Custom Models/Textures [Client-Side]

[Night Terror]

With a couple recent discussions, I was wondering if Ascension would support custom models/textures client side (only the user will see them). Starsiege:Tribes allowed this, and in a way helped extend its life with things like higher resolution textures provided by the community.

Texture changes that could be allowed:
- Skyboxes
- Terrain
- Players (skins)
- Vehicles
- Flags and other Game Objects
- Weapons (1st Person and In-The-Field)
- Trails/Explosions

Model changes that could be allowed:
- Players
- Weapons (1st Person and In-The-Field)
- Projectiles

I think it would benefit, as not everyone will like the graphics (which can be said for any game). Allowing this would give people a choice on how they want the game too look, therefore no one can really complain. It could also help attract modellers and skinners. Also help get this place going:

http://www.fpsbanana.com/games/2002

Now, for servers that wish to have everyone using default, can enable a server setting. Even if you have custom files, they will not be used, allowing you to play without going through the trouble of removing them.

[Danderson]

As far as I know, there will be nothing stopping people from doing client-side art. However, some models could be used for cheating (maybe some arrow over a head to point it out, I don't know). Since its the server that says whether it hits or not, we don't have to worry about people making larger/smaller targets.

[teratos]

Cheating is a giant issue right here.

Models are a definite no.

[Amadeus]

Yeah, god forbid somone makes HappyInvostation.

[Night Terror]

Thanks for the replies. Im against that too. Things like flags, base objects (mines, turrets, etc.), and other items of importance should be hard coded. With Flags, if a size restriction is possible, then maybe allow a change. One of the problems with the flags in T:V was when in 3rd person, it blocked your view.

But what about small things like weapons or players models? I dont see an advantage here, and would give modders limitless creativity. Though about the players, that should have size restrictions. Also goes for player indicators.

And if not now, could it be a possibility in the future? I really like the client side customization going on with Source engine games, enough that I started making some myself, even though I rarely play the games.

[teratos]

I know we have talked about this internally. There was some discussion of allowing changes that had to go through us first and then be released as updates/extra game content. We haven't discussed it recently though (at least not when I was around). I'm sure it will be readdressed in the near future though.