What is a .WAD file?
A .WAD file is a special type of computer file that is used by the video games Doom and Doom II, along with some other games that work like Doom. Think of it as a box that holds different pieces of the game, like the pictures you see in the game (sprites), the maps or levels where you play, and various items you might find while playing. These .WAD files can contain the original stuff that came with the game or new, custom-made content that changes or adds to the game.
To open and use .WAD files, there are several programs available. Some of these programs include Sonic Robo Blast 2, SLADE, the original Doom and Doom II games by id Software, Doom Builder, eXtendable WAD Editor, New WAD Tool, WadAuthor, and Wally. These tools let you look at or change the contents of a .WAD file, whether you're playing the games, creating new levels, or just exploring how the games are put together.
The .WAD files come in two main types: IWAD and PWAD. IWAD files are the main files that contain all the necessary game data to play the game. On the other hand, PWAD files are like add-ons; they can add new levels, graphics, or other elements to the game without changing the original game files. This setup has made it easy for fans and gamers to create and share their own modifications or "mods" to the games, leading to a large community of Doom enthusiasts who make and share their own game content.
Even though Doom and Doom II were released back in the 1990s, the ability to create and use these .WAD files has kept the games alive and popular among fans. Over time, the .WAD file format has evolved, with newer versions being used in other games like Quake and Half-Life, mainly for storing game textures. For editing these newer versions, especially for Quake, a program called Wally can be used.
In summary, .WAD files are an important part of Doom and similar games, allowing for a lot of creativity and customization. With the right tools, anyone can dive into creating or exploring these game worlds in new and exciting ways.
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