Where do I start?

[caspian]

I want to learn how to mod a completely different game, with new units and maps and such. I want to know where to start?

[ShadesWolf]

This is a hard one mate.

If you have a look in all the sticky posts

You will find enough info to get you going......

[Norseman]

Quote[/b] ]
I want to learn how to mod a completely different game, with new units and maps and such. I want to know where to start?


I would recommend that you begin with some of the basic txt files, you can make significant changes to the game in them.

The most basic ones are:

1)In the so called "startpos.txt" files you can mod things related to SP campaigns, like borders between regions, their landscape, starting positions for different factions etc. You find them in this folder "M-TW\campmap\startpos\*.txt"

2)In "crusader_units_prod11.txt" you can change unit stats, how they are used by the AI, training requirements and much more.

3)In "crusader_build_prod11.txt" you can change the tech-tree.

The last two you will find in the base folder. If you want info on how to mod them without making any serious mistakes, or what you can do with them, do as ShadesWolf says and look in the stickies or do a search.

Just a few words of adwise for beginners:
-Always backup the file you're about to edit
-When something is wrong, you will often just get a CTD without any error-messages. So, make one change at the time. Test it, and if it works you can do the next change. Test again.

If you get stuck, you can always ask...

Happy modding http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-builder.gif

[Plantagenet]

GnomeEditor really helped me when I started modding the unit & building files. Startpos, Default_Heroes, etc., are simple enough in Notepad/Wordpad, but the unit/building files were confusing. GE makes them really easy to edit.

[Conner MacLeod]

I have a question about some modding myself in text. Is it possible to create a new set of faction names? What I mean is I've changed the Burgundians to Scots and want to use the Socttish names. However because the Burdgundians use the French list, I fear that changing the French list to Scottish will change the French themselves into Scottish named people. Is there anyway to create a new name list in the text files for just my faction?

Also, is it possible to change the little game board pieces, I mean the little knights' and soldiers' shields on the campaign map?

[ShadesWolf]

If I understand the game correctly the answerto your question is YES.

Each set of names is allocated a number, ie 1,2,3,4

In on of the files (cant rememeber which one) it says French fation use set of names 2.

If you can locate which set of names the Scot are and then change the identifier from say 2 (french) to 9 (Scots) it should do it for you.
Hope that made sence....

BTW you were correct if you actually change the names them selves it will give the French Scottish names.... http://www.totalwar.org/forum/non-cgi/emoticons/gc-disappointed.gif

[Conner MacLeod]

I have been unable to find the proper file so far does anyone know which one is the one that sets the names?

Also, I have located gameboard piece shields, does anyone know the best way to .bif edit?