Perlin Noise

Explore procedurally generated landscapes using Perlin Noise terrain generation. From this fairly simple algorithm, it is possible to create realistic, organic-looking terrain patterns in real-time.

How It Works

Noise functions generate pseudo-random values that create smooth, natural-looking patterns. Each point on the terrain corresponds to a noise value between 0 and 1, which determines the tile type. These tile types range from deep water (low values) to snow-capped mountains (high values).

Terrain Thresholds

The generation presets use threshold values to map noise output to terrain types. For example, values below 0.15 may become deep water, 0.15-0.35 may become shallow water, and so on. This creates distinct biomes with smooth transitions. These values are fully customizable in the settings menu.

Octaves

Octaves add detail by layering multiple noise functions together. Each octave has double the frequency and half the amplitude of the previous one:

• 1 Octave: Smooth, rolling hills with broad features
• 2-4 Octaves: More realistic terrain with medium-to-high detail

Keyboard Shortcuts

• Up Arrow: Move Up
• Down Arrow: Move Down
• Left Arrow: Move Left
• Right Arrow: Move Right

Technical Note

While called "Perlin Noise," this implementation actually uses Simplex Noise, developed by Ken Perlin as an improvement over his original algorithm. Simplex Noise offers better performance and visual quality, especially in higher dimensions.