Tes3Mod:Morrowind Mod Maker's Manual

The '''Morrowind Mod Maker's Manual (or just Manual) is a tutorial and reference tool compiled by Edwardsmd. The Manual details each and every function in every window in the Construction Set, as well as providing descriptions of the scripting functions. The work also goes into detail regarding the community''' side of making and releasing mods partly by listing links to many fan websites. The version of the Manual found here is based off of version 2.0, and includes a few changes. Most notably, much of The Scripting Window section has been removed. Instead some of the information that was found there has been used to help create the Functions category.

Permission was granted by Edwardsmd for putting the manual onto this wiki. You can download and read the original PDF or DOC version of the Manual by going here.

Disclaimer
I am not in any way affiliated with Bethesda Softworks, ZeniMax Media, Microsoft, or any company or person who works for these companies. None of these companies in any way allowed or prevented me from completing this work, and most likely were unaware of it’s production prior to it being provided over the Internet. Nor did any of these companies or anyone who works for them in any way provide any input or help me in compiling this work.

All words within are solely the product of myself. While much of the information within I learned through trial and error, a vast amount of it I gleaned from website forums and many various FAQs and tutorials provided freely by people within the gaming community. I do not provide or credit the source of specific information, next to any information within, as separate from that which I provide, as the manual would double in size. Therefore I take no credit whatsoever for anything contained within, only the compilation. All known sources of information will be listed separately from here.

This work is provided freely, and may be downloaded, printed, saved, or distributed to others through any means. However, you may not alter this work, nor profit in any way, if you distribute this work or provide it for distribution, without the express permission of myself and those listed under the Mojo Gratitudes section. This is their work too.

This work is currently version 2.0. I have taken pains to provide accuracy, but there is still some information within that is unknowingly incomplete, inaccurate, or false. I take no responsibility for anything any person does with their computer system due to the information contained within, nor any problems that may arise at any point in the future. Use this work at your own risk.

If you see information contained within that you originally provided and wish it removed or changed for accuracy, please contact myself and I will do so immediately.

-Ed

Introduction

Wow. What a trip it’s been. Here we are several years since Morrowind has been released, and people are still playing, and still modding. Few games have as large and devoted a community, or as great. My own journey with Morrowind has been just fantastic. Prior to Morrowind’s release, I didn’t even know what a ‘mod’ was. Being online meant checking email, nothing more. While I consider myself an avid gamer, I tend to limit my interests to RPGs, and a couple strategy games. I knew of Arena only because a friend had it when I was young, though I didn’t have a computer then (my parents relented and bought me a calculator for school work). I bought Daggerfall when it came out, but I was still on my first computer at that point, it was a bit old, and the game didn’t run well. I also lived in a different country at that point in my life, and had no reliable internet connection. Still, despite the CTDs, slow gameplay, and other problems, I loved DF (hey, it was my first computer, I was still learning). Alas, during the move back to the US, it disappeared. I contented myself with Masters of Orion, Might & Magic 6, and Baldur’s Gate II (with Throne of Baal of course). Knowing Morrowind would be coming out, I began saving money. Solely due to this I actually bought a couple game magazines that had articles about it. Then finally picked up a copy of the game. I was hooked from the get go. I played the heck out of it. But what was this Construction Set that came with it? I tried messing with it, but I was so lost, so mostly gave up. I was having fun playing. By now of course I was online, and actually once in a while did more than check email. One day I did a search for Morrowind, just to see what turned up. Well, a lot of links got returned, but I didn’t click any, until I saw a link for something called Morrowind files. What can I say? That place opened a new world to me.

I discovered things called ‘mods’. I even downloaded a couple and learned to install them. I was in heaven. Giddy with my discovery I reopened the Construction Set and gave it another whirl. No luck, I still had no clue. So I continued my occasional perusal of Morrowindfiles. I noticed it had something called a ‘forum’, but never bothered to check it out. Then the unimaginable. Morrowindfiles died. This forced me to look elsewhere, and in the process I discovered the vast community of websites devoted to Morrowind. I ended up registering at several, and began posting on a few forums in my quest to understand this thing called the Construction Set. I gleaned a great deal of info this way, which only fueled my descent into madness known as modding. I began making all kinds of little mods for myself, none of any real value, just fun stuff for me. And as I became a part of the community more and more, I learned more and more, which enriched the entertainment value of Morrowind enormously. Like many though, I was eternally frustrated at the lack of documentation and explanation for how to use the Construction Set. Looking around at all the notes I made, and all the post-it notes stuck everywhere, I decided to just make something for myself to use.

Thus I created the first version of this work, though in a very simplified form. I provided a copy to the community, but was dissatisfied with it. It wasn’t very good. So I set about making something comprehensive, and released it. Since then I got around to actually creating a mod and releasing it, and hope people enjoy it. But using my own work as a reference, I began to realize how incomplete the manual I had compiled was. I decided to update it. This has proven easier said than done. I didn’t want to just add more content, I wanted it to be a better manual, not just for the newb, but for the expert also. I want anyone to be able to not only learn how to use the CS with this manual, but also be able to use it as a reference as they work. I hope this version has been able to accomplish this.

Some things to keep in mind about this manual. I tried hard to include everything about the CS in it. Impossible, I don’t know everything, and I learn something new every day. While I would love to do something entirely comprehensive, this work would be HUGE were I to go that route. Ever tried to find that one tidbit of info you need in some 500 page reference manual? Hateful stuff. So, I have sacrificed some to enable this manual to be a simple, but complete work. You will not find any tutorials in here on how to make a quest, or how to script, or the best way of how to do ‘this’ or ‘that’. But what you will find is the info you need to understand how to use the various functions to make that quest. How to use the scripting engine to make a script, the dialog engine to make dialog (yes, I included dialog this time), or the landscape engine to make landscape. I won’t tell you the best way to create anything, but I will explain what all the menus and buttons do. What you can do when you open this or that window. And yes, I will offer little tips now and then, usually to help you avoid common pitfalls as you work with the CS.

You will most likely still find some inaccuracies, this is inevitable. I’m human, I make mistakes (my wife is real good at finding these). But I have tried my best. My only hope in compiling this work is to produce something that people can use to help them mod. This shouldn’t be your only resource to help you as you work on a mod, but I hope it’s a valuable one.

With the advent of TES IV: Oblivion on the horizon, I doubt I will do another update. Besides, I’m busy modding, and still playing Morrowind. The meager amount of info known so far for TES IV’s Construction Set sounds intriguing at the very least. For myself, I can’t wait to get my hands on it. I already have ideas bouncing around inside my brain, and who knows, maybe I’ll end up putting together a manual for it too.

Now then, let’s get modding!

:-Ed
:17 June 2005

Mojo Gratitudes
The following people have in some way contributed to the consolidation of information presented here. Mostly by finding or figuring out said information, and either posting it within a forum somewhere or providing it in some way for distribution for all. I know I will be missing many people, but I will list all those I can that I know of. This list is presented in no particular order.

Nether Void - His original compilation, the Morrowind Mod Makers Bible was invaluable. It was the inspiration to further refine and compile a comprehensive reference guide to TESCS.
Dragonsong - For the great tutorials.
GhanBuriGhan - His Scripting For Dummies is essential.
Dave Humphries - His website is packed with information and goodies.
BigChief - a personal thanks for his help in learning the CS.
Vaulimere
Traven
Martini60 - more personal thanks for his help in learning scripting.
Ziegfelding
Blith Erring Idio’ - untold kudos for his website Gamers Roam, and allowing me to be an active member of the community.
Mysterial
SecretChimp
thefunky1
Morgoth666
Sapper
Sorcerer
Emma - she sets a standard for plug-in creation.
The Other Felix - for pushing the boundaries with scripting.
Grumpy - for his scripting work with companions.
SquelchyUnderfoot - for sharing his extensive computer knowledge.
Niyt Owl
Kathykitten
EsnRedshirt
Smudge
Saber
Rukinea - For good tutorials.
Scarabus
Olsor
Snograth
ThebigMuh
Shoujo
Riiak
Rhyek
Horatio
Ragnar_GD
Nazz
Eldar Mayiere
Striker
B
Shadowsong
Raptormeat
MadMax_001
Iudas
maxpublic
Wakim
Ldones
Sheikizza
CrisY
Baphomet - An endless source of help on forums
Klinn - Another great source of information on the forums
Athane Khagan
Calislahn - Her dialog tutorial helped me the most in understanding it.
Kawaii
Emnesharra
ThreadWhisperer
ManaUser
MistyMoon
Canadian Ice
Katheryn
JOG
Srikandi - Her dialog tutorial is extremely useful.
Wyre
OldCow69

While others should probably be listed, I do not know who they are, and of those listed above I only added comments to several because I am aware of the amount of information, or a specific resource, they have provided to the mod community. If someone feels snubbed by this, my apologies, that was not my intent. Contact me and I will endeavor to give all due credit to the best of my ability.

Abbreviations and Definitions
3D Studio Max - Professional program used to create the 3D objects of the game. Very expensive. Only versions 3, 4, or 5 can be effectively be used for Morrowind. Newer versions may not work as well.
.7z - A compressed file, like a .zip file.
.ace - A compressed file, like a .zip file.
Acrobat - Program used to create .pdf files. A tad bit expensive.
Acrobat Reader - A free program that can be used to view any .pdf file.
Adobe - Company that created PhotoShop, Acrobat, and Acrobat Viewer.
Attributes - The PC’s Strength, Intelligence, Willpower, Agility, Speed, Endurance, Personality, Luck, Fatigue, Magicka, and Health.
.bmp - Bitmap file. An image file. Usually pretty big in kb.
.bsa - File that holds all the meshes, textures, and icon files used by Morrowind (and Tribunal & Bloodmoon). Can also be used with an .esp file.
CS (or TESCS) - Construction Set. The reason you’re reading this.
CTD - Crash To Desktop. When you’re playing Morrowind and it suddenly stops, disappears, and is replaced by Windows, that’s a Crash To Desktop.
d-click, d-click’d - Double click.
Data Files - The subfolder in your Morrowind directory that holds most of the data your game needs to play. Also holds the .esp files. A plug-in will not be shown on the start screen of Morrowind to load, nor be accessible to the TESCS, unless it is in this folder.
.dds - Direct Draw Surface file. An image file just like a .bmp, but not as big in kb, and with better compression. Allow use of alpha channels and mipmaps.
Dependent – Plug-in files are dependent upon one or more master files. You cannot load a plugin in the CS, nor in the game, without loading the master files it is dependent upon.
Discreet - Company that owns and sells 3D Studio Max.
Divine Marker - Marker placed in the game to denote the point the PC is taken to when they teleport to an imperial shrine, via spell.
Door Marker - Marker placed in the game to denote the point the PC is taken to when they exit from a door.
Duplicate - You can duplicate any reference in the Render Window and create an exact copy.
.esm - Elder Scrolls Master file. You cannot affect this file in any way.
.esp - Elder Scrolls Plug-in file. All changes made with the CS are stored in this file.
.ess - Elder Scrolls Save file. These are your saved game files.
Expansions - Tribunal and Bloodmoon are the two official expansions available to the Morrowind game.
FPS - Frames Per Second, also known as frame rate or frame frequency. This is a general term that applies to both videos and game-playing.
In basic terms, while playing, the game engine constantly redraws the image that is seen on-screen. Each individual image is referred to as a frame, so your frame rate is the number of frames that your computer managed to process and draw in one second. Frame rate will naturally be higher on faster computers (or game engines), and when the workload the game and computer have to do is smaller (for example, less objects and effects in view). The higher the playing frame rate of a video or game is, the more fluid the screen can be and the smoother movement and animations can become.
An unstable frame rate (frame rate that changes dramatically and quickly) can impair viewing, and very low frame rate can impair game controls and their responsiveness. A frame rate of at least 60 FPS is considered a good baseline value for smooth and visually appealing gameplay, while a frame rate below 30 is considered very low and even lower FPS will result in slideshow-like gameplay.
Therefore, the higher the frame rate the better, but it is of little benefit to have a higher frame rate than your monitor's refresh rate, and if it much higher then that may be viewed as a waste of computer resources. Although eyes do not 'see in distinct frames', there is also a point at which higher FPS, even with matching monitor refresh rate, will provide no improvement, as a person will no longer be able to notice a difference. This point depends on the person as well as other conditions, but is usually above 80, approximately. Most games typically include options to limit the maximum FPS, as does Morrowind via a setting in the Morrowind.ini file.
Refresh rate (or RR) - A monitor's refresh frequency. It is measured in Hertz (Hz), making it easier to differentiate at a glance from a number of FPS. This is the number of images a monitor physically redraws per second. Having a frame rate (FPS) that vastly exceeds your monitor's refresh rate will thus provide no additional visual fluidity, as your monitor can't keep up with the frame changes and you will not be able to notice all of them. The refresh rate varies with each monitor (and resolution), with cheap LCD monitors providing a RR of 60Hz, and expensive ones reaching up to 120Hz and 144Hz. As an anecdote that might surprise you, CRT monitors actually tend to have better RRs than LCD monitors, among other things. Higher monitor RR can have effects such as reducing flicker, and reducing viewing-induced eyestrain and headaches.
Hertz/Hz - A common unit of frequency. Its definition is 'cycles per second'.
GIMP - A free software program used to create ‘image’, or ‘art’, files (i.e. textures).
GMST - Game Setting.
HD or HDD - Hard Drive, or Hard Disk Drive.
ID - Identification (name of an object or thing in the CS). Not necessarily the Name of an object, but the ID name the CS keeps track of an object by.
.kif - File associated with a .nif file that has animation in it.
l-click - Left-click.
Leveled List - A list created with creatures or treasure. It is accessed by the game to provide a creature to fight appropriate to the PC’s level, or distribute treasure appropriate to the PC’s level.
Line of Sight – The unobscured line from an object to another object. If an object could see another object, then it has Line of Sight to that object.
Meshes - The 3-dimensional wireframe form of an object.
MilkShape - A cheap program used to create meshes. Not as capable as 3D Studio Max.
Mod - A plug-in, to include all files necessary to play it.
.nif - NetImmerse File. A mesh file. Used by Morrowind.
Northmarker - Object placed in an interior cell to denote which way is north.
NPC - Non Player Character, every character in the game except the one playing.
Object - Anything that can be placed in the game, is an object, and treated as such by the game.
Paint Shop Pro - Software used to create ‘image’, or ‘art’, files. Not too expensive.
PC - Player Character, the character used by the one playing the game.
.pdf - Portable Data File. This type of file can be opened and viewed by anyone on a pc or mac computer with Adobe Acrobat Viewer.
PhotoShop - Software used to create ‘image’, or ‘art’, files. A bit expensive.
r-click - Right-click.
.rar - A compressed file, like a .zip file. T
readme.txt - A simple text file that explains what a file is for, what it does, how to install it, and what to expect. Basically everything about the file. Should be included with any mod you create, upload, or download.
Reference - Any time you place an object in the game you create a reference of that object.
Script, Scripting - Manually written code to execute, or augment, an effect in the game (often hidden from the player, though it’s effects or results may not be).
Skills - Statistical actions you can take to accomplish something in the game.
Spell - A magical effect cast by actors/PC composed of spell effects.
Spell Effects - Spell effects are used to create spells that are used in the game world.
Skin - The texture file that is ‘wrapped’ around a mesh to create an object.
Skinning - The process of altering and fitting a texture onto a wireframe to create an object.
Stats - The PC’s defining statistical abilities (attributes and skills).
TC - Total Conversion. When someone completely removes everything from Morrowind (all cells, landscape, references, etc) except the game engine, and creates a new “game” from scratch as an .esm file.
Teleport Marker - Marker placed in the game to denote the point the PC is taken to when they ‘arrive’ via an NPC teleportation service.
Temple Marker - Marker placed in the game to denote the point the PC is taken to when they teleport to a tribunal shrine, via spell.
TES - The Elder Scrolls.
TESCS (or CS) - The Elders Scrolls Construction Set.
Textures - An ‘image’ file used to ‘skin’ a mesh to create an object.
.tga - Targa Truevision Graphics file. An image file, like a .bmp.
Toggle - Usually a key, or combination of keys, that produces an affect, or stops it, by ‘turning it on’ or ‘off’ with repeated keystrokes.
Travel Marker - Marker placed in the game to denote the point the PC is taken to when they finish ‘fast’ traveling (i.e. silt strider or boat).
.zip – A compressed file.

Shortkeys
Many shortkeys in the CS do not need a key combination to work (i.e. you do not need to hit ctrl + ‘key’ to accomplish something). Just hit the shortkey to toggle or activate a command or response within the CS.

In the Render Window:
A - Toggles on/off brightness with the Render Window
B - Toggles on/off yellow border lines delineating cells
C - Centers your viewpoint upon an object at ground level, facing north
D - Deselects your viewpoint from an object
F - Drops, or makes fall, an object to the ground or object underneath it
H - Toggles on/off the Landscape Editor
L - Toggles on/off viewing the radius of light source objects
T - Centers your viewpoint above a selected object
S - When held, click on an object to resize it
V - When held, allows you to zoom in or out by moving your mouse
W - Toggle on/off wireframe mode
X - When held, allows you to move an object with your mouse on the X-axis
Y - When held, allows you to move an object with your mouse on the Y-axis
Z - When held, allows you to move an object with your mouse on the Z-axis
F4 - Shows collision detection of all objects within the Render Window
Shift - When held, allows you to rotate, or spin, your viewpoint 360 degrees with your mouse (if an object is selected, you will rotate around that object)
Spacebar - When held, allows you to change your viewpoint upon the XY-plane (sideways), or the Z-plane (up and down) with you mouse
Mousewheel - allows you to zoom in or out, if you have one

In the Preview Window:
A - Pans the view left
D - Pans the view right
S - Pans the view down
W - Pans the view up
Insert - Rotates the object counterclockwise on it’s ‘x’ axis
Home - Rotates the object clockwise on it’s ‘x’ axis
Up Arrow - Rotates the object up on it’s ‘y’ axis
Down Arrow - Rotates the object down on it’s ‘y’ axis
Left Arrow - Rotates the object left on it’s ‘z’ axis
Right Arrow - Rotates the object right on it’s ‘z’ axis
Page Up - Zooms the view in
Page Down - Zooms the view out

:''Note: For the Preview Window, I have presumptively assigned which is the ‘x’ and ‘y’ axis merely to define the key’s assignment to an axis. I do not know if the axis I state as ‘x’ or ‘y’ is correct.



TES Construction Set - What is it?
:“The Elder Scrolls Construction Set allows you to edit and create any data for use with The Elder Scrolls 3: Morrowind.”''
:-from The Elder Scrolls Construction Set help file

That pretty much sums it up. With the CS you can create new items, NPCs, spells, races, birthsigns, towns, dungeons, classes, factions (i.e. guilds), quests, or alter what’s provided with the game. There are still some things you cannot do with the CS, and there are some things you should not do with it. When working with the CS, keep in mind the reason it was provided: to extend the life of Morrowind as a product for sale. Period. The designers of the game may feel some sense of altruism in releasing the CS, but you’re praying for a jackalope sighting if you attach the same to those who published the game. They did it to increase profit. With this in mind realize there are built in limitations. So when you want to cry because you can’t create your own .esm file (we’ll get to this), or wonder why you can’t create new skills, attributes, or spell effects, new or different ‘bodies’ for races (3D Studio Max? What’s that?), and curse and kick at the shortsightedness of those who created/limited the scripting commands and functions, relax. Just remember why, and say to yourself, “If I were a god of Death and Destruction!!!..." but you’re not, so forget about it. Enjoy the game, and have fun modding.

How a plug-in works
When you work on your plug-in, or mod, you are not actually changing anything in the morrowind.esm file. You are making changes stored as an .esp file. When the game is loaded, the CS loads an .esm (or more than one), then loads any plug-ins. The CS then makes changes upon the active plug-in. What this means is, you cannot do anything that can ruin the game itself. If a plug-in causes problems, just exit the game, open up the Data Files menu, uncheck the plugin(s) causing problems, and click Play. Master files cannot be affected in any way.

What you can do with the TESCS
What you are able to do is quite a lot, but can be summarized this way:
You can alter almost everything within the game.
You can add new objects (weapons, spells, races, land, towns, dungeons, etc) by re-using what is provided within the CS, or creating new ones based off of what is provided.
You can modify objects within the CS to do something different.
You can modify the way the game world operates and how the player interacts with it.
Create and/or modify an .esp file.
You can wreck the game entirely rendering it completely useless by messing with things you don’t know about (Which hopefully this manual can prevent).

What you cannot do with the TESCS
What you cannot accomplish is actually quite small, but very absolute. This is done to protect the stability of the game, and enable mods produced by different people with different ideas to work together if installed, and loaded in a game at the same time. Also to protect the profit line of the game. You cannot:
Create new meshes or skins for items or races in the game (see Appendix D).
Create spell effects used to create spells within the CS.
Create skills or attributes.
Make changes to the physics engine (though you can alter some aspects of how it operates).
Create or alter an .esm file.
Create or alter an .ess file.
Become a god! (er, at least not in reality)

:''Note: Scripting enables you to accomplish things the designers may not have thought of, or get around inherent limitations of the game. This was intentional, but scripting also has a great many limitations to prevent abuse, maintain stability, and to keep the spirit of the game in line with what is stated in the above bullets.



Version Number of the Construction Set.
Version 1.0 comes with the Morrowind CD. If you install either Tribunal or Bloodmoon it will be upgraded to v1.3. Note that there are new different functions included with each, however both upgrade the CS to v1.3.

What version of the Construction Set do I have?
If you have Tribunal or Bloodmoon you have v1.3. To see the version used to create any mod open the Data Files window and highlight any .esp file. You will see the version number on the right hand side.

What is an ESM/ESP/ESS file?
These are the files that hold all the information, or data, the game uses to run. In simple terms:
.ESM (Elder Scrolls Master) - these are the master files that contain all the data to play the game, everything. The morrowind.exe file holds the code on how the game functions. This keeps things simple, and also why unlike other games you don’t need to install a 2.0 GB file on your hard drive to play. You cannot alter, change, modify, or delete anything in an .esm file with the CS. Even if you try. Why did Bethesda do that? So we can’t screw the game up and spend all our time on the phone with Bethesda’s customer service bitching and complaining about their stupid game that we screwed up.
.ESP (Elder Scrolls Plug-in) - these are the plug-in files that we create when we save changes we have made to the game. We can alter, modify, add, and delete these files to our late-night, bleary-eyed, caffeine-induced heart’s content. Then post it on the Internet for others to try out. You can even do this to someone else’s .esp file you’ve downloaded from the Internet. Some few have done this to modify and improve a good mod that just needed a few tweaks to make it a great mod. Of course, some post dirty/buggy mods too. Thankfully, this is somewhat rare.
.ESS (Elder Scrolls Save) - these are your saved game files. Lots of people like to make saved game editors to cheat and boost their character’s abilities for games that are published, especially RPGs. I have even seen some for Morrowind. Why? With the CS you can already do this outside of game play, or with the console ingame. You shouldn’t have any reason to mess with this file.

:Note: It is possible to change the .ess file extention to .esp, then use the CS to view the contents of the file by clicking the Details button in the Data Files window (see Viewing a Save file).



So then, what the heck are these nif, kif, tga, dds, bsa, etc. for?
A simple statement explaining each.

.bmp - An art file. Most people are familiar with them. They are commonly used as a texture or ‘skin’ for meshes.
.bsa - This file is named after the .esm it belongs with (i.e. Morrowind.esm and Morrowind.bsa). It stores all the object files used by the .esm when playing. This file can be huge. There are utilities created by several skilled modders that enable one to open the .bsa and view, extract, or add files to it (see Chapter 6).
.dds - Another type of art file used as a texture or ‘skin’ for a mesh. Compresses well, and allows use of alpha channels (for transparency effects) and mipmaps.
.fnt - This file is a font.
.ico - This file is an icon.
.jpg - Yes, believe it or not, some people use these as skins for meshes. I have no idea how well they work (if at all), but the game seems to prefer .dds texture files.
.kif - This file comes along with a .nif file for animation purposes.
.mp3 - This is a compressed audio file that provides music for the game.
.nif''' - This file is the mesh for all physical objects in the game. Texture files are associated/linked with it that provide the ‘skin’. More than one texture file may be linked to provide the skin. Most texture files are either .bmp (rarely) or .dds (almost all). If an object has animation then a .kif file usually will be associated with a .nif. Some .nif files may also have a second .nif file that holds additional data for animation (such as an activator). These usually have the same name as the .nif file it is associated with, but the name will start with an ‘X’.
.tga - This is an art file also, smaller than a .bmp, but not as small as a .dds file. Also allows use of alpha channels.
.txt - A simple text file.
.wav - An audio file. Most sounds in the game are this type of file.

Editing the Morrowind.ini file.
This specific file provides data for the game to start up and run. I don’t suggest you mess with this file unless you know exactly what you are doing. However, there are tweaks you can do to this file to improve or fix your game if it has trouble running properly. A few mods also force you to make minor changes to it for them to run properly. If you wish to make changes to this file, make a back up copy first. If you screw it up or your changes cause problems you can always replace it with an unchanged copy.

Create an ‘AllowYesToAll’ button.
You can also modify you morrowind.ini file to create just one button to click instead of clicking a bunch (make a back up of your morrowind.ini file first). Open up the file and at the bottom of the general section, on a separate line by itself add; ‘AllowYesToAll=1’. When you start up the CS you can now hit the Cancel button for a ‘Yes to All’ option. Do this and skip the finger exercises.

{{subst:Note|When starting the game, a ‘Yes to all’ button now appears when an error is generated.}

Opening Multiple Construction Set windows.
Yes, you can do this. Simply open up the morrowind.ini file and add ‘AllowMultipleEditors=1’ somewhere in the general section on a line by itself. Now you can open multiple windows of the CS at one time.

{{Note|Be advised, the CS is not the most stable program ever created. I do not recommend having extra multiple Construction Sets open for more than reference to a master file’s or mod’s contents. Going crazy with this has resulted in crashing some of the CS windows on my system. But that may just be me.}}

Forcing a maximum Frames per Second (FPS).
If you find your game having trouble consistently staying at a high FPS (which may result in stuttering), you can lower the maximum amount of FPS the game will run at, until you no longer suffer from unstable frame rate. This will lower the load on your system resources. Open your Morrowind.ini file again, and near the top you will see a line that reads Max FPS=240. Change the number after the ‘=’ to the new FPS limit you want. It isn't recommended to go below 60 FPS, unless your computer can't consistently keep up with 60 FPS anyway (then try lowering it by 10 at a time). Note that the default Morrowind maximum FPS of 240 is completely unnecessary and unreasonable, as your monitor won't be able to show so many frames in a second, and neither would you be likely to notice it, if it could. So even if you experience no stuttering, it is recommended to change the limit to equal your monitor's refresh rate (which is likely to be no higher than 85 or even 60, unless you have a new expensive monitor).

Enabling screen shots.
Dying to get some screenies posted of your mod? Open up the Morrowind.ini, about the middle of the general section near the top, you will find Screen Shot Enable=0. Change the ‘0’ to a ‘1’. Now when playing ingame, when you want to take a screen shot, just tap the Print Screen button. A screen shot will be created in your Morrowind folder on your HD, in .bmp format. See the line that says, Screen Shot Base Name=ScreenShot? Change ‘ScreenShot’ to whatever you want, and all your screenies will be named that. See the line below that that reads Screen Shot Index=10? That’s the index number of the last screen shot you took, or how many you’ve currently taken up to now (I had last taken 10). You can also create a separate folder, type in the path here, and all screenies will now be stored there. Like this:

 Screen Shot Base Name=C:\Program Files\Bethesda Softworks\My Screenshots\ScreenShot

Create a master file.
Turn an .esp file into an .esm file? This can be done. But rarely should it be done. I
will not expound upon this, except to say you had darn tooting better know what you are
doing here. A good rule of thumb is, if you change ANYTHING in an .esm file, do not do
this. You will most likely be screwing something up. If your mod does nothing more than add
objects, then probably this would be ok. However, keep in mind the whole point of an .esp is
so you can make changes to the game without screwing something up. Now ask yourself, “Do
I need to make this an .esm?” If you have to think about it, you don’t. That said, this will not
create a master file for that TC you want to make. This method will create an .esm that will
be dependent upon any master file the .esp is dependent upon (sorry charlie).
Still set on it? Ok, first open your Morrowind.ini file. Scroll down to near the
bottom until you see [WhoCanMerge]. Below that name put in the name of your computer,
followed by ‘=1’. It should look like this:

 [WhoCanMerge]
 yourcomputername=1

To find your computer name open up the Program Flow.txt file in your Morrowind
folder. The second line will list it. Add you computer name as directed above. Save the
Morrowind.ini file (of course you backed it up). Now then, open the CS, mark your .esp
as per normal, set it as active. Click Merge to Master which is no longer grayed out, click ok. That’s it. Your plug-in is now an .esm file. Oh, and you can’t change it back with the CS either. Shadowsong has a good tutorial that covers many of the issues about converting a plug-in to a master file (see Appendix C).

Moving dialog responses with filter active. You may see this line in the Morrowind.ini file: CanMoveInfosWhileFiltered=0. As you may suspect, changing the 0 to a 1 will allow you to fully mess with dialog while filtered. Don’t do it, besides dirtying up your mod, you could possibly cause real problems.

See travel methods on your map while playing. Find the line Show Travel Lines=0 in your Morrowind.ini file, change the 0 to a 1. Now when playing you can see the travel lines on your map for Guild Guide travel, Silt Strider travel, and Boat travel. Each will be a different color.

Plug-ins being played currently. Wonder how to get a list of all 200+ mods you are currently playing with, without having to write them down by hand? Open the Morrowind.ini file (again), and at the very bottom you will see all plug-ins last played under the heading [GameFiles]. Easy huh.

How do I load files?
When you load files into the CS it works in a similar way to starting a game with a plug-in. Click any .esp files you want loaded, you may click more than one. Highlight the one you want active. Any changes made will be saved to the active .esp. Changes will be denoted with an asterisk (*) next to the ID of any object or cell. Now, you need to keep something in mind here; if you make a change to an object from a loaded but not active .esp, you might just have made your .esp dependent upon that non-active .esp file. I’ll explain this more under Dependencies. When you click the save button, the active .esp will become dependent upon any loaded .esm files. Keep this in mind when choosing what you want to load and base your .esp off of (again, Table of Contents see Dependencies). A cautionary note here, you do not have to place a check next to an .esm when loading an .esp, the game will load any .esm files an .esp is dependent on. However, I have generated errors when doings this at times (no clue why, and it doesn’t happen often or with all plug-ins). I suggest you always mark what you want to load. There is no need to make an .esm active, the active button is only for .esp files. The .esm files always load first, then .esp files that are marked. The .esp files are listed in the Data Files window from top to bottom, by date (oldest date at the top, newest at the bottom). The date stamp on an .esp is when last Saved.

:''Note: When .esp files load, they are loaded oldest first to newest last. No big deal really in the CS, but when you want to play a game this can be a big deal.



If your mod generates errors when loading because you now own Tribunal/Bloodmoon: This is because any mod created has the version number of the CS associated with it.
Tribunal and Bloodmoon update the CS version number. Just ignore the error statements, or load the mod with Tribunal and/or Bloodmoon in the CS and click save. This will update the mod version number and you won’t get those any more.

:Note: If you choose to update a mod to a new version number, be aware you will add the ‘Evil GMSTs’ to the mod. See Evil GMSTs below for more info.



I don’t have Tribunal/Bloodmoon, but the mod I downloaded needs it/them to run! Sucks to be you. Go buy them.

Can I download the TESCS, Morrowind, Tribunal, and/or Bloodmoon from the internet? No. Doing such a thing would be illegal. Besides, Bethesda deserves a few bucks for creating such a great game.

I bought Morrowind, so it’s legal for me to use a no-CD crack, right? Wrong. Use of a no-CD crack is illegal, period.

Should I copy the Data Files folder on the Construction Set CD to my Morrowind Folder? This is subjective, and entirely up to you. The game by default looks for object files on your HD first, so if something is modified, it uses it. Then it will go to the appropriate .bsa file and use what it finds there. So it won’t hurt anything if you do this, I personally don’t see any reason for it.

:Note: The files used for Tribunal and Bloodmoon can be found on those respective CDs.''



Evil Dialog string changes!?!
Ever get those stupid messages when loading up the CS after you installed Tribunal and/or
Bloodmoon telling you some dialog string has been changed. Sick and tired of clicking ‘yes’ over and over. Ever hit ‘no’ because you didn’t know better. What to do about it? The short answer? C4 and a blasting cap. No, no, no, no… Just ignore them, and keep clicking ‘yes’ to continue. Why does this happen? In case a dialog topic has changes in an .esm or .esp different from the morrowind.esm file (TB and BM do). Ignore them, or read the next paragraph.

Dependencies
All .esp files are dependent upon one or more .esm files. This is because an .esp doesn’t
store the information about objects in the game, it stores changes made to any objects in the game. When you load an .esp, all .esm files it is dependent upon will be loaded also, whether or not you marked them for loading (see How do I load files? above). You cannot prevent this. When you click the Save button, your active .esp file becomes dependent upon any .esm files loaded. If you look you will see that both Tribunal and Bloodmoon .esm files are dependent upon the Morrowind .esm file (assuming you have them). Do you want the mod you’re making dependent upon Tribunal and/or Bloodmoon? Well, if you are using an object of the game that came with one of these expansion packs, yes, load them up and make your .esp file dependent upon them. But if not, don’t whimsically load them along with your.esp. There are two main reasons for this; the first being that it will limit who can play your mod. You’re cutting out anyone who chooses not to buy one or both expansion packs if you add one to your mod. The second being what are referred to as the Evil Game Settings (or Evil GMSTs for short). I’ll explain this later on, but believe me, they can be a pain to get rid of if you don’t want them in your mod. But they can be removed with a utility (see Chapter 6).

.ESP files dependent upon .esp files. Ok, another potential problem: .esp files that become dependent upon another .esp. It can happen, and does. New modders tend to do this and don’t even realize it. I’ll explain as best I can. Let’s say you load another modder’s plug-in because they have new item models you like; such as trees, hair, heads, weapons, etc. Your plug-in is the active one. Now:

#You rename the object for use in your plug-in. This is the ideal way to use an object created by another. Your plug-in won’t be dependent on the other’s .esp, but it might be dependent upon textures or meshes if created by the modder. This is because you’re creating a new object based off of another. If this is done you should get permission to use the author’s meshes/textures first, and then you’ll have to package them with your mod. Otherwise no one will be able to use your plug-in unless they already have the same plug-in’s meshes and textures you borrowed the object from.
#You don’t rename an object, you just click on an object made by someone else and drop it in the game world somewhere. Whoa! You just made your plug-in dependent upon another modder’s plug-in. Why? Because your plug-in only tells the game where to put a reference for the object. The other’s plug-in tells the game all the data about the object. Now, to use your plug-in, a gamer must also have the other plug-in installed and running when they play. Not only that, but if you change any of the data about said object, you may just break the other modder’s plug-in if it’s important to a quest or some such. Be smart, rename objects you want to use for your own mod.

You’ll see more about renaming objects later on.

Evil GMSTs (cough, hack, wheeze...)
What are they? If you have Tribunal and/or Bloodmoon installed, you have them. Simply put,
if you have one or both expansions installed, every time you click the Save button on your mod, the newer GMSTs from the expansion packs get added to your mod. Not a big deal if your mod has them as dependent, but they can screw with a mod if not. Many people just don’t care for them. How do you know if you have them? If you have Tribunal, and create a mod with just Morrowind, you’ll have the Tribunal extra GMSTs. However, if you have Tribunal (but not Bloodmoon), and make your mod dependent upon it, that’s ok. The GMSTs are supposed to be there. Same goes for Bloodmoon; if you have only Bloodmoon, and create a mod without it, the CS will put the extra GMSTs that came with it in your mod. But if the mod is dependent upon Bloodmoon, you’re ok, they should be there. If you have both installed, but don’t have your mod dependent one or both of them, you’ll get the respective GMSTs in your mod. How to get rid of them? First you have to have a utility that can open up your .esp and identify them. For the sake of convenience, I will explain how with TES Advanced Mod Editor (or TESAME, see Chapter 6). Start up TESMAE, open up your .esp file. Look in the left column for any object marked as ‘GMST’. R-click, or highlight it, and hit the spacebar so that it is a black color. Once you have found and marked them all, hit the delete button and get rid of them. Save your .esp and you’re
done. Be advised, if you open your mod up with the CS again and hit save, all the GMSTs will be loaded into your .esp again and you’ll have to repeat this process. This is best saved as the last thing you do with your mod, if it’s necessary.

But let’s say you changed one or more of the GMSTs to a value you want for your mod. Fine,
just be careful not to delete the change you made. I won’t go into a lot of detail on this. For more information, I personally recommend you either check out the official forums, or a forum of your choosing. A simple search should bring up plenty of GMST topics to read up on. Argent also has a good explanation of GMSTs at his website (see Appendix C)

Installing/Playing Mods
Where do you get all the best mods? You can probably get them from the same place you got
this reference manual, or just check out Appendix C. Once you have the mod you most likely will have take steps to unzip it, possibly place files where they belong, and then you can play it. Maybe. First, let’s figure out what file format the mod you downloaded is in.

The file is a 7ZP/RAR/ACE/Zip! HELP!
::Main article: Archives

Ah yes, I remember the first time I downloaded a file, saw the .rar extension, and said to
myself, “What the *#&^!! is that!!!” Well, fear not o’ ignorant one. It’s just a different form of file compression, as is an .ace format. Open either one and if you have a utility that can open them, you’re in business. If Windows brings up a little window asking you to choose the program to use with this file, you need a utility or program to unzip these mods. Almost any compression utility will open a .zip file, some will open a .rar, and others will open an .ace. Here is a breakdown for you, but I make no suggestions, I’ll let you decide what’s best for you.

These will open a .zip file:
WinRar
ZipGenius
WinZip
PKZip
7zip

These will open a .rar file:
WinRar
ZipGenius
7zip

These will open an .ace file:
WinAce
ZipGenius
7zip

These will open a .7z file:
7zip
ZipGenius

Keep in mind: You get what you pay for is a good rule of thumb here. I tried several different ‘free’ utilities that kept screwing files up when I tried to extract them. Maybe it was the program, maybe it was just my system. I have found those listed above to be reliable though.

Where to put all these files?
Most people include a readme.txt file with their mod (and a pox upon those that don’t!), so read it, that’s what it’s for. They should tell you where to put the files that are included. In general, the files should always go somewhere within the Data Files subfolder within the Morrowind folder (most of the time). Some modders will produce a .zip file that will self-extract. This means all you have to do is open or d-click it. The file will do the rest and you’re done. Most files you will be prompted to choose where to extract the files. The readme.txt provided is the source for this info, but most likely it will be the Data Files subfolder. Most compression utilities have the ability to open a readme.txt while still compressed. Just open the compressed file and look for the readme.txt. Double click it, and it should open for your reading pleasure. If you are leery of unzipping straight into you Morrowind subfolders (and I don’t blame you), just
extract to a temporary folder to examine the contents, and then you can manually move them
over. This is my preferred method. If you don’t know what you are doing, or are not conversant with file placement though, you could mess something up. Again, I highly recommend you do what the readme.txt tells you to do.

No readme.txt included? What sick bastard uploaded this crap?! Delete it! If you don’t know what the different files are that Morrowind uses, and where to put them, you don’t know enough to be messing around like this. You might accidentally replace a needed file, or put something in the wrong place. I’ll try to break this down and give you an idea, but the readme.txt is still the way to go.

.nif & .kif - These are meshes, and they always go within the Meshes subfolder.
.dds & .bmp - These are textures, they go within the Textures subfolder.
.tga - If used as an icon in the game, put it in the Icon subfolder. If used as a birthsign, put it in the Birthsign subfolder. If used as a texture (rarely), put it in the Textures subfolder.
.mp3 - If used for music, put it in the Music subfolder.
.wav - If used for a sound, put it in the Sound subfolder.
.esp - Put these in the Data Files folder.
readme.txt - Don’t delete these! Keep them, you might need to refer to them again (and again and again and…). I keep mine all within the Data Files folder. Make sure the name isn’t just ‘readme.txt’, rename it to include the name of the plug-in so you know which one it is for.

There is an added hitch; the modder may have put his files in a separate subfolder within one of the above mentioned folders, just so their files are easy to find. You can’t always tell this by looking at the contents of a compressed file. This is why I recommend you extract to a temporary file, at a minimum, before you install a plug-in. An easy way to install a plug-in is to extract to a temp folder. Once extracted look and see what came out. If you find some folders labeled Meshes, Textures, Icons, Sounds, etc, you’re in luck. Drag and drop these folders into the Data Files folder, click ‘yes’ (it should be ok to overwrite), and that’s it. Very easy.

But what if you extract and all you get is a slew of different file types, not even a folder to hold them. Most often seen as a modders resource, in which case you need to figure it out. If you can figure out where they go, go for it. If not, it probably won’t hurt anything if you put something in the wrong place, but the plug-in probably won’t work correctly (or maybe not at all). If you are not familiar with these file types, and are not entirely sure what each file extracted is exactly for and where it goes, don’t mess with it. Ask someone, such as the author of the plug-in, or post on a forum for help. I know how much fun it is to uninstall and/or reinstall a game or backed up file, but I really don’t recommend it.

How do I play this Mod?
When Morrowind starts up and you’re staring at the screen there is a button that says Data
Files, click it. Just place a check mark next to any mods you want to play. Make sure to also check Tribunal and/or Bloodmoon if they’re necessary to play one of the mods you load. Once done click ‘Ok’ and click on ‘Play’. Enjoy!

Plug-in conflicts.
::Main article: Mod Conflicts

If two plug-ins are loaded that conflict you will have problems (and you might not know it till somewhere along the story line). There is a utility to check for conflicts, while not perfect, it is very, very, good (see Chapter 6). Something that usually doesn’t provide conflicts but can still cause problems are Leveled Lists. Many plug-ins make use of leveled lists, but only those leveled lists in the last plug-in loaded are used by the game! Leveled lists from other plug-ins are ignored or overwritten! While this might not render a loaded mod unplayable, it generally will lower or limit the game play value. To fix this you can use a utility that merges these leveled lists and allows you to load this singular master leveled list as a plug-in. Very useful.

Where's the Console?!
To open the console all you have to do is hit the “~”, or ‘tilde’ key. On most keyboards it is the only key to the left of your ‘1’ key. If not there, just look for it. On non-English keyboards you should be able to use the key to the left of the ‘1’ key, regardless of what it is. Now then, how do you use it. Functions are listed below with a brief explanation. A couple things to know though when using the console; you can open the console regardless of whether you have opened up your menus or not (i.e. right-clicked). Right-clicking with the console open, but the menus closed will resume game play, and the console will remain open until you hit the ‘tilde’ key again. Mess with it a little bit to see how it works. This can be useful; if the console is open and you resume play you will notice that when you ‘look’ or center the screen upon any object, that object’s ID is displayed in the game (not in the console, but in the game). This can be invaluable.

I have compiled a list of functions with a brief explanation below. None of these functions are available for use within scripts. Many, many more commands and functions can be used within the console but are not listed here. As good as this list is or is not, the definitive guide for commands and functions is to be found in GhanBuriGhan’s Scripting for Dummies. I highly recommend reading these if you even think about using the console, for any reason, whether you plan on doing any modding and scripting, or not.

Console Functions
This is not a comprehensive list of all functions within the game. Again, you will find that listing within Appendix B. This is a list of functions that can only be executed within the console window (and a couple from the World Menu). They are to be typed in exactly as shown.

:''Note: I left quite a few functions and commands out of this list. Mostly they appeared to be functions that were used by Bethesda for testing purposes but have little to no value for most anyone else. If you must know what they are, then check out Dave Humphries Unofficial Elder Scrolls Page (see Appendix C). He lists pretty much everything so you can really screw things up good with your game if you choose to do so.



Keep in mind: If you use a Toggle function, that function stays in effect until you change it again (except a few). This includes if you start a different game or exit from Morrowind. I don’t recommend using Toggle functions and leaving it on/off. Change it back before you exit a game so you don’t forget what you did.

Functions
The short hand form of a function is listed in parenthesis (), and may be typed in lieu of the full function name.

BetaComment (BC) - This command can be used to store comments pertaining to an object. Open your Morrowind.ini file, find the line BetaComment=. Change this to BetaComment=BetaComment.txt. Now when playing you can open the console, click on any object, type ‘BC’ in the console, then add your comment in quotes. The function will output what you type to the BetaComment.txt file for later review. When you open the file you will see the comments in the following format: Date, Time, Object’s Parent File, UserName, Cell ID, xyzgrid, “Then your comments in quotes”. This is a truly useful function for modders.

CreateMaps - This command creates a map of all exterior cells within the game. This can take a long time, make plans for the day, or go to sleep, or come back later. To use this command you must do the following: 1) Open up your Morrowind folder, create a new subfolder titled Maps. 2) Make a back up copy of your Morrowind.ini file. Now open your Morrowind.ini file, find the entry that reads CreateMapsEnable = 0, change the 0 to a 2 (1 is for Xbox). Save and exit the file. 3) Start your game, open up the console, and type in createmaps, [yourmod].esp. Presumably the game will now load every cell one at a time and make a copy. When it’s done, to see each map, open up the Maps subfolder you created. You will find a 256 x 256 high color .bmp map within the folder for every cell.

:Note: I have seen several statements that this takes longer if you load a game you have played, as the game must load a cell you have been to, then adjust for all the changes to that cell due to your visiting it (I find this odd). It was suggested it is faster if you start a new game, pick your name, and click “ok” to the first message box you get from the guard. Don’t follow him, just open the console, type in createmaps, and wait. The game will process cells faster because you have not yet visited any cells. I myself received a message saying it couldn’t fulfill the function, yet the maps were created. It took little time. I don’t know why.



FillJournal - This will fill your journal with all entries. Be prepared, as it will take quite a while.

FillMap - This will show all the towns on your map.

Help - This will list console commands and also their short hand form.

Output Reference Info (ORI) - Click on an object with the console open, and then use this command to get reference info about it, to include the cell it’s in and the .esm or .esp file it’s from. Very, very useful.

ResetActors (RA) - This command will reset actors to their starting position coordinates and set their AI package to their default.

ShowTargets (ST) - This will show a selected NPC’s target group members

ShowVars (SV) - If no object is selected, this will show all variables and their numerical values, both global and local, in the console. If you center on an object (select it), this command will only show the local variables and numerical values for that object.

StopCellTest (SCT) - This will stop a cell test started with the command TestCells. If you can’t get the game to respond to a right click to stop the test, keep trying. It seems the game will pause momentarily every so many cell tested, you can then r-click, and type this in the console. When you stop the test, your PC will remain right where he is, centered in the current cell (this might not be good…).

TestCells - This will start a test where the game will place your PC in the center of each cell to test if the presence of your PC will cause problems with anything in that cell (i.e. scripts, models, etc). It does not test the whole cell for problems, only if your PC presence in the cell causes conflicts. Each cell is tested instantly, so you have little to no control over your PC. I never encountered a problem, so have no clue how the game would respond if an error were encountered. I ended the test before complete. While each cell test is quick, the game goes through every single cell, and this can take quite a while.

:Note: This takes a while as the game places your PC in every cell and tests that cell. Plus, somehow during this process my character took damage when I tested it (I think I was centered in some lava, but not sure. The process goes quite quick).



TestInteriorCells - This will test interior cells just as TestCells will test exterior cells. As above, the game is still running while testing, my character died twice. I clicked ‘Yes’ to reload the last saved game. It loaded, and then continued the test from where I had died. Also, an NPC twice forced a greeting bringing up the dialog menu. The test paused after several cells until I hit cancel. I finally hit ‘ctrl+alt+dlt’ to end the game.

TestModels (T3D) - This tests all 3D models in the game. Not nearly as long a process as those above.

ToggleAI (TAI) - Turn on or off NPCs AI packages.

ToggleBorders (TB) - Turn on or off ability to see the border between exterior cells. They appear as broken green lines.

ToggleCollision (TCL) - Turn on or off the ability to collide with objects such as walls, rocks, etc (i.e. you can walk through objects). NPCs will sometimes drop through floors too.

ToggleCollisionBoxes (TCB) - Turn on or off colored boxes around every object showing the limits of collision.

ToggleCollisionGrid (TCG) - Turn on or off a mesh like grid over everything showing where objects collide with the landscape.

ToggleCombatStats (TCS) - Turn on or off the display of numerical values as they process during combat (i.e. chance to hit, damage, blocked, etc) in the console window.

ToggleDebugText (TDT) - Turn on or off numbers showing wind speed, timer, and numbers related to movement, etc. I do not know exactly what all are for or what their specific numerical values mean.

ToggleDialogueStats (TDS) - Turn on or off

ToggleFogOfWar (TFOW) - Turn on or off the ability to see areas on you haven’t explored.

ToggleFullHelp (TFH) – Displays the ownership and scripts of object you center on.

ToggleGodMode (TGM) - Turn on or off invulnerability. You lose neither health, magicka, nor fatigue. Creature can attack you, but they never hit or damage. Note this doesn’t mean you can’t die. A script could still set the PC health to zero, thus die.

ToggleGrid (TG) - I’m not entirely sure what this is supposed to do, but on my computer it flooded the screen full of ones and zeros, I couldn’t effectively see anything, and slowed my game to a screeching halt. It took almost 20 minutes for me to bring up the menus so I could toggle it off. Try this at your own risk (and don’t say I didn’t warn you).

ToggleKillStats (TKS) - If on, the game will keep a running score of what you kill and how many in the console.

ToggleLights (TL) - Toggles on or off light sources.

ToggleLoadFade (TLF) - Turn on or off the fade effect when loading/changing cells.

ToggleMagicStats (TMS) - Turn on or off the display of numerical values as they process during magic and spell processing in the console window.

ToggleMenus (TM) - Turn on or off the ability to bring up any menu.

TogglePathGrid (TPG) - Turn on or off the display of AI Path Grids. These appear as double yellow lines running from node to node. Nodes appear shaped like red gumdrops.

ToggleScriptOutput (TSO) - Not sure what this command does.

ToggleScripts - Turn on or off whether scripts execute.

ToggleSky (TS) - Turn on or off the display of the ‘sky’. If off, the sky is black (kinda cool).

ToggleStats (TST) - Turn on or off both combat and magic numerical value display as they process.

ToggleVanityMode (TVM) - Turn on or off the ability to switch to 3rd person view with the ‘Tab’ key.

ToggleWater (TWA) - This did not appear to do anything in exteriors.

ToggleWireframe (TWF) - Turn on or off the display of everything in wireframe mode (no textures are rendered or displayed).

ToggleWorld (TW) - Turn on or off the display of all landscaping. It is still there, you just can’t see it. Everything appears as endless ocean.

Use these commands at your discretion. Many are useful for when trying to debug something you’ve done in your mod, but doesn’t work, or at least not the way you want it to. Some I’m not sure what they are supposed to do, or what it is they are doing. Some of the Toggle commands are useful for testing how the game responds to changes you’ve made with a mod, others most likely were useful for the developers, but provide little more than confusion or amusement now, and probably should have been, but were not, removed when the game was released.

Lastly, remember that many commands are not listed here that can be used in the console window. You can add/delete objects and spells, modify skills and attributes, resurrect NPCs if killed but shouldn’t have been, and in general make many modifications to the game. For those who like to cheat, the console is easy and available. There is also nothing wrong with cheating, to each his own. But if you like to mod, you will find the console invaluable ingame.

Call the exterminator! Bug everywhere!
Bugs. We all hate them. It’s inevitable that they will show up, and the more complex and bigger your mod, the more likely you will have them, and more of them! How do you get rid of them? The simple answer is you have to figure out what is not working right, go back into your plug-in in the CS, figure out what you did wrong, and fix it. No simple way to do it either, you just have to do it. But there are a number of things you can do to simplify this process.

Write it down! First and foremost; write down every single addition, change, or deletion you make to your mod. Sounds like a lot of trouble right? It is, and it will draw the modding process out timewise, believe me. So what, do it anyway. I have caught bugs before I even hit the save button by looking over my notes as I work. Get yourself a notebook, or one with sections. Each page or section can pertain to changes you have made to the world pertaining to an area, or to an aspect of the game (like spells, skills, races, etc). Be meticulous, note everything you do. If you write down you modified an object, write down its’ name AND it’s ID, exactly as it’s spelled. Put down where it is in the world; the cell, outside or inside what building/dungeon, on what floor, on top of what, etc. Added a script to it? Write it down. Shifted this thingy around to make room for said object? Write it down. Made a mistake and dirtied something up? Write it down! You will have to clean that out (Dirty mods are explained later on, but make the note! It’s important!). Being able to look over your notes and catching problems before you save a mod is a real stress reducer. A lot easier than spending untold amounts of time ingame playing your mod before you come across the bug, and then pulling your hair out trying to figure out what you did wrong. Your notes also give you the basic draft for writing your readme.txt to include with your mod. You will include one, won’t you?

Make new objects!''' Don’t make changes to objects you find in the game, make a new object! (refer to The Objects Window). When you make a change to an object in the CS, regardless of whether it is an object reference in the Render Window, or you click on a parent object in the Objects Window, any change you make to that object affects every single instance of that object everywhere in the game! This can’t be stressed enough! If you do this you might just be screwing the game up somehow so it can’t be played or completed. Or possibly rendering your mod completely incompatible with almost every single other mod created that’s out there. You will see this again, but for now, just take heed.

Don’t make a dirty mod! If you click on an object in the game to modify it in some way, then change it back to it’s prior state of existence, the CS notes that you changed that object in some way and stores that information in your mod. The CS can not distinguish between an actual change you make to something, or the fact that you changed something back to the way it was, only that an object has been in some way altered. This probably won’t screw up your mod, but it might someone else’s! It might also add size to your mod, making it bigger. A few of these won’t add noticeably to a plug-in’s size, but if you are one of those who doesn’t care about this, you probably have many such dirty changes. Which means there’s a greater chance your mod is both buggy, and much bigger in size than necessary, which means a lot longer time for download (What? You think everyone is running a DSL?). Plus the more likely your mod won’t be compatible with other mods out there. People don’t like dirty mods. If this does happen, don’t worry, it’s not hard to fix. There are utilities to help, or you can just use the CS itself to clean those dirty rotten stinkin’ entries out of there.

Resist the urge to create uber mods. When you first open the CS it’s tempting to create an uber-item so you can waltz through the game, and a lot of people do at some point. I did it (after my first dance through the game), and it was fun. For a while. Then the enjoyment wore off. But some people seem to think their uber-item is so powerful and cool everyone should have it too, and they upload it for the masses, joining the ranks of uber-items for download. Most websites now have enough of these they don’t need more. There are also plenty of tweak mods out there. What are these? Mods that change the entire aspect of the game in almost every way to make it harder, or easier. These are really great and take a great deal of work, and lots of knowledge and effort. These are a real challenge to create. But there are plenty, why create what someone else already has? If you can make one in a new and unique way, or different from others, I say go for it! Originality is something the mod community loves to see. But do you want put effort into something, only to upload it and find out someone else did the same thing some time ago? I’m not trying to dissuade anyone from attempting anything. Do what you want and like. It’s up to you. But I like to plumb the depths of unexplored territory, or at least do something in a way no one has. But that’s just me.

Use forums on websites to get help. Can’t figure out how to do something? Can’t figure out why something isn’t working the way you want? Want some advice or a mod tested by someone else for insight? Join the forum on a website you like, and post questions, troubles, or search for some advice there. You might find out some things you didn’t know, or possibly someone already asked your question, and got an answer (which you need). People on forums are usually, reasonably, friendly, almost always helpful, and you might be helping someone else out too. This is a personal choice, and up to you. I myself gleaned enormous amounts of useful information that was invaluable from forums at several websites, and usually got exactly the help I needed when I posted a question asking for it. You just about can’t go wrong.

Can I play all 5-gigazillion mods I installed?
The short answer, yes. The long answer, most likely yes. The game’s actual limit is 255 files loaded at one time (and this can be easily circumvented by merging files), including both .esp and .esm files. I’ve seen people state they have loaded and are running over 200 plug-ins. It’s possible. However, the ability of your system to handle the plug-ins you load, regardless of how many, is the real limitation. Some people create mods that really test your machine’s ability to churn out those FPS. Many mods only alter numbers and settings and cause no performance hit at all. A slower machine might have trouble with some mods that add lots of scripts to be executed globally, constantly. Or have too many objects animated and interacting all at the same time on screen. Having a ton of plug-ins loaded and playing at the same time could produce these conditions. The real answer is not how many can you have loaded on your machine, but which ones can you load that your machine can handle together. This is just a matter of trial and error unfortunately, but you will find that you can load up quite a few and run them all as you wish. The only real problem is when plug-ins conflict, as I mentioned earlier.

Toolbar Description
This is the toolbar. From here your mod is given life, your imagination will become virtual reality, and your life will be shortened by 1.7 years due to stress. And that is the point of this manual, to reduce or eliminate that 1.7 years of life lost from stress. So let’s start with the actual Toolbar and see what we can find to do on it.

border|Labelled menu's and button's.

The toolbar is not exactly the average windows toolbar, which is quickly obvious if you click on any of the menus to see what drops down. I will discuss each menu and each button in order. Those menu functions that open a window I will go into greater depth later in the manual. Many of the menu listings are also accessible by clicking one of the buttons, and some also have a shortcut key. Let’s start with the menus.

The Menus

File Menu
250px|thumb|center|The File menu

File->Data Files...

This will open a window that allows you to view all plugins (.esp) and master files (.esm) installed on your computer. Master files are listed first, by date (oldest at the top). Then plug-ins will be listed (again, oldest at the top). To load an .esm or .esp simply double click it, and a check mark appears next to it. This means it will get loaded into the CS when you hit the “ok” button at the bottom. Some things to remember:

When you load a plug-in, any .esm that it is dependent on will also be loaded, regardless of whether or not you marked it for loading. This is automatic and you cannot prevent it (this can be changed with a utility, see Chapter 6). This is true even when loading multiple plug-ins with different master file dependencies. If you don’t mark the proper .esm files to be loaded though, you could get an error message. This happens sometimes with certain .esp files. I don’t know why.
If you load one or more plug-ins, and load one or more master files, when you hit the save button, the active plug-in will become dependent upon all master files loaded. You cannot undo this with the CS (hello…utility, see above bullet).

TES3 file list - Pick what plug-in listed you want to load. Once you’ve made your decision on what to load, you must highlight one file and click the “Set as Active File” button. This plug-in will be considered active. Any changes made to anything will be saved in this active plug-in. You can still see data from any other plug-ins that you also load, you just cannot save any data to those plug-ins. Once chosen just click the ‘ok’ button and the CS will load all marked plug-ins and master files. If you load only master files you do not need to make one active, the CS will load the .esm files and any changes you make will become a new plug-in (you will be prompted to name it if you hit save). If you forget to set a plug-in as active, the CS will bring up a prompt stating this and ask if you wish to continue. If you click “No”, the CS will close. If you click “Continue” the CS will generate errors (usually animation errors). Start over.

Created By - Who created the .esp file. You can enter your name, or ID, in this block.

Summary - Here you can write a small summary about your plug-in. If it’s small with few changes you probably don’t need to say much. You should at a minimum list what this plug-in is about, and a version number.

Parent Masters - Here you will find listed all master files that a plug-in is dependent upon. Note that master files can be dependent too.

Details - This button brings up a window that allows you to see all the changes you’ve made to your mod. The window lists all the IDs of changed data within a plug-in. If you see something here you don’t remember creating or doesn’t have any effect on your mod, your mod is dirty and needs to be cleaned. Refer to Cleaning the Unclean for more information.

File->Save

Click and save your plug-in. I have noticed that when working within some windows (Dialog, Scripting, and Cell Path Grid, etc) if you click the Save button, then close the window, the changes you make are saved only within that aspect of the game. You must still click the save button to save it to your plug-in once that window is closed. An asterisk will be present next to the Name of the plug-in at the top of the CS window if changes have been made but not yet saved.

File->Combine Loaded Plug-ins

Load any and all plug-ins you want combined. Click on this option under the File menu. A prompt will appear asking if this is what you want to do. Click yes, and a window will appear. You will have to provide a name for the new combined plug-in that will be created. Do so and hit Save. Your new combined plug-in will become the loaded plug-in, displacing all others, become the active file, and will appear at the bottom of the list in the Data Files window. Consider this option carefully before you do this, combining plug-ins that conflict will produce problems.

File->Preferences
350px|thumb|center|The Preferences window

This will bring up a window with options to change the rate at which you can move objects within the Render window, move your view within the object window, load cells as you work, and what you can view of the exterior/interiors.

Grid Snap/Use Grid - When the Use Grid box is checked, objects moved by you in the Render Window will move a number of units determined by the number entered in the Grid Snap box. The CS states to use multiples of 8 (8, 16, 24, 32, etc), though any number can be used. This can be of use in moving objects quickly and getting them to line up with other objects easier.

:''Note: This is useful when placing large static objects, like when putting together a building (interior or exterior). But for small objects it’s probably easier to do manually without this enabled. Really it’s a matter of choice, what you feel works best for you.



Angle Snap/Use Angle - When the Use Angle box is checked, objects in the Render Window will rotate by you a number of degrees determined by the number entered in the Use Angle Snap box. Remember there are 360 degrees in a circle. See above Note about use.

Cells Load Settings

Allow Render Window Cell Loads - When unchecked, the CS will only load cells, and their objects, that are visible in the Render Window. Cells not fully visible will not be loaded; wilderness cells will not be created outside of the Render Window. If checked, the CS will load visible cells (even partially visible ones), and a two cell ‘buffer zone’ around each and every fully, or partially, visible cell in the Render Window. This may slow down some slower systems.

Land Sensitivity Multiplier - This is the rate at which the landscape mesh/wireframe is changed, or moves, in response to your mouse when landscaping. The default is quite slow, good for small refined changes. Increase if you wish to make large changes quicker.

Skip Initial Cell Load - When a plug-in is opened, cell data is loaded for cell 0, 0. Checking this prevents that from happening. I have found unchecking this to have a minimal effect in load time for a plug-in, but it may help on slower systems.

Movement Speeds - These are the speeds at which objects or the viewpoint moves or rotates in the Render Window.

View Settings

Clipping Distance - In simple terms, effectively, this is how far you can view into the distance. Move the slider bar closer to near for slower systems for better and/or quicker response from the CS. There is a single tick mark approximately ¼ over from the left on the bar. This is exactly 8192 units in viewable distance (the length of a side of a cell).

:Note: I like have it set close (for a single cell) when adding/deleting or modifying objects in a cell. Then about halfway when adding buildings and structures for a town or village that spans more than one cell. When landscaping I set it to max and use wireframe mode. I change this slider quite often as I work. Use what works for you.



Renderer Settings - Don’t even mess with this. Even clicking on the button will take a while on a quicker system. This allows you to use Hardware or Software to render 3D images, and also to change the drivers used, and the screen resolution used by the CS. Unless you fully understand what this does, leave it alone. I mean it.

Use Data Files on CD-ROM - When this box is checked and you start the CS, the CS will look for the Construction Set CD in your CD tray, and will look for files on it when you click buttons to assign mesh, icon, texture, etc. files to objects. If the CD is not found it will let you know and instead always look by default in your Data Files subfolder on your hard drive. (see Copying Files from CD to HD)

Auto-Save - Check this box if you prefer the CS to auto-save your plug-ins, and enter how often in the minutes box. I have this feature off to prevent saving something stupid I didn’t realize I did making my mod dirty or unplayable. Do what works for you.

File->Import/Export Data

You can use these functions to move object data between mods. Be aware that not all data for many objects is carried over during import/export.

File->Compare Dialog Functions

Clicking this brings up a window where you can click an . esm to compare dialog against. Presumably to check for conflicts. I did not test this to any great degree.

File->Exit

Quit the CS.

Edit Menu
250px|thumb|center|The Edit menu

Edit->Undo/Redo

Undo a mistake you made, or redo something you clicked undo on, but decide to keep.

Edit->Cut/Copy/Paste Render

This is your standard cut, copy, and paste. It only applies to objects in the Render Window.

:Note: You can use the mouse pointer to box in multiple objects, thus selecting them as a ‘group’ and treating them as such for cut/copy/paste. Control + c, x, or v keys will work for both objects and text.



Edit->Paste in Place

This will place cut/copied objects at the selected spot, upon the ground or floor.

Edit->Duplicate

Clicking this will create a duplicate of selected object(s). The duplicate will appear exactly on top of the object(s) duplicated.

Edit->Find

Brings up the Find window. This window has a drop down menu listing of all objects in the plug-in. You choose which one you wish to find and it searches references until it finds one. It then loads the object’s first reference found in the Render Window in the cell it found it in. You can use the next set of menu options to see the next or previous ‘found’ reference. If an object has no references in the game, it will do nothing.

Edit->Find Next/Previous

This will cycle through the objects references ‘found’ with the Find option.

Edit->Find Text

This option brings up a window with a search box, a button to the right of it labeled ‘Find text’ to start the search, and three tabs. These tabs are labeled Dialog, Script, and Object. It will list all dialog, script, and objects in the appropriate tabbed window according to your search criteria (what you typed). The function appears to accept results that may not be clearly related to your search criteria (though usually are).

Edit->Search & Replace

This brings up a small window with two drop down boxes. The first is the object you wish the CS to find all references for, and the second is the object you want the first to be replaced with. There are two check boxes. One will execute the function in the current cell, the other will only operate on a selected object (which should be listed in the first drop box) or group of objects.

View Menu
250px|thumb|center|The View menu

View->Toolbar

This will display or not display the buttons beneath the menus.

View->Statusbar

This will display or not display the bar at the very bottom of the CS window displaying information on currently selected objects and actions.

View->Render Window

This will display or not display the Render Window.

View->Object Window

This will display or not display the Object Window.

View->Cell View Window

This will display or not display the Cell View Window.

View->Current Cell Only

Completely grayed out. Most likely a feature turned off, but was of use to the developers (but not us apparently).

View->Markers

This will display or not display North, Door, Temple, Divine, and Travel markers in the Render Window.

View->Collision

This will display or not display the collision grid in the Render Window, showing where the PC will collide with objects. This is only for objects, not landscape.

View->Light Radius

This will display or not display the radius of light emitted by an object by the presence of a tri-colored globe encircling an object that emits light.

View->Wireframe
This will display or not display the landscape and all objects in wireframe mode.

View->Brightness

This will brighten everything within the Render Window. By default the Render Window is somewhat dark. To better see objects within it, click this option. Just keep in mind it will look different when ingame; if you forget to put any lights in because you ‘brightened’ your Render Window…

View->Fog

This will display Fog as a weather effect in the Render Window so you can see what it might look like in that cell.

View->Isometric

This will center your viewpoint upon a selected object at ground level, facing north

View->Top

This will center your viewpoint upon a selected object above said object, looking straight down at it (north is up on your screen).

World Menu
250px|thumb|center|The World menu

World->Interior Cell
350px|thumb|center|The Interior Cell window

This brings up a window to create an interior cell. It does not create anything within the cell, it only allows one to adjust the lighting, allow sleep, set a water level, or, believe it or not, create an interior cell and set it to act like an exterior cell (gasp!). Yup, just like in Tribunal. A drop down menu at the top allows you to choose an interior cell to make adjustments too, or click on ‘New’, which brings up a small window to name your new cell. Click ‘ok’ and the new cell name will now appear in the drop down menu. You can now set the color of ambient light, adjust the amount of sunlight (actually, this is more along the lines of what you might consider ‘normal’ light, though you can set it to zero), and the amount of Fog if any. If you want water in your cell, check the box for water and enter a number in the box next to it. This number will be the grid coordinate level on the z-plane that the water level is set to. If unchecked, there will be no water in this interior cell. Also, check this before you build your cell. I have seen several statements that allude to certain difficulties when trying to add water to a cell already built. This seems to be the case, as I could not get water to appear in a built cell. Lastly, if you don’t want the PC to sleep in this cell, check that box. This window creates the existence of the cell, and sets parameters for it, but does not build it. When done, go to the Cell View Window and find your new interior cell, d-click it. It will load in the Render Window, but will be blank (all gray). You can now build the physical portion of your cell. Remember, you use this function to create the characteristics of the cell first, and then you can actually build it with objects in the Render Window.

:Note: You must have Tribunal or Bloodmoon to be able to set an interior cell to function as an exterior cell.



World->Exterior Cell
350px|thumb|center|The Exterior Cell window

This will allow you to set the characteristics pertaining to an exterior cell. At the top is a drop down menu showing what exterior cell you are modifying. Below that is a drop down menu to set the weather based upon the region you assign with it. The Map Color box, if checked, allows you to set a color on the game map representing an exterior cell. This is usually only done for town cells. Below that is the Illegal to Sleep Here check box. Don’t confuse this window’s functions with World->Regions. You use the Regions to set the weather for a region. You use this window to set a region you want to use the weather for in this cell (regardless of whether the cell is assigned to that region). Confused yet? Don’t worry, you’ll figure it out and it won’t seem so complicated.

World->Regions…
350px|thumb|center|The Regions window

This allows you to change the settings for regions, including weather, being attacked while sleeping, and sounds. A region is a collection of cells that are of similar make (ie. the Grazelands, Ascadian Isles, etc), but they don’t have to be similar. A town is part of a region, and a single cell, or several cells, could be quite different yet still be considered part of a region.

Region ID - This drop down menu shows a list of all regions in the game.

Name - This is the Name of a region as shown in the game. Usually the same as the ID.

New button - Click this to create a new region.

Delete button - This will delete the region shown in the Name ID drop menu.

Change ID - This will change the Name ID. Easier than deleting an ID and creating a new one (Bethesda should have included this button on other object windows too).

Weather Chances - This lists all the different weather types for a region. Each has a percentage associated with it. This is the percent chance of that weather type taking place in that region. These percentages MUST add up to 100%. If you set a weather type to 0%, it will never appear.

Sleep Creature - This is the creature list used for when the PC is awoken during sleep by an attacking creature. This can be specific creatures, or a leveled list.

Region Paint - Click this to bring up the separate Region Painter Window. Here you can ‘paint’ each cell in the world a color assigned to a region. Highlight a region listed in the window to the right and any cell you touch becomes the same color as that assigned to that region. This tells the game what region a cell belongs to.

Region Map Color - This is the color palette you can use to assign a color to a Region. Assign a color to a region before you open this window to assign cells.

Sound - The large box shows sounds that play ingame for this region. The first column is the percent chance of that sound playing. The second column is the priority to play that sound if more than one sound meets the percentage chance. The lower number plays. The third column is the name ID of a sound. To add a sound to this list open the Sound Window, then just drag and drop it into the list. It will be placed at the lowest priority. To delete a sound, highlight it, and push the ‘delete’ key. There is no way to adjust priority once a sound is added (what was Bethesda thinking?).

World->Go To Cell

Brings up box of cell listings. Choose a cell and click ‘ok’. This loads a cell in the Render Window as if you had d-clicked it in the Cell View Window.

World->World Testing

This brings up a further menu enabling you to test certain aspects of the plug-in world data for errors and conflicts. Some things to keep in mind, each of these tests will test the entire game world and your plug-in. A couple of these will take some time. If you just made a small change, wait and test your plug-in ingame, or wait till you have more changes to check and then run a test. These are great functions to help you debug your plug-in.

Test Models - This will test all 3D models of all references in the world and your plugin. If an object is missing part of it’s 3D mesh or texture, this should discover that and when done testing will provide you with a list of all such errors it found.

Dialog Conflicts - This test will check all dialogs responses and check for syntax errors. If a response causes a conflict somehow this will return a list of the actors that can give the response. You can then go and fix it instead of discovering this fact during game play.

Non-Teleporting Doors - This will test and return a list of all doors placed in exterior cells that are not linked (marked to teleport). This lets you know you forgot to link a door to another cell (or place).

Non-Teleporting Interiors - This will test interior cells to see if they are linked to another cell via doors marked to teleport. This does not test to see if a cell is linked to an exterior cell, only that it is linked to another cell, interior or exterior. Thus you could have a large dungeon split into 4 areas, all linked together and forget to add doors to get in or out of the dungeon. This function would probably miss that fact as it would find you had linked the different areas (cells), but doesn’t test for where.

Non-North Interiors - This test will check to see if any interior cells do not have a northmarker, and will return a list of those you that don’t.

Test All Land - This will return a list of any cells that have landscape problems. It will not tell you what the problem is, only that one exists. You may have to look carefully for it.

Test/Fix All Path Grids - This will test all path grids. Any nodes that do not have a path connecting to it will be removed.

Test All Cells - This will test every cell in the game world, landscape and objects, checking for any possible errors. This can take a long time to finish.

Test Interior Cells - This functions in the same way as does Test All Cells, except it only applies to interior cells. Takes quite a while.

World->Edit Cell Path Grid

Refer to The Edit Cell Path Grid Window. This brings up a box you can use to add nodes to the landscape, and link them. This creates paths for NPCs and creatures to follow.

World->Landscape Editing

Refer to The Landscape Edit Window. This is what you use to modify and change the landscape in the CS.

Character Menu
250px|thumb|center|The Character menu

Character->Race

This brings up a window within which you can edit, create, or delete a race. This does not create, edit, or delete a body for a race, this only defines the data about a race. Refer to The Race Window for information on modifying or creating a race.

Character->Skills

This brings up a window to modify skills, somewhat. You cannot add or delete skills. Nor can you change what actions are associated with a skill. Refer to The Skill Window for more information.

Character->Class

Refer to The Class Window for more information.

Character->Birthsigns

Refer to The Birthsigns Window for more information. The Birthsigns Window allows you to assign spells, an image, and a description to a Birthsign for someone to choose from when creating a new PC.

Character->Animations

Here you can review the different types of animation used to animate actors. I have no knowledge of dealing with animations, so will not attempt to confuse you or myself with a dissertation about it.

Character->Factions

Refer to The Factions Window for more information. You can open more than one Faction Window to compare different factions.

Character->Dialog
Refer to The Dialog Window for more information. You can open more than one Dialog Window to compare different dialog strings.

Gameplay Menu
250px|thumb|center|The Gameplay menu

Gameplay->Magic Effects

The Magic Effects Window allows you to change how magic appears and sounds ingame when cast as a spell, the particle visual effect, and the icon showing it as active. This window does NOT change or alter spells! It changes the ingame visual effects associated with a ‘spell effect’ that is used to create spells. Refer to The Magic Effects Window for more information.

Gameplay->Settings
350px|thumb|center|The Game Settings menu

There are four tabs on this window; Gameplay, Magic, Stats, and Menus. Each tab displays similar game settings. I will not describe here what each setting does or how it relates to the game. A comprehensive list of settings and descriptions appear in Appendix B.

Gameplay->Scripts

Refer to The Scripting Window for more information. You can open more than one Scripting Window to compare different scripts.

Gameplay->Edit Start Scripts.

You can add or delete a script from this menu. Any script on this menu is begun as a global script from the start of the game. It is highly recommended you do not make any changes to any scripts on this list, nor delete them. Think carefully before you add a script to this list. If you want a script to run as a global script, my advice is to place a starting script on a reference somewhere the PC is guaranteed to go in the game, thus ensuring it will execute (see Scripting).

Gameplay->Globals
350px|thumb|center|The global variables window

This is a list of global variables in the game that can be referred to in scripting. These variables are different from a variable declared in a global script in that the game constantly tracks these variables. A variable declared in a global script is only tracked while the script runs. To add a new global variable simply click the new button, input the name, and choose the type (Short, Long, or Float). If you wish for the variable to start with a value other than 0, input that also.

:Note: Make sure the names you use for global variables are unique, to prevent conflicts with other mods. If a variable name you use is generic, add a prefix to it, instead, such as "yourname_var" instead of "var".''



Note that local variables in local scripts and global scripts are also always loaded while the script is active, and can actually modified using the 'set' command, although I don't know of a way to read them. To do this, you can use "set globalscriptname.localvarname to XYZ". With local scripts attached to an object, you use the object's id instead, like so: "set objectid.localvarname to XYZ".

Gameplay->Sounds

Refer to The Sound Window for more information. The Sound Window allows you to assign an audio file (.wav) as a sound. The game will not recognize a sound till you assign it here as such.

Gameplay->Sound Gen…

Refer to The Sound Generator Window for more information. This window allows you to assign sounds to creatures. Note the sound must exist already in the Sound Window (directly above).

Help Menu
250px|thumb|center|The Help menu

There are only two options, About tells you the version of the CS and gives you a picture (seen as the first page of this manual). There are two versions: if you have vanilla Morrowind, you have v1.0, with Tribunal or Bloodmoon then it is v1.30. The other is the CS Help file. What can I say…the help file has its uses (which are many…), but is somewhat poorly presented. It is of limited use if you don’t know what it all means. Some of the information is just plain wrong even. At least it has several tutorials. For a newbie, it can be daunting just trying to understand and interpret it all.

The Buttons
The buttons are merely shortcuts to commonly used functions within the CS. I will not go into depth for each function associated with one of the buttons, I will only specify what it does, or refer you to the section that describes that function.

Data Files - Opens the Data Files Window. Refer to Files->Data Files.

Save - Saves your plug-in. Refer to Files->Save.

Preferences - Opens the Preferences Window. Refer to Files->Preferences.

Undo - Made a mistake? Just click this button.

Redo - Oops, you meant to do that, it wasn’t actually a mistake. Redo what you just undid.

Use Grid Snap - Toggles on the Grid Snap function. Refer to Files->Preferences.

Use Angle Snap - Toggles on the Angle Snap function. Refer to Files->Preferences.

Landscape Editing - Click this button to bring up the Landscape Editing engine. Be advised, this will prevent most functions in the CS except those related to landscape editing, as this engine is a system resource hog. Refer to The Landscape Edit Window.

Edit Cell Path Grid - Click this button to bring up the Edit Cell Path Grid Window. This will allow you to generate a default set of nodes and paths, or place them manually. Refer to Edit Cell Path Grid Window.

Brightness - Toggles brightness in the Render Window. Refer to View->Brightness.

Fog - Toggles the Fog weather effect in the Render Window. Refer to View->Fog.

Dialog - There are many functions and different drop down menus within the Dialog Window. There are also three tabs. I will not explain how to do dialog in this section. Refer to The Dialog Window.

Scripting - Again, I will not go into depth on the Script Window, but will only explain the buttons and menus on it. To see how to write scripts refer to The Scripting Window.

Script Menu - Here you can open a script, create a new one, or delete a script.

New - Opens a blank script in the script window.

Open - Opens a Script Pick window showing all scripts in alphabetical order.

Previous Script - Open the previous script in the Script Pick window.

Next Script - Open the next script in the Script Pick window.

Save - This will compile the script you’re working on, effectively saving it as a script. You must still click Save on the CS toolbar to save it within your mod.

Recompile All - Clicking on this will prompt the CS to recompile all scripts in the Script Pick window, to include any that are open. This will cause problems, possibly screw up a mod (Odd that it is even included). Regardless, I don’t recommend ever using this button.

:''Note: If you do this, your mod can be fixed. All the recompiled scripts will be listed as part of your mod in the Details listing. You can remove these problem scripts and restore your mod to workable status (see Cleaning the Unclean).



Delete - Click this and the Script Pick window opens. D-click on a script and a “D” will appear next to its name. This does not delete an open script unless you choose it from the Script Pick window. If you do the script window will turn gray.

Edit Menu - Here you can click on Undo or Redo. You should know what these do.

Help Menu - Bring up the Help Window, but only those parts that pertain to scripting.

Open button - As Open above.

Compile Script button - As Save above.

Previous Script button - As Previous Script above.

Next Script button - As Next Script above.

Recompile All Scripts button - As Recompile All above.

Delete Script button - As Delete above.

Down Arrow button - Clicking this exits the Script Window.

Sound - Used to assign sounds so the game will recognize them. Until you load a sound for use in the game with this window, the CS will not recognize them. Once that is done, the sound can be used. This does not assign sounds to object/actors, that is done with the Sound Generator Window. I will not go into depth on the Sound, please refer to The Sound Window.

Windows
In this chapter I will discuss the three main windows the CS uses to function (i.e. Object, Render, Cell View), plus I will go into depth on quite a few others that in the last chapter I only provided limited information on what you could do in the window, not how to use the window to accomplish something (i.e. Dialog, Scripting, Sounds, etc.).

The Object Window
Most objects in the game that can be considered an ‘item’ are listed within the Objects Window, grouped under a tab, though many are not (Path nodes, scripts, Birthsigns, etc can be considered objects in some ways, and are things that have to be created, but most do not have a physical representation in the game world). Some items you can interact with, others you can’t.

Object Conventions - There are certain conventions to keep in mind when working with Objects in this window. Some of these apply when working with other aspects of the game too, usually in how it is named.

References - When an object is created it is not placed in the game, but it does exist. When you place an item in the game by dragging it into the Render Window, you place a reference of that object into the game world. Think of it as a clone. All references of an object are exactly the same, and some changes made to one reference will change all other references in the game, including the original object! This may be the most important thing you can remember when working with any object! If you need to make use of an object already created, but need to change ANYTHING about that item, make a new Object! This will prevent you from changing something in the game that breaks a quest or changes how the game operates, or changes your mod in some way that prevents anyone from playing your mod loaded with other mods. You can change a few details of a reference, but only a few (only that data below the Reference Bar).

:Note: Each reference of an object actually does have a specific separate ID assigned by the game so it can differentiate it from others of the same object, with an 8 digit number added to the Name ID. Thus the first reference of flora_tree_01 would be flora_tree000000001, the second reference created would be flora_tree0100000002, etc. The CS does not display this additional number though, you can find it by opening the console ingame, and clicking on any object. The full reference name will be displayed at the top along with the extra identifying number.



Creating New Objects - Don’t create a new object unless you need to, use what the game provides if you can. But if you need to change an object, please do create a new one. Just rename an object and when a prompt comes up asking if you wish to create a new object, click ‘Yes’. If you click ‘No’, the old object effectively no longer exists, and all references of that object take on the new name you gave it, plus any changes you made. Most likely this will cause problems. Not only that, but if you rename the object back to it’s old name, it just a dirties your mod (you could do this, but you will have to clean this dirty reference out of your mod. You will clean your mod before you release it, right?). Keep it simple, and think before you rename objects haphazardly.
Naming New Objects - When you name a new object use a unique name that no one else will likely use. Most modders put their initials at the beginning of an ID. If you use a name for an object in your mod that someone else also uses in their mod (same object or not), and someone loads both to play, they will conflict, probably screw up their game, and maybe cause a CTD. Here’s an example: I create a new object from ‘furn_crate_open_01’ by renaming it ‘mde_coins_odai_crate_01’. I used my initials (I can’t use ‘me’ obviously, so I used ‘mde’), then ‘_coins’ for what it holds, ‘_odai’ is where I put it, then ‘_crate_01’ because it’s the first crate I created. The key is to be original and name things in a way no one else will. If you need more examples, open up a mod and see what other people name their created objects. That should give you some ideas.
The Underscore ‘_’: Placing this at the beginning of an ID causes the object created to be listed first on the tabbed list it falls on. Many people like to use it when renaming. But some people report problems with this (usually with scripts), other swear by it. It’s up to you, but I myself don’t.

:Note: Do not open up the Stat Reference window of an object in the Render Window, and rename it. While it will only rename that singular selected reference (and create a new object), it will also put an asterisk on the original parent object, thus making your mod dirty (thus more to clean). Create a new object form the Object Window, delete the reference, then drop your new object in the space.



Deleting Objects - Don’t delete objects unless it’s user created. It’s ok to delete a reference, assuming it isn’t important to a quest or the game in general (and you better be sure about it), but there is no reason to delete an object based in the .esm file. If you want to delete an object you created, go right ahead. You can delete objects from an .esp, at worst it will screw up a plug-in.
Stat Window for Objects - To bring up the statistics window for any object you can d-click that object, or r-click on it. R-clicking will bring up a menu with several options on it; New, Edit, Delete, etc. You do not get this stat window if you d-click on a reference, which will bring up the Reference Stat Window.
Reference Stat Window - This window will be divided into two sections, the top and bottom, split by the Reference Bar. Do NOT make any changes to anything in the top section! This will make changes to ALL references of the parent object, to include the parent object! You can safely make changes to anything in the bottom section. Such changes will only affect the selected object.
Object Meshes and Textures - Where are they? On the CS CD, unless you copied the CD to your hard drive. You can create a new object and search the CD (or your hard drive) for them. You can also make things easier for yourself and just rename an object (pay attention to above).
Adding an object - To add an object to the world simply click and drag it to the Render Window where a reference will be created of it. If you need to add several objects, highlight those you wish to add and then click and drag the group of objects. Easy (of course now you have to sort and place said objects in the Render Window).
Blocked - If this box is checked in an object’s stat window the PC cannot interact or affect this item normally. If the PC tries to ‘activate’ an object that is blocked nothing happens. When the PC centers their view upon a blocked object, that object’s name will still be displayed (this is commonly used for signposts, and a few other things).
Persistant - If this box is checked on an object’s stat window the object cannot be removed from the game by the PC, nor will it ever just disappear from the game world. Thus a dead actor will always remain where they died, an object sold to a merchant will remain in their inventory.
Name ID - All objects must have a unique ID.
Name - Almost all objects have a name. This is how the object is identified ingame by the PC. While all object IDs must be unique, objects can share a Name.
Weight - Most objects, but not all, have a weight associated with it.

Let’s get on to the objects. I will list them by tab.

Activator
These are objects that do something, or allow the PC/actors to interact with. Many static like objects are created as activators so a script can be attached to them. Signposts, barriers, beds, etc. are all considered activators. You can attach scripts to activators. If you need a static object with a script to be attached, create it as an activator.

Mesh - The top button is for the mesh of the activator. Most are found under Data Files\x subfolder on the CS CD.

Alchemy
These objects are potions. You can alter several values of a potion. You can also attach a script to a potion.

Mesh - The top button is for the mesh of the potion. These are found under Data Files\n subfolder on the CS CD.

Icon - The bottom button is for the icon in the inventory menu. These are found under Data Files\n subfolder on the CS CD.

Spell Effects - There are eight drop down menu boxes listing spell effects that can be added to a potion. These work the same as Spellmaking. Note that the cost in the last column is the cost to purchase the potion, not the cost in magicka (using a potion does not cost magicka).

Apparatus
These are the objects that are used to create potions ingame. You can attach scripts.

Mesh - Top button assigns the mesh of the object, found under Data Files\m subfolder on the CS CD.

Icon - Bottom button assigns the icon for the inventory. Found under Data Files\m subfolder CS CD.

:Note: There appears to have been a couple of mistakes made. The Journeyman Calcinator is using the ‘Tx_calcinator_01.tga’ (used by the Apprentice Calcinator), but there is a ‘Tx_calcinator_02.tga’ that can be found on the CS CD. Did the wrong icon file get assigned? It’s also using the same mesh, but there is a separate mesh for the Journeyman Calcinator. (did the developers forget their coffee that day?). Also, the Apprentice Mortar & Pestle is using the ‘Tx_mortarpestle_j_01.tga’ file (the same as the Journeyman Mortar & Pestle), but there is a ‘Tx_mortarpestle_a_01.tga’ file on the CS CD. Simple mistakes apparently, but easy to fix.



Armor
You must understand how armor is rendered in the game to grasp how to modify or create new armor. When the PC or an NPC wears armor (or clothing), the armor is not placed over the body part it is assigned to, it replaces that body part. The game is not rendering a body part ‘under’ the armor, only the armor. What this means is you must create or assign parts of armor under the Body Part tab (even if only one part), and then make (or assemble) the armor under this tab and assign the Body Part ‘objects’ created to the armor. This may be confusing, but if you look at a few pieces of armor already listed, it will make sense. Double clicking on an armor object opens a window to define stat values for the armor for use in the game. Before you can assign values to new armor, you must have already created it under the Body Part tab, or use those already created. The easiest way to create new armor types is to simply open up a piece of armor, change the object name of it (as explained in a bullet at the beginning of this chapter), and click ‘Yes’ when asked if you want a new object. If you want a full suit, make sure you do this for each piece of armor (i.e. a new type of steel armor? Make sure to create a new set of pauldrons, gauntlets, boots, greaves, a cuirass, helm, and shield). The sections and use of the window are:

Type - Drop down menu for what piece of armor it is (i.e. left pauldron, cuirass, right bracer, etc.).

Script - You can attach a script to the armor here.

Weight - The weight of armor. The game automatically assigns the weight ‘class’ of the armor based upon the weight you enter here. If you make the armor relatively light in weight, regardless of the AR you assign it, the game will treat the armor as ‘Light Armor”, whether you will it or no. If you make a piece of armor very heavy, the game will treat the armor as ‘Heavy Armor’. Here is a table showing the weight classifications. Armor types are listed on the left, the maximum weight that can be assigned to that armor type and still be considered of a weight class is listed across the top.



Health - This is the ‘hit points’ of the armor. Armorer skill and a repair object are used to restore these points. If a piece of armor is reduced to zero, the armor will become unequipped and useless.

AR - This is the value of the protection the armor gives. This number is set upon a skill level base of 30. This means that if the appropriate armor skill is 30, and the AR of a piece of armor is set to base 50, the armor has an ingame current value of 50. If the skill is lower than 30, then the value of the AR will also proportionally be lower. If the skill is above 30, then the AR value will also be proportionally higher. Try to assign values that are balanced.

Value - This is the monetary value of the item if bought or sold. Keep in mind you will pay more than this if buying, and will get less than this if selling.

Mesh - Upper button is clicked to assign a mesh to a piece of armor, found in Data Files\A subfolder on the CS CD. The mesh you need is the GND mesh, or ‘ground’ mesh. This mesh is what appears when the armor is dropped on the ground.

Icon - This lower button is clicked to assign an icon in the inventory menu, found in Data Files\A subfolder on the CS CD.

Picture box - This box shows the picture of the icon chosen.

Enchantment - This number is the maximum amount of possible enchantment points assigned to an armor piece (i.e. amount of magicka available for casting magic from the piece of armor), not the actual total. The actual points assigned is always 10 x ‘enchantment cost’.

Enchanting - This drop down menu lists enchantments from the ‘Enchantment’ tab. Choose one to add to armor to make them magical.

Biped Object - These drop down menus are used to assign the parts that this armor covers. Note that some armor covers more than one body part (ie. boots cover both the left and right foot, and also the left and right ankle). Look at other armor types if unsure what to include. The body parts covered by armor type are:

Helmet - Head and Hair (some only the hair, not the whole head)
Cuirass - Chest
Pauldron - Forearm and Upper Arm (some also the clavicle/pauldron)
Gauntlets - Hands and Wrists
Greaves - Groin and Upper Legs
Boots - Ankles and Feet
Bracer - Wrists
Shield - (Not assigned a body part)

:Note: The above list does not apply to the Better Bodies mod. It has a different assignment system based upon it’s single body mesh.



Male/Female Armor - If you intend this to be for a male to wear you must assign the appropriate part from the Body Part tab. Each drop down menu under this section must match the body part you listed to the left, under the male or female menu listing. Example: if you work with glass boots, you must list right ankle to one drop menu, then left ankle to the next below it, and then right foot, and finally left foot. Under the Male or Female section, to the right of ‘right ankle’ you must list the object ID of glass boots from the list either in the middle column for a male, or the right hand column for a female, for feet and for ankles (using the same object for both feet and for both ankles). If you list the object ID under both sections then either gender can wear this armor. If still confused, just look at another piece of armor of the type you wish to make or modify.

Body Part
These objects are what make up Armor, a Body Part, or Clothing. However each is not composed of the same pieces. This will make sense as I explain it below. You cannot attach a script to an object in this window.

Part - This is the body part this object will replace when ‘equipped’ ingame.

Part Type - Click the object type for this object if creating a new one.

Female - If this is checked, the object will only be for females, if unchecked then it is for males.

Playable - If checked this object is available for the PC to ‘wear’.

Mesh - Button assigns a mesh file to this object. Found under the Data Files\b subfolder on the CS CD.

Skin Info - This section is grayed out if working with clothing or armor. If you are working with a race, then the first drop down menu lists the race that this object is assigned (and only that race). The second drop down menu lists if the object if for a normal or vampire PC/NPC. This only comes into play when assigning a ‘head’ to a race. I will further explain some of the differences between armor, clothing, and race Part Types.

Armor - This is where you create the individual parts that make up a piece of armor. Or in simple terms, here is where you create the visible parts of armor that replace the PC’s normal body parts. You must create each part here to create a full piece of armor as detailed above. This means that a pauldron must have a clavicle, upper arm, and forearm. These pieces are then assigned together as a single piece of armor and given stat values under the Armor tab. The Playable checkbox and the Skin Info section are both grayed out.

Clothing - This works basically the same as creating armor, except that different body parts go together under the Clothing tab to create most clothing (i.e. pants cover the ankles, upper legs, knees, and groin, while greaves only cover the upper legs and groin). The Playable checkbox and the Skin Info section are grayed out.

Race - This is where you assign meshes to body parts, creating a ‘body’ for the races defined by the Race Window. When creating or modifying a race you do not need to create or assign a ‘clavicle’ under part type (the clavicle is part of the ‘chest’ mesh). Only one body part of each type can be assigned to a race and gender (i.e. only one male forearm, only one female upper leg, etc), except for head and hair. You can assign more than one of either (obviously). You must make sure a race is assigned if creating new race body parts from the drop down menu under Skin Info. This race must have already been created in the Race Window by clicking Character->Race. The easiest way to create a new race’s body parts is to just rename all those given to a standard morrowind race (creating a new object), and then reassign the race for the new body part. Make sure to create both male and female body parts. If you try to mix different races you will most likely get clipping problems between the body parts. This is usually seen when someone creates a new race and mixes hair from one race to the head of another (ie. human hair on top of elven heads). Not to mention the textures won’t match. The meshes for each are too different to match right so you see this as clipping in the game. Also, don’t forget to assign a vampire head to a new race, or else when they become a vampire and the switch is made (or if you create a vampire NPC), no head will be visible, just the body with a big yellow exclamation point. This happens ingame whenever the game can’t find a correct mesh for an object. There are quite a few plug-ins available out there on the net that provide new head and hair meshes for use in a game (see Appendix B for websites).

Book
Books are easiest to modify or create by just renaming one and inserting your own text. They can do a couple of other specific things. A ‘book’ can actually be a scroll or a book. Scrolls can also cast a spell (one time). You can attach a script to a book (or scroll).

Teaches - You can click this drop down menu and choose a skill from this list. The first time a copy of this book is read by a PC they will receive a one point increase in that skill.

Mesh - The upper button is used to assign this file. Found in the Data Files\m subfolder on the CS CD.

Icon - The lower button is used to assign the icon for the inventory. Found in the Data Files\m subfolder on the CS CD.

Scroll - Click this box if the object is a scroll. Make sure to use the correct mesh.

Enchantment - Enter a value if you wish a spell to be cast from the scroll. It must be enough to cast the spell you enter.

Enchanting - Click the drop down menu to attach a spell to a scroll for casting.

Text - You can enter text here for a book. There is a character limit of 64,000. Text used by the game in books is simplified HTML code, and must use only certain specific fonts.

Clothing
The Clothing Window works exactly the same as the Armor Window (detailed above). The difference is what body parts are covered by types of clothing.

Shirt - Chest, Upper Arm, Forearm, Wrist
Skirt - Groin and Upper Legs
Pants - Groin, Upper Leg, Knee, and Ankle
Shoes - Foot and Ankle
Robe - Chest, Upper Arm, Elbow, Forearm, Groin, Upper Leg, Knee
Belt - (Not assigned a body part)
Ring - (Not assigned a body part)
Amulet - (Not assigned a body part)

:Note: The above list does not apply to the Better Bodies mod. It has a different assignment system based upon it’s single body meshes.



Container
These objects are barrels, chests, boxes, etc, and also many plants (yes, plants). Containers cannot be picked up or moved. You can remove and place items in containers, unless it is a plant, which you can only remove objects from. You can add a script to a container. Some specific info:

Organic Container - If checked, this indicates the object is a plant, the PC will only be able to remove objects inside.

Respawns - This will be grayed out unless the organic container box is checked. If checked, objects inside the container will respawn about every 4 months or so.

Weight - The total weight of all objects within a container cannot exceed the weight value listed here. To the right is listed the ‘encumbrance’ so you don’t exceed this value.

Animation - If this object has animation associated with it you can view the data by clicking this button.

Mesh - Click this button to assign the mesh and texture for the object. Found in the Data Files\o subfolder on the CS CD. There is no icon for such objects (though some modders have created containers that can be placed in the inventory and have icons for doing so).

Inventory List box - Here is where you put items to be found in the container. Just open another tab on the Object Window and drag and drop an object into the list. L-click once to highlight, and then l-click again (not a d-click) over the Count column to adjust the number of objects found in the container. If you enter a negative number the container will respawn the stated number amount of that item (which means they will always have that many, no matter how many times you remove the objects). Infinite items respawn after 24 hours.

Creatures
The Creature Window is used to modify and create the beasties that annoy and chew on our PC during the game (ain’t they cute when they do that). You can attach a script to a creature. If you plan on using a creature for a leveled list, but want just that creature on the list, create multiple versions of it at different levels. Make sure you give each a unique Name ID (the Name can be the same). Try to keep the balance of the game and your creature in mind. This Creatures Window has a lot of data in it, I will explain each carefully.

Type - Decide if the creature is a Creature, Daedra, Humanoid, or Undead. Daedra creatures cannot be harmed by normal weapons. Undead creatures cannot be harmed by normal weapons, and are affected by the Turn Undead spell effect.

Level - This is the level of the creature. This is 1 by default, the CS does not auto-calculate stats like it can NPCs for you. If you forget to change this, the creature will stay level 1.

Essential - If checked, and the creature is killed, the PC will receive a message the creature they just killed was essential to a quest, but not other info is given.

Corpses Persist - If checked, and the creature dies, the corpse will remain in the game world. The PC cannot remove it, nor will the game, after the specified period of time to do so for most corpses.

Respawn - If checked, the creature will be respawned the next time the cell is loaded.

:Note: As best I can determine, if the PC does not remove the corpse of a creature killed, the creature will not respawn until the game removes the corpse.



Attributes - These are the stats for this creature. You can set these as low as 1, or as high as 255. Most creatures should have a stat value between 1-100. Following stats are a little different.

:Health - Defaults to (STR + END/2) + (Lvl * END/10). You can change this manually. If you set the Health to zero, the creature will be set as a corpse when the cell loads (they still start in an upright position, but fall over upon cell load). Maximum possible Health is 65535.
:Spell Points - Defaults to (INT * ability multiplier). You can change this manually. Maximum Spell Points is 65535.
:Fatigue - Defaults to (STR + END + AGL + WIL). You can change this manually. Maximum Fatigue is 65535.
:Soul - The value of their soul for charging a soul gem. If you set this to 400 or more, the creature’s soul can be used to create Constant Effect enchantments. Maximum Soul is 99999.

Skills - The creature only has three skills, Combat, Magic, and Stealth. This is the skill level used for any skill from one of those categories. You can set these manually. Maximum skill level is 255.

Attacks - Creatures can have three different attacks, you must set the minimum and maximum amount of damage for each.

Blood Texture - Red for most creatures, White for skeletons and some undead, and Gold for metal sparks.

Sound Gen Creature - Drop down menu listing of creatures. Pick the creature to derive sound from.

Dialog - Creatures do not have any dialog by default. If you choose to add it click this button to open the Dialog Window, filtered to this creature.

Animation - Opens an animation data window for this creature.

AI - Opens the AI window for this creature. There are two tabs; Packages and Services.

:Packages - This tab allows you to set the AI Packages that dictate how the creature acts and reacts in the game world. See NPCs for detailed information on AI Packages.
:Services - Creatures normally do not offer services. However, you can set them to do so. See NPCs for detailed information on AI Services.

:Note: If you have a creature set to offer services, any buying/selling is done at base value of the items/service. Creatures do not have a Mercantile skill, nor are affected by it.



Mesh - Click to assign a mesh/texture to a creature. Unlike NPCs, you do not assign every body part, only one mesh file is used for a creature. These files can be found in the Data Files\r subfolder on the CS CD.

Scale - This defaults to 1.00 (normal). The creature can be set to half of its normal size (0.5), or twice it’s normal size (2.0). Scripting can be used to set Scale beyond these limits however

:Note: Scale can also be set for a creature (or any object) within the Render Window by holding down the ‘s’ key, then l-click and drag the ‘creature’ up or down.



Weapon & Shield - If you check this box, and you check the box for Biped animations for movement, the creature will use the best weapon and shield you include in their inventory (if you give them any).

Movement - Click on the type of primary movement in this section. Make sure you have a sound assigned to appropriate actions for movement (unless you want them to be silent as they move). If you click on Biped the creature will use the animations for NPC movement, and fly, walk, and swim will gray out. If you set movement to None, other movement will gray out, and they will not move.

Encumbrance - Creatures are affected by encumbrance too. Shown is minimum/maximum for a creature according to attributes.

Item Inventory tab - This box shows items the creature carries. To add an item or a leveled item list, just click and drag it into this box. To remove one, highlight it and click ‘delete’.

Spell Inventory tab - This lists all spells the creature can cast. Add or delete spells as you would items.

Door
Doors are just that, doors. You can attach a script to them. When you place them remember you need a doorframe for them to fit into.

Animation - If animation is associated with the door object you can view it here. Grayed out if it has none.

Mesh - This button is to include the mesh. Found in the Data Files\f subfolder on the CS CD. There is no icon button.

Sound Open - Click on the middle button to assign a sound for when the door is opening.

Sound Close - Click on the bottom button to assign a sound for when the door is closing.

Enchanting
The Enchanting Window works exactly the same as the Spellmaking Window. An enchantment is added to another object so that this other object is magical, and can ‘cast’ a spell. Thus a PC needs no knowledge of the spell nor any magicka to cast it. The Enchanting Window has a few differences from the Spellmaking Window.

Cast Type - This describes how the enchantment is cast, or when.

:Cast When Used - This means the enchantment will only be cast when the object it is placed on is activated. Usually this involves equipping the object if in the PC’s inventory.
:Cast When Strikes - This can only be placed on weapons. When a successful strike is made this enchantment is cast.
:Cast Once - This can only be placed on scrolls. The enchantment is cast once when the scroll is used.
:Constant Effect - The enchantment is ‘always on’, it does not need to be cast. The object only needs to be equipped and the enchantment takes affect.

Charge Amount - This is the minimum magicka pool that an object will have to cast the enchantment. For Cast Once or Cast When Used, this is equal to the Cost. For Cast When Strikes this is 10xCost (or 10 successful strikes). It is grayed out for Constant Effect.

Auto-Calculate - Check this box if you wish the CS to total the cost of all spell effects for you. Uncheck and you can enter any amount you wish in the Cost box.

Cost - This is the cost of casting this enchantment. This is the amount subtracted from the magicka pool assigned to an object for spell casting. This is grayed out for Cast Once and Constant Effect.

Ingredient
These objects are able to instill a limited spell effect if eaten or used, or can be mixed with other ingredients to create potions. You cannot determine the amount of an effect, this is determined by the PC’s Alchemy skill. You can attach a script to an ingredient.

Mesh - Click this button to assign the mesh/texture. Found in the Data Files\n subfolder on the CS CD.

Icon - Click this button to assign an icon for the inventory. Found in the Data Files\n subfolder on the CS CD.

Effects - Up to four spell effects may be assigned to an ingredient, one for each drop down menu. Only the first one listed will have any effect if eaten.

Leveled Creatures
This list acts as a reference in the game world. When the cell loads the PC’s level is checked against this list. If a creature is on the list that meets the parameters as set on this list for the PC, that creature is added to the world at the reference’s grid. If no creatures on the list meet the parameter, no creature appears.

Calculate From All Levels 
0 = Never been hit by PC. 
1 = Hit by PC one time. 
2 = Hit by PC two times. 
3 = Hit by PC three times. 
4 = Hit by PC four or more times. 
:::Health Percent - The health level as a percentage you want a response to display. The value in the last box must be between 1 and 100.
:::Hello - Same as Fight, except applies to the Hello value. Most NPCs have a value between 0 and 30. For most creatures it is 0.
:::Level - Not sure why it’s needed, but this is the actor’s level. Set the value to the desired level or lower to test for.
:::PC [skill] - All skills the PC has are listed in the drop menu. Set the value to the desired level or lower to test for.
:::PC [attribute] - All attributes of the PC are listed. Set the value to the desired level or lower to test for.
:::PC Blight Disease - If the PC has a blight disease. Set the value to a 1 for a blight disease, or 0 to not have a blight disease.
:::PC Clothing Modifier - The clothing modifier is the total value of all items equipped by the PC (armor, clothes, amulets, rings). Set the value in the last box to the monetary value or lower you want the response to be displayed. A value of 0 means naked.
:::PC Common Disease - If the PC has a common disease. Set the value to a 1 for a common disease, or 0 to not have a common disease.
:::PC Corprus - If the PC has corprus. Set the value to a 1 for corprus, or 0 to not have corprus.
:::PC Crime Level - This is the monetary value that has been placed on the PC’s head for crimes they have committed (i.e. bounty).
:::PC Expelled - Test to see if the PC is currently expelled from the actor’s faction. Set value in last box to 1 for true, or 0 for false.
:::PC Fatigue - This is the current fatigue level of the PC.
:::PC Health - This is the current health level of the PC.
:::PC Health Percent - This is the current health level of the PC expressed as a percentage (i.e. from 1 to 100).
:::PC Magicka - This is the current magicka level of the PC.
:::PC Reputation - This is the current reputation level of the PC.
:::PC Sex - This is the gender of the PC. a 1 will test for female, a 0 for male.
:::PC Vampire - This will test if the PC is a vampire. A 1 is true, a 0 is false.
:::PC Werewolf Kills - This will test how many kills the PC has made as a werewolf.
:::Rank Requirement - This will test if the PC has the requisite skill and stat levels to be promoted in the actor’s faction. Set the value to test for according to below: 
0 = You do not have enough Faction Reputation and do not meet the skill requirements. 
1 = You meet the skill requirements, but do not have the Faction Reputation. 
2 = You have the Faction Reputation, but do not meet the skill requirements. 
3 = You qualify. 
:::Reaction High - This function tests the faction reaction of the actor’s faction against the PC’s factions, returning a value equal to whichever is the highest. Set the value you want to test for in the last box.
:::Reaction Low - Same as above, but tests for the lowest.
:::Reputation - This is the actor’s reputation level. Set the value in the last box to the level or lower you wish to test for.
:::Same Faction - Set the value in the last box to a 1 to test if the PC is the same faction, to a 0 if not.
:::Same Race - Set the value in the last box to a 1 to test if the PC is the same race, to a 0 if not.
:::Same Sex - Set the value in the last box to a 1 to test if the PC is the same gender, to a 0 if not.
:::Should Attack - Set the value in the last box to 1 to test if the actor wants to fight you.
:::Talked to PC - Set this value to a 1 to test if the PC has talked to the actor before, to a 0 if not.
:Note: The game only keeps track if an actor has talked to the PC within the last 72 hours (game time). After that, it ‘forgets’. If you want an actor to remember that they talked to the PC beyond 72 hours. Declare a variable in a script attached to the actor, no need to even set it to any numerical value, just declare it. In the dialog response set it to a value of 0 for the first time they speak to the PC (as a speaker condition), and change it to a 1 in the Results box in that same response. The actor will never offer that response again.


:::Weather - You can set a response according to the current weather if in an exterior. Values that can be tested for are listed below. 
0 = Clear 
1 = Cloudy 
2 = Foggy 
3 = Overcast 
4 = Rain 
5 = Thunder 
6 = Ash 
7 = Blight 
(8 = Snow?) 
(9 = Blizzard?) 
:::Werewolf - Set the last box to a value of 1 to test if the actor is in werewolf form. It’s used to prevent werewolf form actors from having dialog with the PC.
::Global - You can set a variable that is declared in a global script, or set from the Global Variable window. Open the drop menu to see all global variables listed that you can choose from. Set the value in the last box you wish to test against.
::Local - You can set a variable that is declared in a local script as a condition. Be careful here, if you use the same named variable in more than one script, you could be setting yourself up for failure (i.e. DoOnce, NoLore, etc). Open the drop menu and choose the variable, and then set the value in the last box. The local variable must be declared in the script for the NPC you test against.
::Journal - You can choose a journal ID to test against. Open the drop menu and you will find a list of all Journal IDs. Set the index number you wish to test against in the last box.
::Item - It sounds repetitive, but again, you can test against any item created. This will only check the inventory of the PC for the number of items that you specify. Thus, in the last box set the item count you wish to test against.
::Dead - This will test if an actor is dead. Open the drop menu and choose the NPC or creature ID. Set the value in the last box to number of actors dead you wish to test for.
::Not ID - This will test for the current actor you are in dialog with. Open the drop menu and choose the actor ID, then set the value in the last box to 1. What this means is any actor except the one you choose can display this response.
::Not Faction - This will test for the current actor’s faction you are in dialog with. Open the drop menu and choose a faction, then set the value in the last box to 1. What this means is no actor who belongs to the faction you choose will give this response.
::Not Class - This will test for the current actor’s class you are in dialog with. Open the drop menu and choose a class, then set the value in the last box to 1. What this means is no actor who belongs to the class you choose will give this response.
::Not Race - This will test for the current actor’s race you are in dialog with. Open the drop menu and choose a race, then set the value in the last box to 1. What this means is no actor who belongs to the race you choose will give this response.
::Not Cell - This will test for the current actor’s cell you are in dialog with. Open the drop menu and choose a cell ID, and then set the value in the last box to 1. What this means is no actor in the cell ID you choose will give this response.
::Not Local - This will test for the presence of the variable you choose in a script attached to the actor you are in dialog with. Open the drop menu and choose a faction, then set the value in the box to 1. What this means is no actor that has this variable declared in an attached script will give this response.
:3rd drop box - Open this box and set the ‘test’ you wish to make for the condition. This is either ==,  =,  , or !=. This tells how the function/variable is to be tested when compared to the numerical value you place in the last box.
:4th or last box - The last box is where you place the numerical value to test is the condition is true, or false. Some conditions only require a 1 or 0 in this box (true or false). Others require a larger number. The numerical value must be a whole number.

Shared by - This box on the mid right side will show what actors can give a response (when you click on a response). This makes it easy to tell if an NPC or creature will give this response or not (or maybe see if someone is listed who shouldn’t give this response).

Update Shared by - If you change the speaker conditions for a response, then click this button, the Shared by box above will be updated.

Journal Preview - When you click and highlight a journal index, then click this, the CS will create the ingame journal and display the journal index text so you can see what it will look like. Obviously, only works with journal indexes.

Update Hyperlinks - When you click and highlight a response, then click this button, the CS will place tags around any word that it considers a topic. Thus if the word boating is a topic and used in a response, click this button and it will appear as  .

All - This will Update Hyperlinks for every dialog response.

Error Check Results - Clicking this will force an error check of all dialog. This isn’t the most trustworthy function of the dialog window, but it will catch simple mistakes you make, but only in syntax. It won’t tell you that you just screwed up dialog for an NPC, but it will tell you if you if you misspelled a script function, or used incorrect script syntax. It won’t tell you if you’ve set a variable to an incorrect value, or used the wrong function to do something, only that you used incorrect syntax. Once you click the button, pay close attention to each error warning that may come up, write it down if you can. It won’t tell you exactly what you did wrong, but it will list the problem response, and give a ‘script error’ clue. This usually is enough to figure out which responses are problems, so you can find them and figure out what the problem is, and fix it. Vast majority of the time, I have found that the mistake is a misspelling of a function, or incorrectly stating syntax for a script function in the Results box. One problem the Error Check has is that sometimes it will generate an error prompt when there is no actual error. This is easily seen if you have Tribunal or Bloodmoon loaded. Some of the dialog from each will always generate errors, even though there is nothing wrong with them. What it boils down to is while using this function can be a big help, it’s not perfect.

:Note: Do NOT SAVE your mod after running an error check if you find errors! For some reason the CS will save the fact that you had errors as part of your mod. Sounds crazy, but it’s true, and it will just add data to your file that has no use. Instead Save your mod, then run an error check. If you have errors, write them down, then exit and re-load your mod. Now safely fix your errors.



Sound Filename - This is usually grayed out, and is only functional when working within the Voice section of dialog. Use this to assign a sound file to a response within the Voice section (i.e. when a response is to be given vocally ingame).

Results box -Think of the Results box as a miniature script window. In the Help file that comes with the TESCS, it states that single line script functions can added here, but no if/endif sets can be used. This isn’t entirely true. What is true is that script functions added here are not compiled by the CS. During play when this response is called, anything added here is compiled and executed at that time. If/Endif sets can be used within the Results box, but what you have to keep in mind is that this box will only execute once. Thus this limits what you can do with the Results box. Normal scripting limitations also apply. Examples of common functions and commands used:

 set some_variable to 1
 SetFight, 100
 player->ModCurrentHealth, 50
 “lirielle stoine”->AddItem, “steel longsword”, 1
 Journal, “B3_ZainabBride”, 25
 Set companion to 1
 StartCombat, player
 StopScript,
 ModDisposition, 5
 AIFollow, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0
 Goodbye
 Choice, “Yes, 1, “No”, 2

If you use the StartScript function, put it at the top of the Results box above any other functions. This will ensure your script always gets started. You’ll note I put the last two in bold. This is because these two are unique to dialog, they can only be used in the Results box. Goodbye will force the player to click on the word, which will end all dialog with the current actor. Choice works exactly the same as MessageBox (strangely, you can still use the MessageBox function in the Results box, but you cannot have buttons. Only Choice will allow you to do multiple choice answers, and then not as buttons, but as hyperlinked answers). Unlike with MessageBox, with Choice you must number each possible ‘answer’. You then set a speaker condition line to “Function” “Choice” “=” “[number]” in the response you want to appear for the answer the player chooses.

:Note: It is important to remember that a response to a choice must be listed above the original response that offered that choice!



Special Variables - There are several special variables that are used that you can make use of also. To use these simply declare them in a script attached to the actor, then use the Not Local function as a condition with variables (except for Companion and StayOutside, use the Local function instead). There is no need to assign a numerical value to them. They are as follows.
:NoLore - There is no need to assign a value to this variable. When declared in an actor’s script, many default topics will not be used by the actor. In the CS the topics will still appear if you filter for an actor’s ID, but they won’t appear in the game.
:NoHello - Used by Bethesda to prevent normal hello vocals to be used (by vampires) under the Voices tab.
:NoFlee - Used by Bethesda to prevent normal flee vocals to be used (by vampires) under the Voices tab.
:NoIdle - Used by Bethesda to prevent normal idle vocals to be used (by vampires) under the Voices tab.
:NoIntruder - Used by Bethesda to prevent normal intruder vocals to be used (by vampires) under the Voices tab.
:NoThief - Used by Bethesda to prevent normal vocals being used when the PC is detected stealing. And of course this includes vampires.
:Companion - Used to allow companion sharing with NPCs. Declare as a short variable in a script, and have it set to 1 to allow companion sharing.
:StayOutside - Used to set a companion to only follow you in exterior cells. Declare as a short variable in a script. When set to 1 the actor will not follow the PC through a door that enters an interior cell.

Topics - This tab holds all the topics that the PC can learn/know and click on to carry out conversations with an actor.

Voices - This tab holds all the vocalized responses that actors can ‘say’ ingame. These are responses you add a sound file to, such as when an actor gets hit, hits the PC, is standing around idle, first ‘detects’ the PC, etc. If you look through this list you will see that most responses are generic to a race, class, or faction. If you have Bloodmoon also loaded you will see that at the top responses for each section are for werewolves. These are for NPCs when in werewolf. Almost all creatures have standard sounds associated with them already from within the Sound Generator window, there is no need to add sounds for them here (though, technically, you could). To add a new vocal response, simply right click where you want the new response to appear. Type in whatever dialog you want displayed (if the player has this function on when playing), then click the Sound Filename button on the bottom right side of the dialog window. A window will open allowing you to navigate and select the mp3 file you wish to use. That simple.

Greetings''' - Greetings are a little different. There are 10 sections, or sublevels, to Greetings. They are labeled 0-9. The type of responses that go in each are specific, if you place a response in a sublevel different than what Bethesda put there, you could be breaking a dialog thread for an NPC. You must take care and think before you put any greeting response in a sublevel in order to avoid this. Types are listed below.



:''Note: Once the main quest is complete, no responses below Greetings 7 will occur. That’s because everyone will respond with one of several from Greetings 7 once the main quest is complete, thus any response listed below them will never occur. Something you need to be aware of, and keep in mind.



Persuasion - Under this tab you will find all forms of persuasion the PC can attempt to use on an actor. Note that most are generic. You will also find service refusals, and info refusals here. If a PC clicks on but does not qualify for a service an actor offers (whether merchant, travel, training, etc.) a service refusal will be the response. Info refusal is similar. If the PC clicks on a topic, but does not meet requirements (such as disposition level, correct class or faction, rank, etc.) they will get a standard info refusal. The exception to this is if a specific response is prepared instead, in which it would be used instead.

Journal - Here are listed all journal responses that can get added to the PC’s ingame Journal. Each quest in the game, and certain situations, have an appropriate Journal ID. Each ID is of course unique. Within each ID you will find journal responses, and each has a numerical index assigned to it. This is how the game keeps track of progression through a quest, and through the game. When milestone is reached in a quest, a journal index is called (either through dialog or via a script). Journal responses must be listed in order according to index, but it does not matter if the order start at the top of the list, or bottom. It also does not matter what the index number you start at, nor stop at, as long as the number are progressive (i.e. the next index is higher in value than the last). Thus you could start an index at 1 or 10. You could progress by ones (1, 2, 3, 4, etc), or by 5 (5, 10, 15, 20, etc), or whatever. As long as the next number in the series is higher than the last. I like to work with numbers that progress by 5, that way if I need at a later date and add another index, I can insert it in between where I need to, without having to shift numbers around. But that’s just me.

Keep in mind: it is important to remember that journal IDs must be named correctly. The format that Bethesda uses is good (A1_journal_name). If you just use simple words for a journal ID you run the risk of the game thinking your journal entry is actually a topic. Bad juju.

Check your spelling - Pain in the spotted owl, isn’t it? But a mod that is rife with misspelled words and bad grammar will make you look bad. But there is an easy way to do this. Use the Export function under the File Menu. Export New Dialog only, then find the .txt file in your Morrowind folder, then open with MS Word or Open Office, and run the Check Spelling option. Once done, import it back into your mod using the Import function under the File Menu. Does it get any easier? I don’t think so.

:Note: Do not change the format in any way when you do this! Or else the dialog will not import correctly back into your mod (i.e. it will screw things up. Unless you enjoy rewriting all that dialog).



Dialog use and Review - So now hopefully, you understand the ins and outs of how to use the dialog window. But what does it all mean? How do I structure greetings, topics? Help! Ok, calm down. Let me try to give you some fundamentals on how to do simple stuff. I won’t go into anything complex, nor extrapolate on different situations, but I’ll get you started. Now pay attention, this is the closest thing you’ll get to a tutorial in this manual.

A standard run and grab quest - First, choose the NPC to give the quest. We’ll create one called Tala. Now we create a new object called special_vase. Ok, done. Now open the dialog window. We’ll make the journal entries first. Click the Journal tab, and within the journal ID list, right-click, and choose New. Let’s name the journal ID ‘TA1_vase’. POOF! It’s done. Find and click on TA1_vase in the list. Now, let’s add the journal indexes. Rightclick over the empty response field, and choose New. Let’s type in the first journal entry where the quest is given, “A dark elf named Tala asked me to go and fetch a vase from the Balmora Mages Guild, it’s sitting next to the bunks”. Now let’s give it an index of 5. Done. Now r-click again, choose New, and type, “I have found the vase right next to the bunks as Tala told me”. Give it an index number of 10. This will let the PC know they have found the right vase. Create a last new journal and type, “Tala thanked me for the vase, and even gave me a few coins”, add an index of 15. That’s it. The journal entries are done. Order of the list can be up or down, but doesn’t matter really.

Now we will do the greeting for Tala, and at the same time add a topic for the PC to click on. Since we want Tala to react normally to the PC having a disease, being naked, and that sort of thing, we’ll click on the greetings tab and skip down to Greetings 5. Pick anywhere within the middle of the list, r-click and choose New. Type in, “Greetings. I have a task that I need help with. It concerns a special vase I left behind during a journey.” Now click on the ID drop menu, find and select Tala from the list. This is so only she will give this greeting, no one else. Now, r-click over this same response, choose New again. Type in, “Do you have the special vase yet?”. Assign Tala, then click on a Function drop menu, select Journal, in the second drop menu find and select TA1_vase, then >=, and put a 5 in the last box. This means the PC will only get this response once they’ve been given the initial journal index of 5. Now, r-click again over this response, choose New yet again, and type, “Thank you for your help in recovering my special vase.” Set the ID to Tala, and add the Journal function with the drop menus, but instead set the index in the last box to 15. This greeting now will only be given after the PC has completed the quest. Whew!

Now we create the topic and add responses to it. Click on the Topics tab and r-click over the topics list. Choose New. The topic will be special vase. Now find and click on it in the list. R-click in the response list, choose new, and type, “I need someone to go to the Balmora Mages Guild. Downstairs next to the bunks I left a special vase there when I last visited. If you can, please return that vase to me.” Open the ID drop menu and assign Tala. Now go to the Results box and type: Journal, “T1_vase”, 5. This will give the PC a journal entry when they click on the topic and get this response to start the quest. Now, create a new entry above this response. Type, “Did you not find the vase? I really need that vase, please get it for me.” Assign Tala, then we need to add the function Journal, TA1_vase, >=, 5. Below that click the drop menu, choose Item, then click the second drop menu and find the special_vase, set the third menu to  =, 10. Below that line add Item, special_vase, >=, 1. Now, add the following lines to the Results box:

 Journal, “TA1_vase”, 15
 RemoveItem, “special_vase”, 1
 AddItem, “gold_001”, 20

This gives the last journal entry completing the quest, removes the vase from the PC’s inventory, and gives the PC 20 drakes for their hard earned work. Now, we need to add one more line. Create another line above the last and type, “You were very kind to retrieve my vase. It would have been hard for me to travel and get it myself.” For this we only need one condition. Add Journal, special_vase, >=, 15. This response is to prevent any of the lower responses being given more than once, or after the quest is complete. That’s it for the dialog! You’re done! Now, all this assumes you created an object with the ID of special_vase, added a script to it so the PC get’s a journal entry when they put it in their inventory, and put the vase next to the bunks at the Balmora Mages Guild, and put Tala in the game somewhere also.

Bear in mind this is a very, very simple basic example of how you can do a quest with dialog. Nothing special or unique here. If you are still having trouble working with and understanding dialog, I recommend grabbing a tutorial about it, and/or post for help in a forum of your choosing.

The Scripting Window
Scripting is a whole new world of stress for the uninitiated newbie. It seems daunting at first trying to figure out what all the functions are for, unscrambling and understanding commands and how they go together to make something happen, and the joy of watching your first script produce unexpected, unintentional, and indecipherable results (if any). I will not cover all the console functions, I have previously listed those that are specific to the console. Most functions can be used in the console, and some can be used in Dialog (which I will cover there). I will cover scripting in three parts; first the ‘commands’ used in a line to produce a result, second the syntax, or how to put them together with a function to produce a result, and third, functions and what they do (and don’t do!). I will commonly refer to commands and functions within a script as ‘code’ in this section. There are quite a few conventions to keep in mind when scripting:

:Note: While I am not crediting anyone directly within this work, I cannot fail to mention GhanBuriGhan’s Scripting for Dummies here. I learned how to script reading his work and kept it open as I scripted, constantly referring to it to clear up problems or misunderstandings. Much of what I put into this section is from my experience scripting, but his work is the base. Even as I type I am referring to his work to make sure I don’t type something incorrect or to jog my memory. I would be remiss if I didn’t entirely credit him for this section being possible. Another great resource is the UESP website by Dave Humphries, he has a comprehensive definitive listing of everything you can use to script with (refer to Appendix C).



Keep in mind: While I have tried to include as much information as possible this section is intended to give even a newbie a good base to learn scripting, and as a reference for anyone else. But this does not cover everrryythiinnnggggg. To do that would take much longer, add several hundred pages to this work, and cause my untimely death (my wife is very understanding, but even she has her limits). I suggest you get and keep handy a copy of GBG’s work, and mark the UESP site for offline access, for when you need to know something I don’t cover.

The Magic Effects Window
This window allows you to modify the visual effects seen when spells are cast. Spell effects (not spells) are listed in the large window on the left. Highlight an effect and the appropriate visual effects are listed in boxes and drop down menus to the right. These are explained below. Take care and give consideration to any decision to modify anything in this window as it could easily unbalance gameplay far more than intended.

School - This drop down menu lists each spell effect school. Use this to change what school a spell effect is associated with (and what skill it is based on).

Base Cost - This is the cost in magicka points as a base that the game uses to calculate the cost of casting a spell. Remember this is just a base, other factors modify the cost.

Creation Modes - If the Spellmaking box is checked this spell effect will be included on the list of effects the PC can use to create a spell with. If the Enchanting box is checked this effect will be included on the list of effects the PC can use to enchant items with.

Particle Texture - This is the particle effect used with this spell effect (the visual effect when casting).

Effects Icon - This is the icon shown at the bottom of the screen ingame when a spell is cast using this spell effect.

Description - This box shows the description for this spell effect.

Casting Effects - The Sound button brings up the Sound window. D-click a listed sound to associate it with the spell effect. The Visual drop down menu shows the visual effect associated with a spell effect. This file can be found under the Statics Tab in the Object window (the ID starts ‘VFX_’).

Bolt Effects - The Sound button brings up the Sound window. The Visual drop down menu shows the visual effect associated. The file for this can be found under the Weapons tab in the Object Window (the ID starts ‘VFX_’).

Hit Effects - The Sound button brings up the Sound window. The Visual drop down menu shows the visual effect associated. The file for this can be found under the Weapons tab in the Object Window (the ID starts ‘VFX_’).

Area Effects - The Sound button brings up the Sound window. The Visual drop down menu shows the visual effect associated. The file for this can be found under the Weapons tab in the Object Window (the ID starts ‘VFX_’).

Scale - The Speed X box is how fast the spell is cast. The Size X is how large the visual effects are when cast. Size Cap is the max size of the visual effect when cast.

Lighting Effect - The color associated with the light given off during a spell’s casting.

The Sound Window
This window creates sounds using .wav. There may be issues with the properties of the audio file meeting certain criteria to be used in Morrowind. I have not identified if or what these values are yet. The large columned window has three columns in it:

ID - This must be unique.

Filename - The file used for the sound.

Volume - The volume at which the sound should be played.

To create a sound click New, enter the ID, click on the button to choose your .wav or .mp3 file to be used, and if you wish to, set the volume (it defaults to 1.00). Your new sound will appear in the window to the left. You can’t change a sound’s values once created. No big deal, just delete the sound instead (highlight in window and click delete), and create it again.

The Sound Generation Window
This window is what you use to assign sounds to creatures. Before you can do this though, you must have created the sound in the CS with the Sound Window (detailed above), and also have created the creature under the Creatures tab in the Object Window. This is easy. The big columned window has three columns in it. The first lists the creature assigned the sound. The second lists the action associated with that sound (i.e. the action of the creature when this sound should be played). The third column lists the ID of the sound. There are three drop down boxes to the right of this:

Creature - Shows a list of all creatures under the creatures tab.

Type - Shows a list of all actions creatures can make that can be associated with a sound. Not every creature will make all sounds, choose just those that apply. Following is a description of sounds that can be assigned. You cannot create a new ‘type’ of sound.
:Land - The sound a creature makes when it hits the ground. Choose either small, medium, or large.
:Scream - The scream of a creature.
:Roar - The roar of a creature.
:Moan - The moan of a creature.
:Swim Left - The splash sound of the left limb when swimming.
:Swim Right - The splash sound of the right limb when swimming.
:Left - The sound of the left ‘foot’ during walking or running.
:Right - The sound of the right ‘foot’ during walking or running.
:Left Wing - The sound of the left wing flapping during flight.
:Right Wing - The sound of the right wing flapping during flight.

Sound - This shows a list of all available sounds to choose to assign to a creature’s action.

Unlike other windows in the CS, you must define the sound assignment with the drop down boxes first, and then click on new for a new sound association. Click the drop down menus to pick a creature, the type of action, and the sound to assign. Then click on the new button. The new sound assignment will then appear in the window to the left. If you wish to change the sound already assigned to a creature action, delete what you wish to change first, then add what you want as a new sound. You do not have to assign a sound to a creature’s actions, the creature will just not have a sound assigned and will be silent during such actions.

Saving and Testing Your Mod
You finished you mod. Your plug-in is ready to be uploaded for others to enjoy. Did you test it? Did you clean it? What do I mean??… You got a little more work to do before you upload your mod. This chapter I will help you figure out if your mod is dirty and hopefully get as much testing done as possible, without causing problems for your mod.

Creating a Mod
It’s so simple. The CS is so easy to use, right? Well, it actually is, despite how it may seem at first (ever worked with a professional auto-cad program?). When the CS first starts you have a blank world, almost no objects, an endless ocean, no races, factions, etc. The pull to create a new world is tempting for some (a Total Conversion). For others it is the chance to tweak the game to make it easier, or more difficult. To others it is the opportunity to expand an area of the game, basically, to make it more fun. The best thing you can do when starting is to take your idea, or vision, and write it down. Give it some focus. If your vision is just to create a new race, or make a house, that’s pretty simple and you probably don’t need to write out a mission statement. But if you’re going create a mod with new areas, NPCs, quests, items, etc. Write down the storyline, this will help you stay on track as to what you’re doing, and why. If the idea changes, fine, go with it. But this will also keep your idea pure. If while working on one mod you get the idea for another, write it out and work on it separately. Unless you’ve got some experience creating mods, try not to combine ideas. Keep them separate, and if one would work well in the other you can always combine one with another. Keeping them separate can also help to keep the debugging process simpler. Working on just one project at a time also keeps you on track for completing it. If you work on three different mods at once, none will be done till you’ve completed all three. These are just suggestions, everyone has their own style of doing things. Do what works for you.

What is your base .esm(s)? Will your mod be dependent on only Morrowind? Maybe that and Tribunal? Bloodmoon? What patches do you have installed? Make sure you decide and note this in the readme.txt. Save some grief for those who want your mod, download it, and discover they can’t play it because you didn’t mention that you used morrowind.esm and bloodmoon.esm as the dependent files for your plug-in, but they only have Tribunal so far. If you want to make a name for yourself don’t make it a bad one.

Take notes, lots of notes. Use a notebook to keep track. Write down any objects you create by ID, the changes you made (if any), what cell you put it in, or even the grid. Created some interiors? Keep a running tab of all objects used for that interior, scripts you’ve attached to objects (and what objects), reason for that interior (it’s purpose). Making a quest? Write out a timeline of events and things that have to happen (and those that could happen), especially if you have more than one event taking place during the quest.

Test your plug-in. Most people do this, mostly because they want to play the great mod they created. But you have to do more than that. You have to explore every part of the mod you create. If you place an NPC in your mod with dialog, click on every response to verify you get every response you gave them. If you write a script, get it to activate and test every possible condition you wrote into it. If you create objects, use them and test them under every circumstance you can think of. This is how you find bugs, and how others will find them if you don’t when they play your mod. This takes time too, which is why we hail beta testers.

User created objects. Plan on using objects created by someone else you found in a mod you liked? Did you get permission to do so from the plug-in’s author? The information on how to contact an author should be included with any plug-in readme.txt file. If one isn’t included, where ever you downloaded the plug-in from should have had some kind of statement or at least the name of who submitted the plug-in. You should always make every attempt to get permission to use anything someone else created. If you don’t and that author takes exception you could be sued. Plus, that’s just showing respect for the work someone else did. Most are willing to let you ‘borrow’ their work if you just ask. Are you including new objects personally created by someone? Do you know how to find and include the correct .nif, .kif, .tga, .dds, or .bmp files in the package to upload? This could be a problem. If you forget to include the files that didn’t come with the game, your mod won’t work right. This is a bad thing (I’ve mentioned this before).

Compress the plug-in. Always compress the plug-in and any associated files needed by it. This makes it smaller so it is easier to upload, and also download. What utility you wish to use is up to you. The help feature of the utility should tell you how to create a zipped file and how to add files to it (refer here for what utility to use).

Beta Test it. Send it to some friends or find someone to do a test of your plug-in at a web site’s forum. There are always people willing to beta test a plug-in. They can let you know what bugs and problems they find that you missed.

If you just create a simple plug-in with a few changes or things added you probably don’t need to go through all this to verify that it works correctly and did everything right. But it won’t hurt if you do. These are things you can do to keep your plug-in clean and bug free, and the bigger it is, the more things you do in it, the greater the chance of problems. Why go through all the work you did only to have people upset because it’s buggy, or unplayable. Avoid the bad karma, do the little extra time and effort to make sure your mod is good to go.

Doubling?! I usually cal it &$%^, stupid #*&@...
You saved your plug-in. Loaded a save game to see how it’s working now, and you found multiple copies of certain objects. What the hell? You just made a common mistake many modders make. When you save a game Morrowind stores information and objects in that game in the saved file. So when you play a plug-in, save it, make changes to it in the CS, and then load up that game and play some more, you may experience what many call ‘doubling’. Though you could experience more than two copies of an object if you keep saving, changing, loading the same plug-in.

How to fix doubling. It’s easiest to just delete your saved game and start over, but if that’s too painful, do these steps in order:
#Find an interior that you have made absolutely no changes to whatsoever. Once you’ve entered it, save your game. Then exit the game.
#Start Morrowind and click on Data Files. Uncheck your plug-in so it is not loaded. Click Play.
#From the ‘choose game’ menu (New, Load, etc) load your saved game that you want to fix. You will get messages saying there are errors offering the option to continue or quit. Just keep clicking on continue until they stop.
#Once your game has loaded, SAVE it immediately. Exit the game. This saves your game without the changes from your mod. Your saved game is now ok to play.
#You can now start a game up with your plug-in and test out any changes you’ve made to your heart’s content, and when you’re done do not save your game! This is what causes the problems. Groan all you want, but if you open your mod in the CS, make changes, then load the saved game, you most likely will run into this problem again.

Prevent Doubling.''' To prevent this from happening is easy. Start a game with your plug-in, save it at some convenient point, name it ‘Test’ or whatever, and you’re good. Anytime you wish to test out part of your plug-in load up the ‘Test’ game and don’t save it when you’re done testing your plug-in. If you accidentally do (I’ve done this), just fix it as above or start a new game and save a fresh clean game.

What's with the little * thing?
It’s called an asterisk. What is does though is let you (or anyone) know what you have changed in your plug-in. If you see any object’s ID name with an asterisk next to it, it means at some point you modified or at least did something to that object. If you didn’t make a change, but the object has an asterisk, congratulations, you have a dirty plug-in. How to fix? Make a note of any such objects you know you don’t want any changes to, and clean it out by using the Details button on the Data Files window, or use a utility if you wish. Read on below under the Cleaning the Unclean section.

:''Note: Only the active plug-in will display an asterisk next to objects that have been altered, but all objects will be listed in the Objects Window for all plug-ins loaded, active or not.



Cleaning the Unclean
Clean your mod. Sounds like something your mother might say. But it needs to be done. A dirty plug-in is usually larger than necessary (as in file size). This means it takes longer to download, and a big file may be a factor for some choosing what to download. Someone who isn’t diligent enough to clean a plug-in most likely isn’t diligent enough to debug either (that’s my opinion though), and we all love buggy games, don’t we (*cough, cough*… daggerfall… *cough*). There are several utilities that can be used to help clean a plug-in (see Chapter 6), or you can use the CS itself.

To Clean. Start the CS, do not load your plug-in. Open the Data Files window and find your plug-in, highlight it. Do not click on any other files. Click on the ‘Details’ button at the bottom of the window. This will bring up a new window. This window allows you to see all the changes you’ve made to your mod. On the far left is a column that states what the changed object is. The fourth column shows the object ID. The fifth column is the offset, if you don’t like to hex edit files, don’t worry about it. If you see an object you do not want in your mod, or an object you didn’t mean to make a change too (a spec of dirt I guess you could say), highlight the object you wish to remove from your mod. Now tap your ‘delete’ key. The CS will prompt you, stating that this object’s change will be ignored and not loaded if you continue and load the plug-in, effectively deleting this change. For this to work you MUST load your plug-in after marking all objects you want purged, and then save it! This is important! This is how you clean your mod of mistakes you’ve made by making changes to things you had not meant to. Want to increase that negative karma hanging over your head? Don’t clean your mods.

The first column is your clue as to what an object is. Some of these are obvious. Here is a list and what they refer to:

ACTI Object - an activator.
ALCH Object - an alchemy potion.
APPA Object - an apparatus.
ARMO Object - a piece of armor.
BODY Object - a body part, could be for a race, clothing, or armor.
BOOK Object - a book
BSGN Object - a birthsign.
CELL Object - a cell. This is for the cell and all things within it.
CLAS Object - a class.
CLOT Object - a piece of clothing.
CONT Object - a container.
CREA Object - a creature.
DIAL Object - a dialog topic.
DOOR Object - a door.
ENCH Object - an enchantment.
FACT Object - a faction
GMST Object - a Game Setting
INFO Object - for a dialog statement.
INGR Object - an ingredient.
LAND - Change in a cell’s landscape (all of the landscaping within a cell).
LEVC Object - a leveled creature (list).
LEVI Object - a leveled item (list).
LIGH Object - a light.
LOCK Object - a lockpick.
LTEX Object - to a landscape texture.
MGEF Object - a magic effect.
MISC Object - a miscellaneous item.
NPC_ Object - an NPC.
PGRD Object - to a path grid.
PROB Object - a probe. T
REFR Object - a reference (of an object).
REPA Object - a repair item.
SCPT Object - a script.
SKIL Object - a skill.
SNDG Object - a sound generated.
SOUN Object - a sound.
SPEL Object - a spell.
STAT Object - a static.
WEAP Object - a weapon.
RACE Object - a race.

I believe I have listed almost all, if not all.

The second column shows objects that are part of an .esm file that has been deleted in your plug-in. You can’t actually delete an object from an .esm file, so the object is still present in the .esm, but will always be shown that you deleted it in your plug-in (deleting objects from an .esm is not a good idea, deleting references is better. Try to avoid deleting objects that are part of an . esm. Seriously). When your plug-in is loaded by the game it will not load this object. Objects created within a plug-in, not part of an .esm, are truly deleted and do not show up in this column.

The third column shows those that you wish to ‘ignore’ (delete). These are the objects and changes you wish to remove from an .esp.

:Note: References cannot be deleted from here. You do that by loading an .esp, and then opening a cell where the reference is placed, select it, then click delete. Or you could just delete the parent object from the object window (if user created, not part of an .esm).



Viewing a Save file. It’s possible to view the contents of your saved game with the CS. Remember, as you tour about Vvardenfel, the game keeps track of everything you do, and everything you come into contact with, and everywhere you go. All this information is stored in a Save file. But let’s say you want to see the contents of a save file. All you have to do is copy the saved file to the Data Files folder, change the file extension from .ess to .esp. Now open the CS, open the Data Files window and find your save. Highlight it and click the Details button. DO NOT LOAD IT! (loading it may corrupt it) In the details window you can now see data from the save. You can even highlight a line of data and hit the delete button, setting a flag for that data to be ignored the next time it is loaded for playing by the game. Now just close the CS without loading the file, open the Data Files folder back up, change the file from an .esp back to .ess, and move it to the Save folder. Now you can play it again. Be very careful doing this! If you don’t know exactly what you are doing, don’t do this! But there are times when this is a useful way to clean out problem entries from a saved game that cause problems. Again, I can only stress, don’t do this just to do it, you might just ruin your game! This is most useful to fix a game that a mod has made changes to it that breaks a quest or ruins dialog options. This sometimes can fix that, but only if you know exactly what to fix. You’ve been warned.

Respecting things other people make
If you wish to use something done by someone else, it’s probably ok. But show some respect. They worked hard to make it, and want some recognition for having done so. Don’t just add something you found in another plug-in to yours off handedly. Know who made the plug-in, and make an effort to contact them and ask for permission to include their work in your own. Often you will find a readme.txt file that will state that the author of a plug-in will allow this without contacting them. Usually there are certain limitations, such as including giving them credit for what you are including in your plug-in. Some may want you to do more. This is important, for while many may be willing to overlook a mod that included an object they created, some may not. There are plug-ins floating around the net that contain objects created by professionals using expensive software. If you don’t credit them for their work and you use it in your plug-in, they could take legal action against you. I admit, I have yet to hear of a single case of this. But it’s also a matter of respect. You may wonder why I included this section. Because I’ve found plug-in readme.txt files stating they got an object from this plug-in called ‘something’ and another object from some website they can’t remember the name of. Or they used some scripts they liked from another mod without specifically naming the plug-in or it’s author. Simply put, I think that’s bullshit. Show some respect, and give credit where it’s due.

Utilities
In this chapter I will try to give some insight into some utilities I have found, what they can be used for, usefulness, and maybe a couple tips to using them. This will not be a tutorial on how to use any of these. This will be just some basic information. By including this chapter I am not in any way endorsing any of these utilities, merely providing some information about them. Make your own judgments about whether they would be of any use to you, and if you should download and use them.

Bethesda Softworks Archive Browser (BSABrowser) - by Argent. This can be used to view, unpack, or repack a .bsa file. Even pack a new .bsa file.
BookGen (Book Generator utility) - by Argent. Write the text of a book in HTML or text format, then use to create the book for ingame use.
DDS Converter - by Bluehair. Use this to convert textures you’ve created into .dds files.
Enchanted Editor - by Farren. This utility can do about anything the TESCS can do (and more!) except landscaping and object reference placement. Excellent for object editing.
ESP Cleaner - Horatio. Simply what it says. Used to clean a dirty mod.
FPS Optimizer - by Alexander Stasenko. This can increase the visual distance and appearance of your game. Not really for modding, but it’s just so cool.
GenMods - by Jim Adam. Create interiors quickly, even fill them with objects.
GMST Cleaner - by Argent. Use this to get rid of the evil game setting changes that can ruin your plug-in.
Landscape Generator - by Gilles_K. You can use this utility to quickly generate your landscape for your plug-in.
Leveled List Merger - by Horatio. This will create a single master leveled list for all plug-ins chosen so they all can be used.
Morrowind Clothing Catalog - by Klinn. Displays clothing objects as they would be worn, instead of folded up as in the CS.
MWEdit (Morrowind Editor' - by Dave Humphries. An alternate plug-in editor. You can do anything with it that the TESCS can do, except work with landscape and placing object references in the game.
Morrowind Script Generator - by Kaos_nyrb. Simple utility that can generate stock scripts for you. You type in object and variable data, and it spits out a script you can use. Will not create anything complex or long.
NIFDuplicator - by Ghostwheel. This utility can duplicate a .nif file. Great to use to make a mesh for your own textures.
NIFTexture - by Dave Humphries. Use this to figure out what textures are used by a mesh so you can retexture an object. You can also use it to associate a texture file with a mesh.
Overunity - by Shanjaq. This is one hell of a useful utility. You can use this to see what files your plug-in uses and what .esp or .esm files they belong to. Even package your plug-in. Very useful.
The Complete Guide to Tamriel Lore - by Mortis. Not a utility, but a compilation of reading material gathered form many various sources. A must have to understand the background behind much of the TES lore.
The Elder Scrolls Files (TESFiles) - by Mental Elf. Use this utility to pack your mod. It will identify all the necessary files to play your plug-in that are not contained in the Morrowind, Tribunal, or Bloodmoon. Then put them in a folder together, so you can then just zip them up together with the .esp and your readme.
The Elder Scrolls Construction Set (TESCS) Item Index - by Srikandi. This is a great resource. Use it to figure out what object you need in your mod, and under what tab it appears in the Object Window. Save yourself time searching for it.
The Elder Scrolls Advanced Mod Editor (TESAME) - by Erik Benerdal (aka Scarabus). This can be used to clean a plug-in of dirty objects and merge mods together. You can also use it export objects from a plug-in, then import them into another.
The Elder Scrolls Dependency Tool Kit (TESDTK) - by Aaron White (aka Argent). This can be used to make an .esp dependent on one or more master files, or to remove such dependency. It has other functions too.
The Elder Scrolls Faith utility (TESFaith) - by Paul Halliday (aka Lightwave). Command line program enabling you to move, copy, or delete exterior cells singularly, or enmass, in one shot.
The Elder Scrolls Mod Utility (TESMU) - by Macgyver. This will install a plug-in, and any included files, and keep track of them. Also can delete a plug-in without removing those files shared with another plug-in.
The Elder Scrolls Plug-In Conflict Detector (TESPCD) - by Ely VanReen Soto. This will detect conflicts and problems between plug-ins.
The Elder Scrolls Tool (TESTool) - by Ghostwheel. This utility can automatically clean a mod, merge objects and dialog, and more.

Difficulty slider vs. tweak mods
There are many various plug-ins available on the net that are constructed solely for the purpose of making the game easier, or more difficult. They do this by adjusting just about every aspect of the game in some way to maintain balance, but also to make playing the game easier/harder. The idea behind doing this is to improve the experience of playing the game. Many plug-ins have been made that introduce one or more items to the game to make playing the game easier (some ridiculously), but they do not actually change the settings of the game to do this ( I refer to these types of plug-ins as Uber Mods, because they contain super items so you just about can’t lose in any situation). Most of the plug-ins that make a game more difficult do so by adjusting the Game Settings (Gameplay->Settings). This takes a lot of work and some serious thinking to keep the game balanced. Some make other changes too. Many people like these because: 1) Many people seem to think the game was too easy to complete straight out of the box. 2) They like a challenge. What most forget or don’t know about is that the game has a difficulty slider that can be found under Options ingame (push ‘Esc’ and click ‘Options’). What does it do? Not much really, it increases the hit points of creatures in the game so they are tougher. Whoopee. If you are one of those who like a challenge, I recommend considering downloading and installing one of the many tweak mods out there on the net. They can be found on most websites that host a download section.

Appendix A: References and Tutorials
Here I will list some references I used to glean information from. Most I downloaded at some point in the past just to learn more about what I was trying to do within the CS. Some are repetitive, others are unique in the information they provide. A few didn’t necessarily provide much new information for me, but may be of use to another. These are all tutorials or references put together by someone else and provided for download within the gaming community. I do not remember where I may have acquired many of them, so I am not including where to get them. Some contain this information already. There are many, many tutorials out there if one just looks for them. If one doesn’t have the info you are looking for, keeping looking, you will find it eventually.

Morrowind Mod Maker’s Bible v1.14 - Compiled by Nether Void
Scripting For Dummies v9 - by GhanBuriGhan
NPC Creation Tutorial - by Scott Fischer
TESCS Tutorial - by Scott Fischer
Various Tutorials - by Shadowsong
Various Tutorials - by Dragonsong
Dialog Tutorial - by Srikandi
Dialog Tutorial - by Calislahn

There are many many others to be found, but these are the ones that I found to be a good start, and helped me the most. The Morrowind official site forum (under Construction Set) also has many linked online tutorials.

Appendix B: Tables
In this section I will show tables from within the CS and try to provide some explanation of what they are, and possibly how to use them, or the consequences of altering data within them.

Races List
There is a script included by Bethesda that can be used ingame to ‘get’ the PC’s race. This script processes at the start of a new game and stores the race as the global variable ‘PCRace’. The numerical value of the variable states the race:



Spell Effects List
This is simply a listing of all spell effects that are used to create spells or for enchanting in the CS. The number represents its ID for the script function ‘RemoveEffect’.



Appendix C: Websites

Warning
This section has many very old & dead links. The are preserved here until permission from the original author is gained to remove them. They are left here for historical purposes. Some of the links do work so proceed at your own peril.

Here I provide a listing of websites I have found. Some are extremely useful sources of information, others are just great to visit. I provide these with the understanding that the website authors consent to have their sites listed in this manual (why have a website if you don’t want anyone to visit it?). I list these in no particular order. Make your own judgements as to which sites are worth visiting. There is also a MW webring, several of those listed below belong to it.

:The Official Morrowind Website - 
:A Dream of Asgard - 
:Academy for Dwemer Studies - 
:Adul’s Morrowind Pages - 
:Aldrien’s Chalice - 
:Argent’s Mod Page - 
:B.E. Griffith (Rhedd’s Site) - 
:Baratheon79’s Morrowind Mods - 
:Bear371’s site - 
:Bethaliz’s Morrowind Plug-ins - 
:Brash’s MW site - 
:Cait Sith - 
:Caladan Brood - 
:Calislahn’s Morrowind Mods - 
:Canadian Ice & Howndog’s website - 
:Carnajo’s Mod Page - 
:City of Black Light Homepage - 
:Clone Gaming Studios - 
:Daduke’s Site - 
:Darliandor’s Alchemy Lab - 
:Destination Morrowind - 
:Dragonsong’s Tutorials - 
:Duncan’s Plug-In Page - 
:Elder Scrolls: Kingdoms - 
:Elric Melnibone in Morrowind - 
:Emma’s Morrowind Site - 
:Endhome - 
:Final Fantasy 7 mod - 
:Funky Bob’s Mods for Morrowind -
:GameFaqs.com - 
:Ghostwheel’s utilities - 
:Hannah’s Whereizit Morrowind Page - 
:Heph’s Morrowind Page - 
:Hiredgoon’s MW Gateway - 
:Ichinin’s Morrowind Stuff - 
:IggyEGuana’s website - 
:Indigo’s Vault - 
:Jeremy’s Knights of Tamriel - 
:Katana’s Pages - 
:Kathykitten’s Tutorials - 
:Karstux’s MW Sanctuary - 
:Khalazza Production Mods - 
:Lady Eternity’s MW Page - 
:Lady Moiraine’s Morrowind site - 
:MadMax’s World of Scripting Magic - 
:Magic Nakor’s Morrowind Mods - 
:Mantodea - 
:MarcusX Morrowind Mods - 
:Martin’s Portfolio - 
:Mental Elf’s Morrowind Page - 
:MistyMoon Web Site -
:ModMan’s Morrowind Site -
:Morrowind 4 Kids - 
:Morrowind Abodes - 
:Morrowind After Dark - 
:Morrowind Corner - 
:Morrowind Creations (Nomad’s Site) - 
:Morrowind Italia - 
:Morrowind Mods and Modder Resources - 
:Morrowind Mods and Models - 
:Morrowind Mods by Dongle - 
:Morrowind Mythic Mods - 
:Morrowind Source - 
:Morrowind Summit - 
:Morrowind Visions (Silaria) - 
:Morrowind Voice Add-on Project - 
:Morrowind Script Extender link page - 
:Mykul’s Morrowind Page - 
:Psychodog Studios (The Better Bodies Project) - 
:Qwert’s Morrowind Mods - 
:Rethan-Manor - 
:RPG Gaming Gone Wrong - 
:Sabregirl’s Morrowind Mods - 
:Sheikizza’s mods - 
:Silgrad Tower - 
:Silveri’s mods - 
:Slot’s Hive - 
:Smite’s Plight - 
:Srikandi’s Morrowind - 
:TESPCD (Utility) page - 
:Texture Freak’s Morrowind Store - 
:Thanos Tower - 
:TheLys’s website - 
:The Black Mill mod - 
:The Glade (RedwoodTreeSprite’s site) - 
:The Imperial Library - 
:The Tamriel Rebuilt Project - 
:The Unforgotten Realms - 
:The Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages - 
:Thommy Khajiit’s Hideout - 
:Titans of Ether (Ultima remake) - 
:Trylobit’s Website - 
:Tweak Town website (some help in tweaking your game) - 
:Vanhikes Morrowind Mods - 
:Venymora’s Site - 
:Whirling School of Vivec - 
:Wizard’s Islands - 
:Zdim’s Morrowind Mods - 
:A Story (I laughed so hard I choked) - 

The following sites are places you can download archive utilities. I take no responsibility for anyone using these, it is up to you if you wish to download and make use of any of these utilities:

:7Zip - 
:WinRar - 
:UltimateZip - 
:WinAce - 
:ZipGenius - 
:WinZip - 
:PKWare - 

Appendix D: Meshes and Textures
Every object in the game that can be placed in the game world has a Mesh and Texture associated with it. When creating a new object in the CS, it must be based upon a mesh to be given physical form in the game. Textures are wrapped around the mesh to give it a ‘skin’, thus making it look like an object. Textures are associated with a specific mesh (usually assigned by the program that created the mesh, though some utilities can do this too). .dds files are preferred because they compress to smaller files well, support alpha channels, and still look pretty good. .tga files are larger, but have good resolution, and also support alpha channels. .bmp files work, but are large, and the least preferred to work with. The easiest way to create a new object is to just use a mesh provided with the game. These can be found on the TESCS CD (for Morrowind), and also the Tribunal and/or Bloodmoon disc (for those objects that come with the appropriate expansion). But what if you don’t see a mesh you like? Or maybe you like the shape, but not the coloring? You want to make your own, right? No problem, there are programs you can use to do this. But I hope you have your wallet handy, you may need it.

3D Studio Max
This software program was used to create the 3D objects and environment within Morrowind. This is expensive professional 3D-model creation software (price was around $3000, students could get it cheaper). It is made by a company called Discreet. The version you need to use is either v3.0, v4.0, or v5.0. Later versions will not create a .nif file that Morrowind can use (currently, v7.0 is available). This software requires a plug-in so that it can import/export .nif files (3D Studio Max creates it’s own files, which must be converted, or exported, into the .nif file format for use by Morrowind). The export plug-in for 3D Studio Max 3 and 4 can be found at the Morrowind official site under Downloads. Most likely you’ll have to look through bargain bins at stores and websites to try and find an older copy of 3D Studio Max. I don’t believe Discreet offers older versions for sale any more. Import plug-ins can be found at Thanos Tower for the game. You can just download these.

:Note: Version 5.0 will enable you to create objects, but the .nif exporter has issues apparently. Some people report that some features created with this version do not export properly to a .nif file (but you can still use it to create meshes). I cannot verify this as I do not own any version of 3D Studio Max.''



GMax
GMax is another 3d modeling software program, and it’s free (get it from Discreet’s website also). Notice I said free. This software was created so modders can create objects for use in certain games. Morrowind is not one of those games. What you can do with this program is create an object, then find someone who has an appropriate version of 3D Studio Max, then beg and plead nicely asking them to convert the file into a .nif for you, then send it back to you (if someone does this, be very, very grateful). You will not be able to do any animations, nor anything advanced. But you can create simple objects that can be placed in the game world and seen. You cannot make objects that can be equipped by the PC or actors (that has to be done in 3D Studio Max). So while this is a great little free program, be aware of it’s limitations.

Milkshape
This is a program that can be used to create 3D models by Chumbalum Soft. You can use it to create meshes for Morrowind, but keep in mind, it wasn’t made for Morrowind. Results may vary based upon what you are creating with it. There is a .nif exporter, get it from NetImmerse File: Liberation Association (NIFLA). The exporter is still in development, but at this time it cannot physique some objects, do transparency, animations, or particle effects. Again, I do not have nor use this software, so cannot verify exactly how useful it is, or any limitations inherent in using it.

PhotoShop
PhotoShop is a program made by Adobe. It can be used to retexture, or skin an image file (or create a new one). It seems to be quite popular, and quite expensive. You can use PhotoShop to create .bmp, .tga, or .dds files. To create .dds files you must get a plug-in with which you will be able to export your file to the .dds format. These are available at the Morrowind official site.

PaintShopPro
PaintShopPro is a program originally made by Jasc, but has been acquired by Corel. It too can be used to retexture an image. PaintShopPro by all accounts works just as well as PhotoShop, but is far cheaper. Reportedly, the .dds exporter for PhotoShop also works fine with PaintShopPro. However, that was with prior versions of the program, I cannot verify if it still works with current versions.

The Gimp
The Gimp is an image editing program that can also be used to retexture image files. It is a free program. As I am not conversant with using this program, I suggest you look at this online manual called Grokking The Gimp on how to use it.

Irfanview
This is a free photo imaging program, named after the author. With it you can view most file formats. If you are savvy enough to download and install the plug-ins from the website, you will find you can open and view .dds files. While you cannot work with or save files in the .dds format, you can save them to another format for altering. Nice. Irfanview, while not able to slice bread, can be very useful for those among us in the lower tax brackets.

MWGraphics
You can also try your luck with MWGraphics (no, the MW does not stand for Morrowind, it’s the site authors initials). This site has some tools that can enable you to change image files to other formats, such as .dds. Make sure you get all the files needed to make use of the utilities here.

Appendix E: Contacting
I would greatly appreciate any comments on this work, even negative. If you wish to do so, email me. I will make every effort to reply as soon as possible. I can also be contacted at the several websites, my nom de pleur is Edwardmd. At home, I’m just simply dad. When I tick off my wife, its mud.

Email comments and feedback to: edwardsmd@gmail.com

Good luck and happy modding!

External Links
Emma's website download