Stormworks: Build and Rescue is a popular game that allows players to build and operate their own rescue vehicles. However, sometimes players may want to edit their save files to make changes or fix problems. Editing save files can be a complex process, but it is possible with the right tools and knowledge. This guide will show you how to edit Stormworks save files, so you can customize your game experience to your liking.
The first step is to find your Stormworks save files. Save files are located in the following directory:
%USERPROFILE%\Saved Games\Stormworks Build and Rescue\Saves
Once you have found your save files, you can use a text editor like Notepad++ or Sublime Text to open them. Save files are in a JSON format, which is a human-readable format that is easy to edit. However, it is important to be careful when editing save files, as making a mistake could corrupt your save file. Make sure you understand what you are doing before you make any changes.
Understanding Save File Structures
In Stormworks, save files are stored as binary files with the extension “.swm”. They contain a serialized representation of the entire game world, including all vehicles, structures, AI, and terrain. The save file format is complex and undocumented, but it is possible to edit save files to make changes to the game world.
The save file structure is divided into several sections, each of which contains a different type of data:
Metadata: This section contains information about the save file, such as the game version, the name of the map, and the player’s name.
World Data: This section contains data about the game world, such as the terrain, the weather, and the time of day.
Vehicle Data: This section contains data about all of the vehicles in the game world, including their position, orientation, and damage.
Structure Data: This section contains data about all of the structures in the game world, including their position, orientation, and damage.
AI Data: This section contains data about all of the AI in the game world, including their position, orientation, and behavior.
Each section is further divided into sub-sections, which contain data about specific objects. For example, the Vehicle Data section contains a sub-section for each vehicle, and the Structure Data section contains a sub-section for each structure.
The save file format is designed to be efficient and compact, so it is not easy to read or edit. However, there are a number of tools available that can help you to edit save files. These tools can be used to make changes to the game world, such as adding or removing vehicles, structures, or AI.
Accessing and Modifying Save Files
Locating Save Files
Stormworks save files are stored in the following directory:
“`
C:\Users\[Username]\Documents\Stormworks\Saves
“`
You can also access save files through Steam’s “Browse Local Files” option.
Modifying Save Files
Save files can be modified using a text editor such as Notepad or Notepad++. When editing save files, it’s important to create a backup before making any changes.
Advanced Save File Modification
For more advanced modifications, you can use the Stormworks Lua interpreter to directly manipulate the save file. This allows you to perform complex tasks such as:
- Creating custom vehicles and creations
- Editing world settings and terrain
- Adding and removing challenges and missions
To use the Lua interpreter, open the save file in a text editor and add the following code at the beginning of the file:
“`lua
local interpreter = require ‘interpreter’
interpreter.run()
“`
Once you have added this code, you can use the Lua interpreter to execute commands that will modify the save file. For example, to create a new vehicle, you could use the following command:
“`lua
vehicles.create({
name = “My New Vehicle”,
position = { x = 0, y = 0, z = 0 },
rotation = { x = 0, y = 0, z = 0 }
})
“`
For a more detailed guide to Lua scripting in Stormworks, refer to the official documentation.
| Operation | Command |
|---|---|
| Create a new vehicle | vehicles.create() |
| Edit a mission | missions.edit() |
| Set the world time | world.setTime() |
Editing Unit Properties
Editing unit properties allows you to modify various aspects of each unit in your Stormworks save file. This can be used to adjust a unit’s appearance, performance, and behavior.
To edit unit properties, open the save file in a text editor such as Notepad++ or Sublime Text. The unit properties are stored in the “UnitTypes” section of the save file. Each unit type has its own “Properties” section, which contains a list of key-value pairs that define the unit’s properties.
The following is a table of some of the most common unit properties:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | The name of the unit. |
| Model | The model file that is used to render the unit. |
| Texture | The texture file that is used to color the unit. |
| Mass | The mass of the unit in kilograms. |
| Drag | The drag coefficient of the unit. |
| Lift | The lift coefficient of the unit. |
In addition to the properties listed in the table, there are many other properties that can be edited. For a complete list of all unit properties, please refer to the Stormworks documentation.
Once you have edited the unit properties, save the changes and reload the save file in Stormworks. The changes will be applied to the units in the save file.
Modifying Mission Parameters
The mission parameter defines the general settings and conditions of a mission. By editing the XML file, you can modify various aspects of the mission, such as:
Objective Settings
Adjust the mission’s objectives, including success and failure conditions, rewards, and penalties.
Vehicle Settings
Modify the starting positions, orientations, and equipment of player vehicles and AI vessels.
Environmental Settings
Change the time of day, weather conditions, and water level to create different gameplay experiences.
Additional Information
The following table provides additional details on modifying mission parameters.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
objectiveType |
Type of mission objective (e.g., reach a destination, salvage a vessel, etc.) |
successCondition |
Conditions that must be met to complete the mission successfully |
failureCondition |
Conditions that trigger a mission failure |
reward |
Amount of currency or experience points earned for completing the mission |
penalty |
Amount of currency or experience points lost if the mission fails |
playerVehiclePosition |
Initial position of the player’s vehicle in the mission |
playerVehicleOrientation |
Initial orientation of the player’s vehicle in the mission |
weatherCondition |
Current weather conditions in the mission (e.g., clear, rain, snow) |
waterLevel |
Current water level in the mission (in meters) |
Adjusting Environment Settings
The Environment section of the save file editor allows you to change various settings that affect the in-game environment:
Weather
You can adjust the weather conditions, including the intensity of rainfall, snowfall, wind speed, and fog density.
Water
You can modify the water settings, such as the water level, wave height, and current speed.
Time
You can change the in-game time and set the time of day (sunrise, noon, sunset, night).
Atmosphere
You can change the atmospheric settings, including the visibility range, fog color, and sky color.
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Visibility Range | Determines the distance at which objects can be seen in the game world. |
| Fog Color | Controls the color of the fog in the game world. |
| Sky Color | Sets the color of the sky in the game world. |
Customizing Vehicle and Structure Designs
Stormworks: Build and Rescue allows players to customize their vehicles and structures, enabling them to create unique designs that suit their playstyles. Here’s how to edit save files to customize these designs:
Opening Save Files
Locate the save file you wish to edit, typically found in “C:\Users\%USERNAME%\AppData\Local\Stormworks\Saves”. Note that editing save files can cause unintended consequences, so it’s advisable to make a backup first.
Text Editing Tools
Use text editors such as Notepad++ or Sublime Text to open the save file. Save files are in XML format, which is human-readable and easy to edit.
Customizing Vehicle and Structure Designs
Locate the section of the save file containing the vehicle or structure you wish to customize. Within this section, you can edit various parameters:
Geometry
Modify the shape and appearance of vehicles and structures by editing the “Geometry” section. Adjust vertices, edges, and faces to create customized designs.
Lighting
Enhance the visual appeal of your designs by adjusting the lighting. Modify the intensity, color, and position of lights to create realistic or artistic effects.
Textures
Customize the appearance of surfaces by replacing or editing textures. Import custom textures or create new ones using image editing software.
Materials
Alter the physical properties of objects by modifying their materials. Adjust the density, friction, and buoyancy of materials to tailor the behavior of vehicles and structures.
Scripts
Add custom functionality to your designs by incorporating scripts. Write or import scripts to control vehicle movement, implement sensors, or create interactive features.
Data
Modify the data associated with vehicles and structures to adjust their performance, characteristics, and gameplay experience. This includes editing fuel consumption, speed limits, and damage thresholds.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Geometry | Shape and appearance |
| Lighting | Intensity, color, and position of lights |
| Textures | Surface appearance |
| Materials | Density, friction, and buoyancy |
| Scripts | Custom functionality |
| Data | Performance and gameplay characteristics |
Troubleshooting Save File Errors
There are several common errors that can occur when editing Stormworks save files.
Corrupted Save Files
Corrupted save files are often caused by improper shutdowns or power outages. If a save file is corrupted, it may not be possible to recover it.
Missing or Mismatched Files
Missing or mismatched files can occur if the save file is moved or copied incorrectly. Make sure that all the files associated with the save file are present and in the correct location.
Invalid Syntax
Invalid syntax can occur if the save file is edited incorrectly. Make sure that all syntax is correct and that the file is properly formatted.
Incorrect File Permissions
Incorrect file permissions can prevent the game from accessing the save file. Make sure that the save file has the correct file permissions for the user running the game.
Version Mismatch
Version mismatches can occur if the save file is created in a different version of the game. Make sure that the save file is compatible with the version of the game you are using.
Insufficient Memory
Insufficient memory can occur if the save file is too large. Make sure that your computer has enough memory to load the save file.
Unknown Errors
Unknown errors can occur for a variety of reasons. If you encounter an unknown error, try reloading the save file or restarting the game. If the error persists, you can try contacting the game’s support team.
Advanced Save File Editing Techniques
Advanced Search and Replace
Use regular expressions to perform complex search and replace operations on specific values within the save file. This technique allows for precise modification of key properties without the need for manual editing.
Conditional Editing
Modify values within the save file based on specific criteria. For example, you can change the properties of all vehicles with a certain name or modify the speed of all vessels within a defined area.
Bulk Property Changes
Edit multiple properties of a selected entity. This technique enables efficient modification of complex structures, such as vehicles or buildings, by allowing you to change multiple values simultaneously.
Linked Value Modification
Synchronize values across multiple entities within the save file. For instance, you can ensure that all vehicles of a certain type have the same speed or that all nodes connected to a specified node inherit its properties.
Property Value Validation
Enforce data integrity by validating property values against predefined criteria. This technique prevents invalid or unrealistic values from being introduced into the save file, ensuring its stability and reliability.
Lua Script Integration
Utilize Lua scripts to perform advanced modifications beyond the capabilities of the built-in editor. Lua scripts provide a powerful and flexible platform for automating complex editing tasks.
Custom Command Creation
Develop custom commands that extend the functionality of the editor. These commands can automate repetitive tasks or implement specialized editing operations, enhancing the efficiency of your editing workflow.
Data Extraction and Analysis
Extract specific data from the save file and use it for analysis or visualization. By leveraging external tools or programming languages, you can gain deeper insights into the contents of your save file and make informed editing decisions.
Error Handling and Debugging
Handle errors and debug issues encountered during the editing process. By implementing robust error handling mechanisms, you can ensure that any modifications made to the save file are accurate and consistent.
| Subtopic | Example |
|---|---|
| Conditional Editing | Change the speed of all vehicles with a name starting with “Race_” to 200 km/h. |
| Bulk Property Changes | Set the fuel capacity, maximum speed, and turning radius of all vehicles to their default values. |
| Linked Value Modification | Ensure that all nodes connected to the “Control” node inherit its “Active” property. |
Maintaining Save File Integrity
Maintaining the integrity of your Stormworks save files is crucial to ensure a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience. Here’s how to do it:
1. Backup Your Save Files Regularly
Regularly back up your save files to a separate location to protect against data loss due to game updates, hardware failures, or accidental deletion.
2. Use a Dedicated Save Folder
Create a dedicated folder for your Stormworks save files to keep them organized and prevent conflicts with other files.
3. Avoid Modifying Save Files Manually
Refrain from manually modifying save files unless absolutely necessary. Use the game’s built-in tools for editing purposes.
4. Use Stormworks Save Editor Responsibly
If using the Stormworks Save Editor, proceed with caution and make only necessary changes. Improper use can corrupt your save files.
5. Avoid Sharing Sensitive Information
Do not share your save files with untrusted individuals, as they may contain personal information.
6. Disable Steam Cloud Synchronization
Consider disabling Steam Cloud synchronization for Stormworks to prevent potential conflicts and data loss.
7. Keep Your Game Updated
Regularly update your copy of Stormworks to ensure compatibility with save files and avoid potential issues.
8. Check for Corrupted Files
Run a periodic check for corrupted save files using the game’s built-in tools or third-party software to identify and resolve any issues promptly.
9. Use a File Recovery Tool
If your save files become corrupted or lost, use a file recovery tool to attempt to restore them.
10. Validate Your Steam Game Files
Through your Steam client, right-click on the Stormworks game in your library, select “Properties,” then navigate to the “Local Files” tab and click “Verify Integrity of Game Files.” This will automatically detect and replace any corrupted or missing files, including save files.
Stormworks: How to Edit Save Files
Stormworks is a game that allows players to build and operate their own ships, aircraft, and vehicles. Players can also create and share their own worlds and missions. Sometimes, players may want to edit their save files in order to make changes to their worlds or missions.
There are two ways to edit save files in Stormworks. The first way is to use the in-game editor. To do this, open the Stormworks game and click on the “Load Game” button. Then, select the save file that you want to edit and click on the “Edit” button. This will open the in-game editor, where you can make changes to your world or mission.
The second way to edit save files in Stormworks is to use an external editor. To do this, you will need to find the save file that you want to edit. The save files are located in the following directory:
C:\Users\[Your User Name]\AppData\Local\Stormworks\Saves
Once you have found the save file, you can open it using any text editor. However, it is important to note that editing save files can be risky. If you make a mistake, you could corrupt your save file. Therefore, it is important to make a backup of your save file before you edit it.
People Also Ask
How do I open a Stormworks save file in an external editor?
To open a Stormworks save file in an external editor, you will need to find the save file that you want to edit. The save files are located in the following directory:
C:\Users\[Your User Name]\AppData\Local\Stormworks\Saves
Once you have found the save file, you can open it using any text editor.
Can I edit Stormworks save files on a Mac?
Yes, you can edit Stormworks save files on a Mac. However, you will need to use a text editor that is compatible with Mac OS. Some popular text editors for Mac OS include TextEdit, Sublime Text, and Atom.
