MODS FAQ

What are these mods?

The original one, Area 51, was conceived to modify both the maps and the alien AI routing and placement of the Terror Site terrain, in order to allow for a more challenging, urban combat terrain. After I finished it, I had so many ideas for new terrains, so I continued designing them.

What will happen if I download one and try it?

The zip file will replace the files (the one that determine the alien placement, the design of the buildings and the objects used on the terrain) of the Terror Site scenario with those of my design. Nothing else in the game gets changed.

Will it mess up my UFO game?

Almost definitly no. I say almost because although I've never encountered problems myself but one never knows. The mods do not change any of the game dynamics, your saved games or anything else besides the Terror Site terrain.

I've installed it. What next?

Start a new game of UFO or resume playing one of your saved games (it must have been saved while on Geoscape). Since the mods only work in Terror Sites, you'll have to wait until the aliens decide to send a Terror mission. Arm your troops and send your transport to the site. Have fun.

Another way to use it is in combination with XComUtil (check the Credits page). XComUtil has a function that allows you to choose the terrain you want to use before the battle.

Why doesn't it work with missions saved on Tactical?

Each saved game contains files that store the current terrain disposition. Since each mod uses completely different buildings from the original game, you'll get the original disposition, not the modded one. Plus, since the walls/objects/ground tiles have also been changed, the entire terrain will look very weird (it won't be permanent for the rest of the game)

How do I get the original Terror Site terrain back?

Before you unzip any mod, remember to make backups of the following folders: Routes, Maps and Terrains. The easiest way is simply to create a Zip file containing the three folders. When you get tired of a mod simply unzip the Zip file to your UFO directory.

Can I use different mods in the same UFO game?

Yes but you'll have to do it manually (like I said, I'm not a programmer). Save the game before your craft arrives at a mission and quit the game. Install the mod you want to use and restart the game. That way you can play the different mods (and also the original terrain) in the same game.

Why were they made?

Well, since it seems utopic to expect that Atari (the new rights holder of the X-COM series) will ever release a new X-COM game and I was getting tired of the same terrains I decided to add something new to UFO. One of my preocupations is to keep things simple for the players: nothing else gets changed, it's not complicated (I hope) to install/remove. Check the Diary or the Project to find more about the whole process.

Are you planning to do more of these?

Yes! And I'm open to any suggestions :)