Before the features of the mapmaking packet are mentioned, please make note everything used in this mapmaking packet can be played on any existing version or MOD of Age of Wonders. The mapmaker package only has to be used by the mapmaker for all players to utilize the packet's features. However, any player can use the package if they so wish.
Here are the features:
New Built-In Hero Portraits- On the selection screen of hero/leader portraits all the possible portraits are unlocked. Some that are included are the portraits Meandor, Julia, Gabriel, Elwyn, and Lord Inioch.
Alternative Hero Sprites- On the race selection screen for a hero, for each race there is a new unit graphic, a dismounted wizard-like sprite (12 in all). The feature is accessed by scrolling past the last default race selection (undead hero).
Access to all non-buggy abilities and statuses for items and heroes- For both items and heroes, as selection for use by mapmakers all the non-buggy abilities and statuses (those that I am aware) have been added (in all the item/hero screens that the abilities and statuses work).
This mapmaking packet contains files that overwrite three existing AOW files: Ability.pfs, FACERES.PFS, and HERORES.PFS. The patch is designed to give mapmakers access to many of the interesting features of heroes and items that are accessible.
If you experience any problems with this patch or its installation, please feel free to give me an e-mail at Tekkaman_Zero@hotmail.com.
------------------------------------------------------------ INSTRUCTIONS ------------------------------------------------------------ To install the mapmaking packet, place all the files in this zip into a folder called \Release\Mapmaker\
example: C:\Program Files\Triumph Studios\Age of Wonders\Release\Mapmaker
Next, execute the map.bat in the above directory with any of the below command-line parameters to make your choice. Your choice should then be processed, if you installed the mapmaking packet correctly.
Examples: Map 136 Load the Triumph Studios' Map Files (1.36) Map map Load the Mapmaker Addition's Map Files
Map backup Backup your present Map Files Map loadbackup Load the Backed Up Map Files ============================================================
I highly recommend you first backup your files in case of failure.
If you are trying to use this packet on any MOD, please note that Ability SP will be altered with this patch. To revert to your mod files you can either:
1.) Backup the mod's map files with the [backup] command in the map.bat and then revert to the mod's map files with the [loadbackup] command in the map.bat when you are done using the mapmaking packet. ----Moderately Recommended----
2.) Use the rules.bat (if you have it) and switch back to the mod in question. ----Highly Recommended----
3.) Manually switch to the mod you want by copying and pasting. ----Not Recommended---- (IMO way too much work)
The files patched to run the mapmaking packet are:
[Release] example: C:\Program Files\Triumph Studios\Age of Wonders\Release Ability.pfs FACERES.PFS HERORES.PFS
You should now have access to the features of the Mapmaker Addition.
------ Many thanks goes to Nojd for letting me re-use most of his batch code from DevEd for the map.bat.
Posted on 01/03/03 @ 12:00 AM