Diablo 2 Mod Tools

MPQ Files

• Many Blizzard Entertainment games use the MPQ file format to store data such as character information, sound effects, music and graphics. An MPQ editor allows you to extract files from an MPQ, rename or edit them, or add your own files. Without an MPQ viewer or editor, it is impossible to access files used by the game to mod them with other tools.

Databases

• Stored within MPQ files are database files with the extension ".txt." Database files might, for example, contain a list of in-game weapons or items with settings for type or quantity for each entry. These files cannot be opened with an ordinary text editor. Though ordinary spreadsheet programs like Microsoft Excel can read these files, fans have created specialized software such as AFJ's Sheet Edit and D2Excel.

TBL Files

• "Diablo II" uses TBL files, or string tables, to store text information such as character names, conversations and item descriptions. TBL editors, such as Darkstorm's TBL Editor and AFJ TBL Editor, can open TBL files, display the contents and allow modders to change text to create custom items.

Graphics Files

• "Diablo II" uses several formats for graphics, including DCC for animations and DC6 for static images. Tools like CV5 and DC6Maker let users extract, view and convert graphics files in the formats used by "Diablo II" and perform basic editing, although for more advanced editing a full graphics editor such as Adobe Photoshop or GIMP is required.