Edit level.dat in C

[Akruzen]

Hello,

Anyone has any idea how to edit the level.dat file so that I can write it in C language? I am thinking of possibility of creating auto generated rooms based on specific restrictions, something similar to the 'seeds' referred in Minecraft.

Regards,
princeomkar

[atrueprincefanfrom18]

Welcome back
You can maybe take a look at the level editors available and take a look at the source code.
Norbert might be able to help you with more information.

[Akruzen]

Thanks!
I wonder where the source code could be..
Also, I found the randomize option in the Apoplexy Editor. Just adding a few restrictions to what tiles can be placed and what cannot next to each other might help to achieve the "auto generation".
I think Norbert might be able to help me with it as you said.

[Norbert]

If editing LEVELS.DAT, which is a relatively basic operation, is a hurdle for you, then you are most likely overreaching yourself if you would take on the task of implementing meaningful autogeneration. This is why I feel inclined to take your remark about contemplating autogeneration as a more general attempt at initiating dialog about autogeneration. At the moment, I personally lack the time to participate in this dialog. However, I have tried to find on-topic forum threads. What I could find are:
viewtopic.php?f=76&t=4022
viewtopic.php?f=73&t=3383
viewtopic.php?f=68&t=3779
As for apoplexy. Perhaps one day I will build upon its randomization feature to implement autogeneration. Although, to be honest, I'm more likely to improve what the program can do for SDLPoP (e.g. new custom tiles) - or even work on SDLPoP itself (e.g. multiplayer). I don't see a lot of value in autogeneration given that some thoughtfully created mods already remain virtually unplayed. Currently, there are 260 PoP1 for DOS mods on PoPOT. This makes implementing autogeneration primarily an interesting technical challenge. Other technical challenges, that are similarly interesting, exist that lead to more useful - and (therefore) probably more enthusiastically-received - tools.

[Akruzen]

Thanks for the reply Norbert. Yes, I agree with what you say and I think I might need to up my skills more to achieve what I had in mind. And yes, its more practical too to work on your current projects. Thanks Again

P.S. the multiplayer idea you told could be awesome