How To Edit Faction Xenotype Rimworld

2 min read 06-01-2025

RimWorld's diverse range of factions adds significant replayability, but sometimes you want to tweak the game to your liking. Perhaps you desire a specific look for a particular faction, or maybe you're crafting a challenging mod and need to adjust existing xenotypes. Editing faction xenotypes allows for significant customization, enhancing your RimWorld experience. This guide will walk you through the process safely and effectively.

Understanding the Files

Before diving in, it's crucial to understand the files you'll be working with. RimWorld uses XML files to store much of its data, including faction definitions and xenotype information. These files are typically located within the game's data folder, which you can access through the game's settings or by navigating to your game's installation directory. Be extremely cautious when modifying these files. Always back up the original files before making any changes to avoid potential issues.

Editing with a Text Editor

While you can use specialized XML editors, a simple text editor like Notepad++ (Windows) or Atom (cross-platform) will suffice for basic edits. Opening the relevant XML files will reveal the code dictating faction and xenotype appearance and traits.

Identifying the Target Faction

First, you need to identify the specific faction you want to modify. Each faction has a unique XML file, usually named after the faction itself (e.g., Faction_Tribe.xml). Locate the file within the game's data folder.

Modifying Xenotype Attributes

Inside the XML file, you'll find the def tag for the faction. Within this, look for the <xenotype> tag, which defines the faction's appearance. This section contains attributes that control various aspects of the faction's appearance:

hairDefs: This determines the hair styles available for this faction's members.
skinDefs: This dictates the skin tones available.
headDefs: This controls the head shapes available.
bodyTypeDef: This impacts the overall body type.

Modifying these attributes involves altering the associated values within the <xenotype> tag. For instance, adding or removing a specific hair style would involve adding or deleting lines within the hairDefs section.

Important Note: You'll need to understand the existing values and the structure of the XML to make meaningful changes. Incorrectly modifying the XML can lead to game crashes or unpredictable behavior.

Saving Your Changes

After making your edits, save the modified XML file. Ensure you save the file with the exact same name and location as the original file. Load RimWorld to test your changes.

Advanced Techniques (Using Modding Tools)

For more complex modifications or if you plan on creating a mod, using a dedicated modding tool like the RimWorld Modding Toolkit is highly recommended. These tools offer a more user-friendly interface and provide additional features to streamline the editing process. They also often offer functionality to preview changes before implementing them.

Troubleshooting

If your edits don't work as expected, double-check the syntax of your XML file. Even a small error can prevent the game from loading correctly. Ensure you've saved the file correctly and placed it in the correct location. If you're unsure, reverting to the backed-up original file is always a safe option.

This guide provides a foundational understanding of editing faction xenotypes in RimWorld. Remember to always back up your files and proceed cautiously. Happy modding!