OpenMW 0.51.0 enters release candidate phase
Key Takeaway
The OpenMW engine has entered the release candidate phase for version 0.51.0, introducing Lua Load context and BC7 texture support.
Summary
The OpenMW team has released the first release candidate (RC1) for version 0.51.0 of the open-source Morrowind engine. This update introduces a new Load context to the Lua scripting API, allowing mods to modify game data and spell effects upon loading. Other notable changes include BC7 texture compression support for DDS files and terrain vertex painting in the editor.
Technical changes in OpenMW 0.51.0
- Lua Scripting API: A new Load context allows scripts to inject or modify game data, including spell effects, immediately after loading.
- Texture Support: Added BC7 compression support for DDS files.
- Editor Improvements: Added terrain vertex painting capabilities.
- Breaking Changes: The save game format has changed; saves made in 0.51.0 are not backward compatible with 0.50.0.
- Compatibility: Shader mods and certain UI-based mods may require updates due to changes in texture handling and widget validation.
Why it matters
The new Lua Load context significantly expands modding capabilities by allowing custom spell effects, while BC7 support improves texture quality and efficiency.
Original reference: openmw.org →