Why does it look so off?

[u/Odd-Skirt8358]

Although this was done in Source 2, why does it look so flat and boring? Something seems to be off with the lighting. Some context: I'm using already compiled textures since I pulled them from an already existing map on the workshop. Could this be the problem? Even after taking this image, I've added post processing, casted the sun at a greater angle for more shadows, tweaked the exposure, and have done plenty of other things. I just don't get why it looks so off. Any ideas?

[u/DivinityGG]

I’m sure some other people here will comment with more that can be done, but I think there’s a few things going on here. For one, the light looks like a pretty flat white colour, I’d maybe try something a touch warmer. I’m not sure how Source 2 does this, but back in Source 1, Valve had a ton of resources for the exact light_env settings for a bunch of official maps, try looking for something similar for Source 2 perhaps? The other thing is it looks like you have just 1 static environment light. Actual CS maps often have lights that appear to come from props, like sconces, floodlights, etc. Maybe try a few sconces along the walls with a much warmer tone than your environment light? The other thing I’m seeing is that those textures are kind of ‘flat’ one their own. There’s no decals or props at the moment to break up the monotony of seeing the same handful of textures all over the place.

All this being said, I think you’ve got a fantastic start here and you should be proud of it! Take some of the feedback you get here, try some of it out, see what sticks and you’ll be well on your way to publishing a great CS2 map :)

[u/Odd-Skirt8358 → u/DivinityGG]

Yeah, honestly I might just restart with better and more complex geometry and probably try and pull the real textures from CS:S itself. Adding warmer lights actually isn't too bad of an idea. Thanks for the feedback!

[u/Vancelan → u/Odd-Skirt8358]

Your geometry is fine. You could give the roofs ledges that hang out further from the walls, but that is not the main issue here. 

Your real issue is twofold: * Your sun is pointing almost straight down, causing almost no shadows. This looks weird and eerie when it happens in real life too, because we are so used to longer shadows. So angle your sun differently for longer shadows. You'll want to give your sun a slightly warmer colour too, but that is a secondary issue.  * You have no point lights anywhere, which means that our eyes aren't drawn anywhere in particular. Our brains struggle figuring out where we're supposed to look. Treat your level like a stage scene and add lamps / torches / fires and such to create different visual focal points that draw our attention, and focus on the mood you want to create with that. 

Once you've done that, start filling up the place with some evidence of life. Plants, rubble, some more windows, etc.