Unlocking AI Boats in the Track Editor

A hidden feature in the track editor allows players to add AI boats to their custom races. Before entering the editor, simply:

1. Hover the mouse over “Editors” in the main menu.

2. Hold the right mouse button down.

3. Type “friends” with the other hand.

4. Then release the right mouse button and left click “Editors”

This unlocks the ability to place AI boats on your custom tracks.

Click on "Params" in the editor and you will see the settings for up to 8 AI competitors. The AI opponents will only appear when using Solo player mode, but the tracks can be used in multiplayer mode.

Racing Against Yourself

Another fantastic feature of the Track Editor is the ability to record your own sailing path and then race against your previous performance. Here’s how it works:

1. Create or edit a track.

2. Record your sailing path with a proper start time.

3. Race against your recorded track.

4. You can record multiple paths and race against all of them at once.

This feature allows for endless training possibilities, as you can challenge yourself and refine your sailing skills over time. However, this only works in the track editor and is not available in standard solo race mode.

The Onscreen Protractor is a very useful for plotting race tracks

GBX File Dumper

The GBX File Dumper is a powerful metadata extraction tool originally developed for Trackmania, another Nadeo game. However, it works universally with all race track .Gbx files, including those used in Virtual Skipper 5 (VSK5). By uploading any race track challenge.Gbx file, the tool reveals a wealth of metadata that can provide valuable insights before or during a race.

Key Features:

• Track Creator & Boat Class Identification – Instantly see who designed the track and what boat class it was built for.

• Detailed Race Information – View essential details about the track’s structure and race settings.

• Wind Shift Insights – One of the most strategically valuable features is the ability to see both:

• Wind Shift Angle – The exact degree of shift in wind direction.

• Wind Shift Duration – How long the shift lasts before cycling again.

• Bypasses Password Protection – Even if the track is locked with a password, all metadata remains accessible.

A Tactical Advantage

The GBX File Dumper is more than just a file analysis tool—it’s a racing strategy asset. If you have access to the track file, you can upload it and preview critical race conditions in advance. Understanding the wind shift patterns allows for smarter tactical decisions, such as planning your tacks and gybes around the expected wind changes.

This simple yet powerful tool can make the difference between sailing blind and having an informed race strategy. Whether you're a casual racer or a competitive tactician, the GBX File Dumper provides an edge that can help you stay ahead of the fleet.