"How do I make a simfile (for FFR)?" - A guide

[Goldenwind]

"How do I make a stepchart?"

1. Introduction
---- StepMania Quick Facts
------- Explanation
------- Download Links
------- Navigation
2. Stepchart basics
---- What you need
---- "Where do my files go?"
---- Making the .sm file
3. Making a stepchart
---- StepMania: Edit Mode
---- Sync
---- What to write
4. Polishing touches
---- Features of a quality chart
---- Preparing for FFR submission
------- Checklist
------- How to submit your file
------- The approval process
---- Preparing for ITG arcade
------- Basics
------- Checklist
------- Bypassing music length limits
------- Playing your song


1. Introduction
This is a step-by-step tutorial to making a stepchart (aka simfile), with extras, such as proper FFR submission, preparing it for ITG arcade, etc. The process is rather simple once you understand what's going on. Much of the detail here is designed for new users.

If you are preparing your chart for a special purpose (FFR, ITG, etc), please review the appropriate sections ahead of time, to ensure you're making your chart according to guidelines.


StepMania Quick Facts
Explanation
StepMania is a DDR simulator you may download and install on your computer legally, for free. In addition to allowing you to play songs through use of your keyboard, it comes with a built-in editor, to aid in making "steps" or choreographies to the music of your choosing.

Like the striking majority of the community, we will be using StepMania to create our stepcharts. This guide assumes you are familiar with arrow-based rhythm games, and have a basic understanding of their mechanics.


Download Links
Below are links to various versions of StepMania. If you don't know what the differences are, you would be best off with 3.95.

StepMania 3.9 (PC (http://www.mediafire.com/?cqyiulwltm9ee86), Mac (http://www.mediafire.com/?56cripqsse70f4i), Linux (http://www.mediafire.com/?0age96kk5t7khfh))
StepMania 3.95 (PC (http://www.mediafire.com/?61t7xm8ts41ba0m))
StepMania 4.0 (PC (http://www.mediafire.com/?ac5p1n3qbguehuz), Mac (http://www.mediafire.com/?9wns9fe79376w7r))
OpenITG (PC (http://www.mediafire.com/?70zb60lps7duevu), Linux (http://www.mediafire.com/?ba4ehm86pmaxw7w))


Navigation
Basic Navigation
---Alt+Enter - Toggle between windowed mode and full screen
---Arrow keys - Select different item
---Enter - Select current item
---ESC - Return to previous screen

Gameplay Navigation
---Left/Right - Preview next song
---Up+Up - Go to next easier difficulty (Hit Up twice, rapidly)
---Down+Down - Go to next harder difficulty (Hit Down twice, rapidly)
---Enter - Choose current song

Editing Navigation
---(1, 2, 3, 4) - Place a (left, down, up, right) arrow, respectively
---Shift+(1, 2, 3, 4) - Place a (left, down, up, right) mine, respectively
---(1, 2, 3, 4)+Down - Create a freeze arrow (Hold the number key, then tap Down)
---Shift+(1, 2, 3, 4)+Down - Create a roll (Hold Shift and the number key, then tap Down; Rolls are not compatible with SM3.9)
---Left/Right - Change the note timings (Allows you to place 8ths, 12ths, 16ths, etc)
---Up/Down - Moves the "cursor", where you aim to place your next arrows
---ESC - Main Menu
---Enter - Area Menu
---F1 - Help



2. Stepchart basics
What you need
(Mandatory) - Stepchart data (.sm or .dwi; we'll be making this ourselves)
(Mandatory) - Music (.mp3 or .ogg)
(Optional) - Banners/backgrounds (.png)
(Optional) - Backgrounds (.png (Picture) or .avi (Video))


"Where do my files go?"
Quick answer: "..\StepMania\Songs\Group Folder\Song Name".

Each song is composed of a stepchart file and a music file.
These files are bound inside a folder, typically of the same name as the song.
From there, collections of song folders are put into a group folder.
And then each group folder is in "Songs".

http://www.flashflashrevolution.com/images/uploads/Goldenwind1294301100FFRFolderTree.png

The files are bound in a Song Folder called "My New Song"
"My New Song" is in a Group Folder called "My Songs"
"My Songs" is in the "Songs" folder.


Making the .sm file
1. Make a new Text (.txt) file named "My New Song.sm"
Common issue: On some computers, the file extensions (Eg, '.txt') are hidden. This means that when you name your file My New Song.sm, it is *actually* Song.sm.txt, but the real extension (The .txt) is hidden. When you rename it to .sm, really you're just changing the name to Song.sm.txt, which is still technically a txt file.
Fix: Control Panel --> Folder Options --> View --> Uncheck "Hide extensions for known file types"

2. Open the .sm file in Notepad (Right click --> Open With --> Choose Program... --> Notepad)

3. Copy/paste this template (http://www.mediafire.com/?nqc88fcf0ucpuli) into your .sm file (Remember: .sm are opened in Notepad)

4. Fill out basic information:
- "TITLE", what you want your song to be called
- "ARTIST", who the song is by
- "MUSIC", the name of the music file (Mandatory)
- "BANNER", the name of the banner file (Optional)
- "BACKGROUND", the name of the background file (Optional)
- "DISPLAYBPM", overriding the BPM displayed should you want to (Optional)
(Example: #DISPLAYBPM:100.000:150.000; )

5. Save the file, and close Notepad.



3. Making a stepchart
StepMania: Edit Mode
1. Go back to the main Stepmania folder, and run "StepMania".

2. Choose the "Edit/Sync Songs" option.

3. Using up/down to move your cursor, and left/right to change the option, set up your screen as follows:
- Set "Group" to what you named your category folder.
- Set "Song" to the name of your song.
- Keep "StepsType" on "dance-single"
- Set "Difficulty" to the difficulty of chart you wish to create.
- Keep "Action" on "Edit Existing".

4. Set the BPM of your song (Remember: F1 if you need help)
To find the BPM of your song, try dragging/dropping your MP3 into a BPM analyzer (http://www.mediafire.com/?fd1l3x8kkxqtryq).

5. Set the offset of your song (See below for offset and sync information)

~

Try hitting numbers 1-4. Arrows will appear at the top. This is how you place an arrow. To remove it, press the number again.

Hit the up and down keys. Your position will move to another line. Now try placing another arrow. It should be obvious now, how you can create a string of these arrows.

What about notes in other timing? 8ths, 16ths, 12th and more can be placed by using the left and right arrows.

To test your song, try "Play Whole Song" in the Main Menu

To spread out the notes more, go to Main Menu --> Player Options, and set your speed.

Make sure to Save periodically (Main Menu). When you save, it will also create a DWI file. This is normal.


Sync
To have a sync'd song is to have a proper song offset. (This assumes you've given the program a correct BPM)

The best way of doing this is to use "AutoSync Song", by hitting F6 while playing.
You tap to the music, and AutoSync will adjust the arrows to be at the correct sync, as it assumes your keystrokes are at the correct time.

Naturally, this means beginners will have a poor sense of timing, and very offsync files, whereas professionals will be able to notice mild imperfections, and make the most of AutoSync.


What to write
Where to put your arrows depends on your creativity, and what you intend your chart for.
Typically, you don't want to make charts unless you already know how to play the game.

As an example, to make "pad" charts (That people dance to on a DDR/ITG pad), you will want to keep in mind at all times, where the player's feet are (as determined by your previously placed notes). By knowing this, you can tell which arrow directions are possible for your next arrow.

For inspiration, look at some of your favourite charts, and see what they do!



4. Polishing touches
Features of a quality chart
1. The sync is accurate enough that a professional could achieve a perfect score

2. The music preview is set to an attractive piece of the song, and loops adequately

3. The Display BPM shows useful information that will help players choose an appropriate speed mod
- Songs that say "75-600" are ambiguous. Do I prepare for 150? 300? 600?
- Songs that say "150-300": Do I need to worry about the 300, or is it a gimmick?

4. Banner and background are set.

5. Stepchart author is filled out as the chart name.

6. Chart is R21-ready (ITG pad files only)


Preparing for FFR submission
Checklist
1. No freeze arrows, rolls, or mines.
2. At least 2 seconds of silence at the beginning of your music file.
3. Ensure that your song's folder name is in the exact format of "Songname (YourUsername)"
4. Ensure that your Zip or Rar file has a dwi file, as well as an mp3
5. Ensure there is a folder in your Zip/Rar file (If you make the Zip/Rar file as shown below, you'll do it right)
6. Provide proof (Explain in the e-mail) that you have the author's permission to use their song.


How to submit your file
1. Go to your Group Folder (Eg, "My Songs").
2. Right click on your Song Folder (Eg, "My New Song"), and WinZip (http://www.winzip.com/prod_down.htm) or WinRar (http://www.rarlab.com/download.htm) it.
3. Send an e-mail to ffrsubmissions@gmail.com
- Attach the Zip/Rar
- Tell them who you are (FFR username)
- Provide proof you have the author's permission to use their song.


The approval process
In this thread (http://www.flashflashrevolution.com/vbz/showthread.php?t=58177), the judges post on which stepfiles made it into the game, and which were rejected.

If rejected, the judges may give brief commentary on how you could improve.


Preparing for ITG arcade
Basics
On upgraded ITG machines (Version R21 and later), you are able to play your own songs (and songs of others) through use of a USB.

Similar to Stepmania, you need to have songs in specific folders. Pretend G:\ is your USB drive.
G:\In The Groove 2\Songs\MySong\MySong.ogg
G:\In The Groove 2\Songs\MySong\MySong.sm


Checklist
Default Limits on ITG Upload use:
- Music must be in OGG format
- OGG must be under 5MB (5120KB)
- SM files must be under 100KB
- Music must be 120 seconds or shorter (However this can be bypassed. Read below)
- Maximum 50 songs per USB
- Maximum 50MB of songs per USB (Files on the root, not in the "Songs" folder, don't count)


Bypassing music length limits
ITG will only let you play custom songs 120 seconds or shorter.

To bypass this limit, download the Ogg Length Patch (http://www.mediafire.com/?l5pxev83jq7p5vb). Using Windows Explorer, drag/drop your .ogg on top of the exe. A DOS window will pop up for a split second, then disappear.

Despite the lack of confirmation, the .ogg file will now appear as 1m:45s to the arcade machine, regardless its true length. By doing this, you may play songs as long as you like, given they still fit under the 5MB limit.


Playing your songs
1. Insert credit and USB (Order doesn't matter)
2. Begin the game as normal
3. Find your songs under a new song group, "Player X's Songs"

~

Good luck!

[bluguerrilla]

You might want to put something in there about quality checking.

Note that only a dwi and mp3 should be present in a folder in the zip.

Also, I'm pretty sure you miss the first and hit the second with jack-syndrome.

In terms of finding the gap you don't need to measure it. As long as you're close with your bpm you can change the gap while playing the entire song. It's really easy to put in some quarter notes, play it and his F11/F12 with tick-assist on.

Mention the 2-second cutoff thing.

Pretty thorough otherwise. Maybe you could add links to the other threads like this one?


Edit: It should be how to make a stepfile, not how to make a song. And is this in the correct forum?

[Goldenwind]

Note that only a dwi and mp3 should be present in a folder in the zip.
I've been sending in complete packages (SM, DWI, MP3, banner and background), and I've had none be rejected or denied for having "too much". DWI and MP3 are the mandatory files. The way I explained to package them, the DWI and MP3 will be included.

Also, I'm pretty sure you miss the first and hit the second with jack-syndrome.
It depends on the jack. Some of them you will get Perfect on one, but a Good on another... some are so bad, you can't even FC it, as it's gaurenteed you will miss at least one. It depends on the number of frames, and how you hit them.

In terms of finding the gap you don't need to measure it. As long as you're close with your bpm you can change the gap while playing the entire song. It's really easy to put in some quarter notes, play it and his F11/F12 with tick-assist on.
It was a suggestion. I also mentioned trail and error with F11/F12 in my suggestions.

Mention the 2-second cutoff thing.
True. Will do that.

Pretty thorough otherwise. Maybe you could add links to the other threads like this one?
There are links spread throughout my post. Some to download sites for WinZip, WinRar, Stepmania, SoundForge, etc... some to other posts on Jack Syndrome, Blanket Permissions, etc. The guide is designed such that people will take it step by step, therefore I provided the links at the stages people will need them.

Edit: It should be how to make a stepfile, not how to make a song. And is this in the correct forum?
Words are sketchy. Some people use "simfile" and "stepfile" interchangably. FFR has a "Simfile DB", however it's really a database of the steps + the music, is it not? When people open Stepmania, you think "Wow, I have a lot of songs", not "Wow, I have a lot of files", right? It's debatable, but I don't think I was in the wrong.

As for the forum, it's also sketchy. If a forum mod sees it fit elsewhere, it can be moved.

[bluguerrilla]

It depends on the jack. Some of them you will get Perfect on one, but a Good on another... some are so bad, you can't even FC it, as it's gaurenteed you will miss at least one. It depends on the number of frames, and how you hit them.


I should have clarified. I meant if you were to hit the notes as they should be hit (meaning going along to the music) then you will miss the first and hit the second.

[Goldenwind]

I should have clarified. I meant if you were to hit the notes as they should be hit (meaning going along to the music) then you will miss the first and hit the second.
When I wrote this up, I remembered hearing it'll go for the later note first, but I wasn't too certain, so instead of taking a chance, I left that out completely.

Relative to writing steps to a song, it doesn't really matter which comes first... the point is to avoid jacks altogether ^^;

But yes, you're right.

[DrugstoreCowboy]

nice work =]

[Tasselfoot]

one small thing.... PLEASE try to use only an mp3, not an ogg. while ogg's work in SM, they don't work in Flash. so if I get an ogg, I have to convert it to mp3. which usually results in me spitting off a string of profanity.

and i happened to notice a few ogg submissions in this current batch. *shrugs*

also... to verify... with jacks, you miss the 1st and hit the 2nd early. that's fact.

you can include more than just a dwi/mp3, but those 2 are the mandatory items that i need. and are the only ones that i use or look at.


ps - don't hassle the tassel made me smile.

[dore]

For the "How .sm files work" section, you can just put in #TITLE:whatever; and Stepmania will do the rest for you.

[Elite_Soul]

Man this isn't working for me! I go to 'Edit/Sync Songs' and it says "No songs are installed". What do I do?

[Coolboyrulez0]

@Elite Soul : You neeed to first import songs go to Program Files >> Stepmania >> Stepmania Tools then Click on Create Song and then import the music file which you want to make steps for :)

cßr

[Goldenwind]

Man this isn't working for me! I go to 'Edit/Sync Songs' and it says "No songs are installed". What do I do?
Check that your folders are set up correctly
Check that your files are in the correct folders
Check that you have at 1 of MP3 or OGG, and 1 of SM or DWI

[Ssonik]

[u]

To play your song on ITG, do the following:
- Ensure that your local ITG machine has been updated to R21 or higher
- Have your music in ".ogg" format. If it's not, get it converted through a program such as SoundForge (http://www.sonycreativesoftware.com/products/soundforgefamily.asp).
- Ensure your music is under 2 minutes long. If it is over this duration, ITG will end the song after 120 seconds.
- Pretending that your USB is a category folder, place any song folders you wish onto that USB.

Good luck!

I have not been able to find a r21 do you guys know where one is in CA...well besides disneyland

[immawhiteguy]

Alternately, (as I just found out) You can use Stepmania's "Tools and package explorer" to skip basically most of "Where do my files go?" and "How '.sm' files work".

how I did it was Start > All programs > Stepmania > Stepmania Tools and Package Explorer

The popup that comes up has a selection at the bottom to make a song. Upon clicking it, it prompts you to find the song in your computer (I put mine on my desktop). once you select the song and click OK, it does everything for you.

Then you just go in Stepmania and edit the song and its steps as you wish.

:)

I'm doing that with 3.9 BTW.

Edit: When you "make a song" for the first time, it creates a category called "My Creations". Inside (naturally) is a folder with your song. When you go to edit the song and stuff in Stepmania, and you save your file, it makes the .sm and .DWI at the same time.

Or well, that's what mine told me at the top left corner.

[chansey&blisey lover]

so you must send it to them and if it sucks they most likely will forget it

[BEN.(SPEIRS) 7.5]

So where can I get one of these ogg to mp3 converters?

[Goldenwind]

So where can I get one of these ogg to mp3 converters?

SoundForge can do it, but you'd need to pay, or get a cracked version, of which I NOR FFR ENDORSE OR RECOMMEND YOU DO IN ANY WAY OR FORM
;)

[Ssonik]

Alternately, (as I just found out) You can use Stepmania's "Tools and package explorer" to skip basically most of "Where do my files go?" and "How '.sm' files work".

how I did it was Start > All programs > Stepmania > Stepmania Tools and Package Explorer

The popup that comes up has a selection at the bottom to make a song. Upon clicking it, it prompts you to find the song in your computer (I put mine on my desktop). once you select the song and click OK, it does everything for you.

Then you just go in Stepmania and edit the song and its steps as you wish.

:)

I'm doing that with 3.9 BTW.

Edit: When you "make a song" for the first time, it creates a category called "My Creations". Inside (naturally) is a folder with your song. When you go to edit the song and stuff in Stepmania, and you save your file, it makes the .sm and .DWI at the same time.

Or well, that's what mine told me at the top left corner.

3.95 does not work this way just wanted to point it out

[edit]and btw can it have BPM changes

[second edit]I already have permission from a few artist I just need to make the files now

[BEN.(SPEIRS) 7.5]

SoundForge can do it, but you'd need to pay, or get a cracked version, of which I NOR FFR ENDORSE OR RECOMMEND YOU DO IN ANY WAY OR FORM
;)

I SEE. I BETTER NOT DO THAT THEN.

:)

[Tasselfoot]

Ben: go to www.download.com and search for ogg to mp3 converter. you'll get one right away. I recommend Power MP3 WMA Converter. Freeware, so it's pretty limited... but it isn't that complicated and I've yet to have a problem with it.

Biggest fault is that you can only convert 1 file at a time. And you have to wait 5 seconds each time before it converts. Such are the prices to pay for freeware.

[falcondude]

THATS RIGHT, YOU SHOULDN'T.

[edit]and btw can it have BPM changes

[second edit]I already have permission from a few artist I just need to make the files now

Yes, BPM changes are allowed.

And make sure that Tass sees proof of having permission.

[Ssonik]

THATS RIGHT, YOU SHOULDN'T.



Yes, BPM changes are allowed.

And make sure that Tass sees proof of having permission.

Yea I dont know how to show it but I went and got myself permission I made sure of that and one artist asked that I include the homepage and the myspace if I do get one of his songs up so thats the best proof I got

[DJ Arsenault]

is it possible to do this on a mac?

[spinal_compression]

- Ensure you have 2 or more seconds of silence in the beginning of your music file


How do I add those extra two seconds of silence in? Most songs start up right away.

[Ssonik]

is it possible to do this on a mac?

yea there is Stepmania for Mac OSX

[Zageron]

How do I add those extra two seconds of silence in? Most songs start up right away.

Use the F11 and F12 buttons. You need to make sure that the song starts EXACTLY on the first beat tho. When in stepmania hold ether F11 or F12 and then put a fourth note on the 2nd measure.

Slow the song down to X.7

and keep testing the song until it starts EXACTLY on the beat. (to make it even simpler use the song options in the ESC menu and turn assist tick (ON))

[spinal_compression]

Use the F11 and F12 buttons. You need to make sure that the song starts EXACTLY on the first beat tho. When in stepmania hold ether F11 or F12 and then put a fourth note on the 2nd measure.

Slow the song down to X.7

and keep testing the song until it starts EXACTLY on the beat. (to make it even simpler use the song options in the ESC menu and turn assist tick (ON))

So it's the steps that have to start two seconds in and not the song itself?

[Knoobish]

So it's the steps that have to start two seconds in and not the song itself?

Yes. You can put steps before that, but they will get cut out by the FFR converter I believe.

[spinal_compression]

I'm still a bit confused here.

What if my song starts on let's say the 6th measure (6 seconds in at 60BPM?). Do I still have the F11/F12 thing start at exactly the 2nd measure (2 seconds in at 60BPM?)?

Also is it supposed to be positive or negative?

[Knoobish]

I'm still a bit confused here.

What if my song starts on let's say the 6th measure (6 seconds in at 60BPM?). Do I still have the F11/F12 thing start at exactly the 2nd measure (2 seconds in at 60BPM?)?

Also is it supposed to be positive or negative?

You only NEED 2 seconds of no notes before you put notes in. You can put more than that, say 6 seconds, if you wish. The gap can be positive or negative, depending on where you want the music to actually start.

[spinal_compression]

You only NEED 2 seconds of no notes before you put notes in. You can put more than that, say 6 seconds, if you wish. The gap can be positive or negative, depending on where you want the music to actually start.

I get it now. Thanks for the help.

[Ssonik]

Everyone wants to put songs in FFR..ME TOO!!!!! this is hard one is almost done and the other is done just making sure its ready...im not so sure how to show proof...but i do have it

[EDIT]its done....now i gotta email it

[Nyokou]

yea there is Stepmania for Mac OSX

Too bad there's like no useful program on a Mac called Notepad that will save a .dwi

This pisses me off, I want my laptop back. x[

[Ssonik]

Too bad there's like no useful program on a Mac called Notepad that will save a .dwi

This pisses me off, I want my laptop back. x[

word lol

[spinal_compression]

- Ensure that your song's folder name is in the exact format of "Songname (YourUsername)"


Can someone give me a working example of this?

EDIT: I see song name and ffr username but what about artist name? And can I have spaces?

[Zageron]

Can someone give me a working example of this?

EDIT: I see song name and ffr username but what about artist name? And can I have spaces?
eh... working example?

Foldername: {Flying Away} (Zageron)
Inclusive:;
{Flying Away}.dwi
{Flying Away}.mp3
{Flying Away}BG.jpg (Optional)

------------------------------

Is this what you wanted?

[spinal_compression]

eh... working example?

Foldername: {Flying Away} (Zageron)
Inclusive:;
{Flying Away}.dwi
{Flying Away}.mp3
{Flying Away}BG.jpg (Optional)

------------------------------

Is this what you wanted?

Yea that works but what about artist name?

Also I have the following other extra files...
.dwi.old
.sm
.sm.old

What about those?

[Zageron]

The artists name goes into the dwi.
You aren't included in the .dwi at all. I don't think.

[spinal_compression]

The artists name goes into the dwi.
You aren't included in the .dwi at all. I don't think.

How do I put the artist name into the .dwi?

Also do I just delete the other 3 files that I have in the folder?

[Zageron]

Gonna go into detail here.
Heres what it should look like:
Starting at the Folder!
> {Flying Away} (Zageron)
>> {Flying Away}.mp3
>> {Flying Away}_BG.jpg*
>> {Flying Away}.dwi
\/(Inside {Flying Away}.dwi)
#TITLE:{Flying Away};
#ARTIST:cornandbeans;
#FILE:{Flying Away}.mp3;
#BPM:187.000;
#GAP:-1320;
#SAMPLESTART:59.080;
#SAMPLELENGTH:19.840;
#SINGLE:SMANIAC:8: (Step data shows up below this)


*The Background is Completely optional.

[spinal_compression]

Gonna go into detail here.
Heres what it should look like:
Starting at the Folder!
> {Flying Away} (Zageron)
>> {Flying Away}.mp3
>> {Flying Away}_BG.jpg*
>> {Flying Away}.dwi
\/(Inside {Flying Away}.dwi)
#TITLE:{Flying Away};
#ARTIST:cornandbeans;
#FILE:{Flying Away}.mp3;
#BPM:187.000;
#GAP:-1320;
#SAMPLESTART:59.080;
#SAMPLELENGTH:19.840;
#SINGLE:SMANIAC:8: (Step data shows up below this)


*The Background is Completely optional.

PERFECT! Thanks a lot. Hopefully I get my file mailed out tonight.

[Ssonik]

Gonna go into detail here.
Heres what it should look like:
Starting at the Folder!
> {Flying Away} (Zageron)
>> {Flying Away}.mp3
>> {Flying Away}_BG.jpg*
>> {Flying Away}.dwi
\/(Inside {Flying Away}.dwi)
#TITLE:{Flying Away};
#ARTIST:cornandbeans;
#FILE:{Flying Away}.mp3;
#BPM:187.000;
#GAP:-1320;
#SAMPLESTART:59.080;
#SAMPLELENGTH:19.840;
#SINGLE:SMANIAC:8: (Step data shows up below this)


*The Background is Completely optional.

thats alot of work it works the same way as in SM to put the artist name in...but i guess its faster if u know what ur doing

[Zageron]

thats alot of work it works the same way as in SM to put the artist name in...but i guess its faster if u know what ur doing
Oh. Yes I know. I use Step mania to do it all. But it's a good idea to go into the .dwi and the .sm to adjust the GAP to be JUST right. Seeing as stepmania goes to the second digit and only by 2s.

[bluguerrilla]

Oh. Yes I know. I use Step mania to do it all. But it's a good idea to go into the .dwi and the .sm to adjust the GAP to be JUST right. Seeing as stepmania goes to the second digit and only by 2s.

You can do fine tweaking by holding down Alt.

[Zageron]

You can do fine tweaking by holding down Alt.
Gah! Thanks that saves a few minuets.

[Ssonik]

Gah! Thanks that saves a few minuets.

lol

[darkangelalchemist]

How do u make a song for ffr?

[darkangelalchemist]

im new here so i don't know

[Zageron]

read the rest of the thread mate.

[Ssonik]

How do u make a song for ffr?

waste of a post

1.its all on 1st page very top

2.u double posted last time i did that people yelled at me

[crystal_soul]

dude im so confused, i downloaded the stepmania thing and i followed the instructions best i could but whenever i open the stepmania and go to the edit songs thing, it says "No Songs Installed"



iono what to do so i gave up after trying a few things

[Zageron]

Open stepmania.
Go to options.
Click on Reload songs/steps.
If you've installed a few songs using the program folder features. Then this should work.

[crystal_soul]

Open stepmania.
Go to options.
Click on Reload songs/steps.
If you've installed a few songs using the program folder features. Then this should work.
thats the thing, iono how to install them >.<

[Ssonik]

thats the thing, iono how to install them >.<

my friend had that promblem are u on vista cause SM is a pain in the butt on windows vista

[Zageron]

Vista sucks...

hmm
local disk (C)/program files/step mania/program/smpackage.exe
click the bottom button. pick your music file.

[Ssonik]

Vista sucks...

hmm
local disk (C)/program files/step mania/program/smpackage.exe
click the bottom button. pick your music file.

this is why i got a version of Halo 2 vista for my XP

[punky_chick_2]

can someone tell me how to make a song for ffr....just send me a private message please

[APOKOLIPS99]

Can we use songs lik "Like A Surgeon" or "White And Nerdy"??

[Goldenwind]

I've been getting some questions about the steps in this, so I'm working on a video tutorial at the moment.

Just a note, there are many many ways to make it, this is just how I do it. My way works, but is not the only way.

[dore]

For the jack syndrome section, include:

5-framers: No overlap at all, you will only avmiss if you hit the first arrow late.
4-framers: The last perfect frame will be covered up. You have to hit one of the early frames to get perfects on both arrows. The only way your file will get rejected for 4-framers is if you have 8435843 in a row (like AIM Anthem).
3-framers: 2/3 of the perfect window is covered up. You have to hit extremely early to avoid avmissing. Your file will most likely get rejected for 3-framers unless you are stepping an extremely technical classical piece of music.
2-framers: Impossible to AAA, you must hit before the perfect window to avoid an avmiss. Your file will be rejected for 2-framers unless it is a FGO (difficulty 12/12) classical piece, and even then it might not go through.
0/1-framers:Don't do it.
------
C/P, reword it, whatever, but in the current guide the jack system is not really explained well.

[Xandertrax]

Can you put that in "Are my Jack's Okay?", dore, for quick and easy referencing?

[CodeLabMaster]

As for the blanket permissions from the artists, does that mean that any cover songs that band has made of other artists work is also permissible?

In other words, if band A made a song, and band B did a cover for it and then gave blanket permission to use their songs, can I use band B's cover song for a stepfile?

[Goldenwind]

Video uploaded, and available at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYfL1PuOg8g

[Goldenwind]

As for the blanket permissions from the artists, does that mean that any cover songs that band has made of other artists work is also permissible?

In other words, if band A made a song, and band B did a cover for it and then gave blanket permission to use their songs, can I use band B's cover song for a stepfile?

If B lets you use their song, you can. It's B's problem if they didn't get legal permission to make the cover from A.

I don't have proof that this is true, but this makes sense to me.

[dore]

Can you put that in "Are my Jack's Okay?", dore, for quick and easy referencing?

Yeah, I just found a proxy with a working edit button :)

[RubiedCross]

Umm... I'm having a problem sending my song to Tass.

I attatch the file to the email, put all my stuff in, put in Tass's email address... And when it's sending, it says error, and something about hotmail.

Help please :???:

I'm probably just being dumb though..

[Goldenwind]

Umm... I'm having a problem sending my song to Tass.

I attatch the file to the email, put all my stuff in, put in Tass's email address... And when it's sending, it says error, and something about hotmail.

Help please :???:

I'm probably just being dumb though..

Can you specify "something about hotmail"?
Even type out the error? :P

[RubiedCross]

Haha, sure. Wait one sec...

"Could not connect to hotmail as %s.

Hotmail no longer allows emails access via Outlook Express for free email accounts.

Account : "hotmail", Server: "http://services.msn.com/svcs/hotmail/httpmail.asp", Protocol: HTTPMail, Server Response: 'Access to Hotmail via Outlook and Outlook Express now requires a subscription. Please sign up at http://join.msn.com/general/Email', Port: 0, Secure(SSL): No, Server Error: 998, Error Number: 0x800CCCF6"

Now that I read it, I'm guessing I either have to send it via my hotmail account, or sign up at the site.

Just tell me though, just to make sure :-D

[Goldenwind]

Haha, sure. Wait one sec...

"Could not connect to hotmail as %s.

Hotmail no longer allows emails access via Outlook Express for free email accounts.

Account : "hotmail", Server: "http://services.msn.com/svcs/hotmail/httpmail.asp", Protocol: HTTPMail, Server Response: 'Access to Hotmail via Outlook and Outlook Express now requires a subscription. Please sign up at http://join.msn.com/general/Email', Port: 0, Secure(SSL): No, Server Error: 998, Error Number: 0x800CCCF6"

Now that I read it, I'm guessing I either have to send it via my hotmail account, or sign up at the site.

Just tell me though, just to make sure :-D

By the sounds of it, you're using Outlook to go *through* hotmail to send your message, and it sounds like hotmail no longer allows you to do this.

So yes, use hotmail.com to send it.

[RubiedCross]

K, thank you very much.

My file most likely won't be accepted though.

It's Yager, and I have quite a few 1 framers/0 framers ;P

[Goldenwind]

K, thank you very much.

My file most likely won't be accepted though.

It's Yager, and I have quite a few 1 framers/0 framers ;P

To be honest, I wouldn't even submit it if you have 1 and 0 framers.
Either keep it as a non-FFR song, or fix it up a little jack-wise.

[RubiedCross]

Yeah, I'll probably dim down the jacks and crap.

Or just start on a different song.

But not tonight though. It's 2 in the morning, and I'm tired.

[ChristaS]

hpw exaclt do you post a song?? :???:

[RubiedCross]

hpw exaclt do you post a song?? :???:

Once you have made the song, you have to convert it into a zip file. Once you have the file, open g-mail (Or use your regular e-mail provider) and send your file (As an attachment) with proof that the author has allowed you to do it, to Tass at his g-mail account, which I believe is TASSELFOOT@GMAIL.com

Hope that helps.



EDIT:: Oh yeah, forgot this was the actual thread for making songs. Just check the first page if this doesn't help. It should be under the "Submission" section.

[bboyxshinobi]

lol ill probably never be able to make a song

[Goldenwind]

Will be updating this sometime this month, in theory. Just a heads up for any aspiring artists.

- Making it easier to understand
- Bit more clarification on how to work files with ITG
- Adding content on how to sync a song
- lrc (Lyric) files
- Adding stops
- How stops and BPM changes affect FFR

Want something else in here? Say so!

[negrolol]

LOL xD

[Assassain]

- Ensure you have 2 or more seconds of silence in the beginning of your music file

does that mean 2 seconds you cant hear sound or 2 seconds of no beats coming? cus i cant afford the sound thingy to make it have 2 seconds of no music D=

[negrolol]

No Se Ingles ¬¬

[Goldenwind]

- Ensure you have 2 or more seconds of silence in the beginning of your music file

does that mean 2 seconds you cant hear sound or 2 seconds of no beats coming? cus i cant afford the sound thingy to make it have 2 seconds of no music D=
No notes in the first 2 seconds. If you plan to have notes playing in the beginning of your song, edit the song by putting 2 seconds of silence in the beginning (Therefore the first sound will be 2 seconds into the song, so you won't have to cut off any beats).

[xinpig]

nice bump ^^

[rshadow8888]

nice bump ^^

Pay attention. Stickies are aloud to be bumped.

Plus, useful info was added to the thread, so it was an acceptable bump as well.

[DoctorSerpentine]

Pay attention. Stickies are aloud to be bumped.

Plus, useful info was added to the thread, so it was an acceptable bump as well.

aloud.
p.s. xinpig is an idiot.

[t-rogdor]

Tutorial is in need of an update, as i think they allow hands in FFR now
(I mean, Blooddrunk has them..)

[buizel8888]

Tutorial is in need of an update, as i think they allow hands in FFR now
(I mean, Blooddrunk has them..)

Well, they are allowed but not encouraged. They are only to be used if they are absolutely necessary.

[fele5200]

ok k then this is cool then what ffr you to be!!

[robertsona]

ok k then this is cool then what ffr you to be!!
rofl what

[Redsky139]

- Ensure you have 2 or more seconds of silence in the beginning of your music file

does that mean 2 seconds you cant hear sound or 2 seconds of no beats coming? cus i cant afford the sound thingy to make it have 2 seconds of no music D=

There are free, open source audio editors out there (like Audacity; http://audacity.sourceforge.net/). It might be helpful to recommend this program in addition to Soundforge in this already very thorough, very helpful guide.

[Rad3n]

my friend had that promblem are u on vista cause SM is a pain in the butt on windows vista

I'm on vista and I can't seem to save the .sm file. It opens into notepad then I paste in the data but it won't save... you say vista is a pain right; so there's a way around this?

[cetaka]

i think you just have to take it out of program files before you save any changes to it. there's probably a way to force vista to let you save changes to files in program files but then you would be Exposed to Ver Dangerous Viruses...

also, why do you even need to change the .sm manually in the first place?

[Rad3n]

who me? because the guide said too.... so I did.

[megamon88]

I think Rad3n means that he had to rename the file from (name).txt to (name).sm but he can't. I think on vista, the file name extensions are hidden. If they are, then on the first page it says how to change the settings.

[TD_boredom]

I'm on vista and I can't seem to save the .sm file. It opens into notepad then I paste in the data but it won't save... you say vista is a pain right; so there's a way around this?

Vista is hard to manage, that's why i'm downgrading to XP ASAP.

this guide is alright.

[Rad3n]

I like vista.... but what do I need to do... I'm not getting any new info here, just a consensus that vista sucks.

All I need to know is why I can't save (is that even vista's fault).

And How to fix it would be nice... but I can probably work that out.

Thanks again

[JenovaSephiroth]

I like vista.... but what do I need to do... I'm not getting any new info here, just a consensus that vista sucks.

All I need to know is why I can't save (is that even vista's fault).

And How to fix it would be nice... but I can probably work that out.

Thanks again

There are two options.

1. You can turn UAC (User Account Control) off. I wouldn't recommend that, though. It leaves you wide open.

2. Go to your Stepmania program folder (the one probably found in Program Files), right click, and go to Properties. Then go to the Security tab. You'll see a list of user types (administrator, users, etc). Click on Users, and then click on Edit. (You probably have UAC on if you're using this method, so UAC will bring up that all-too-familiar dialog. You know what to do.) Check all of the checkboxes in the Allow column, and click OK. Now you should be fine.

[Rad3n]

All the boxes were checked..... I got pwned by vista

also, no. I did save it as a song.sm not a song.sm.txt (I had to change options in control panel to do that). If it was song.sm.txt I would be able to save it though because you can always open a txt file in notepad. but a .sm file, you can't open one of those.




IT'S OK NOW I FIXED IT :D .... thanks for the assistance.... ^_^

[SonicFlasher]

This is too overwhelming...
I'd love to make an FFR song
but ffr makes this more difficult than it should be

[Vanilla Mnm]

Yeah, seriously, this is way to overwelming, but it's obviously easy for some people & it looks like you'll never see me " make my own arrow garden. "

[robertsona]

IMO it's quite easy, but whatever. If you're going to just give up...

[Xx{Midday}xX]

If you take one look at SM, everything else comes quite naturally in my opinion. Most people can tell when they're doing a crappy job.

This sticky title is misleading... at first I thought this thread was about the standards of making stepworthy music. =/

[jimerax]

fixed.

[Knoobish]

Probably should take out the part about jack syndrome.

[ddz]

Probably should take out the part about jack syndrome.

i have a problem i cant seem to be able to put pics in the simfile lik banners or backgrounds i read the readme but it didnt really didnt help. or one of those spinning logo things that showswho made it PLEASE HELP!!!!!!

[AznGreen]

i already got the steps in mind, but i still don't know how to determine the bpm D=. i don't know what program to use either.

[who_cares973]

azngreen use a tap along bpm finder

like winbpm

or you can always use mixmeister

[AznGreen]

azngreen use a tap along bpm finder

like winbpm

or you can always use mixmeister

thanx alot =D iou

[loucst]

Can you step your song before doing all of this? Because that might have screwed me up.
D:

[thehunter1117]

really thanks alot
!

[loucst]

Could you add some pictures of what it would look like? That would help me a lot, because I read everything from the last word, and did everything I was supposed to do, but it's not appearing in Stepmania. Help?

[echo419a]

Not sure if anyone else mentioned, but SM does have its own Song importer, SMPACKAGE in the program directory.

[DJAirWave]

Not sure if anyone else mentioned, but SM does have its own Song importer, SMPACKAGE in the program directory.


Yes, for Windows users with Stepmania 3.9

[Musiks]

I was actually going to step Eiya's RPG and get SM on my Ubuntu MacBook. No sound. I used to step alot back in the day, sucks I can't bring back those nostalgic moments on Ubuntu. I guess I'll just go masturbate.

[Bolth mannn]

ok lol, im stuck at the stepmania/songs part (yes im a noob) ANYWAY, i go to stepmania in my files...what 'songs' do i click on to make the top thing say 'stepmania/songs???


also, if an artist has given blanket permission, do i need to give tass proof of permission or do i just send in the file.

[Xandertrax]

Go to your C: (or whatever drive is your main one) -> program files -> stepmania -> songs. Then you can either put your songs in there or in sub-folders within that.

If an artist gives blanket permission, there's no need to give tass proof.

[Bolth mannn]

thanks dude, i hav now made it a bit further lol...how do you make a txt file?

[Bolth mannn]

ok i now know exactly how to make a stepfile...i just have one question...when i go to save my txt file into my folder...it brings up a messege saying 'you do not have the permission save in this folder...please contact the administrator for more help...do you want to save in ---- instead'

1) i am the administrator and i still have no idea how to do it...ive checked user settings and computer manager but nothings changed...

2) I MADE the folder and i didnt tick any 'dont let others save here' boxes or anything.

this part is the only thing that confuses me...other than that, im ready to go.

[Bethzles]

I dunno if this was already pointed out, but a metronome is a WONDERFUL tool for stepfiling.
You can get one for pretty cheap at most music stores, and high-quality ones cost anywhere from 20 to 40 dollars. I have a 35 dollar one and I adore it. It's helpful! Really it is. ;)

[who_cares973]

I dunno if this was already pointed out, but a metronome is a WONDERFUL tool for stepfiling.
You can get one for pretty cheap at most music stores, and high-quality ones cost anywhere from 20 to 40 dollars. I have a 35 dollar one and I adore it. It's helpful! Really it is. ;)

or you could use assist tick and put a note every 4th

[Bethzles]

or you could use assist tick and put a note every 4th

True, but where's the challenge in that? ;D

[who_cares973]

True, but where's the challenge in that? ;D


what's the point in wasting 30-40 dollars on a metronome that would only be used to step files O.o

[Redsky139]

I'd like to add a simple background to my stepfile. More specifically, I'd like the background to change at different points during the music. I just want some simple white text to open the piece, then at a certain point I want the the text to change to say something else, and then I'd like it to change one more time near the end of the piece.

I'm going to set about trying to figure out how to do this. If someone can tell me how it would be appreciated.

EDIT: figured it out. It was easier than I thought. Still...It would be much more helpful if someone could answer my real question:

Does FFR accept files with backgrounds anymore?

I know SGX files normally have a background and some of the old blue arrow songs have moving backgrounds, but I haven't seen a new file with a background in a long time. Let me know - I'm almost ready to submit a file revision and would like to add this before submitting if at all possible. Thanks!

[dore]

Backgrounds are not allowed on new files... you can include them in your submission but it will never be included in the game (and I doubt any of the judges have backgrounds on anyway).

To do a BG change, you use the BG change menu in the main menu on 3.9. I have no idea how it works but do some trial and error and I'm sure you'll figure it out.

[Redsky139]

Thanks dore. Trail and error did it. I'll also note the files you'd like to be the background need to be in the song folder along with your .sm and .mp3 files.

It's unfortunate that backgrounds are not allowed on new files. In this case, the text is actually a part of the piece (though of course I understand it would have no influence on the judges. The steps are the important part to them.) C'est la vie. Thanks again.

[robertsona]

take out part about jacks etc.

[bobthekiller]

im having trouble with all these notes that hav no meaning can u just reply this coment to make things easier

[dancedance125]

Can someone help me? I need a simple guide on how to make a video banner for stepmania.

[Bolth mannn]

uhmmmm whenever i try to add my folder to .rar a thing comes up saying "cannot create ----------.rar" then it says 'access is denied'

should i be pressing the option that says 'add to "------------.rar"


or is it something else?

[Bolth mannn]

bump....

[Evangeline 123]

do you have to have a program to make a simfile

[who_cares973]

stepmania.com

and ddream studios

[Patashu]

you mean and/or

[Goldenwind]

May do a minor update to this to make it easier to understand, as well as taking out the obsolete bit about jacks.

[Bolth mannn]

Ya also add in a bit about finding BPM, i remember when I first read this I didnt know about BPMs, and i was using 64ths to find the exact right note to sound and it took forever, then somone mentioned BPM to me and I found out i ould do 4ths and 8ths lol

[Goldenwind]

Added a folder-tree "picture", and took out the bit about jacks.

[ffraxis]

I think there is already more than one song with hands..

[samurai7694]

eeerr this thread is old so at that time only one songs had hands. Please don't bump old abandoned threads kthnxbie

[Coolboyrulez0]

eeerr this thread is old so at that time only one songs had hands. Please don't bump old abandoned threads kthnxbie

eeerr you can't bump stickies so replying in one even though there hasn't been a reply in quite a while is fine kthnxbie

[Goldenwind]

Just an update, I will still be monitoring this thread, answering questions, etc.

[Goldenwind]

Added a great deal of information how to get files working on ITG.

[UnkownMan]

Isn't there a new email to submit songs to? Since, Tass doesn't deal with FFR anymore.

[who_cares973]

Added a great deal of information how to get files working on ITG.

Putting information about how to get files working on itg seems a bit pointless when this is a guide to make files (For FFR)

[Patashu]

plz plagiarize from my simfile making guide. it's in stepmania et al

[Goldenwind]

Completely rewrote the entire tutorial.

Included Windows Explorer picture to make things easier to understand.

Provided self-sustained download links for different versions of StepMania, OpenITG, a BPM analyzer, and ITG's "ogg length patch".

More fleshed out information on controls, making the actual chart, and ITG arcade use.

~

Looking for feedback and/or suggestions.
And as always, questions are welcome, should you want to know something.


Putting information about how to get files working on itg seems a bit pointless when this is a guide to make files (For FFR)
More generally, this is how to make a stepchart. From there, I provide people with information of what they may do with their files.

plz plagiarize from my simfile making guide. it's in stepmania et al
Was there something you wanted added? Could you provide a link?

[hXcalltheway]

Hi is there an easier way to do this? I followed your steps but I wasn't able to go into stepmania to edit the song.

[CompleteLover332]

Ummmm can you please help me do a simfile for ffr because i would like to put rainbow trololol here and i am just new. PLEASEEEEE :-?:-?:-?

[Darkbreezee]

Ummmm can you please help me do a simfile for ffr because i would like to put rainbow trololol here and i am just new. PLEASEEEEE :-?:-?:-?

well everything should be there -> Start -> Stepmania -> tools and package exporter -> Create a new file song.
After, u should be able to edit and create new steps for this song tho.
The diw old / sm. files are getting created automatically, you can edit them later to attach banners / titles - difficulties etc.)

Aaaanyways:
If u are rly that new to this site / game etc. , i do NOT recommend u in creating your own charts with the purpose of getting them into the game here.
Since only nearly "perfect" stepped / timed / synced songs will get a chance.
In Addition u need the authors permission, thus there are already a bunch of files from authors like ( Dj Sharpnell e.g.)

First get used to the game, get a feeling on "how" the steps for beats should be etc..
If u want professional help from some well known Simfilers u should ask TC_Halogen, e.g. , or my personal favorite : "bmah" /(<- yes im a fanboy <3 xD). they might give u some hints and suggestions tho.

[VisD]

Hey, I've been playing FFR for years now, really on and off but I've only just recently gotten into the idea of stepping files.

Quick question about Stepmania, 3.95 I think it is:

I've got like four songs stepped or am in the midst of stepping at the moment. I also had two songs previously around, but I've since removed them from the My Songs folder because I didn't want to step them anymore. However, when I try and play any of these four songs (that I actually want to step, lol) through the normal game mode, the first time it goes through fine ("1st Round" or whatever.) Strangely, during the Final Round, I am unable to select any of the other three songs - all that's available is one of the two songs that I've already deleted from the My Songs folder, complete with bs steps and all. What do?

[psychoangel691]

I'm slightly confused as to what you did exactly but I'm just gonna go with this for now lol. Stepmania makes a cache on your computer. When you add/remove songs that are the same title you need to go into options and click reload songs and courses.This will go over the old cache. Hopefully that helps :]

[Darkbreezee]

the Songs are limited to a special amount of time.
First round , everything up to Marathon, second -> short + mid , final -> only short songs.

To get rid of these "limited" tries, u should disable them via options ^^

[VisD]

Hey, thanks guys. I've resolved the issue of the "limited" tries. However, I still can't get rid of the ghost song/simfile, even after reloading courses and all. I rechecked the folder, and the song/simfile definitely isn't there anymore. What else can I do?

[megamon88]

If you've got windows vista the ghost file could be something to do with user account control (uac). I had problems with that on my laptop until I disabled uac.

[VisD]

Nope, I don't have UAC enabled. I can live with it, I guess.

Is there a way to make the arrows go at a faster speed in the editing/syncing mode?

[hi19hi19]

Enter -> Player Options -> change the scroll speed

Same thing as when playing a song normally

p.s. same VisD from K2xl!? :)

[VisD]

hey! yep lol.

[MarioNintendo]

I recently came across this thread and I think we should add a short mention about DDReamStudio for users who want to try out that editing tool. There's already a mini guide (http://www.flashflashrevolution.com/vbz/showthread.php?t=118975) from Patashu on the matter, so maybe just a quick side note in category #3 with a link to this would be enough.

I know the tutorial was made in 2007 and DDReam wasn't used a lot back then, but maybe we should encourage its use since it's a very helpful alternative tool for those like me who dislike stuff about the SM editor (not being able to use your mouse is one prime example).

[rparty89]

does anyone go to the e-mail for submisson