NetRadiant-Custom review

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

NetRadiant-Custom is an open-source desktop level editor for id Tech-based games, with a particular focus on Quake, Quake 3, and Quake Live. It is suited to modders who want to create and refine maps on Windows, macOS, or Linux. The editor combines 3D viewport work with brush and entity editing, vertex, edge, face, and clipper-point manipulation, UV alignment, texture and model browsing, shader editing, and compilation utilities. Configurations for other supported games are also included.

Its strongest area is the depth of its map-authoring workflow. CSG shell modification and brush extrusion support construction work, while UV tools, texture browsing, and a simple shader editor cover visual refinement. Map compilation and configurable build commands keep build steps within the editor, and automatic packaging for Quake 3 supports a direct path from map work to a distributable package. Supported formats include .map, .bsp, .pk3, .dpk, .dpkdir, Valve 220, brush primitives, axial projection, .def, .ent, and .fgd.

NetRadiant-Custom is a strong fit for creators who want free, open-source tooling with native support across three desktop operating systems and a workflow centered on Quake 3 modding. Its focus is narrower than a general-purpose game development environment, and it does not include AI features. Buyers looking for detailed brush-based editing, compilation controls, and automatic Quake 3 packaging should find its scope well aligned; those seeking a browser editor, broader engine coverage, or AI-assisted creation should choose a different type of tool.

NetRadiant-Custom pros and cons

• Where it wins
  • Detailed brush, vertex, UV, entity, and texture editing tools
  • Map compilation and configurable build commands
  • Automatic Quake 3 map packaging with broad format support
• Where it doesn't
  • Focused mainly on Quake, Quake 3, Quake Live, and similar games
  • No AI-assisted features
  • Desktop software rather than a browser-based editor

NetRadiant-Custom fact sheet, pricing and score →

Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.

Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update