[HELP] How to start modding? (very beginner)

ElvishArcher

Hello,

I’m a beginner in modding FL.

All i want is to make a mod which contains only a few solar systems (around eight systems), and less available ships (two or three small ships) and equipments (just basic turrets, shields, and thrusters).

The mod will be played online by me and my fellow friends using internet connection together, as we’re living in different cities.

How can i start modding?

I already dig the starport.net site but can’t find how to start fresh.
The “modding handbook” link is broken.

What tools should i use to build my own mod for easier work?

Please anyone can help me?

Thank you in advance.

Sincerely,

ElvishArcher

rik_starkiller

Hey

Welcome to the Starport and good luck with your modding.
It’s going to take a lot of time to learn and patience too. You’ll make a lot of mistakes at first and it can be frustrating, but stick with it it can be very rewarding!
You’ve come to the right place for help and support.

First off you need to get yourself an SDK. This contains all of the Freelancer code files (usually .ini files) in an unencrypted format.

I recommend Jasons Freelancer Patch (or JFLP) not only does it include all of the files, but a whole bunch of fixes too. It can be found here:
http://adoxa.3eeweb.com/freelancer/index.html

You’ll also need Freelancer Mod Manager (obviously) for activating and de-activating your mod.

I highly recommend using Notepad++ for doing manual edits to files.

For universe and system editing Freelancer Explorer does a good initial job.

You’ll need FL Developer (or FL Dev) to edit names.

Use HardCMP and UTF Editor for edits to Ships and Bases.

There are many many more tools.
Aside from all the help and tutorials you’ll find here, also check out the tutorials here:
http://discoverygc.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=30770

This is very basic as I’m at work and don’t have much time (so most is from memory too) You should be able to find all of the tools mentioned above (expect Notepad++) on this site - they may be part of a modding pack download though.

I hope this helps, good luck
Rik

CK256

If you’re just staring out I’d recommend you read Giskards section on system building see the link below

http://www.gamefaqs.com/pc/913966-freelancer/faqs/25096

scroll down (about 40%) to find

“System Building from scratch by giskard”

This will cover the basics of what you’re wanting to do.

Another thing you want to get hold of is DwnUndr’s total conversion stater pack , this has 3 basic systems up and running and all the data FL needs to run.

http://www.moddb.com/groups/freelancer-4-ever/downloads/vanilla-total-conversion-mod-starter-pack-31

FL Explorer can be very useful but I believe you need to know basic modding before you use it, if you don’t it’s easy to make a real mess (been there done that :))

FL Mod studio is currently my system creation tool of choice

http://code.google.com/p/freelancermodstudio/downloads/list?can=3

It works on the activated mod (unlike FL E) and has a 3D system viewer that’s incredibly useful.

CK256

ElvishArcher

@Rik & CK256: thanks a lot for starting points.

Maybe in the future i’ll post some more questions

Once again, thank you for your help.

StarTrader

Asking specific questions is the best way to learn this ElvishArcher, because you will then get specific help and you will build up your knowledge faster that way.

The hardest part is the first, so just try very simple stuff like changing start ship, start money, start location (not so easy when you haven’t done it before!).

Then try to make your first system after that because it is a little tricky and you may have lots of problems at first.

***M.o.D.***

when you started to get some knowledge. (f.e. which file is for which part of the game) look at some small modifications that are already done.

and for some new systems you can still use fl explorer and later on u can add and tweak stuff by yourself.

helped me alot