One of the aspects that makes Sonic Adventure 2 stand out is its graphics, especially the character models. The game uses a proprietary format called NJS to store the model data, which consists of vertices, normals, textures, materials, weights, bones, and animations. The models are stored in various files within the game's data folder, such as .prs, .bin, .rel, .dll, and .exe. Some of the models are also compressed using a custom algorithm called PRS.
Because of the complexity and obscurity of the NJS format and the PRS compression, ripping the models from Sonic Adventure 2 is not an easy task. However, some dedicated fans have managed to create tools and methods to extract and convert the models to more common formats such as .obj, .dae, or .fbx. In this article, we will review some of these tools and methods and show some examples of model rips from Sonic Adventure 2.
Tools and Methods
There are several tools and methods available for ripping models from Sonic Adventure 2, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most popular ones:
SAModelTools: This is a set of tools written in Cby TGE that can parse, export, import, and edit NJS models from Sonic Adventure 2. It supports both Dreamcast and GameCube versions of the game and can handle PRS compression. It can also export models with their original skeletons and weights intact. However, it does not support animations or vertex colors. The source code and downloads for SAModelTools can be found [here].
SA Tools: This is another set of tools written in Cby MainMemory that can manipulate various data from Sonic Adventure 2, including models. It supports both Dreamcast and GameCube versions of the game and can handle PRS compression. It can also export models with their original skeletons, weights, animations, and vertex colors intact. However, it does not support importing models or editing them. The source code and downloads for SA Tools can be found [here].
Hex Editor: This is a more manual method that involves using a hexadecimal editor such as HxD or Hex Workshop to locate and extract the model data from the game files. This method requires some knowledge of the NJS format and the PRS compression algorithm. It can also be tedious and time-consuming to find and rip all the models from the game. However, it does not require any additional tools or dependencies.
Examples
Here are some examples of model rips from Sonic Adventure 2 using different tools and methods:
Model
Tool/Method
Image
Sonic
SAModelTools
Chao Garden
SA Tools
Eggman
Hex Editor
Conclusion
Ripping models from Sonic Adventure 2 is a challenging but rewarding task that allows fans to appreciate the game's graphics and design in more detail. There are various tools and methods available for ripping models from Sonic Adventure 2, each with its own pros and cons. The choice of tool or method depends on the user's preference, skill, and goal. Regardless of the tool or method, ripping models from Sonic Adventure 2 is a fun and creative way to explore and enjoy the game.
References:
[Sonic Adventure 2 - Wikipedia]
[NJS - Sonic Retro]
[PRS - Sonic Retro]
[Sonic adventure 2 sonic model - Download Free 3D model by smithbrianjr0]
[SAModelTools - GitHub]
[SA Tools - GitHub]
[Chao Garden model rip by MainMemory]
[Eggman model rip by SuperMoonKnight]
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