Game resource architecture

Resource modules

Game resources consist of two parts

Root directory
Directory
Description

resource/

Basic resources

packages/

Packages are represented as folders containing resources related to game components or mods. Each package contains its own folder.

Types of packages

Package type
Description

DLC

Game add-on package. It is a commercial package that can be purchased as standalone DLC or as part of bundles with other Steam products. Only the developer can add DLC packages

Regular

Game component. This is a part of the game or DLC.

Only the developer can add game component packages

Workshop Item

A custom modification package published through the Workshop as a custom mod.

Anyone who makes mods can add Workshop Item packages

Raw package

A package of a created but unpublished mod

The main game folder contains :

  • basic resources;

  • regular packages;

  • DLC packages

Package Manager

The Package Manager is an integral component of the Gem RTS engine, designed to coordinate resource loading upon application startup. Basic resources are loaded first. Then the Package Manager determines the loading order of files from packages based on their properties specified in the .info files.

When loading files from packages, the global or scene context is also taken into account. This context defines the general principles of organizing game resources in the packages, allowing for the inclusion or exclusion of specific resources depending on the loaded content, such as modifications, campaigns, specific missions or maps in the game or editor.

The Package Manager is a built-in feature of the Gem RTS engine, and users do not have direct access to modify its settings. This ensures consistent and efficient management of resources without manual intervention, streamlining gameplay and development workflows.


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