Kongeslask on 5/10/2006 at 10:53

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It is a sad truth that most ambitious mods like the one you propose never get released, let alone finished, because of modders running out of will, skill or both. If you merely want to convert the U8 scenario to the Oblivion engine, I suggest you do not overly concern yourself with modelling new stuff at first, but try to make a functioning prototype as proof of it being possible. Try recreating the first town with NPCs and simple quests first, using stock oblivion models (they can be replaced later). Then look into how to emulate the magic system(s) in Oblivion.

Consider the different magic systems (I only remembered this vaguely, so I look it up at the site a thttp://www.pdragon.net/u8.html)

Necromancy works like this:
" 1. Find an extra empty bag to keep in your backpack. Place one of each of the required reagents into the empty bag and close it.
2. Double-click on the Key of the Caretaker and target the bag with the reagents in it. If you've put the correct reagents in the bag and you've learned the spell in the game, the Avatar will chant the Words of Power.
3. Open the bag and there will be a talisman in it. The talismans for each spell are shown below. To cast the spell, double-click the talisman. Depending on the spell, you may get a targeting cursor. If so, click on where you want to cast the spell. You can keep these talismans indefinitely and cast the spell whenever you wish. Casting the spell destroys the talisman, though, and you will have to prepare another to cast again. "

This might be simulated by modifying the alchemy system. Create the key and a bag as alchemy tools, and instead of the ingredients having four different effects one might script it so that it checks for the ingredient you have in inventory and lets you select which talisman to create. The talismans could function as potions already do or as magic items with one use, but the special effects might require scripting.

Theurgy: "The magic of Stratos, this magic involes healing and the manipulation of the Air to aid the Theurgist. Casting involves the use of a magically charged Focus, and special words of power."

Could be done analogous with creating black soulgems, the player would interact with an altar and receive a magic item which can cast a spell in return. Again, scripting might be required for certain spell effects.

Thaumaturgy: "A magic that borrows little bits from other schools, Thaumaturgy is not widely studied on Pagan. The main focus of this magic is the spell book, which contains information on the spell and what reagents are required for it. To cast the spell, the book, along with the reagents, are placed in a pouch. The book is then read again to cast the spell. While Thaumaturgy borrows many reagents from the other schools of magic, it does have it's own unique ingredients. "

Spellbook as inventory item, script it so that you click on it, it checks for reagents and you select the spell from a list.

Sorcery: "The magic of Pyros, this magic involves the manupulation of fire and destruction. An intricate ritual goes into preparing each spell involving a pentacele, reagents, candles, and foci. The reagents and candles must be placed carefully and appropriately for each spell. Only certain foci can be used for certain spells, but the more powerful the Focus, the more spells it can handle. Each focus can only contain one spell at a time, but may contain multiple charges depending on the spell and focus used. Mana is used only during the charging of the focue, not the casting."

Similar to theurgy, but more elaborate creation ritual.


If you can create a workable prototype of this, there should be no technical limitations on creating a fine TC, only your skill and determination would be a hindrance. Recreating the extensive catacombs and cavern should be no more difficult than creating your standard oblivion dungeon.

Matthew on 6/10/2006 at 09:16

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Oh PLEASE don't recreate that 'dying in water' nonsense! I realise that Hydros probably had something to do with that, but still, it was one of the silliest things in the game.