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Loading Models

This guide explains how to load W3D models into the viewer.

File Browser

The built-in file browser provides the easiest way to load models.

Opening the File Browser

The file browser opens automatically when launching without arguments:

./VulkanW3DViewer
  • Double-click folders to enter them
  • Single-click a .w3d file to load it
  • Use the path bar to navigate directly
  • Parent directory button goes up one level

Filtering

The file browser automatically filters to show:

  • Directories
  • .w3d files

Other file types are hidden for clarity.

Command Line Loading

Basic Loading

Load a model directly:

./VulkanW3DViewer path/to/model.w3d

With Custom Textures

Specify a custom texture search path:

./VulkanW3DViewer model.w3d -t /path/to/textures

Or using the long form:

./VulkanW3DViewer model.w3d --textures /path/to/textures

Texture Search

By default, textures are searched in:

  1. Same directory as the W3D file
  2. Custom path specified with -t

Supported Model Types

Static Meshes

Simple models without animation or bones.

  • Example: Buildings, props, terrain pieces
  • What loads: Geometry, materials, textures

Skinned Meshes

Models with bone weights for skeletal animation.

  • Example: Infantry, vehicles with moving parts
  • What loads: Geometry, skeleton, bone weights

Hierarchical Models (HLod)

Complex models with multiple LOD levels and sub-objects.

  • Example: Units with multiple components
  • What loads: All LOD levels, bone attachments, aggregates

What Gets Loaded

When you load a W3D file, the viewer parses:

Component Description
Meshes Geometry with vertices, normals, UVs
Materials Shader settings, colors, properties
Textures Referenced texture files
Hierarchy Bone/skeleton structure
Animations Keyframe animation data
HLod LOD configuration and sub-objects
Boxes Collision geometry

Texture Loading

Supported Formats

Format Extension Notes
TGA .tga Most common in C&C Generals
DDS .dds Compressed textures

Texture Search Order

  1. Same directory as the W3D file
  2. Custom texture path (if specified)
  3. Common game texture directories

Missing Textures

If a texture cannot be found:

  • A placeholder magenta texture is used
  • Warning appears in the console
  • Model still loads and displays

Debug Texture Issues

Use --debug to see texture search paths: 

./VulkanW3DViewer model.w3d --debug

Multi-File Models

Some models span multiple files:

  • Main file: Contains HLod and references
  • Mesh files: Individual mesh data
  • Animation files: Separate .w3d files with animations

The viewer automatically resolves references within the same directory.

Loading Errors

Common Issues

File not found
  • Verify the file path is correct
  • Check file permissions
  • Ensure the file exists
Invalid W3D file
  • File may be corrupted
  • File may be a different format
  • Try a different W3D file to verify viewer works
Textures not loading
  • Check texture path with -t
  • Verify texture files exist
  • Check console for missing texture names

Large Models

For very large or complex models:

  • Loading may show progress in console
  • Initial frame may take longer
  • LOD switching helps performance

Next Steps