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Special Aircraft Service
Individual Mods and Packs for IL-2 1946 => Skins, Maps, Missions & Campaigns => Map Textures => Topic started by: whistler on July 14, 2015, 11:13:49 AM
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>>> Jump to the v2.7 Release Post <<< (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,47154.msg684909.html#msg684909)
IL-2 Random Skies Mod v2.7 (28-August-2019)
Every IL-2 map comes with its own sky - ALWAYS the same sky for that map.
No matter if it is summer or winter, Monday or Thursday, day or night... ALWAYS the same sky.
You run a campaign on the same map across days, months or years and you ALWAYS get to see the same sky.
How is that for realism?
The Random Skies Mod randomly changes the high-sky in all maps with the wonderful sky textures created by tbauchot and vpmedia at SAS. The mod works by replacing the sky texture files before launching the game. The weather system such as mist, clouds and storms remains the same, but you will get to see a different (random) sky each time you run IL-2.
Random Skies requires a Mod Activator (the mod is optimized for the SAS ModAct Activator).
(https://s17.postimg.cc/ry9axlun3/Random_Skies_Launcher.png)
False positive AV alert/blocking (Keep calm and read on)
The launcher has been completely written by me and compiled with AutoIt, a great and powerful scripting language. As with all powerful languages there comes a downside: virus creation by those with malicious intent. Since every AutoIt-based exe is basically the same exe, false positives run rampant across all kinds of antivirus engines.
I guarantee this mod has been developed and shared with the best intentions and I would never include any code that does not serve the purpose advertised. Up until this day there are zero user reports of any issue of any kind. If the launcher gets blocked by your antivirus, you will have to add the executable to your AV Exclusion List / Whitelist / Safe Zone to unblock it.
The Mod does not connect to Internet and it does not change any Windows settings. SAS~Storebror: proved on reply #21 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,47154.msg524573.html#msg524573) that what I initially shared was not harmful in any way. You can take my word for it or go somewhere else. Download this Mod only from official locations.
:: What's new in v2.X? ::
It all started with a simple batch file that had to be manually executed before running IL-2. A basic Launcher was introduced in v1.0 to 'humanize' the script and since then, the executable has been vastly improved to become an all-purpose universal IL-2 Launcher.
- None shall be left behind! - Added compatibility all the way back to 4.09, including UP2, UP3, DBW, DBW 1916, HSFX, C.U.P., UltraSpain, DGen Pack... Random Skies is now compatible with all Modact versions and with the all-time greatest Super Packs, including of course VP Modpack and B.A.T.
- Random awesomeness - Random Skies now comes with - no more and no less than - a hundred awesome images taken by tbauchot. They have been edited, resized and cropped and all 100 take as little as 1mb. Every time you run the launcher you will get to see a gorgeous pic and what's more, you can customize your game with your own images and - why not - create packs and share them with the community!
- The Top Menu - The top menu now replaces the previous context menu. All the most common IL-2 actions and options are now at your fingertips! The top menu provides direct access to the most common IL-2 files and actions. The different options should be self explanatory and there is plenty of information online if you are new to IL-2.
- The Dropdown list - v2.2 introduced a combobox that will be enabled only when the launcher detects more than one mods folder. Use the dropdown list to quickly switch between modules or game types without having to run the IL-2 Selector (you still have to run the IL-2 Selector to play the 'Stock Game' type). The Launcher reads the data from the SAS ModAct il2fb.ini and it changes one single key: the game type selected. The dropdown list has been carefully designed to mimic the IL-2 Selector behavior. If you have any issues, 99% chances you messed with the il2fb.ini file. Backup your il2fb.ini before editing it. UP3 users please check the Readme.txt
- Multiple Profiles - (New in v2.5) Modular installs such as B.A.T. use the 'Users' folder to store information about your pilots, controls, settings, campaigns progress and other details. The Launcher implements a Profile Manager that allows you to have dedicated profiles for each module/era/game-type. You can now have as many pilots as you like for each different module and you will never lose progress of any campaign again!
v2.5 Packs a bunch of cool updates and new features. See the v2.5 release post for full details (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,47154.msg600278.html#msg600278).
- Shuffle Music - v2.6 :: DJ Edition :: Random Menu themes, Take-off, In-flight & Crash tracks and Radio broadcasts. Check the v2.6 release post (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,47154.msg622755.html#msg622755).
- Make sure to check the included Readme.txt for a description of all features -
(https://s18.postimg.cc/mq782g6ax/Random_Skies_Features.png)
Full change log:
v2.7 (28-08-2019)
- New launcher icon.
- More Launcher images.
- New 23 light sky textures from Bender.
- The mod now comes with all sky textures. No need to download a pack.
- "Config > Run IL-2 Setup" entry removed.
- Menu option "Load conf.ini" remembers the last conf file used.
- The Launcher allows you to close the il2fb.exe process if it is already
running.
- Compatibility with VP-Modpack JetWar add-on.
- Minor code optimizations.
v2.6.1 (13-08-2017)
- Official compatibility with B.A.T. v3 (#DOF3 #TGA3 #WAW3 #JTW3)
- Included two extra custom textures: ClearSkies.tga & HazySkies.tga
v2.6 (16-07-2017)
- Included Auto.bat image to increase awareness of the feature.
(Original icon made by Freepik from www.flaticon.com)
- QMB Quicks/.last.quick deletion implemented in the executable. Batch
file 'Files/QMB_Fix.bat' no longer needed.
- Added DGen logs detection.
- New 'Shuffle Music' options in the Tools menu.
v2.5.1 (27-05-2017)
- Added Single/Multi profile images to increase awareness of the feature.
(Original icons made by Madebyoliver from www.flaticon.com)
v2.5 (25-05-2017)
- Added 4.13.4 Launcher detection
- Compatible with DGen Pack (#DGen mod folder, tested on v2.0.1)
- Compatible with UltraSpain 2017 (#USP mod folder)
- New Screenshots shortcut entry in the top menu
- New Skin Management entries in the top menu
- Sky textures can be disabled with a minus character (-texture.tga)
- Launcher images (as well as folders since v2.1) can be disabled with a
minus character (-image.jpg). Launcher images folder reorganized.
- "Random" option no longer selects textures from the Custom folder
- Test and Stock (plus Noise) Sky textures included in the Custom folder.
- The mod now only copies textures to the mod selected.
- Introducing the Sky Timer (see details in the Readme)
- Included Extended Compatibility (see details in the Readme)
- Implemented Auto.bat (see instructions in the Readme)
- Multiple User Profiles (check details in the Readme)
v2.2 (09-Mar-2017)
- New combobox: switch between mod folders from the launcher
- The randomizer should now work from any modded folder
- Added forced deletion of read-only texture/noise files
- Catapults.ini can have different locations - removed from the menu
- Minor fixes and enhancements
v2.1b (03-Feb-2017)
- Added Launcher compatibility with 4.13.3m
v2.1 (02-Jan-2017)
- Files/QuickLaunch.bat is now included (if you do not want to use the
executable, use this one)
- Launcher images folders can be disabled with a minus (-folder). Some
tbauchot launcher images replaced with better ones
- New 'Load conf.ini' menu entry. Any custom conf*.ini will be detected.
- Console log and Instant log menu shortcuts reworked to allow any file
name and extension. More logs added to the menu.
- Top menu reorganized (again). Improved Folders and Config menus and
wider back up options.
- Added compatibility with B.A.T.
v2.0a (25-Nov-2016)
- Top menu reorganized, minor corrections and improvements, SAS Instant
log compatibility, conf.ini backup option...
- Launcher images can now be organized in folders (jpg/jpeg only)
- Game version is now detected and displayed on the status bar
- Added compatibility with UP 2.01
v2.0 (12-Nov-2016)
- Introducing the improved launcher
- Context menu replaced with a new top menu with more options
- Random awesomeness - launcher images!
- Added compatibility all the way back to 4.09
v1.0d (24-Oct-2016)
- Added a status bar to inform the current active module, useful for
modular installs (CUP, UP, DBW...)
- Reset QMB last.quick moved to the main window
v1.0c (30-Jan-2016)
- Added a new context menu option: Reset QMB last.quick. Use it when QMB
freezes.
v1.0b (24-Jan-2016)
- Added a new context menu. Right clink anywhere to access new options
v1.0a (26-Jul-2015)
- The last texture name used is saved to the "Files/last.txt" for your
convenience. I like this sky! which one is it?
- Now you can use custom Noise files
v1.0 (23-Jul-2015)
- Introducing the new launcher
v0.4 (17-Jul-2015)
- Compatible with C.U.P.
v0.3b (16-Jul-2015)
- Added the right CloudsNoise file. Thanks tbauchot!
v0.3 (16-Jul-2015)
- Added CloudsNoise files. This should (hopefully) fix issues with
Slovakia maps
v0.2 (15-Jul-2015)
- Confirmed working in 4.13 ModAct 6
- Confirmed working in all windows versions (as long as you have write
rights to the folders)
- Added a new launcher to satisfy all tastes: "Random skies and Launch
IL-2 Selector.bat"
- Included the default Il-2 icon for your convenience
v0.1 (12-Jul-2015)
- Initial release
:: The Sky Randomizer::
At the heart of the mod resides the Sky Randomizer. Each time you run the Launcher a random sky texture is copied to your *mods* folder(s). If you do not run the executable, next time you run IL-2 the engine will use the last sky that was copied the last time you run the mod. If you want to have different skies each time you run the game, you must run the Launcher first, otherwise you will always have the same sky.
- Light/Medium/Heavy: You have by default 41 Light sky textures, 54 Medium sky textures and 22 Heavy sky textures. A Sky texture will be randomly selected from one of these folders.
- Random: A Sky texture will be randomly selected from the Light/Medium/Heavy texture folders.
- Custom: Use the Custom folder to try new skies or to store your favourite textures.
Tip: find the last texture used in "Random Skies\Files\last.txt"
The Custom folder is also a good place to create and test new textures and later share them with the community. At some point texture creators may also want to use custom Noise files. If you add a noise tga file to the "Random Skies/Noise/" folder with the exact same name than texture, the mod will use that noise instead of the default "DefaultNoise.tga".
- Default: All textures previously copied will be deleted and the game will use map's default sky textures.
(http://s16.postimg.cc/cnxaa73rp/19_03_2015_14_15_18.jpg)
:: Compatibility ::
Random Skies works fine in all maps in a clean ModAct install but be warned that it may conflict with any other mod that changes the sky textures. Users with heavily modded installs should be careful, Random skies may overwrite some custom non-default sky textures.
- IL-2 4.09 + SAS Modact 2 - Fully compatible with the MODS folder.
- Ultra Pack 2 (UP 2.01) - Fully compatible with the MODS folder (create the MODS folder if you do not have it and install Random Skies there).
- IL-2 4.10 + SAS Modact 3 - Fully compatible with the #SAS folder.
- Ultra Pack 3 (UP3 RC4) - Fully compatible with the #UP# folder (create the #UP# folder if you do not have it and install Random Skies there). Random Skies may impact online play... use at your own risk.
- Dark Blue World (DBW 1.71) and DBW 1916 - Fully compatible with the #DBW and #DBW_1916 folders. The mod should also work fine with DBW expansion packs like The Spanish Civil War (SCW) and others.
- IL-2 4.11 + SAS Modact 4 - Fully compatible with the #SAS folder.
- IL-2 4.12 + SAS Modact 5 - Fully compatible with the #SAS folder.
- B.A.T. - Fully compatible with the #DOF3, #JTW3, #TGA3 and #WAW3 folders (some mods must be active in JSGME, see install instructions below)
- C.U.P. - Fully compatible with the #DOF, #JTW, #TGA and #WAW folders (some mods must be active in JSGME, check the Readme.txt)
- VP Modpack - Fully compatible with the #SAS folder.
- HSFX 7.0.3 - Fully compatible with the MODS folder (create the MODS folder if you do not have it and install Random Skies there). Random Skies may impact online play... use at your own risk.
- UltraSpain 2017 - Fully compatible with the #USP folder.
- IL-2 4.13 + SAS ModAct 6 - Fully compatible with the #SAS folder.
- Dgen Pack (2.01) - Fully compatible with the #DGEN folder.
:: Downloads and Install instructions ::
1) Download the Random Skies Mod, unzip and move the folder "Random Skies" to your main *mods* folder (create and/or use the #SAS folder if unsure). Overwrite previous versions:
The mod is hosted at Mission4Today:
http://www.mission4today.com/index.php?name=Downloads3&file=details&id=2357 (http://www.mission4today.com/index.php?name=Downloads3&file=details&id=2357)
There used to be a texture pack but version 2.7 comes with all Sky textures there are. Download v2.7 and you get everything in one go.
Don't forget to thank tbauchot, vpmedia and Bender in their texture topics!
- tbauchot's New sky textures Part 1 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,44745.0.html) | Part 2 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,44877.0.html) | Part 3 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,45415.0.html) | Part 4 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,45800.0.html) | Part 5 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,46010.0.html)
- vpmedia's Sky textures (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,44767.0.html)
- Bender's Ultimate Environment 1.0 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,1786.msg18756.html#msg18756)
2) Run "IL-2 Random Skies Launcher.exe" found in the "Random Skies" folder.
You can create a shortcut of the Launcher to your desktop for convenience.
- About B.A.T. compatibility -
Make sure to enable in JSGME:
- DEF-SKIES_#DOF3
- DEF-SKIES_#JTW3
- DEF-SKIES_#TGA3
- DEF-SKIES_#WAW3
Install Random Skies in the "#SAS" folder, so you don't have to worry about it when updating B.A.T.
:: Uninstall instructions ::
Run the Random Skies Launcher, go to Help -> Uninstall Random Skies, and follow the instructions.
=====================================================
See you in the (random) skies! ;)
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Nice :)
Well done and thanks for sharing this mod!
Best regards - Mike
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I appreciate if people can confirm this works in Vista/7/8
Works perfectly in W7, modact 5.3. A very clever mod, thank you very much Whistler !
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An excellent idea! Thanks! :)
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Hi whistler,
Thank you very much, very good work ! ;)
It works for me on W7 pro 64, modact 5.3
However allows me to make a little remark about CloudsNoise.tga files :
Some maps use specific files that are not in agreement with my "skytextures".tga or VP's one, etc... and the visuals results are not very good.
For example on Slovakia_summer and winter and some over one... :
(http://s16.postimg.cc/96zomg82d/2015_07_15_13_00_47.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
Also I did some tests :
1: I made several copies of your mod.
2: I have renamed them (for example : TB_New_Skies_Textures_S , for summer skies...)
3: I created shortcuts that I renamed (for example : Random skies.bat_S - Raccourci, Random skies and Launch_S IL-2.bat - Raccourci )
4: I then put in these copies, specific sky textures.
5 : I am able to launch random Winter, summer, spring, heavy, light, etc... skies, according to the map, the missions, etc...
I also noticed that it was possible to make a return on the desktop, change a sky with the command :"Random skies.bat" and continue a campaign with a new sky ! Very funny ! ;D
Tested with Dgen and QMB... however, it is necessary to quickly load a QMB mission using another map before getting changes on the previous map. But, no need to restart the game.
Regarding CUP , I have not yet installed it !
But Monty seems to have some projects :
https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,46010.msg517483.html#msg517483
See you in the (random) skies ! ;)
Best regards, Thierry.
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v0.2 is up. Just some minor changes.
Thanks for confirming it works in Win7! I just tested it in 4.13 ModAct 6 and of course it also works.
Hey tbauchot, CloudsNoise.tga files is something I have yet to understand... I found you included more than one noise file in your awesome texture packs, but I don't know how they impact the final sky rendering... I just was satisfied the way it worked :)
This is a simple idea that can be expanded. Now that we know this can be done, it is a matter of organising the files (clouds and noise) in the best possible way and maybe... you want to create a mega random sky pack!!?? Feel free to do what you want with all this!!
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v0.3 is up. Added CloudsNoise files. This should (hopefully) fix issues with Slovakia maps.
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Hi, Dear Whistler .
Thank you very much for this very quick update ! :)
However the CloudsNoise file TGA is not the good one ! ;)
We must use the one called : "CloudsNoise003.tga" and in the download it is the one called : "CloudsNoise005.tga"
This last one is used only for one of my sky and this sky work very well with the file : "CloudsNoise003.tga" also !
( Too, this "CloudsNoise003.tga" is the same than the CloudsNoise.tga file used by VP.)
Sorry for all this, I should have to send to you before a personal message to enlighten you a little better ! :-[
thank you again for this wonderful utility , Mr Whistler.bat(man) :D
Thierry.
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v0.3b is up. Added the right CloudsNoise file. Thanks tbauchot!!!
Sounds good the idea of choosing winter/summer skies or more/less dramatic clouds. On the other hand I like simple things and what I like most about the way it is now is that in rea life you cannot select the skies you want... let's see where this goes!!
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great mod, thanks for your efforts, mate! ;)
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v0.4 is up. Compatible with CUP !!
Please report any problems. I certainly cannot test all maps and different configurations! Thank you.
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Nice update, Whistler !
If you wish, you can add this line to your script:
copy "%folder%\%name%" "%destfolder%\Clouds267.tga"for VKG Grand Canyon map. (http://i650.photobucket.com/albums/uu224/phbrajon/good2.gif)
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The VKG Grand Canyon map in CUP uses the same tga the other maps use. It works fine.
For custom added maps in non-CUP installs the problem is that the "Default skies.bat" removes the sky files and lets the game use the internal stored textures (default skies). If I remove the Clouds267.tga this map will not longer load (Clouds267.tga completely missing). I prefer to play safe.
I believe the best approach in these cases is you to manually edit the VKG Grand Canyon (as well as any other custom map) load.ini and replace "HighClouds = Clouds267.tga" with "HighClouds = Clouds256.tga"
Or edit yourself the batch files as I am sure you already did! ;)
Cheers Korrigan!
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You're right Whistler, your approach is definitly safer and more "elegant" than mine ;)
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v1.0 is up!!!
I hope this mod will bring the community hours and hours of joy in the skies.
Thanks once again Thierry (tbauchot) for the wonderful textures you created and your support during the development of this Mod!! :D :D :D
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Brilliant work Whistler - the new launcher is amazing - simple, compact & functional.
Grateful thanks to you & Thierry
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Right now I cannot run and play Il-2. But when i get back I will install all the mods I've been downloading since.
One question about the random skies mod - it's said that it changes clouds textures on all stock maps. Now, what about non stock maps? I ask because in all honesty, the stock maps are so old and bland that I never use them. Can you add new maps to any list so that they too can profit from the randomness?
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Hey agracier, see reply #12 above ;)
Change "HighClouds = XXX.tga" to "HighClouds = Clouds256.tga" in the custom-added map load.ini
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Medifire will not download the new Launcher, says it is a dangerous file...now what?
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The Mod does what is advertised and it is100% safe. I wrote every line of the launcher and batch files and I guarantee it.
Let me contact MF support :\'(
Temp links updated in the first post-
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Medifire will not download the new Launcher, says it is a dangerous file...now what?
Some antivirus programs don't like .exe files.
I think you need to change settings of your AV program before starting the download.
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It's not really your fault whistler, but when I looked at the exe's internals, I noticed that there were a couple of imports from wininet.dll for connecting to remote sites.
This made me wonder... why would you want to do that?
Turns out you don't.
You just used AutoIt! for compiling a batch script to an exe.
Now once again, this is not your fault, but you should know that isn't deemed "safe" by many antivirus programs, and I'd like to add "for good reasons", e.g. as you see it adds unwanted online code.
See the result yourself, this is what antivirus programs think about your AutoIt! generated exe:
https://www.virustotal.com/de/file/66eb1d98cc0d64e921be09c8199927936a09a6013eac9359f446185c953c4b76/analysis/1437720273/
And all of this only for this script which indeed is safe in itself:
Opt("GUIOnEventMode", 1)
GUICreate("IL-2 Random Skies Launcher", 360, 130)
GUISetOnEvent($gui_event_close, "FunctionCloseButton")
Local $inifilename = "launcher.ini"
Local $iniuserskies = IniRead($inifilename, "Settings", "Selection", "Random")
GUICtrlCreateGroup("Random Skies by whistler", 10, 10, 180, 110)
Local $idradio1 = GUICtrlCreateRadio("Light", 25, 30, 80)
If $iniuserskies == "Light" Then
GUICtrlSetState($idradio1, $gui_checked)
EndIf
Local $idradio2 = GUICtrlCreateRadio("Medium", 25, 60, 80)
If $iniuserskies == "Medium" Then
GUICtrlSetState($idradio2, $gui_checked)
EndIf
Local $idradio3 = GUICtrlCreateRadio("Heavy", 25, 90, 80)
If $iniuserskies == "Heavy" Then
GUICtrlSetState($idradio3, $gui_checked)
EndIf
Local $idradio4 = GUICtrlCreateRadio("Random", 105, 30, 80)
If $iniuserskies == "Random" Then
GUICtrlSetState($idradio4, $gui_checked)
EndIf
Local $idradio5 = GUICtrlCreateRadio("Custom", 105, 60, 80)
If $iniuserskies == "Custom" Then
GUICtrlSetState($idradio5, $gui_checked)
EndIf
Local $idradio6 = GUICtrlCreateRadio("Stock", 105, 90, 80)
If $iniuserskies == "Stock" Then
GUICtrlSetState($idradio6, $gui_checked)
EndIf
GUICtrlCreateGroup("", -99, -99, 1, 1)
Local $inilauncher = IniRead($inifilename, "Settings", "Launcher", "No")
Local $idcheckbox = GUICtrlCreateCheckbox("Launch IL-2 Selector", 200, 30, 150)
If $inilauncher == "Yes" Then
GUICtrlSetState($idcheckbox, $gui_checked)
EndIf
Local $gobutton = GUICtrlCreateButton("GO !", 200, 65, 100)
GUICtrlSetOnEvent($gobutton, "FunctionGoButton")
Local $textlink = GUICtrlCreateLabel("www.sas1946.com", 200, 105)
GUICtrlSetColor($textlink, "0x808080")
GUISetState(@SW_SHOW)
While 1
Sleep(100)
WEnd
Func functiongobutton()
Select
Case BitAND(GUICtrlRead($idradio1), $gui_checked) = $gui_checked
Local $userskies = "Light"
Case BitAND(GUICtrlRead($idradio2), $gui_checked) = $gui_checked
Local $userskies = "Medium"
Case BitAND(GUICtrlRead($idradio3), $gui_checked) = $gui_checked
Local $userskies = "Heavy"
Case BitAND(GUICtrlRead($idradio4), $gui_checked) = $gui_checked
Local $userskies = "Random"
Case BitAND(GUICtrlRead($idradio5), $gui_checked) = $gui_checked
Local $userskies = "Custom"
Case BitAND(GUICtrlRead($idradio6), $gui_checked) = $gui_checked
Local $userskies = "Stock"
EndSelect
IniWrite($inifilename, "Settings", "Selection", $userskies)
If $userskies == "Stock" Then
Local $batfile = '"Files\Reset.bat"'
RunWait($batfile, "", @SW_HIDE)
Else
If $userskies == "Random" Then
Local $userskies = ""
EndIf
Local $batfile = '"Files\Random.bat" ' & $userskies
RunWait($batfile, "", @SW_HIDE)
EndIf
If BitAND(GUICtrlRead($idcheckbox), $gui_checked) = $gui_checked Then
IniWrite($inifilename, "Settings", "Launcher", "Yes")
Local $runexe = "IL-2 Selector.exe"
Else
IniWrite($inifilename, "Settings", "Launcher", "No")
Local $runexe = "il2fb.exe"
EndIf
Local $fullexe = "../../" & $runexe
Run($fullexe)
Exit
EndFunc
Func functionclosebutton()
Exit
EndFunc
Best regards - Mike
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I was at first able to download the mod with starter, but then a few hours later when i saw the messge saying it was not downloadable, I too tried again and could indeed not download anymore.
I guess mediafire must have analyzed the file in the meantime.
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Thanks Storebror for stepping in. I added a disclaimer to the top of the first post:
Disclaimer: Download this Mod only from the links provided in this location. The launcher has been completely written by me using well known tools downloaded from official sources. These softwares have been used by hackers to spread viruses, and applications built with them have sometimes been reported as positive by antivirus definitions.
I can only guarantee this launcher has been developed and shared with the best intentions and I would never include any code that does not serve the purpose advertised. Storebror has proven on reply #21 that what I initially shared was not intentionally harmful in any way. You can take my word for it or go somewhere else.
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Thanks whistler, makes perfectly sense.
You know I'm a triple-checker type of guy, so I gave it a try and can confirm that your script is clean, the generated exe is clean and all tools involved apparently were clean as well.
Best regards - Mike
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And very lucky we are you did check it! I was starting to feel a bit uncomfortable... :-X
I have no plans to develope it further unless there are big changes in CUP or an important bug is reported.
If it makes the community feel safer, a trusted member of this board can host this very version verified by you ...
Cheers!
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I didn't hesitate or have a second thought about downloading from the other sites you offered. I trust SAS and you as well. Thanx so much for your time and effort, this is truly a neat little mod.
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Thanks Darkwind!
Silent update:
I have reworked the Random.bat file a little to add one new feature and to allow a better control to texture editors.
- The last texture name used is saved to the "Files/last.txt" for your convenience. I like this sky! which one is it?
- At some point texture creators may want to use custom Noise files. If you now add a noise tga file to the "Noise" folder with the exact same name than texture, the batch file will use this file instead of the default "CloudsNoise003.tga". I thought it was a pitty to leave this already built-in feature behind...
- Also now included "CloudsNoise005.tga" from tbauchot for texture creators to use it if they want.
- TB New Skies Textures Pack updated to take advantage of this new feature (3 textures use a different noise file than the others).
The executable remains the same. Just overwrite everything. Cheers ;)
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Thank you. Great mod!
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Great mod! Wondering, does it make sense to update all load.ini files to ensure:
HighClouds = Clouds256.tga
HighCloudsNoise = CloudsNoise.tga
I have a number of custom map installs, and though most employ the standard Clouds256.tga, some, I see, have custom named values. Of course these textures are located in the _Tex folder, but wondering if all those could be removed and simply use this mod pattern to load the appendix high cloud textures randomly?
I also updated my config which uses TotalModder to call the random.bat alone prior to loading TM which works well in my highly customized HSFX based il2 install.
~S~
wind
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Hi WindWpn
The launcher is just a wrapper to humanize the scripts. All work is done in the Random.bat and depending on the argument you pass, it does one thing or another. So you can use either:
"#SAS\Random Skies\Files\Random.bat" [empty] -> Random (all texture folders)
"#SAS\Random Skies\Files\Random.bat" Light -> Random Light folder
"#SAS\Random Skies\Files\Random.bat" Medium -> ...
"#SAS\Random Skies\Files\Random.bat" Heavy
"#SAS\Random Skies\Files\Random.bat" Custom
The Stock option calls the Reset.bat and it removes all files, allowing you to use the internally stored textures. These batch files where writen as standalone (as long as they are place where they should), as you have noticed already.
The best approach for you is to edit every custom-added map load.ini:
// HighClouds = ThisMapClouds.tga
// HighCloudsNoise = ThisMapNoise.tga
HighClouds = Clouds256.tga
HighCloudsNoise = CloudsNoise.tga
The custom textures remain where they are and you can always revert it back.
Or just replace the first 2 lines with the other 2 and delete the custom textures. Up to you!
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Absolutely love this Whistler, and tbauchot too, big thanks. Thanks for building the full support for CUP as discussed. Mods like this make Il2 a more comprehensive flight simulator, what a toolset we have now!
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So, will it be implemented in the next CUP update? I guess so, right? :)
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The JSGME-Def-Skies Options are there already and will also be included in the up-coming TGA release. Other than that what is there to do?
The install of this utility is explained very well here. Its easy to do and it works.
I will also highlight the thread in CUP, as should others with plenty of lovely screenshots... ;D
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Thanks Monty. Love CUP :)
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Version 1.0b is up! Find download link in the first post. Just overwrite everything.
Careful! The luncher has a new executable name! delete old "Random Skies Launcher v1.0.exe" and use the new one.
I Added a new context menu. Right click anywhere to access new options:
(http://s12.postimg.cc/lymi1rozt/contextmenu.jpg)
Hope you like these additions! I find myself going to these locations too often and I thought this could come in handy. Now I have only one shortcut on the desktop. :P
Cheers!
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Very small update in v1.0c. Added to the context menu the option: "Reset QMB last.quick"
benitomuso's Quick Mission Pro prevents the freezes in QMB but sometimes when switching game types / modules it is safer to reset first the last.quick. A more permanent solution has been posted recently for CUP and non-CUP users by SAS~Monty27:
https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,50185.msg547732.html
Since the solution above prevents last.quick from saving the last mission, and the last.quick otherwise has to be deleted manually, I found convenient to have the option added to the Launcher.
First post updated. If you have any issue, please install everything from scratch.
Happy flying :)
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hi whistler
i need to ask about v1.0c update - Added to the context menu the option: "Reset QMB last.quick"
which context menu are you referring to here?
when i run the launcher, it looks exactly the same as the previous version, so visibly i don't see any 'reset QMB' option.
i must admit all the recent 'fixes' for this last.quick problem have not helped me at all yet - each time i change a module, i still have to go in and physically delete the last.quick file - i was wanting to test how this feature works, but i don't know where/how to use it, as i don't see the option anywhere...?
thanks in advance for any assist... ;)
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lo and behold, just after i post about not being able to get the fix working, it now appears to be sorted out.
i've just changed all modules of CUP, and it loaded up properly into QMB each time. happy days!
still, my question remains on where this 'context menu' option is... ;)
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Malone, you need to right click anywhere in the launcher window to see the context menu ;)
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hmm...that was the first thing i tried, and i'm sure i saw nothing.
hold on, let me just try again...
ah, okay, i see it now.
when i tried it the first time, i right-clicked while the mouse was over the 'GO!' button, and the context menu doesn't appear there....my bad, all good now, thanks :D
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Just a question, If I have installed it in VP and now I want to play a campaign with the weather/sky chosen by the creator of the campaign, what should I choose in the Random Skies menu?
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Hi spartan18a
About VP Modpack and Random Skies:
Random Skies works with the majority of the maps included in the VP Modpack. VP kept the default Clouds256.tga skies in most of the maps but he used other sky textures in some cases (in example vp_clouds02b.tga for Slovakia Winter). The sky texture to be loaded is coded into the map load.ini and changing the skies in these maps cannot be (easily) automated.
Now back to your question, you will always get the weather*/sky texture coded into the map load.ini, independently of missions or campaigns. Using the example above, every time you play Slovakia Winter you will always get the vp_clouds02b.tga texture, independently of how you run Random Skies.
On the contrary, you can use Random Skies to alter the skies in any map that uses the Clouds256.tga texture (most of the maps in VP Modpack). Select 'Stock' to use the default IL-2 sky texture.
*Random Skies does not alter weather, only (high) sky textures
Hope it helps
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Thank you whistler. A very thorough explanation that it's crystal clear now.
By the way, I love your skies. Whenever I`m driving my car now, I can't stop looking at the high clouds and see how alike are to those of yous. A real masterpiece. Congrats!
Sent from my XT1032 using Tapatalk
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Let me stress that I have nothing to do with the sky textures! Please praise Thierry and Istvan, they are the true magicians and deserve all credit:
- tbauchot's New sky textures Part 1 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,44745.0.html) | Part 2 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,44877.0.html) | Part 3 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,45415.0.html) | Part 4 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,45800.0.html) | Part 5 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,46010.0.html)
- vpmedia's Sky textures (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,44767.0.html)
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So be it. Thanks to them too! :)
Sent from my XT1032 using Tapatalk
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Small update, version 1.0d is out!
I find myself adding and removing mods and changing modules more often than not and the last.quick bug is irritating. I needed a persistent but not permanent solution so I moved the QMB reset option to the main window.
I also found that when using C.U.P. I must always run the IL-2 Selector to know what game type I played last, now the executable reads the SAS selector's ini and informs what module is currently selected: Dawn of Flight, World at War, Modact... nice :P
I hope you find these changes as useful as I do. First post updated. Folder and files structure remain the same, just download and overwrite previous versions.
Take care folks
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So, you mean that this update is just for CUP or is it also for other ModPacks such as VP?
Eager to see updates :)
Sent from my XT1032 using Tapatalk
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Since C.U.P. makes heavy use of the Selector to switch modules, CUP definitively benefits the most from this last update! It works just fine though in any other setup: VP ModPack, standalone SAS ModAct 5 or 6...
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Dear Whistlet,
I am getting this error with the new update .... even If I run the program as an administrator, any ideas? :-|
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BllwcrDxN4OCzYS6D-WlqBt2afXaG5C0BLhRwLVFXmUJN7IZf-JEt6qvM07j3xiqXWSD7YGibrPXQJikrsY8XEm_X09QJT9l3rhVpRl8AMZby7Yly5D5F0MPQkg8kIWnQAFxSBfxlCHB0s8rgaHyxYHU0eDXE3O6dCyadLCso3BevVMrLjQY1fuF2E432GnnLku2KDCweXjISDVfkWoSwc9IUyyj2GXMfT62dzOH8OwJ6howvV77AR8J_AC0wHnEEi1bXdRGx1g32ri8govlrYkd8Nl3KxdNUdVhEFL07PB7yux8AX2y_us2nKA4w8j2UZAnuyvPxKp2mDRaa5QYJBD6nezqDinwgFRIhPo0lT94YKMK8qxvjL60kBYQ5r5d8opePCcdAXkdvDWJ9aYne_Sl0uTG7e6Qp_sjep7fpbuN9U7zchpcZMK-DqYx-D9-uGKesyDhoAmQx9veMAEMnMHKRf-BC5293X_HFwFIeYTQu_Dvph7wKXg1YDOU5faXTPQkUSzECn8FOBMS0lJ_9MB6c9uUMS10xyzBrbdWLl-yVie0jqK7zz3xk-uiYm1ea_2aOz1eKEe3W_ZK-f4zvQFOpLYi61CXT6hQRoUgpwwFYnH9fA=w1637-h920-no)
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Can't see any error in your post! I would delete the SAS/Random Skies folder and install again from zero if I were you... Follow the instructions in the first post and let us know...
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Can't see any error in your post! I would delete the SAS/Random Skies folder and install again from zero if I were you... Follow the instructions in the first post and let us know...
Let me see ... and now?
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oEtZ7wpL5J4y0-7IQLSz8mfkVGdoiqMDQfHHA3THARB0APGryLs77hqPgKMJ66k54wIUoiChN65Z7NWbPnehIm0Pn3Ow_KouUTZwUGw87o97OcH4sOQZGLNih9qMqR2e208XBVZHSqrYzd0VCX4oVk99gEIOOm21LkdU5PZlqcWn-WAZvzTpc33Coa4RKvgThK5xbYyaXN6yPmZybBItG-9K7BLXktqHKgnGuMwCaH-DNcpDvFz0Esh2EjM-qDq9MVXRAXslyeEhvvvRiB5Q2xyQPHOleQLDtOpeHo-AyYU01U-SMRGr8RB5gP3b78q4BWPXIvsMNfeME1A3f24kYVBwCU-7OcbYFLzNIb5ojypwKa-Zb-qCiZwdEs4SbedXl0UIeCXLE5u01AojZbWD130YqznOr0T8osryDl07y3Zpgx-y-xJvAGMQnALW236Xh6NEOoyFTUI5k5V9dezUKOkosYGOcn-avtNnXjhKDL2w_dHmB25pii0HXt2PQ4UCnqbWJHwPJZ2PGHw34gOkV9Bty2_JlAA2XBeem1pqLxd9jndDIE_83xFLHJltWObr_0Cz6z2EHZtY1it6iaiZR6SEslIVOfJPaOVIjTgyE4jZggN-pQ=w1637-h920-no)
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Interesting, it seems you are running IL-2 from an external HD... which people reported to work perfectly fine. Does the game run using the regular il2fb.exe? I took good care to include only relative paths. I am afraid your issue has little to do with the mod.
Check this: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/2669244
Other than that unplug and reconnect the external HD and try running the launcher with admin rights (right click - run as admin)... that is all I can think of :-X
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Is the file "launcher" an ini file? If so can you set the path right there? The launcher should start the game, right? (If not I´m far off and you should forget what I said!)
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Dear Whistle,
The game is in a normal PC HD and I tried all the possibilities in the link you provided me from Microsoft but the error persists. But that's just fine. I reinstalled the previous version of you mod and it works beautifully in my PC again now.
I am sure it's not your update. Every PC works in mysterious ways. :-| Don't worry about it. If no body reported the same error as mine, it is obviously not the mod but my rig. :)
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Hi Whistler,
Your tool is a source of constant joy for me, thank you!
I use it happily in CUP and also in 4.13 Asura's DGEN Pack.
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Version 2.0 is here! Meet the improved Launcher!
(http://www.mission4today.com/uploads/DL2016/64080_random_skies_launcher_v2.0.png)
What's new in v2.0?
None shall be left behind! - Added compatibility all the way back to 4.09, including UP3, DBW (1916, TFM, SCW...) and HSFX. Random Skies is now compatible with all Modact versions and with the all-time greatest Super Packs!
Improved launcher - The top menu now replaces the previous context menu. All the most common IL-2 actions and options are now at your fingertips!
Random awesomeness - Random Skies now comes with - no more and no less than - a hundred awesome images taken by tbauchot. They have been edited, resized and cropped and all 100 take as little as 1mb. Every time you run the launcher you will get to see a gorgeous pic and what's more, you can customize your game with your own images and - why not - create packs and share them with the community!
First post updated. Overwrite previous versions. No need to re-download the textures pack.
Enjoy!
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Interesting, it seems you are running IL-2 from an external HD... which people reported to work perfectly fine. Does the game run using the regular il2fb.exe? I took good care to include only relative paths. I am afraid your issue has little to do with the mod.
Check this: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/2669244
Other than that unplug and reconnect the external HD and try running the launcher with admin rights (right click - run as admin)... that is all I can think of :-X
I have updated to the 2.0 version and I get the same error message, but now that you mention .... I have two internal HDD in my PC, C: with my Windows and E: with all the data. I have the IL2 in the E: :-|
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Tested successfully in Modact 5.3 and CUP. A huge thank you to you and to Thierry and Istvan for their beautiful textures !
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Really great!!! Love these new skies :) D/L-ing now!!! ;D ;D ;D
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I have updated to the 2.0 version and I get the same error message, but now that you mention .... I have two internal HDD in my PC, C: with my Windows and E: with all the data. I have the IL2 in the E: :-|
Hi Spartan, I bet your antivirus, firewall or windows itself are blocking the new exe. You probably must add the exe to a 'safe zone'... otherwise it makes no sense that you can run previous versions and not newer ones. Check this:
https://youtu.be/_yVT1sgV4as (https://youtu.be/_yVT1sgV4as)
See if you can add the executable to the 'trusted apps' in your AV. What antivirus you have?
Glad you like it Korrigan and Poltava :) maybe we get to see even more new sky textures from sky-master Thierry, Istvan or someone else soon!
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Thanks Whistler,
I am running Avast. I am going to research that possibility. :)
I have the free version of AVAST so I cannot do have a Firewall
https://www.avast.com/faq.php?article=AVKB25
Could it be Windows 7?
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Thanks Whistler,
I am running Avast. I am going to research that possibility. :)
check solution "1. Add Blocked Program or Website to Exclusion List (Whitelist) to Unblock it" from:
http://www.getavast.net/support/stop-blocking-a-program
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Thanks Whistler,
I am running Avast. I am going to research that possibility. :)
check solution "1. Add Blocked Program or Website to Exclusion List (Whitelist) to Unblock it" from:
http://www.getavast.net/support/stop-blocking-a-program
You nailed it! That was it. It runs beautifully now!!!! :-* :-* :-* :-*
Thanks a trillion! :D
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None shall be left behind! :D
Cheers spartan have fun
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Whistler,
This is the best invention since crusty bread (Epervier is with me on this one, I am sure)!
I have been using systematically it since it was released, what a joy.
Big thank you to you and of course to Istvan and Thierry as well !!!!!!
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Dear Whistler,
I've just had an idea but .... I don't know if you will like it or not. However, I will dare to write down.
I like the random option and I was wondering if the random factor could it be slightly modified according to the geographical location of the map. For example, a map of the Mediterranean Sea/North Africa should have more possibilities of light skies and a map of Norway of heavy skies. Do you know what I mean? :) I am thinking of the offline campaigns above all.
Well, it is just an idea. If you already have implemented this function or don´t like it, just send me a deadly virus via MP ... :P (Just kidding). ;D
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Bring on new ideas Spartan!
We currently have the Light-Medium-Heavy folders and these should provide enough freedom to move textures around and match everyone's preferences plus we also have the custom folder to fit additional needs. The 'Random' option randomly selects a texture from the Light, Medium, Heavy and Custom folders.
I understand your point but who is to tell there are no heavy skies/storms on deserts!? I will not decide what sky likely goes for each map, I leave that to you: put your gloves on, read the briefing, look out of your window 8) and select a Light-Medium-Heavy sky or choose "Default" (previously named Stock) to use the map's default sky.
This is when the custom folder comes in handy: you are about to start a campaign in Norway then take the time to choose skies likely to be found there and copy them to the custom folder. Or you can re-arrange textures in the other folders. It all comes down to the naming convention used and what we make of it: Light-Medium-Heavy, Africa-Asia-Europe, Desert-Seashore-Mountain... you name it.
You messed up? back up first or download everything again :) I take good note of this for future releases. Thanks Spartan. Let's hear what others have to say about it.
Whistler,
This is the best invention since crusty bread (Epervier is with me on this one, I am sure)!
I have been using systematically it since it was released, what a joy.
Big thank you to you and of course to Istvan and Thierry as well !!!!!!
Most welcome Zoran395! We will see new sky textures one of these days, I am sure! (high hopes...)
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Minor update:
- Top menu reorganized, minor corrections and improvements, SAS Instant log compatibility, conf.ini backup option...
- Launcher images can now be organized in folders (jpg/jpeg only)
- Game version is now detected and displayed on the status bar
- Added compatibility with UP 2.01
First post updated. Overwrite previous versions ;)
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As awesome as usual!
Sent from my XT1032 using Tapatalk
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Very nice ! :) :)
Work very fine in my 409/UP2.01 ! :) :)
I have a little question.
I'm sorry if she's already asked!
Is it necessary to run the "random skies" program each time?
Or only if you want to change the type (random, medium, heavy, ...). :-X
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Hi Epervier,
Each time you run the launcher a random sky texture is copied to your *mods* foder(s). If you do not run the launcher, next time you run IL-2 the engine will use the last sky that was copied the last time you run the mod.
So let's say yes, if you want to have different skies each time you run the game, you must run "Random Skies" first, otherwise you will always have the same sky.
But you do not have to use the launcher if you do not want to, magic takes place in the "Random Skies/Files/Random.bat" batch file. You can run this file and get a random sky the same.
This can be further automated and you can create a new batch file to execute Random Skies and then launch the game, the contents of the file could look something like:
@echo off
call "X:\PATH TO YOUR IL-2\#SAS\Random Skies\Files\Random.bat"
start "" "X:\PATH TO YOUR IL-2\il2fb.exe"
exit
Save it to your desktop as IL2.bat in example, and run it. You will get a random sky and launch Il-2. You can also use parameters after Random.bat to use exclusively the light, medium, heavy or custom folders, in example:
call "X:\PATH TO YOUR IL-2\#SAS\Random Skies\Files\Random.bat" medium
I am glad you like it Epervier and thanks spartan for your support :D
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Ok tanks for your reply ! ;)
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Thank you Whistler!
Big Cheers!
(http://media.santabanta.com/newsite/newsmaker/images/beer-party.jpg)
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B.A.T. is born and Random Skies v2.1 sees the light!
- Compatibility with B.A.T.
- Files/QuickLaunch.bat is now included if you do not want to use the executable
- Launcher images folders can be disabled with a minus (-folder). Some tbauchot launcher images replaced with better ones
- New 'Load conf.ini' menu entry. Any custom conf*.ini will be detected.
- Console log and Instant log menu shortcuts reworked to allow any filename and extension. More logs added to the menu.
- Top menu reorganized (again). Improved Folders and Config menus and wider back up options.
The mod is now compatible with B.A.T. and the Launcher is vastly improved, everyone should update regardless of the install you have! First post updated!
(http://www.mission4today.com/uploads/DL2016/64080_random_skies_features.png)
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Many thanks Whistler for your amazing little program which I have had since its first release, installed in CUP and VPM and working perfectly,however I cannot get the program to randomize textures when loaded in BAT. Same sky for every map, only changing if the game is restarted and only once. After much experimentation (downloading new program and reinstalling) I have found the randomizer only works if DEF-SKIES_#WAW2 is disabled not enabled in JSGME as per your instructions. I have not tried other modules yet.
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Tell me flapper, what map does not work? We shall report it to Monty - 99.9% chances it has nothing to do with the mod.
By the way, here you have a couple of launcher images for your respective B.A.T. and VP Modpack installs. Place them in your Random Skies/Images folder if you like them!
(https://www.mediafire.com/convkey/56a0/z1ar3pv09ednl804g.jpg)
(https://www.mediafire.com/convkey/11a5/q4w82j7bdsokqtl4g.jpg)
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Thanks for the Launcher icons Whistler. I tried almost all the QMB maps.
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Here are my test results: B.A.T. WAW EXP6 - DEF-SKIES_#WAW2 enabled in JGSME - Test sky texture
Maps (in order):
BAT_Aleutians: Test sky texture ok
BAT_Ardennes_S: Test sky texture ok
BAT_Balaton_S: Test sky texture ok
BAT_Battle_for_Moscow_A: Test sky texture ok
Maps (random):
BAT_Channel_40A: Test sky texture ok
BAT_El_Alamein: Test sky texture ok
BAT_Slovenia_Summer: Test sky texture ok
BAT_South_VietNam(PS): Test sky texture ok
I won't be testing all maps. Download below the (post-apocalyptic :P) texture I use to run tests, place it in the Random Skies/Textures/Custom folder, run the mod (select Custom skies). Sometimes it is difficult to tell if the sky has changed or not, this test sky will help you identify if the mod is working or not:
https://www.mediafire.com/file/7v7pvvr5vua0iwf/Random_Skies_Test_Texture.zip (https://www.mediafire.com/file/7v7pvvr5vua0iwf/Random_Skies_Test_Texture.zip)
(https://www.mediafire.com/convkey/05d9/9y59v5lfn35cqsv4g.jpg)
Give it a try. If the mod does not change the sky in the maps I tested, then there is definitively something going on in your install... It works fine here.
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Thanks Whistler - though that post-apocalyptic sky will give me nightmares for a week. Can you confirm that all available textures are in the "TB+VP_Sky_Textures_Pack"?
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Yes flapper, all textures found in the posts below are included in the pack:
- tbauchot's New sky textures Part 1 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,44745.0.html) | Part 2 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,44877.0.html) | Part 3 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,45415.0.html) | Part 4 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,45800.0.html) | Part 5 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,46010.0.html)
- vpmedia's Sky textures (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,44767.0.html)
- Light: 18 sky textures
- Medium: 54 sky textures
- Heavy: 22 sky textures
There was a further take from SAS~Tom2 on MTO skies based on vpmedia's (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,46069.0.html) that was NOT included in the pack. I do not think there are many more sky textures around...
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Hi peeps anyone got an alternative d/l for this? M4T has been down for 2 days now??
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Alt download location added to the first post. Yes, the guys over at M4T are having trouble lately. Hope they get the site up again soon and no data is lost...
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Thanks whistler M4T is back up but the original download has been disabled??
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The whole downloads section is still down :-X
More info: www.mission4today.com/index.php?name=ForumsPro&file=viewtopic&t=21872
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Sad news hope they can get it sorted - sounds like a mega task!
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M4T downloads are finally back and it seems all data is still there... congrats guys.
I just uploaded version 2.1b which adds Launcher compatibility with 4.13.3m.
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B.A.T. users will certainly welcome this latest update!
v2.2 introduces a combobox that will be enabled only when the launcher detects more than one mods folder. Use the dropdown list to quickly switch between modules or game types without having to run the IL-2 Selector (you still have to run the IL-2 Selector to play the 'Stock Game' type and change other advanced settings). The Launcher reads the data from the SAS ModAct il2fb.ini and it changes one single key: the game type.
Make sure to check the first post. Simply download and overwrite!
(https://s22.postimg.cc/50j7za9f5/random_skies_features.png)
Dear Mike aka SAS-Storebror, this version is dedicated to you. Kudos to you and your IL-2 Selector that has provided us with so much these years. I by no means pretend to replace any feature found in the Selector. On the contrary it is a shortcut to a feature that is quite common and necessary now in B.A.T.
The dropdown list has been carefully designed to mimic the IL-2 Selector behavior. I understand the IL-2 Selector must have its own life, and as such, this mod will (try to) keep up with any direction you decide the IL-2 Selector must take. Thank you!
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Brilliant update, thank you very much Whistler (http://i650.photobucket.com/albums/uu224/phbrajon/thank_you2.gif). I've tested it on my modact 5.3, VPModpack and BAT installs and everything work flawlessly. For Avast users, you will have false positive malware reports, ignore them, the files are perfectly safe.
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Cheers Korrigan, thanks for confirming all is good!
C.U.P/B.A.T. already implement tbauchot's skies but...
Every IL-2 map comes with its own sky - ALWAYS the same sky for that map. :-X
No matter if it is summer or winter, Monday or Thursday, day or night... ALWAYS the same sky. :-[
You run a campaign on the same map across days, months or years and you ALWAYS get to see the same sky. :-|
All that changes with Random Skies. B.A.T. players must make sure the following mods are enabled in JSGME:
DEF-SKIES_#DOF2
DEF-SKIES_#JTW2
DEF-SKIES_#TGA2
DEF-SKIES_#WAW2
Otherwise you'll keep ALWAYS getting the same sky again and again...
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Thank you for the great app!
Is there a possibility that when running IL-2 Random Skies Launcher.exe does not start the program window, the game immediately started? Is there an entry in launcher.ini?
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Hi Kelso, you can do without the launcher/executable. From the first post and the Readme.txt:
You do not have to use the executable if you do not want to, magic takes place in the "Random Skies\Files\Random.bat" batch file. You can manually run this file and get a random sky the same. I provided for your convenience the file "Random Skies\Files\QuickLaunch.bat" that you can use instead of the executable. It is set by default to change the skies and run IL-2, but you can instruct it to run the IL-2 Selector instead. Open the batch file with a text editor to see possible options. Create a shortcut of the batch file to your Desktop and run IL-2 from there.
Contents of the QuickLaunch.bat:
:: IL-2 Random Skies Mod by whistler
@echo off
call "Random.bat"
:: call "Random.bat" light
:: call "Random.bat" medium
:: call "Random.bat" heavy
:: call "Random.bat" custom
:: call "QMB_Fix.bat"
:: start "" "..\..\..\IL-2 Selector.exe"
start "" "..\..\..\il2fb.exe"
exit
Lines starting with two colons [::] are NOT executed. Open the file with Notepad and set it up to your needs...
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Thanks. All clear. Works as I wanted. Regards...
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25.05: v2.5 - Stay tuned!
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IL-2 Random Skies Mod version 2.5
This last version packs a bunch of cool updates and new features!
Launcher 'Images' folder has been reorganized a little to be more 'visually meaningful'. Be careful when updating to this new version if you customized the Images folder... If in doubt, delete the Images folder before applying this update.
:: General changes and updates ::
- Added 4.13.4 Launcher detection
- Auto.bat
The Launcher will run the file "Files/Auto.bat" every time you run IL-2. The file Auto.bat is not included with the mod (you must create it yourself). Use the Auto.bat file to perform any operation or run any application before launching IL-2. In example (if you know how to do it and what you are doing) you can set the Auto.bat to run your head-tracking or video capture software before launching IL-2...
In example, I use Auto.bat to run opentrack if it is not already running:
qprocess * | find /i "opentrack.exe" >nul 2>&1 && goto :eof || start "" "C:\opentrack\opentrack.exe"
- New Screenshots shortcut entry in the top menu
- New Skin Management entries in the top menu:
1) Create missing skin folders: the script will read your air.ini(s) an create all missing folders from the aircraft slot names.
2) Delete empty skin folders: the script will delete all empty folders.
Since these operations are totally safe you will not get any warning messages.
(https://s14.postimg.cc/3pdg7b4dd/Skin_Management.png)
:: Multiple User Profiles ::
Modular installs such as B.A.T. share the 'Users' folder to store information about your pilots, controls, settings, campaigns progress and other details across eras. The Launcher implements a Profile Manager that allows you to have dedicated profiles for each module/era/game-type.
The Launcher takes care of everything and the process is completely transparent to you and it does not require any management or maintenance. As long as you ALWAYS use the Random Skies Launcher all changes will only apply to the module you are playing. You can now have as many pilots as you like for each different module and you will never lose progress of any campaign again! How cool is that?
In example in B.A.T. we can now have dedicated D.O.F. pilots and run several D.O.F. campaigns:
(https://s12.postimg.cc/uuzaa1l0d/DOF2.jpg)
And switch to J.T.W. (with its own modern-day pilots) and keep playing Jet campaigns:
(https://s9.postimg.cc/433ydoryn/TJW.jpg)
The implementation worked so well during development that all "Profile Management" options and most info messages were removed from the final release. I will explain here how it works in detail.
*** First time use ***
Multi-Profiles are automatically enabled when the Launcher detects multiple modded folders. A window will alert you that Multi-Profiling is enabled.
Run once each module to make sure your current profile replicates to all modules. Exit IL-2 and run the next module. Do not change anything yet. Once you have ran all eras, run each module again and setup each profile to your liking: delete campaigns from other eras, rename or create new pilots...
Remember, you must always use the Launcher from now on to run IL-2. Otherwise the right profile will not load and you risk mixing profiles and losing campaigns progress.
Always run IL-2 from the Launcher. Use the IL-2 Selector to change advanced settings only, do not use the IL-2 Selector to change modules and do not run the "Stock" game (have a separate install for that).
*** How it works ***
On first run the Launcher will backup your current 'Users' folder to 'IL-2 root/Profiles/Users ORIGINAL'. This backup will remain there, untouched, until you uninstall the mod. The new 'IL-2 root/Profiles' folder will be used from now on to store backups of all your different user profiles.
On daily use, when you run the Launcher, it will copy (backup) your current 'Users' profile to 'Profiles/Users LASTMOD' (LASTMOD being the last module you played the last time you ran IL-2). Then the Launcher will delete your 'Users' folder IF it finds in the 'Profiles' folder a backup of the mod you just selected to play. Otherwise this 'Users' folder will be used as your new profile for the module selected. If the Launcher finds a backup, in example Profiles/Users THISMOD', it will copy its contents to your 'Users' profile.
The game always uses the 'Users' folder, but the Launcher makes sure your last profile gets backed up and the next profile gets loaded. Do not mess with the Profiles folder! Just run the Launcher and enjoy multiple dedicated profiles.
*** You messed up? ***
Not a problem: got to Help - Uninstall, follow the instructions and start over. You will have the chance to restore your original 'Users' folder.
*** Do not want to use this feature? ***
Not a problem: set the setting below in the 'Random Skies/launcher.ini':
MultiProfiles=No
:: Sky Randomizer: changes and updates ::
- Compatible with DGen Pack (#DGen mod folder, tested on v2.0.1)
- Compatible with UltraSpain 2017 (#USP mod folder)
- Sky textures can be disabled with a minus character (-texture.tga)
- "Random" option no longer selects textures from the Custom folder, only from the Light, Medium and Heavy folders.
Before moving on, UP3 players please make sure your il2fb.ini contains these lines:
[Modtype_00]
Name=Stock Game
Mods=none
[Modtype_01]
Name=Classic Mod Game
Mods=MODS
[Modtype_02]
Name=SAS Modact 3
Mods=#SAS
[Modtype_03]
Name=UltraPack 3
Mods=#UP#
[Modtype_04]
Name=Dark Blue World
Mods=#DBW
[Modtype_05]
Name=Dark Blue World 1916
Mods=#DBW_1916
UP3 comes by default with an old version of the IL2 Selector and this mod relies heavily on the settings above.
Allow me also to remind that B.A.T. users must enable the following mods in JSGME:
DEF-SKIES_#DOF3
DEF-SKIES_#JTW3
DEF-SKIES_#TGA3
DEF-SKIES_#WAW3
Otherwise you will always get the same sky.
v2.2 introduced a dropdown menu where you can select the module you want to play. This feature has proven pretty solid and the Launcher is now aware of the module you use. It is time now to optimize the scripts and add some experimental features.
A faster, more efficient script
The Launcher did not know before what module you were about to use and it had to copy textures to all potential modules you could use. The script to copy the skies has been greatly improved in this new version and it is now more efficient then ever: the mod will now only copy textures to the module you select. This gets done pretty fast and very efficiently:
- In B.A.T. only one texture and one noise will be copied to the era selected (covering 100% of the maps).
- In any other setup 3 textures and 2 noise files will be copied to the era module (covering 90% to 100% of the maps).
90% to 100% you say? Yes, most of the non-stock maps use the default stock sky textures but a minority of maps will use other textures, and that is why I provide an additional "Extended" support.
If you want to have 100% compatibility for your mod-pack, go to "Files/Extended" and enable (by removing the preceding minus sign) the Extended compatibility for that mod-pack. You must be aware that in order to cover all maps many textures will be copied to your modded folder each time you run the mod.
(https://s17.postimg.cc/5p5rogj4f/Screenshot_661.png)
I do not recommend using Extended compatibility, especially if you plan to use the Sky Timer.
:: The Sky Timer ::
The IL-2 Selector moves to the new "Tools" top menu entry and it gets replaced by the the new Sky Timer. From our dearest tbauchot back from when this mod was born:
I also noticed that it was possible to make a return on the desktop, change a sky with the command :"Random skies.bat" and continue a campaign with a new sky ! Very funny ! ;D
Tested with Dgen and QMB... however, it is necessary to quickly load a QMB mission using another map before getting changes on the previous map. But, no need to restart the game.
Version 2.5 introduces the Sky Timer. The Timer will run in the background and it will change the skies every 10 minutes (by default). Sky textures change in the background but you will see no difference until you play your next mission. Moreover you must use a different map to see new skies: somehow IL-2 caches the map somewhere and the engine completely ignores new textures unless you play a different map. The Timer takes little resources and it will quit and delete all sky textures copied as soon as you exit IL-2.
Use the Timer if you plan to play a long session and many missions, you won't notice it is there! I ran tests where new textures are copied over every 5 seconds and I did not notice any skipping, lag, stutter... nothing. Missions played smoothly.
*** Technical ***
Applications running in the background create controversy. All details about the Timer implementation are found below. If you do not like the Timer, do not use it!
The Timer use native commands of the command-line interpreter on Windows operating systems. It is fast, reliable and takes up very little system resources. The batch file "Files/Timer.bat" will run hidden in the background (cmd.exe process). The Timer will check every X seconds (10 by default) if il2fb.exe is running and the script will end as soon as you exit IL-2.
Note: Windows XP does not come with any native sleep/timeout commands and I found ping to be the best replacement. This command will ping localhost (thus not generating network traffic) to emulate a timeout. Windows Vista and newer Windows versions will use the built-in command Timeout.
Tip: There is a hidden setting that will enable you to see the Timer and the randomizer in action. Open the 'Random Skies/launcher.ini' and set TimerHidden=No
(https://s12.postimg.cc/ykyzwhe31/Screenshot_660.png)
Final thoughts: is the Sky Timer worth using it? Probably not, I created it for myself as proof of concept but the fact remains that it works perfectly well and it is now out there... The Timer is not hard coded in the executable and the possibility to run something in the background while playing is now available. Who knows if someone, some day, will figure out a new use!
The End?
No! Go to the first post, grab your copy of the mod and keep playing and modding IL-2!
That is all for the moment folks, hope you enjoy this new version. See you in the (random) skies ;)
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Thank you Whistler, I have to try the timer, a very interesting feature for my use. I run the same mission over and over (say over 45 minutes...) so a change in sky texture will be very welcome !
You could also have a mission with a refuel/pick up something or someone (like the latest official U-2 missions) and have a different sky on the way back. I am sure you could find a way to time it with CY6 Random Weather/Stormfront for great effect...
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Hi Zoran395, I am afraid the Timer won't work as you expect! A similar example of what you are asking is: will my aircraft skin suddenly change in the middle of a flight? That won't happen!
Sky textures change in the background but you will see no difference until you play your next mission. Moreover you must use a different map to see new skies: somehow IL-2 caches the map somewhere and the engine completely ignores new textures unless you play a different map.
We spend most of the time sitting in the cockpit looking at the sky, and this mod is about sky eye-candy. IL-2 built-in clouds and weather system and other mods such as C&C take very good care of actual weather.
Sorry to disappoint! :P
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No more comments so I take everything is working as expected and advertised!
v2.5.1
Simple is always better, but after a second thought I decided to reinstate Single/Multi profile images to increase awareness of the Multi-Profile feature. If you already downloaded v2.5, simply replace the executable and the Readme with the new ones found in v2.5.1
Review the v2.5 release post (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,47154.msg600278.html#msg600278) for full details about Multi-Profiles.
(https://s8.postimg.cc/p6fjy3upx/Launcher_2.5.1.png)
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You are like the VSM man ... so fast, I did not even have a chance to try 2.5, there is already 2.5.1 !!!
Okay, fair enough I spent my Saturday in GMax/Gimp!
Thank you for your (very thorough) reply, I got tricked by:
Use the Timer if you plan to play a long session and many missions, you won't notice it is there! I ran tests where the skies changed every 5 seconds and I noticed... nothing (on a moderate machine).
which meant background updates of the tga files and not a refresh while playing... I was visualising some kind of fireworks of sky background textures!
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Yes, let's reword the sentence:
"I ran tests where new textures are copied over every 5 seconds and I did not notice any skipping, lag, stutter... nothing. Missions played smoothly."
Intel Core 2 Quad-Core / AMD HD6450 - go figure...
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Installed to my separate BAT & VP installs, worked without any problems.
Thanks very much for this, very nice mod.
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Avira Connect says:
Typ: Datei
Quelle: C:\Users\IL-2\Programme\IL-2 Sturmovik 1946 UP3rc4\jsgmemods\Random Skies\#UP#\Random Skies\IL-2 Random Skies Launcher.exe
Status: Infiziert
Quarantäne-Objekt: 23b95605.qua
Wiederhergestellt: NEIN
Zu Avira hochgeladen: NEIN
Betriebssystem: Windows XP/VISTA Workstation/Windows 7
Suchengine: 8.03.44.92
Virendefinitionsdatei: 8.14.14.176
Gefunden: TR/Muldrop.eaiak
Datum/Uhrzeit: 27.06.2017, 19:33
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whistler says: ;) (from the first post)
The launcher has been completely written by me and compiled with AutoIt, a great and powerful scripting language. As with all powerful languages there comes a downside: virus creation by those with malicious intent. Since every AutoIt-based exe is basically the same exe, false positives run rampant across all kinds of antivirus engines.
I guarantee this mod has been developed and shared with the best intentions and I would never include any code that does not serve the purpose advertised. Up until this day there are zero user reports of any issue of any kind. If the launcher gets blocked by your antivirus, you will have to add the executable to your AV Exclusion List / Whitelist / Safe Zone to unblock it. If for whatever reason you cannot or do not want to use the executable, an alternative solution is provided in the Readme.txt
The Mod does not connect to Internet and it does not change any Windows settings. SAS~Storebror: has proven on reply #21 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,47154.msg524573.html#msg524573) that what I initially shared was not harmful in any way. You can take my word for it or go somewhere else. Download this Mod only from official locations.
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I Love you for this! BEAUTIFUL! What a difference this makes! Thank you so much!
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I love you too cerberus!! ;D
IL-2 Random Skies Mod version 2.6 :: DJ Edition ::
While working on my AmbienceFX mod (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,56000.0.html) (which I by the way will update later on today), I realized music tracks do not play randomly and we end up listening to the same music tracks in the same order over and over again. Here is an attempt to enhance IL-2 music tracks playback order.
(There are more elegant, more efficient and less invasive mods out there to randomize music tracks, in example the excellent Random playback of music (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php?topic=42339.0) by marcost).
(https://s1.postimg.cc/6vnxipgf3/Shuffle_Music-2.6.png)
THESE NEW FUNCTIONS WILL RENAME OR MIX UP YOUR IL-2 MUSIC TRACK FILES. They will get the job done but you have been warned.
IL-2 Menu themes
This option will mix up all tracks found in IL-2/samples/Music/Menu/ In example RU.wav will become DE.wav, US.wav will become JA.wav and so on. B.A.T. users will enjoy this feature. Do not use this function if your menu music tracks relate to the countries (anthems, hymns, marches...)
To hear Menu tracks you must have 'Play Music' enabled and 'Music Volume' up.
Take-off, In-flight & Crash tracks
This option will append unique random numbers in front of the *.wav track filenames found in IL-2/samples/Music/ TakeOff, InFlight and Crash folders. In example, track.wav will become 001_track.wav. This function is folder-recursive but folder names remain unchanged. Stock IL-2 does not come with any Take-off, In-flight or Crash tracks, but you can download some online.
To hear the tracks in-game you must have 'Play Music' enabled, 'Music Volume' up, and:
- Play 'take-off' tracks enabled
- Play 'in-flight' tracks enabled
- Play 'crash' tracks enabled
Radio broadcasts
This option will also append unique random numbers in front of the *.wav track filenames found in IL-2/samples/Music/Radio/. In example, track.wav will become 001_track.wav. This function is folder-recursive but folder names remain unchanged. Stock IL-2 does not come with radio tracks, download some online.
To hear radio broadcasts in-game you must have 'Play Music' enabled, 'Music Volume' up, and use Realistic Navigation. Switch between radio stations (if the mission creator added any) using the pre-defined 'Next beacon' and 'Previous beacon' control keys.
----------------------------------------
I hope you enjoy these new additions. Full v2.6 change log:
v2.6 (16-07-2017)
- Included Auto.bat image to increase awareness of the feature. (Original icon made by Freepik from www.flaticon.com)
- QMB Quicks/.last.quick deletion implemented in the executable. Batch file 'Files/QMB_Fix.bat' no longer needed.
- Added DGen logs detection.
- New 'Shuffle Music' options in the Tools menu.
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To use 2.6, do I just install right over the top of the version I have now? I think that I must have 2.5 (if there was one, and if they are in sequence). Thank you for your help.
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Its just a straight overwrite ol' Navy
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Its just a straight overwrite ol' Navy
Thank you. But I must have done something wrong beforehand. Several of my campaigns (DOF and WAW) and their progress (of course) disappeared. Any idea where they could have gone? Sorry to be such a pain for you guys. Thanks for any advice as to where I can look to restore them if possible? If not, then I can just start them over. Any idea what I might have done? I know this last one is a hard question. I can't remember what I have done earlier this morning, much less what I did start of the day yesterday. Sad but true.
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Hey ol' Navy, we've been there before and everything magically went back to normal... did your campaigns re-appear? They should be exactly where you left them ;)
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Hey ol' Navy, we've been there before and everything magically went back to normal... did your campaigns re-appear? They should be exactly where you left them ;)
Nope, a couple of them just went away. It is the most amazing thing to me. Let me tell you what I think my main problem is - I have two separate installs - one that I play DOF and one that I play WAW. They are on separate drives. Sometime I think I get confused which one is which and that causes me all sorts of headaches. The campaign I "lost" that concerns me the most is one called Black Scorpions. For some reason, it doesn't seem to want to load the P-40E's correctly and always, always ended up with those strange views of the skyline after seeming to load correctly. Then, all of a sudden it worked, my progress was there, all was well. Now, suddenly it's gone again, and I'm back to the way it was, all hosed up. Oh well, no big deal. I have more campaigns than I will be able to play in my lifetime, even without it. I just am perplexed as to what I did wrong. Thanks for your work and your interest and patience.
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Warning! Random Skies v2.5 or higher and B.A.T. v3.0 / v3.1
Folks, if you use the Multiple User Profiles (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,47154.msg600278.html#msg600278) feature, go to IL-2\Profiles folder and rename these folders:
Users #DOF2 -> Users #DOF3
Users #TGA2 -> Users #TGA3
Users #WAW2 -> Users #WAW3
Users #JTW2 -> Users #JTW3
Otherwise your profiles will get mixed up. If you cannot find the IL-2\Profiles folder, forget about this notice.
Current Random Skies version won't work in B.A.T. v3.0 / v3.1. Find a temporal fix below (for v2.5 or higher only) while I put together an official version...
*** EDIT: Fix included in v2.6.1 ***
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Here you go
v2.6.1 (13-08-2017)
- Official compatibility with B.A.T. v3 (#DOF3 #TGA3 #WAW3 #JTW3)
- Included two extra custom textures: ClearSkies.tga & HazySkies.tga
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Just installed this in VP Mod! Awesome little tool Whistler, thank you!
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This hole in the clouds effect has begun happening in about half of the Medium and Heavy textures. Any ideas? BAT 3.1.
(https://s26.postimg.cc/ysrcys17t/2017-09-06_at_11-45-09.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/ihr92gopx/)
(https://s26.postimg.cc/3zu1ugxex/2017-09-06_at_11-34-43.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/s3ktirfvp/)
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Sorry flapper1, didn't see this one.
That has to do with your GPU settings (I think), anti-aliasing or anisotropic filtering perhaps?. Try resetting your video card configuration. I am sure you figured something out already ;)
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Great program! There is also a need to make the program for selection the color of water and the color of the bottom near the coast.
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Great program! There is also a need to make the program for selection the color of water and the color of the bottom near the coast.
Random Seas! lol
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Great program! There is also a need to make the program for selection the color of water and the color of the bottom near the coast.
Very good idea.
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Exchanging a couple of sky textures in one thing but you guys will have to enlighten me: how do you see your idea executed in your mind? How practical is it to change water color in all maps in one go?
This however reminds me it is time for a little update. I have a good bunch of extra "clear" skies sitting here.
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Hi Whistler.
Is Random Skies 2.6.1 compatible with BAT 3.7 Cirque? I'm having some trouble loading the game from the launcher. Thanks for your great works.
lyteyr
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Hi lyteyr, 100% compatible with v3.7 and all maps that come with BAT. Remember to activate DEF-SKIES_#XXX3.
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Roger that. Thank you!
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Speaking of what... time for a little update
~ IL-2 Random Skies Mod v2.7 ~
Just a little maintenance update to include 23 new light sky textures borrowed from Bender's Ultimate Environment 1.0 (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,1786.msg18756.html#msg18756).
Version 2.7 now comes with all Sky textures there are and there is no need to download a texture pack. The mod comes with 41 Light sky textures, 54 Medium textures and 22 Heavy textures. It is safe to update to v2.7: download the mod and copy contents on top of the previous version.
You can download Random Skies v2.7 from Mission4Today:
http://www.mission4today.com/index.php?name=Downloads3&file=details&id=2357 (http://www.mission4today.com/index.php?name=Downloads3&file=details&id=2357)
Changelog:
v2.7 (28-08-2019)
- New launcher icon.
- More Launcher images.
- New 23 light sky textures from Bender.
- The mod now comes with all sky textures. No need to download a pack.
- "Config > Run IL-2 Setup" entry removed.
- Menu option "Load conf.ini" remembers the last conf file used.
- The Launcher allows you to close the il2fb.exe process if it is already
running.
- Compatibility with VP-Modpack JetWar add-on.
- Minor code optimizations.
Oh, and in case you wonder, this new version may trigger false positive antivirus/windows warnings for a few days. Please refer to the "False positive AV alert/blocking (Keep calm and read on)" section in the first post!
(https://i.postimg.cc/XNfG56Qd/Bender.jpg)
See you in the (random) skies! ;D
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Hi Whistler any chance of a mediafire link? M4T is so slow for me!
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Sure, check your PMs for a temporal mediafire link.
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You are a gentleman and a scholar - cheer!!
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My pleasure!
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Wow, with all inclusive v2.7, there is no need for the TB+VP Sky Texture Pack, and compatibility with VP modpack!! As they say in Brooklyn, "such a deal"? Thank You, Whistler!!
lyteyr
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This is a wonderful mod! Thank You, Whistler!! :)
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I am glad you like it, DESPEREAUX ^-^
I don't think there are out there two equal instances of SAS ModAct or VP-Modpack. People mod their games and add new maps and chances are these maps are not supported by Random Skies right out of the box. The only pack I guarantee 99.99% of the maps are supported is BAT. The "DEF-SKIES" format is the way to go.
Slibenli's Graphics Extender (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,58926.0.html) is present and future, and it will eventually render Random Skies obsolete. We may some day turn Random Skies into a mere IL-2 Launcher, we'll see.
Cheers!
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Slibenli's Graphics Extender (https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,58926.0.html) is present and future, and it will eventually render Random Skies obsolete. We may some day turn Random Skies into a mere IL-2 Launcher, we'll see.
I've never gotten the graphics extender mod to work, so no way to compare I suppose. For all that, Random Skies is still one of the most brilliant and useful mods around. It should be used in every install as it adds so much randomness to the weather that otherwise takes too much effort to implement continuously.
Don't undersell the mod.
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Hello! Add some sky textures to your random sky mod for your collection :)
(https://i.postimg.cc/N0G18QPS/2020-02-24-15-06-56.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/4YM7sRGQ)
(https://i.postimg.cc/wvZLdLTY/2020-02-25-16-47-45.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/zbwVCLgx)
(https://i.postimg.cc/zBVKM0Nk/2020-02-26-16-04-11.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/WFcdqmhD)
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Hello! Add some sky textures to your random sky mod for your collection :)
Those are some nice looking sky textures. I was wondering if perhaps you could upload them another way, maybe to Mediafire or such? Google Drive is difficult to use and enervating to try and figure out.
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Thank you very much DESPEREAUX! 8)
I will, in time, add a link in the front page.
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Those are some nice looking sky textures. I was wondering if perhaps you could upload them another way, maybe to Mediafire or such? Google Drive is difficult to use and enervating to try and figure out.
Thanks Whistler! :)
Hello! No problem) I added more textures .. Yesterday, I accidentally learned to make seamless textures))
(https://i.postimg.cc/sgbDvHRq/2020-02-27-13-40-20.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/dhmKfB3j)
(https://i.postimg.cc/VNHTY2Q0/2020-02-27-13-52-44.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/LqLvDCsm)
(https://i.postimg.cc/3R4qW9YS/2020-02-27-15-16-32.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/BL3pVT8H)
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Hello! No problem) I added more textures .. Yesterday, I accidentally learned to make seamless textures))
Thank you very much. Appreciate the uploading to MediaFire ...
Btw, if you have any versions of JASC/Corel Paint Shop Pro starting from the older version Paint Shop Pro 9 and going up through to the newest Paint Shop Pro 2020, it has a very simple built-in seemless tile maker built in to the program itself. Really easy to use, one click with lots of options. I use it for all my map textures.
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I have never had such a program. I only have photoshop) Thank you, I’ll give a look to this program.
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I have never had such a program. I only have photoshop) Thank you, I’ll give a look to this program.
Here's another seemless tile maker, a standalone program. It is somewhat old but works well. Takes a few more steps to make the tiles, but still useful
file:///Z:/Software%20Install%20Files/!!%20No%20Setup%20Needed%20-%20Just%20Copy/Texture%20-%20Seamless%20Texture%20Maker%20Pro/STGPRO/STG-Help.html (http://file:///Z:/Software%20Install%20Files/!!%20No%20Setup%20Needed%20-%20Just%20Copy/Texture%20-%20Seamless%20Texture%20Maker%20Pro/STGPRO/STG-Help.html)
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Many thanks. Link not working me. I'll take a look at Paint Shop Pro, I think it's enough. :)
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These are great, Despereaux. Many thanks.
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These are great, Despereaux. Many thanks.
Good, what do you like ;)
added more interesting patterns
(https://i.postimg.cc/5yVMJvt0/2020-02-28-18-25-36.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/ftBPjVmn)
(https://i.postimg.cc/HWwg2SS7/2020-02-28-18-26-01.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/K48wc5hZ)
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This is very nice. A good looking sky adds so much more realism to the game. :)
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WOW, first time I have come across this utility, really great, thank you very much, really appreciated. 8)
Wishing you all the very best, Pete. ;D
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Delete the file "st_DS_0.tga", along the path B.A.T ModPack \ #SAS \ Random Skies \ Textures \ Light, it is with an error ..
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Since new sky textures are being produced, it is probably a good time to learn about the so called "Noise". You will notice in the Random Skies download, some Bender textures are switched: what looks like the sky is in fact the noise, and the other way around.
I don't know how this works. Probably someone can enlighten us?
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Delete the file "st_DS_0.tga", along the path B.A.T ModPack \ #SAS \ Random Skies \ Textures \ Light, it is with an error ..
... same with "sky-texture_DS-A1.tga" and "sky-texture_DS-M2.tga" (both also are 4097 ko) ...?
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Since new sky textures are being produced, it is probably a good time to learn about the so called "Noise". You will notice in the Random Skies download, some Bender textures are switched: what looks like the sky is in fact the noise, and the other way around.
I don't know how this works. Probably someone can enlighten us?
Some of its textures weigh 65 kb, and they look strange, I myself did not understand how it works))
(https://i.postimg.cc/zfKvfq3p/1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/p9VRGbfn)
(https://i.postimg.cc/J7Pn064w/2.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
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Delete the file "st_DS_0.tga", along the path B.A.T ModPack \ #SAS \ Random Skies \ Textures \ Light, it is with an error ..
... same with "sky-texture_DS-A1.tga" and "sky-texture_DS-M2.tga" (both also are 4097 ko) ...?
Not really, even though they are also without an alpha channel. Well, "sky-texture_DS-A1.tga" is not very good in my opinion, but "sky-texture_DS-M2.tga" is more or less. In fact, I have not yet managed to make a good color texture with an alpha channel. :D
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I finally figured out the alpha channel :banana_dancing_on_computer:
(https://i.postimg.cc/qMbvx4qB/2020-03-03-11-25-42.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/jLfTsVyB)
It turned out to make an interesting color texture
(https://i.postimg.cc/c45qnkJP/2020-03-03-16-25-37.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/fJXg4Kmv)
(https://i.postimg.cc/8CPP9BkG/2020-03-03-21-28-42.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/dhpYTCTN)
https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php?topic=47154.msg698366#msg698366
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Since new sky textures are being produced, it is probably a good time to learn about the so called "Noise". You will notice in the Random Skies download, some Bender textures are switched: what looks like the sky is in fact the noise, and the other way around.
I don't know how this works. Probably someone can enlighten us?
This might help: https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,63186.msg695698.html#msg695698
BTW: It would be easy to implement support for bigger tile sizes in IL2GE.
Currently a cirrus tile covers roughly an area of 50x50km (this is just a rough approximation - if anyone has a more exact number please correct me ;)).
I could support this for example via specially named files like cloud_blabla_200km.tga (for a tile size of 200x200km).
Edit: Or via a config file for each texture like this:
Texture=clouds_blabla.tga
TileSize=100
Altitude=7000
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BTW: It would be easy to implement support for bigger tile sizes in IL2GE.
I could support this for example via specially named files like cloud_blabla_200km.tga (for a tile size of 200x200km).
This is cool of course, if possible, you need to try!
By the way, at the expense of water and FPS, are things still the same?
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... same with "sky-texture_DS-A1.tga" and "sky-texture_DS-M2.tga" (both also are 4097 ko) ...?
[/quote]
All the same, these textures also need to be fixed .. I will fix them and lay them out. They themselves were of poor quality, only 955x955.
Try also three new textures, they will be better ..) I got more experience :)
https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php?topic=47154.msg698366#msg698366
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Hi guys! It turned out an interesting texture .. :D
(https://i.postimg.cc/tT1TpbWM/2020-03-15-14-34-56.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/mzsRy0dY)
(https://i.postimg.cc/QC1dKq6g/2020-03-15-14-27-09.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/RJCBjwxq)
https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php?topic=47154.msg698366#msg698366
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... many THX, will test them asap ...! ;)
At least this Koronavi Ruß thingie gives us more time for flying and testing, and building missions, as there isn't much else to do today, at least here in France ... :D
The country will most probably be locked down in the coming days, like Italy and Spain ... :-X
Take care guys, and don't forget to wear your O2 mask above 3000 m ...! 8)
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Take care guys, and don't forget to wear your O2 mask above 3000 m ...!
Thank you We will try hard! :)
(https://i.postimg.cc/K8VbyHr9/2020-03-15-14-32-53.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/dh8p2nfd)
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A couple more ;D
(https://i.postimg.cc/Tw4Qc9mN/2020-03-16-17-44-46.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/MM1y6191)
(https://i.postimg.cc/GhGwH8nn/2020-03-16-17-39-52.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/svj0L22T)
https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php?topic=47154.msg698366#msg698366
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Thank you for this wonderful upgrade to my favorite sim.
Everything feels brand new :)
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I apologize for my previous comment that I deleted about the “noise” of textures. This was the problem for me .. :-[
https://www.sas1946.com/main/index.php/topic,63541.msg707205.html#msg707205
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Whistler,
I'm going to try out Random Skies on my BAT 3.8.3 install. (Looks awesome, by the way!) Before I do, can you confirm that it's fully compatible with Clouds_New_HD_v3, which I have enabled in JSGME? I've already enabled the four DEF-SKIES_#XXX.
Strawkalling
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One tip about Random Skies for those who seem not to be able to get it to work: set its properties to "Run as Administrator".
Everything seemed to be working with mine, except for two things: It would not launch Il-2 Selector; and it would not launch BAT. After a few days scratching my head, I finally thought of admin rights. I set the property of the exe to "Run as Admiistrator", and now it launches both properly.
This isn't mentioned in either the ReadMe.txt or in the release notes in this thread. Might be useful for any others who did not realise the need.
Strawkalling
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can you confirm that it's fully compatible with Clouds_New_HD_v3, which I have enabled in JSGME?
Yes. Ramdon Skies will eventually overwrite sky textures DESPERAUX might have included in his cloud mods.
One tip about Random Skies for those who seem not to be able to get it to work: set its properties to "Run as Administrator".
Everything seemed to be working with mine, except for two things: It would not launch Il-2 Selector; and it would not launch BAT. After a few days scratching my head, I finally thought of admin rights. I set the property of the exe to "Run as Admiistrator", and now it launches both properly.
This isn't mentioned in either the ReadMe.txt or in the release notes in this thread. Might be useful for any others who did not realise the need.
Strawkalling
Thanks Strawkalling. Was your game located in the "Program Files" folder, by chance?
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Hi, Whistler,
Was your game located in the "Program Files" folder, by chance?
No, I have it in a folder off the root of my C drive.
Strawkalling
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What interesting rainbow clouds
I also decided to try to draw such :D
(https://i.postimg.cc/xCM4YdsC/1-5.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/XGN8kn6S)
(https://i.postimg.cc/C506KVt4/1-6.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/xJsPsB9k)
(https://i.postimg.cc/SNDtm3GW/2020-06-21-04-11-19.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/nC91kdgz)
(https://i.postimg.cc/FHzCzpPw/2020-06-21-04-19-49.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/LJd30tFV)
https://www.mediafire.com/file/8nx1a5z1fls63rv/Random_Skies_Textures.7z/file
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~ DESPEREAUX Top20 Skies ~ (download at the bottom)
My dear DESPEREAUX ,
I have reviewed many (all?) of the sky textures you published these past months, and while I appreciate the effort A LOT - the more options, the merrier - I am sorry to say many aren't up to (my) standards. Constructive criticism ahead, I know you can take it ;)
1) Some textures just don't look good in-game: either because skies are too dramatic or too cartoonish, imho.
Sat images, seriously? ;D
(https://i.postimg.cc/JzKWm6YK/st-DS-N-1.jpg)
2) Many, and I mean way too many skies aren't seamless. This is a shame because many textures look pretty good but had to be discarded. Here are a couple of examples:
(https://i.postimg.cc/mrX09xB6/2020-07-20-14-40-03.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/6Q5kT6Jv/2020-07-19-19-56-27.jpg)
3) Some textures have artifacts and/or the source is of very low resolution, here is a sample:
(https://i.postimg.cc/G28dhF6N/2020-07-19-20-12-33.jpg)
We spend most of the time airborne looking for points of reference in the skies or scanning the skies for enemies and therefore sky textures must be almost perfect, otherwise immersion is gone the moment your detect and artifact or something that doesn't look good or right.
PS: st_DS_N_6.tga causes a CTD because of the wrong size.
HOWEVER.......
DESPEREAUX produced lots of textures and some look great and add interesting new layers to the set of textures we already have and I selected 20 DESPERAUX skies that should be part of every Random Skies install. Get them below!
(https://i.postimg.cc/pXyvQhxk/2020-08-30-13-49-05.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/zGg1Msyg/2020-08-30-13-52-40.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/sD8rTjgz/2020-08-30-13-55-57.jpg)
DESPERAUX_Top20_Skies.zip (https://www.mediafire.com/file/3agpglruhj6ge6m/DESPERAUX_Top20_Skies.zip/file)
Thanks DESPERAUX for your work, I truly appreciate the effort! 8)
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Thanks DESPERAUX for your work, I truly appreciate the effort!
Thank you very much Whistler! ;)
Haven't come here for a long time ..
We spend most of the time airborne looking for points of reference in the skies or scanning the skies for enemies and therefore sky textures must be almost perfect, otherwise immersion is gone the moment your detect and artifact or something that doesn't look good or right.
I am completely with you! Thanks for your work. ;)