Mesh To Terrain Converter - User Guide

Overview

The Mesh to Terrain Converter is a powerful Unity tool that transforms 3D meshes into fully functional Unity terrains. It enables you to:


  • Import 3D landscape models from external software and convert them to editable terrains
  • Apply terrain features like texture painting and vegetation to your imported meshes
  • Take advantage of Unity's terrain optimization for large landscapes

Quick Start

  1. Select Tools → MeshToTerrain from the Unity menu
  2. Add your mesh to the scene
  3. Select the mesh in the "Mesh Object" field
  4. Click "Convert to Terrain"

Step-by-Step Instructions

Accessing the Tool

  • In the Unity Editor, go to the top menu and select Tools → MeshToTerrain
  • The Mesh to Terrain converter window will open

Basic Conversion

  • Add your mesh GameObject to the Unity scene
  • Drag your mesh into the "Mesh Object" field
  • The tool automatically determines the appropriate terrain size
  • Click "Convert to Terrain" to generate the terrain

Key Parameters Explained

Terrain Settings

  • Auto-size Terrain: Terrain dimensions match the mesh's bounding box
  • Height Multiplier: Adjusts vertical scale relative to the mesh
  • Terrain Size (x, y, z): Manual size controls (when Auto-size is disabled)
  • Override Max Sculpt Height: Limits maximum sculpt height while keeping initial appearance

Resolution Settings

  • Resolution: Heightmap resolution; recommended:
    • Small: 256–512
    • Medium: 512–1024
    • Large: 1024–2048

Height Mapping

  • Height Offset: Shifts terrain up or down
  • Height Scale: Multiplies height values
  • Falloff Power: Adjusts contrast between low and high areas

Edge & Perimeter Controls

  • Edge Handling: Options are Natural, Flatten, Gradual Falloff, or Steep Falloff
  • Edge Width/Height: Adjusts edge effects
  • Control Outer Perimeter: Specialized border control with Perimeter Height and Mode

Best Practices

  • Clean up your mesh before conversion
  • Ensure proper scaling (Y-axis up)
  • Start with lower resolutions for testing

Technical Notes

  • Terrain data sampling by raycasting through the heightmap grid
  • Areas with no mesh hit get zero height
  • Automatic scaling between mesh and Unity terrain units

Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Solutions

  • Problem: Terrain appears flattened.
    Solution: Increase Resolution or adjust Height Scale
  • Problem: Holes in terrain.
    Solution: Repair the mesh in a 3D modeling app
  • Problem: Incorrect terrain size.
    Solution: Disable Auto-size or scale the mesh
  • Problem: Insufficient sculpting range.
    Solution: Enable "Override Max Sculpt Height"
  • Problem: Unwanted edge artifacts.
    Solution: Adjust Edge Handling and Edge Width