DSMapStudio

DSMapStudio

Overview

DSMapStudio is a comprehensive suite of modding tools designed for popular games developed by FromSoftware, including Elden Ring, Sekiro, the Dark Souls series, Bloodborne, and Demon's Souls (PS3). This project provides an array of features allowing users to modify various aspects of these beloved games. Key functionalities include a map editor, a game parameter editor, and a text editor for modifying in-game text. This suite empowers users to customize their gaming experience profoundly.

System Requirements

To utilize DSMapStudio, users must have a compatible system, specifically:

• Operating Systems: Windows 7/8/8.1/10/11 (64-bit only)
• Graphics: A Vulkan 1.3 compatible graphics card (NVIDIA Maxwell 900 series or newer, AMD Polaris Radeon 400 series or newer). Intel GPUs may have issues, and users are recommended to have an NVIDIA or AMD GPU for the map editor.
• Memory: A minimum of 4GB VRAM is necessary (8GB recommended) for modding larger maps due to their size.

Additional requirements include installing the Visual C++ Redistributable x64 if the program crashes, and Linux users may need to configure their systems appropriately, such as ensuring access to Vulkan 1.3 through wine 9+.

Basic Usage

DSMapStudio offers substantial capabilities for enhancing the gameplay experience through modding. Various FromSoftware games require different procedures for file preparation, such as:

• Dark Souls: Requires unpacking via tools like UDSFM or UXM.
• Sekiro and Elden Ring: Game files need to be extracted through UXM tools to facilitate editing.
• Bloodborne and Demon's Souls: Involves file preparation steps such as disabling cache or merging patches with game files.

Mod projects are created in separate directories to ensure that original game files remain unaltered. This approach allows users to manage multiple projects simultaneously and distribute mods efficiently.

Limitations and Challenges

Despite its robust features, DSMapStudio does have some limitations. Certain games like Dark Souls Remastered, Sekiro, Elden Ring, and Armored Core 6 have restrictions with rendering map elements such as collisions in the viewport. Additionally, custom maps and asset exporting features are still under development, reflecting DSMapStudio's commitment to ongoing enhancement.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Model/Map Exporting: Currently, DSMapStudio does not support exporting assets to formats like FBX, but an asset pipeline is anticipated in future updates.

2. Graphics Requirements: Due to the complexity of rendering newer games, DSMapStudio's design incorporates modern rendering techniques requiring recent GPU technology.

3. Custom Maps: While not yet available, true custom map support is a future objective of the project.

4. Switching from DSTools: DSTools had its limitations, prompting a new, streamlined tool in DSMapStudio to improve usability and performance.

Contribution and Support

The development of DSMapStudio is spearheaded by a dedicated team, including project lead Katalash and several contributors like philiquaz, george, and thefifthmatt. The project relies on various open-source libraries and frameworks, such as Soulsformats and ImGui.NET, ensuring a robust and efficient modding environment.

Conclusion

DSMapStudio is a powerful and growing toolset for modding modern FromSoft games, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to deeply engage with and alter their gaming experiences. As modding technology advances, DSMapStudio aims to expand its capabilities, bringing even more creative potential to its user community.