Hotswapping/ResourceMask Failing When Entries Aren't At The Top Of The List
Introduction
Hotswapping is a crucial feature in game modding that allows developers to replace specific game resources with custom ones without requiring a full game restart. However, a bug has been identified in the hotswapping process, particularly when files are not located at the top of the UseResource list. This article aims to provide a detailed explanation of the issue, its reproduction steps, and the expected behavior.
Describe the Bug
Files for hotswapping that are not at the top of the UseResource list tend to get ignored. This means that if a developer has specified multiple files for hotswapping, but they are not in the top position of the list, the game may not apply the hotswapped resources correctly. However, if there is a "block" of hotswapped objects in the middle of the list (or anywhere except the top), the first hotswapped object will get ignored, and the rest of the block will get hotswapped properly.
To Reproduce
To reproduce the behavior, follow these steps:
- Create a UseResource list: Develop a list of files that you want to hotswap in your game.
- Pick random files to hotswap: Select multiple files from the list and specify them for hotswapping.
- Make sure not all hotswapped files are at the top of the list: Ensure that not all the hotswapped files are in the top position of the UseResource list.
- Boot the mod: Launch the game mod with the specified UseResource list.
- Open the Dolphin Log window: Open the Dolphin Log window to monitor the game's behavior.
- Notice how certain objects in the level were not hotswapped: Observe the game's behavior and notice how certain objects in the level were not hotswapped correctly.
Expected Behavior
The expected behavior is that all specified objects for hotswapping should be hotswapped correctly, regardless of their position in the UseResource list.
Crash Log
There is no crash log associated with this issue.
Screenshots
The following screenshots illustrate the issue:
Emulator (please complete the following information):
- Name: Dolphin
- Version: 2503 (and any other)
Nintendo Wii (please complete the following information):
- Launcher Name: Riivolution
- Enabled Options: Galaxy Level Engine V3 (competition template)
- Version: v1.06
Additional Context
This issue has only been tested in "UseResource/scenario_1.bcsv" and "UseResource/scenario_3.bcsv". However, it is likely to apply to other UseResource files as well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the hotswapping/resource mask failing when entries aren't at the top of the list is a significant issue that affects game modding. By understanding the reproduction steps and the expected behavior, developers can work towards resolving this issue and ensuring that hotswapped resources are applied correctly, regardless of their position in the UseResource list.
Workaround
While a permanent fix is not available at this time, a workaround can be implemented to mitigate the issue. By rearranging the hotswapped files to be at the top of the UseResource list, developers can ensure that the hotswapped resources are applied correctly. However, this workaround may not be feasible for all developers, and a permanent fix is still required to resolve this issue.
Future Development
Introduction
In our previous article, we discussed the issue of hotswapping/resource mask failing when entries aren't at the top of the list. This article aims to provide a Q&A section to address common questions and concerns related to this issue.
Q: What is the cause of this issue?
A: The cause of this issue is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the way the UseResource list is processed by the game. Specifically, it appears that the game may be ignoring hotswapped files that are not at the top of the list.
Q: How can I reproduce this issue?
A: To reproduce this issue, follow these steps:
- Create a UseResource list and pick random files to hotswap.
- Make sure not all hotswapped files are at the top of the list.
- Boot the mod and open the Dolphin Log window.
- Notice how certain objects in the level were not hotswapped.
Q: What are the symptoms of this issue?
A: The symptoms of this issue include:
- Hotswapped files not being applied correctly.
- Certain objects in the level not being hotswapped.
- The game ignoring hotswapped files that are not at the top of the list.
Q: How can I fix this issue?
A: Unfortunately, there is no known fix for this issue at this time. However, a workaround can be implemented by rearranging the hotswapped files to be at the top of the UseResource list.
Q: Is this issue specific to a particular game or mod?
A: This issue has only been tested in "UseResource/scenario_1.bcsv" and "UseResource/scenario_3.bcsv". However, it is likely to apply to other UseResource files as well.
Q: Can I use a different emulator to test this issue?
A: Yes, you can use a different emulator to test this issue. However, the results may vary depending on the emulator and its configuration.
Q: Is this issue related to the UseResource list or the hotswapping process?
A: This issue appears to be related to both the UseResource list and the hotswapping process. Specifically, it appears that the game may be ignoring hotswapped files that are not at the top of the list due to a processing issue.
Q: Can I report this issue to the game developers?
A: Yes, you can report this issue to the game developers. However, please provide as much detail as possible, including the steps to reproduce the issue and any relevant screenshots or logs.
Q: Is there a workaround for this issue?
A: Yes, a workaround can be implemented by rearranging the hotswapped files to be at the top of the UseResource list. However, this workaround may not be feasible for all developers, and a permanent fix is still required to resolve this issue.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the hotswapping/resource mask failing when entries aren't at the top of the list is a complex issue that requires further investigation. By understanding the reproduction steps, symptoms, and potential causes of this issue, developers can work towards resolving this issue and creating a more seamless and efficient hotswapping experience for game modding.