Expansion overlays allow each expansion to supplement the base asset data
via an assetManifest field in expansion.json, loaded at priority 50 (below
HD packs). The asset extractor gains --reference-manifest for delta-only
extraction. Also fixes CharSections field indices (VariationIndex=4,
ColorIndex=5, Texture1=6) across all DBC layout references.
Replace hardcoded WotLK protocol constants with a data-driven architecture
supporting Classic 1.12.1, TBC 2.4.3, and WotLK 3.3.5a. Each expansion
has JSON profiles for opcodes, update fields, and DBC layouts, plus C++
polymorphic packet parsers for binary format differences (movement flags,
speed fields, transport data, spline format, char enum layout).
Key components:
- ExpansionRegistry: scans Data/expansions/*/expansion.json at startup
- OpcodeTable: logical enum <-> wire values loaded from JSON
- UpdateFieldTable: field indices loaded from JSON per expansion
- DBCLayout: schema-driven DBC field lookups replacing magic numbers
- PacketParsers: WotLK/TBC/Classic parsers with correct flag positions
- Multi-manifest AssetManager: layered manifests with priority ordering
- HDPackManager: overlay texture packs with expansion compatibility
- Auth screen expansion picker replacing hardcoded version dropdown
Nonbinary characters can now choose between masculine and feminine body types in character creation, with real-time preview updates and full appearance customization. Body type preference is saved to character config and persists across sessions. Also reduces character preview drag-to-rotate sensitivity from 0.5 to 0.2 for better control.
Extends gender system beyond WoW's binary male/female to support nonbinary characters with proper they/them pronouns. Implements client-side gender mapping (nonbinary→male) for 3.3.5a server compatibility while preserving player identity through local config persistence. Adds pronoun placeholders ($p/$o/$s/$S) and three-option gender text parsing ($g<male>:<female>:<nonbinary>;) for inclusive quest and dialog text.
- Add race/gender suffix to helmet M2 paths (e.g. _HuM for Human Male)
so helmet models actually load from MPQ archives
- Include bald scalp mesh (submeshId=1) for hairStyle=0 to cover the
hole at the crown of the body base mesh
- Fix CharacterFacialHairStyles.dbc column indices (no ID column, so
cols 0/1/2 for race/sex/variation instead of 1/2/3)
- Convert facial hair DBC values to proper submeshIds by adding group
base (100+, 200+, 300+)
- Hide hair geosets under helmets and replace with bald scalp cap
Render an animated M2 character model in the creation screen using a
dedicated CharacterRenderer with an offscreen FBO. Preview updates on
race/gender/appearance changes, supports mouse-drag rotation, and
composites skin, face, hair scalp, and underwear textures from
CharSections.dbc. Extracts getPlayerModelPath() to a shared free
function in game/character.
Implements a full character creation UI integrated into the existing flow.
In single-player mode, auth screen now goes to character creation before
entering the world. In online mode, a "Create Character" button on the
character selection screen sends CMSG_CHAR_CREATE to the server. Includes
WoW 3.3.5a race/class combo validation and appearance range limits.
