can immediately be made understandable in the same way. A reason to split information off into other layers in this fashion can be to avoid overwhelming a user with too much information.

How overlays are implemented in the Tygron Engine

Overlays are implemented in the Tygron Engine as part of the interface. Properties such as ownership and zoning are important pieces of information to the player, but would be very overwhelming to display at all times. Instead, a player can activate on overlay to make these pieces of information visible. In principle, all spatially varied information is accessible as an overlay.

Plaatje: livability overlay in actie

Overlay types

Multiple types of overlay exist in the game.

City

The default view. This displays the game area in natural colors. Hovering over a location displays properties of the construction or behavior in that location.

Ownership

This overlay is available by default. This overlay displays the ownership across the entire game area, using each stakeholder's colors. This is important when considering what stakeholder may construct a building where, or whom to negotiate with for land transactions.

Zoning

This overlay is available by default. This overlay displays the zoning plan for the entire game area. This is helpful when considering indicators which are scored per zone, and when looking to construct a building which is restricted to certain zones.

Livability

This overlay becomes available for each stakeholder with the livability indicator. It displays the average livability for each part of the game area, giving an indication of where the livability can best be increased.

How to use overlays

Overlays are added to the game automatically. Some overlays are added by default, others are available based on the available indicators. To switch to a specific overlay, use the buttons just below the minimap. To switch back to the default view, switch to the "City" overlay.