We distribute our own version of Hammer++ with additional content such as materials and 3D models used within the editor.

If you have not already, start by downloading Lambda Content Authoring Tools.

Once done, follow the guidance on Installing Hammer++ and FGD Files.

Once Hammer++ is installed, the Dashboard should show green stating that Hammer++ is installed, with a button to open Hammer++.

FGD Files

On the right is a list of FGD files.

FGD files are plain text files that include any custom entities; in our case, custom entities for different gamemodes.

We recommend installing all FGD files, however this is optional; you can also just install the ones you need.

Other Map Tools

Content Authoring Tools includes several other tools you will use while working on maps:

• Cartographer generates radar images from your map sources. See Generating Radars.
• Place Forge lets you name places on your map via the navigation mesh.
• vScript IDE is a code editor for writing map scripts. See the Scripting documentation.
• Assembly packs custom content (materials, models, sounds, scripts) into your compiled map so other players receive it.

The Map Tools page under Hammer lists every compiled map in your Garry's Mod installation and links directly into these tools for each map.