Re: Not compatible game data
compatibility checks are most likely based on some checksum formula. So changing even a single character in export_descr_unit.txt can cause incompatibility. Even if it wouldn't actual affect battle results.
Re: Not compatible game data
Ok, thanks. And I assume CA is keeping that checksum algorithm to themselves to avoid cheaters from hacking the game? Hm, I might have to give up with my mod idea in that case.
Re: Not compatible game data
But wait - the checksum of the file must be compared to some other checksum, right? Doesn't that mean the checksum must be stored elsewhere? Is it stored online, or just in another file, that I could edit?
Re: Not compatible game data
erm it's most likely stored in a variable in the memory and transferred to other players over gamespy. I don't think you can change that - besides, the whole point of compatibility checking is that you cannot bypass it :)
Re: Not compatible game data
Yes, I think you're right. The only weak point in this fort is the calculation of the checksum from the file. I'll make some attempts and see if I can find at least one change of a file that does NOT lead to incompatibility and from that try to figure out the algorithm. It's likely though that the algorithm is too complex to be able to figure out just by testing.