ABOUT
.MSH
Modifying .MSH files
There is not much knowledge
on the .MSH format. It is a compressed and/or binary format of the XSI
file. The .MSH file is autogenerated by the bzone.exe as soon as the engine
has to interprete the XSI file(s).
Now, Black Manatee found
a way to modify the .MSH file so that alternate skins are possible. I'll
explain it on an example: You have a file, lets say evtank00.msh (the Hadean
Xares). You want to create a mod where the EDF steals the blueprints and
is able to recreate this fabulous tank. But the EDF Xares will not have
the same color (orange!) then the Hadean Xares. What now? Is the whole
mod project in danger?
-
No. First, create your orange
skin by modifying the original Hadean skin (evtank00.pic).
-
Then open up the evtank00.msh
in a Hex Editor program and find all the references to the Hadean skin
(evtank00.pic).
-
Then replace the word evtank00.pic
with the name of your new (orange) skin. Make sure both file names have
the EXACT same length. best is to replace evtank00.pic with evtank99.pic
or similar.
-
Then save the .MSH file in the
HEX EDITOR. Rename the newly saved .MSH file to evtank_edf.msh or something
and make sure the reference is correct in the corresponding evtank_edf.odf
file!
So now you have a different
.MSH file for your EDF version of the Xares tank.