diff --git a/src/java/com/threerings/util/DirectionCodes.java b/src/java/com/threerings/util/DirectionCodes.java
index a2122990..b67e6e53 100644
--- a/src/java/com/threerings/util/DirectionCodes.java
+++ b/src/java/com/threerings/util/DirectionCodes.java
@@ -35,7 +35,7 @@ public interface DirectionCodes
 
     /** A direction code indicating moving right. */
     public static final int RIGHT = 1;
-    
+
     /** A direction code indicating moving up. */
     public static final int UP = 2;
 
@@ -107,4 +107,7 @@ public interface DirectionCodes
 
     /** The number of fine compass directions. */
     public static final int FINE_DIRECTION_COUNT = 16;
+
+    /** The four points of the compass. */
+    public static final int[] CARDINAL_DIRECTIONS = { NORTH, SOUTH, EAST, WEST };
 }
diff --git a/src/java/com/threerings/util/DirectionUtil.java b/src/java/com/threerings/util/DirectionUtil.java
index 19b03980..885a502c 100644
--- a/src/java/com/threerings/util/DirectionUtil.java
+++ b/src/java/com/threerings/util/DirectionUtil.java
@@ -135,6 +135,14 @@ public class DirectionUtil implements DirectionCodes
         return rotateCW(direction, FINE_CW_ROTATE.length/2);
     }
 
+    /**
+     * Get the cardinal direction closest to the specified direction (preferring a clockwise match).
+     */
+    public static int getClosestCardinal (int direction)
+    {
+        return getClosest(direction, CARDINAL_DIRECTIONS, true);
+    }
+
     /**
      * Get the direction closest to the specified direction, out of
      * the directions in the possible list (preferring a clockwise match).