A Macro packages a small node graph and lets you reuse it as a single node. In current Gaea builds, the node used to define Macro inputs and outputs is MacroPort.

Macro structure

A Macro graph is typically:

• In: a MacroPort node set to Direction = Input
• Out: a MacroPort node set to Direction = Output
• One or more processing nodes in between (for example, Shaper)

Rename the ports to something clear such as In and Out so the source graph stays easy to read and maintain.

Quick Start

1. Create a new Gaea file.
2. Add a MacroPort node, rename it to In, and set Direction to Input.
3. Add a second MacroPort, rename it to Out, and set Direction to Output.
4. Set the Display type for each port as needed, such as Heightfield, Mask, or Color.
5. Place your processing nodes between them (for example, add a Shaper).
6. Wire the graph so the flow is In > (your nodes) > Out (for example, In > Shaper > Out).
7. Enable Is Optional on any MacroPort that should not be required.

Expose parameters (bind internal settings)

To expose a setting from a node inside the Macro:

1. Select the internal node (for example, Shaper).
2. In its Properties panel, click the diamond Property Editor for the setting you want to expose.
3. Choose Bind to > New variable to create a new exposed control, or bind to an existing variable.
4. Give the variable a clear name and sensible range.

Repeat for any other settings you want to control from outside the Macro. These exposed variables become the user-facing controls for the Macro and can also be driven through automation. For more background, see Variables and Expressions.

Export the Macro

1. Go to File > Export > Macro...
2. Fill in the metadata such as author name, Macro name, version, and description.
3. Choose whether to save the .macro file, install it in Gaea, or both.
4. Export the Macro.
5. Restart Gaea to test the Macro.

Install and use a Macro

1. Install a Macro by dragging the .macro file into Gaea, or use File > Import > Macro.
2. Installed Macros are stored in \Data\Macros inside your Gaea installation and can be accessed quickly through the Artifact Explorer.
3. Create the Macro by searching for its Macro name in the toolbox or search like any other node.

Edit a Macro

1. Open the original Macro source .terrain file.
2. Modify nodes, connections, MacroPort definitions, and bindings as needed.
3. Export the Macro again (File > Export > Macro...).
4. Keep the same Macro ID if you want the installed Macro to update in place, and increase the version or revision number so the update is easy to track.
5. Restart Gaea to ensure the updated Macro is loaded.