Hey everyone,
I’m looking to start a historical documentary channel and I’m deeply inspired by the map animation style of Kings and Generals (example: their video on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIi5QznRpw8).
I’ve been analyzing their style, and while it doesn't seem to use heavy 3D character modeling, the maps and unit movements are incredibly smooth, professional, and efficient. I’m trying to figure out the exact "stack" or workflow to replicate this.
Specifically, I want to know:
- Map Creation: How do they get such high-detail terrain that looks like an antique parchment but still responds to 3D camera tilts (yaw/pitch)? Is this a plugin like GEOlayers 3 in After Effects, or are they importing high-res vector maps from Illustrator?
- Unit Movement: When their "blocks" (infantry/cavalry) move or charge, the movement is perfectly synced with the map. Are they using "Null Objects" to control a virtual camera, or are they animating individual paths?
- The "Arrows": How do they create those smooth, growing tactical arrows that follow the terrain perfectly? Is that just "Trim Paths," or is there a faster way to do it for hundreds of units?
- Ink Bleed/Spreading Effects: I often see sections of their maps or footage appear via an animated ink-spreading effect (like ink soaking into paper). Is this done using "Luma Mattes" with stock footage, or is there a specific procedural way to make "ink bleeds" look that organic over a map?
- Software: Is this achievable in DaVinci Resolve, or is After Effects basically mandatory for this specific genre due to the plugin ecosystem?
I’m a solo creator, so I’m looking for the most efficient way to do this without spending 100 hours on a single 10-minute video. If anyone has a tutorial recommendation or a specific workflow (e.g., Photoshop -> After Effects -> GEOlayers), please let me know!
Thanks in advance!