What is a .VMDL file?
A .VMDL file is a type of model file used specifically in the creation of characters or objects for the video game DOTA 2. These files are generated using the Model Editor, which is part of the Valve DOTA 2 Workshop Tools. The tools are designed to help users modify and enhance the gameplay experience in DOTA 2.
The content inside a .VMDL file is written in plain text and includes detailed descriptions of the model it represents, such as the dimensions and appearance of a character or object in the game. Once a .VMDL file is created, it needs to be compiled into a binary format, known as .VMDL_C, using the Model Editor. This compiled version is the one actually utilized by the DOTA 2 game.
To create a .VMDL file, you start with a basic mesh file, which could be in formats like .FBX, .OBJ, or .DMX. In the Model Editor, you would select the option "File → New VMDL From Mesh File" and then choose the mesh file you want to use. The Model Editor will then generate a .VMDL file that has the same name as the original mesh file. For instance, if you start with a mesh file named "sample.fbx," the resulting .VMDL file will be named "sample.vmdl." The .VMDL file format was introduced with the release of Valve's Source 2 engine, replacing the older .MDL file format used in previous versions of the engine. To open and work with .VMDL files, you will need to use the Valve DOTA 2 Workshop Tools. These tools provide the necessary functionalities to create, edit, and compile .VMDL files for use in DOTA 2.
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