definition files

Damix · November 2nd, 2005, 09:43 AM

How can i make definition files for a system?

Russell · November 2nd, 2005, 12:13 PM

Start with the Construction Kit documentation - have a quick read through that ;-). If you're using AB3, you can create a definition file directly within ABCreator. If you're using AB2, you need to use a text editor (such as notepad) to create a text definition file, then compile it as described in the construction kit manual.

If you have more specific questions, feel free to ask!

Damix · November 7th, 2005, 06:07 AM

I'll try. Is it hard?

Russell · November 7th, 2005, 11:21 AM

It can be quite daunting, yes.

Take a look at the files people have written for other systems to get ideas, and if you're considering writing for ABv3, wait until 3.1 is released, as the documentation for using the Construction Kit to create data files is vastly improved.

Damix · November 9th, 2005, 06:01 AM

??? i want to make a datafile for my game, but cant find out how... please help.

Russell · November 9th, 2005, 01:24 PM

Start off by telling us which version of AB you plan to make a datafile for. ABv2 is very different from ABv3 regarding datafile authoring.

Do you have the construction kit for the version of Army Builder you want to develop your files for?

deathlynx · November 9th, 2005, 01:28 PM

The first important question is do you have the Army Builder Construction kit? If the answer is no then you should get this first...It's not currently publicly available so you'll have to email Rob or Colen to get a copy...Or you can wait until AB 3.1 comes out since I think the kit will be available then (not positive so someone should confirm this)...

The ABC kit comes with full documentation (html files) about writing data files...You can also use it to look at other (existing) datafiles from games you play in order to get some ideas...

Damix · November 10th, 2005, 03:09 AM

I am using v2 and have the set and already made a deffile

Russell · November 10th, 2005, 11:06 AM

Ok, so you have a compiled definition file (datadef.xyz - where xyz is the extension you've chosen for your game system - and if you open it with notepad is mostly wierd characters) and it's in the data directory under the AB install directory.....

You then just need to start ABCreator and select File->New... and it will ask you to select the name of the system (the one you put in your def file)

Then you can create units, options and items as required.

Damix · November 11th, 2005, 05:14 AM

but thename doesnt stand there

Damix Junior Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Posts: 12 November 2nd, 2005, 09:43 AM	How can i make definition files for a system?
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Russell Senior Member Volunteer Data File Author Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Australia Posts: 254 November 2nd, 2005, 12:13 PM	Start with the Construction Kit documentation - have a quick read through that ;-). If you're using AB3, you can create a definition file directly within ABCreator. If you're using AB2, you need to use a text editor (such as notepad) to create a text definition file, then compile it as described in the construction kit manual. If you have more specific questions, feel free to ask!
#2