How to import entities
After importing BSP files into your project, you may notice that instead of actual models (props), there are floating crosses visible, as shown in the image below:
These floating crosses represent entity placeholders.
By selecting one or several of these placeholders, a new tool panel will appear on the right tool shelf, named "SourceIO", as depicted in the following image:
Within this panel, you can view various properties of the entity placeholders. For static props, there typically isn't any notable data to look at. However, you can adjust the entity model import options within the "Entity loading" section before clicking "Load Entity" to import the actual models. Be aware that loading may take some time, especially if multiple entities are selected, as shown here:
The "Entity loading" block offers several options:
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Use BVLG: Enables the use of custom BVLG shader nodes designed to mimic the TF2/HL2 aesthetic. Note that these nodes are compatible only with EEVEE and might require adjustments for optimal performance in certain scenarios. Disabling this option will default to standard Blender nodes for an approximate PBR conversion of Source materials.
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Use Instances: Opt for Blender collection instances to optimize scene performance and reduce lag/memory consumption. Disabling this will result in real geometry being placed for each entity, with an additional option appearing:
- Replace entity: When enabled, the newly loaded model will replace the placeholder entity. If disabled, the new model will be parented to the entity object, maintaining the placeholder in the scene structure.