Importer and exporters

[corey 0]

Hello just wondering is there away for me to import model for this game into max and what do I need to export them back out. Thanks.

 

I would like to important some of the models into max for use as Ref While I model.

[Shaolin 0]

I don't think there is an importer...

 

But what I always wanted to know: Is TK's lod-structure documented somewhere? It would be great to be able to read the files (maybe to create something like a skin-preview program...)!

[FastCargo 412]

There is no importer...LOD files cannot be directly imported into MAX.

 

FC

[Shaolin 0]

There is no importer...LOD files cannot be directly imported into MAX.

 

FC

 

I know - but no documentation, too?

[FastCargo 412]

Not that I'm aware of.

 

There is a small program called UMC2 that can read and display SMALL .LOD files (like for weapons). But the maker hasn't updated it in a LONG time.

 

If those who make MAX files can also export into ASE format, there are a few free/shareware programs that can read and display that format...it even keeps the animations.

 

FC

[DWCAce 19]

Wasn't Elaine's b/f an importer/exporter?

 

Sorry, couldn't resist....

[Shaolin 0]

Not that I'm aware of.

 

There is a small program called UMC2 that can read and display SMALL .LOD files (like for weapons). But the maker hasn't updated it in a LONG time.

 

If those who make MAX files can also export into ASE format, there are a few free/shareware programs that can read and display that format...it even keeps the animations.

 

FC

 

You're right, it does (more or less...), but I'm not searching for a program, I'm searching for the algorithm (to be able to write my own tool)!

[FastCargo 412]

I doubt TK would be willing to release such information.

 

In general, wide spread public knowledge of how to reimport LODs back into MAX is frowned upon. The problem isn't a modder using a freeware LOD as a starting point or template for their own work (if both persons are signatories of the freeware accords AND the appropriate credit is given). The problem is a modder using payware LODs to do the same thing.

 

This has ALREADY happened a few times...with the idiots not even bothering to change the mapping.

 

Because of these events, we've had to institute limits for these kinds of discussions...basically, don't bother asking, and instant/permanent bans to anyone caught trying to do this here (using reverse engineering as stated above).

 

FC

[Shaolin 0]

Well, I don't want to convert the model (or even get the model), I just need the surface with the mapping.

My goal was to write a viewer to simplify skinning - you wouldn't need to run the game, just open the lod with the viewer and load the skin. If it doesn't fit, change it and reload the texture...

[FastCargo 412]

There's nothing wrong with that of course, I'm not accusing anyone here of doing something nefarious. However, again, I don't think TK will publish the details of the LOD format...however, I could be wrong. It would be nice...even MAX is a bit of a pain to skin in.

 

FC