New CaVE Beta Update

It's been a while since I updated CaVE (outside of standard database updates)! I was enjoying taking a break from C# and working on CaVE itself, by instead diving more into LUA scripting and mod development.

That said, this CaVE update is in part the fruit of that labor. Yea, I addressed a few issues that piled up, but the main thing that instigated this update is a result of my Mod work.

CaVE now installs a Information mod. This mod is basically mandatory. It's not even listed in the Mod Management tab. I view it as an extension of CaVE. It's primary purpose is to provide easily discernible information about your CaVE database install in the most appropriate and accessible place possible. Stuff like this is common for mods tools like CaVE, so its about time CaVE did so as well. There is valid reason for it to exist.

In the lower right corner of the loading splash screen, you will now see info about your database install. Including what version of the app the database is for, what CaVE version it was made with, and what mods are installed along with what version of the app they are for. This is all useful information for when issues arrive, as when it comes to debugging... 99% of the process starts with trying to confirm what version of the app you are using versus the version your database was made for, what version of CaVE it was made with, and what mods are installed. Beyond just helping me or whoever might be responding to someone seeking of help, this info staring the user in the face should better help clue them into common issues to solve on their own.

The other major news with this update is not CaVE itself... but my super Mod! DisplayEx!

This mod is now finally available to Level 1 access users. And with that, its in its best form. The mod is a bit delayed than I originally intended. But that's because my knowledge kept growing and I was able to do a better and better job with it. So I hope the wait was worth it!

The plan right now is, yes. As mentioned in my last post... DisplayEx will remain a exclusive mod available only to Level 1 Access users. Even when CaVE is out of Beta. And as a reminder, Level 1 Access is granted only based on my discretion... or for people who support me on Patreon/with donations and also request the access. Patreon/Donation support is not required, but it is the easiest. The best way to put it is, I grant Level 1 access to those who I feel support me and the project the most. This was not intended to be patrons/donators, but has simply been expanded to them as... that in itself is supporting me and the project!

Updated:

• Using new code to locate the SD Card. The card is now IDed by locating the atmosphere folder, instead of using clunky FriendlyName/Description/Manufacturer stuff. As such, the sd_card_device_info setting is no longer used.
• CaVE now includes and installs a mod that will display information about the database version, what version of CaVE it was made with, and mod names/version, on the loading screen.
• The DBINFO file is now to be located down 1 level in the romfs folder. CaVE will automatically move it to that location if it can.
• Fixed a issue with the Hovercraft Wizard crashing when trying to load the Advanced Settings page.
• Installed mods should now be updated when newer versions exist and you update your database version.
• Fixed a crash when trying to use the “Import Preset Game Info” option.
• Fixed a possible crash when changing the loaded database while a Saves scan is in progress.
• Added a Open Database Folder option to the edit menu, for easy access. Particularly useful when adding custom backgrounds for the DisplayEx mod.
• Various attempts at bug fixes.

DisplayEx:

This mod is now available for Level 1 Access users! All 6 system apps are supported. In the case of N64, this replaces the WidescreenEx mod. Please delete that from your \mods\ folder and uncheck it in your mods tab if you have that installed, prior to installing DisplayEx.

Features:

• Enables users to select a new default background image. (must be supplied by the user)
• Users can select a different background image for specific games that will override the default.
• "Fit to ___" options. Fit to Screen scales up the emulator output until all vertical space is filled, while retaining the proportions of the output.
• Replaces the need for the Hide Background mod.  
• Replaces the need for the Hide Player Icon mod.
• Option to hide the SP Banner.
• Replaces and improves upon the Widescreen mod (which itself is now discontinued).

More detailed information and the download links can be found here. https://bitbucket.org/darkakumasprojects/cave/wiki/Mods/DisplayExAs mentioned, Level 1 access is required. I previously pinged everyone I could to offer access. If you failed to respond then... sorry, you missed your chance. Maybe try supporting me on Patreon...