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Benjamin Auquite edited this page Jan 7, 2026 · 38 revisions

KotOR 2DA file format Documentation

This document provides a detailed description of the 2DA (Two-Dimensional array) file format used in Knights of the Old Republic (KotOR) and Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords (KotOR 2). 2DA files store tabular game data in a spreadsheet-like format, containing configuration data for nearly all game systems: items, Force powers, creatures, skills, feats, and many other game mechanics.

Official Bioware Documentation: For the authoritative Bioware Aurora Engine 2DA format specification, see Bioware Aurora 2DA Format.

For mod developers: To modify 2DA files in your mods, see the TSLPatcher 2DAList Syntax Guide. For general modding information, see HoloPatcher README for Mod Developers.

Related formats: 2DA files ARE often referenced by GFF files (such as UTC (Creature), UTI (Item), UTP (Placeable) templates) and may contain references to TLK files for text strings.

Important: While the 2DA file format structure is shared across BioWare's Aurora engine games (including Neverwinter Nights, Dragon Age, and Jade Empire), this documentation focuses exclusively on KotOR and KotOR 2. All 2DA file examples, column structures, and engine usage descriptions ARE specific to these games. References to vendor implementations ARE marked as either KotOR-specific or generic Aurora engine code (shared format).

Table of Contents

file structure Overview

2DA files store tabular game data in a compact format used by the KotOR game engine. files use version "V2.b" and have the .2da extension.

Implementation: Libraries/PyKotor/src/pykotor/resource/formats/twoda/

Vendor References:

See Also:

format

The 2DA file format (version "V2.b") is the representation used by the game engine.

File header

The file header is 9 bytes in size:

Name type offset size Description
file type char 0 (0x00) 4 Always "2DA " (space-padded) or "2DA\t" (tab-padded)
file Version char 4 (0x04) 4 Always "V2.b"
Line Break uint8 8 (0x08) 1 Newline character (\n, value 0x0A)

The file type can be either "2DA " (space-padded) or "2DA\t" (tab-padded). Both ARE valid and accepted by the game engine.

References:

Column headers

Column headers immediately follow the header, terminated by a null byte:

Name type Description
Column headers char[] Tab-separated column names (e.g., "label\tname\tdescription")
null terminator uint8 Single null byte (\0) marking end of headers

Each column name is terminated by a tab character (0x09). The entire header list is terminated by a null byte (0x00). Column names ARE case-sensitive and typically lowercase in KotOR files.

References:

Row count

Name type offset size Description
Row count uint32 varies 4 Number of data rows in the file (little-endian)

The row count is stored as a 32-bit unsigned integer in little-endian byte order. This value determines how many row labels and data rows follow.

References:

Row Labels

Row labels immediately follow the row count:

Name type Description
Row Labels char[] Tab-separated row labels (one per row, typically numeric)

Each row label is read as a tab-terminated string (tab character 0x09). Row labels ARE usually numeric ("0", "1", "2"...) but can be arbitrary strings.

Important: The row label list is not terminated by a null byte (0x00). The reader must consume exactly row_count labels based on the count field. This differs from the column headers which do have a null terminator. The row labels ARE primarily for human readability and editing tools - the actual row indexing in the game engine is based on position, not label value.

References:

Cell data offsets

After row labels, cell data offsets ARE stored:

Name type size Description
Cell offsets uint16[] 2×N Array of offsets into cell data string table (N = row_count × column_count, little-endian)
Cell data size uint16 2 Total size of cell data string table in bytes (little-endian)

Each cell has a 16-bit unsigned integer offset (little-endian) pointing to its string value in the cell data string table. Offsets ARE stored in row-major order (all cells of row 0, then all cells of row 1, etc.). The cell data size field immediately follows the offset array and precedes the actual cell data.

Important: The offsets ARE relative to the start of the cell data string table (which begins immediately after the cell_data_size field). Multiple cells can share the same offset value if they contain identical strings, enabling data deduplication.

References:

Cell data string Table

The cell data string table contains all cell values as null-terminated strings:

Name type Description
Cell strings char[] Null-terminated strings, deduplicated (same value shares offset)

The cell data string table begins immediately after the cell_data_size field. Each string is null-terminated (0x00). Blank or empty cells ARE typically stored as empty strings (immediately null-terminated) or the string "****". The string table is deduplicated - multiple cells with the same value share the same offset, reducing file size.

Reading Process: For each cell, the reader:

  1. Retrieves the 16-bit offset from the offset array (indexed by row_index × column_count + column_index)
  2. Seeks to cell_data_start_position + offset
  3. Reads a null-terminated string from that position

References:

data structure

TwoDA Class

The TwoDA class represents a complete 2DA file in memory:

Reference: Libraries/PyKotor/src/pykotor/resource/formats/twoda/twoda_data.py:77-119

Attributes:

  • _rows: List of dictionaries, each mapping column headers to cell values
  • _headers: List of column header names (case-sensitive, typically lowercase)
  • _labels: List of row labels (usually numeric strings like "0", "1", "2"...)

Methods:

  • get_cell(row_index, column_header): Get cell value by row index and column header
  • set_cell(row_index, column_header, value): Set cell value
  • get_column(header): Get all values for a column
  • add_row(label): Add a new row
  • add_column(header): Add a new column

TwoDARow Class

The TwoDARow class provides a convenient interface for accessing row data:

Reference: Libraries/PyKotor/src/pykotor/resource/formats/twoda/twoda_data.py:850-950

Attributes:

  • label: Row label string
  • cells: Dictionary mapping column headers to cell values

Cell value types

All cell values ARE stored as strings in the 2DA file, but ARE interpreted as different types by the game engine:

  • Integers: Numeric strings parsed as int32 - used for numeric identifiers, counts, and enumerated values
  • Floats: Decimal strings parsed as float - used for calculations like damage multipliers, timers, and percentages
  • ResRefs: Resource references (max 16 characters, no extension) - point to other game resources like models, textures, or scripts
  • StrRefs: String references into dialog.tlk (typically negative values like -1 indicate no reference) - used for localized text display
  • Boolean: "0" or "1" (sometimes "TRUE"/"FALSE") - control feature flags and settings
  • Empty Cells: Represented as "****" - treated as null/undefined by the engine

The game engine parses cell values based on context and expected data type for each column. For example, the appearance.2da file uses integers for model indices, ResRefs for texture names, and StrRefs for race names.

Confirmed Engine Usage

The following 2DA files have been confirmed to be actively loaded and used by the KotOR game engine through comprehensive reverse engineering analysis of swkotor.exe and swkotor2.exe using Ghidra (via Reva MCP server). This analysis examined the actual game executables to identify all 2DA files loaded via Load2DArrays(), CResRef__CResRef() calls, and related loading functions.

Analysis Methodology

The game engine analysis was performed by:

  1. Decompiling swkotor.exe (KotOR 1) and swkotor2.exe (KotOR 2/TSL) using Ghidra
  2. Identifying all Load2DArrays_*() functions and their CResRef() calls
  3. Tracing C2DA::Load2DArray() calls throughout the codebase
  4. Verifying string references to 2DA file names in the executable binaries
  5. Cross-referencing findings with vendor source code (vendor/swkotor.c, vendor/swkotor.h)

KotOR 1 (swkotor.exe) - Confirmed 2DA Files

Core Game Systems:

  • classes.2da - LoadClassInfo() → CResRef("Classes")
  • feat.2da - LoadFeatInfo() → CResRef("Feat")
  • featgain.2da - CSWClass::LoadFeatGain() → CResRef("featgain")
  • skills.2da - LoadSkillInfo() → CResRef("Skills")
  • spells.2da - Load2DArrays_Spells() → CResRef("Spells")
  • exptable.2da - CSWRules::CSWRules() → CResRef("EXPTABLE")
  • xptable.2da - Load2DArrays_XpBase() → CResRef("XPTable")

Character & Appearance:

  • appearance.2da - Load2DArrays_Appearance() → CResRef("Appearance")
  • racialtypes.2da - LoadRaceInfo() → CResRef("RacialTypes")
  • gender.2da - Load2DArrays_Gender() → CResRef("GENDER")
  • portraits.2da - Load2DArrays_Portrait() → CResRef("Portraits")
  • heads.2da - Load2DArrays_Heads() → CResRef("Heads")
  • creaturespeed.2da - Load2DArrays_CreatureSpeed() → CResRef("CreatureSpeed")
  • ranges.2da - CSWRules::CSWRules() → CResRef("Ranges")

Items & Equipment:

  • baseitems.2da - CSWBaseItemArray::Load() → CResRef("BASEITEMS")
  • itempropdef.2da - Load2DArrays_ItemPropDef() → CResRef("ItemPropDef")
  • itemprops.2da - HandleServerToPlayerDebugInfo_Item() → CResRef("ITEMPROPS")
  • upgrade.2da - CSWGuiUpgrade() → CResRef("upgrade")

Objects & Areas:

  • placeables.2da - Load2DArrays_Placeables() → CResRef("Placeables")
  • genericdoors.2da - Load2DArrays_GenericDoors() → CResRef("GenericDoors")
  • doortypes.2da - Load2DArrays_DoorTypes() → CResRef("DoorTypes")
  • traps.2da - Load2DArrays_Traps() → CResRef("Traps")
  • encdifficulty.2da - Load2DArrays_EncDifficulty() → CResRef("EncDifficulty")
  • loadscreens.2da - Load2DArrays_AreaTransition() → CResRef("Loadscreens")
  • modulesave.2da - StartNewModule() → CResRef("modulesave")

Audio & Visual:

  • ambientmusic.2da - Load2DArrays_AmbientMusic() → CResRef("AmbientMusic")
  • ambientsound.2da - Load2DArrays_AmbientSound() → CResRef("AmbientSound")
  • footstepsounds.2da - Load2DArrays_FootstepSounds() → CResRef("FootstepSounds")
  • appearancesndset.2da - Load2DArrays_AppearanceSounds() → CResRef("AppearanceSounds")
  • weaponsounds.2da - Load2DArrays_WeaponSounds() → CResRef("WeaponSounds")
  • placeablesounds.2da - Load2DArrays_PlaceableSounds() → CResRef("PlaceableSounds")
  • camerastyle.2da - Load2DArrays_CameraStyle() → CResRef("CameraStyle")
  • surfacemat.2da - Load2DArrays_SurfaceMaterial() → CResRef("SurfaceMaterial")
  • visualeffects.2da - Load2DArrays_VisualEffect() → CResRef("VisualEffect")
  • videoeffects.2da - Load2DArrays_VideoEffects() → CResRef("VideoEffects")
  • dialoganimations.2da - Load2DArrays_DialogAnimations() → CResRef("DialogAnimations")
  • cursors.2da - Load2DArrays_Cursor() → CResRef("cursors")

Item Properties (IPRP):

  • iprp_abilities.2da - Load2DArrays_IPRPAbilities() → CResRef("IPRP_ABILITIES")
  • iprp_acmodtype.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_ACMODTYPE")
  • iprp_aligngrp.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_ALIGNGRP")
  • iprp_ammotype.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_AMMOTYPE")
  • iprp_combatdam.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_COMBATDAM")
  • iprp_costtable.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_COSTTABLE")
  • iprp_damagecost.2da - Load2DArrays_IPRPDamage() → CResRef("IPRP_DAMAGECOST")
  • iprp_damagetype.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_DAMAGETYPE")
  • iprp_immunity.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_IMMUNITY")
  • iprp_lightcol.2da - Load2DArrays_LightColor() → CResRef("LightColor")
  • iprp_meleecost.2da - Load2DArrays_IPRPMelee() → CResRef("IPRP_MeleeCost")
  • iprp_mosterhit.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_MONSTERHIT")
  • iprp_onhit.2da - Load2DArrays_OnHit() → CResRef("IPRP_ONHIT")
  • iprp_paramtable.2da - LoadIPRPParamTables() → CResRef("IPRP_PARAMTABLE")
  • iprp_protection.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_PROTECTION")
  • iprp_saveelement.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_SAVEELEMENT")
  • iprp_savingthrow.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_SAVINGTHROW")
  • iprp_walk.2da - LoadIPRPCostTables() → CResRef("IPRP_WALK")

Factions & Reputation:

  • repute.2da - Load2DArrays_Repute() → CResRef("Repute")

Game Systems:

  • plot.2da - Load2DArrays_PlotXP() → CResRef("Plot")
  • planetary.2da - Load2DArrays_Planetary() → CResRef("Planetary")
  • loadscreenhints.2da - CClientExoAppInternal::GetNextLoadScreenHintSTRREF() → CResRef("loadscreenhints")
  • movies.2da - Load2DArrays_Movies() → CResRef("Movies")
  • globalcat.2da - CSWGlobalVariableTable::ReadCatalogue() → CResRef("globalcat")
  • tutorial.2da - Load2DArrays_Tutorial() → CResRef("Tutorial")
  • difficultyopt.2da - Load2DArrays_DifficultyOptions() → CResRef("DifficultyOptions")
  • gamma.2da - Load2DArrays_Gamma() → CResRef("Gamma")
  • statescripts.2da - Load2DArrays_StateScripts() → CResRef("StateScripts")
  • poison.2da - Load2DArrays_Poison() → CResRef("Poison")
  • disease.2da - Load2DArrays_Disease() → CResRef("Disease")
  • repaadjustments.2da - Load2DArrays_RepAdjustments() → CResRef("RepAdjustments")
  • fractionalcr.2da - Load2DArrays_FractionalCR() → CResRef("FractionalCR")
  • regeneration.2da - Load2DArrays_Regeneration() → CResRef("Regeneration")
  • ammunitiontypes.2da - Load2DArrays_AmmunitionTypes() → CResRef("AmmunitionTypes")
  • keymap.2da - Load2DArrays_Keymap() → CResRef("Keymap")
  • bindablekeys.2da - Load2DArrays_BindableKey() → CResRef("BindableKey")

KotOR 2/TSL (swkotor2.exe) - Additional 2DA Files

The following 2DA files are loaded in KotOR 2 but not in KotOR 1:

  • emotion.2da - FUN_00612fb0() → CResRef("Emotion")
  • facialanim.2da - FUN_005e6ac0() → CResRef("FacialAnim")
  • subrace.2da - FUN_00612ab0() → CResRef("Subrace")
  • soundset.2da - FUN_006ce0c0() → CResRef("SoundSet")
  • pazaakdecks.2da - FUN_00754f60() → CResRef("PazaakDecks")
  • upcrystals.2da - FUN_00730970() → CResRef("upcrystals")
  • iprp_monstcost.2da - FUN_00611120() → CResRef("IPRP_MONSTCOST")
  • iprp_bonuscost.2da - FUN_006111c0() → CResRef("IPRP_BONUSCOST")
  • iprp_srcost.2da - FUN_00611260() → CResRef("IPRP_SRCOST")
  • iprp_neg5cost.2da - FUN_00611300() → CResRef("IPRP_NEG5COST")
  • iprp_onhitdur.2da - FUN_006114e0() → CResRef("IPRP_ONHITDUR")
  • iprp_pc.2da - FUN_00612b50() → CResRef("IPRP_PC")

Note: All files listed above have been verified through decompilation analysis of the game executables. Function names in swkotor2.exe are obfuscated (shown as FUN_* addresses), but the 2DA file loading calls have been confirmed. Files documented below that are not listed here may be remnants from Neverwinter Nights (NWN), unused by the game engine, or used in ways not yet identified.

Known 2DA files

This section documents all known 2DA files used in KotOR and KotOR 2, organized by category. Each entry includes engine usage, column definitions, and data structure details.

Character & Combat 2DA files

appearance.2da

Engine Usage: The appearance.2da file is one of the most critical 2DA files in KotOR. It maps appearance IDs (used in creature templates and character creation) to 3D model ResRefs, texture assignments, race associations, and physical properties. The engine uses this file when loading creatures, determining which model and textures to display, calculating hit detection, and managing character animations.

Row index: Appearance ID (integer, typically 0-based)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label String (optional) Human-readable label for the appearance
modeltype string model type identifier (e.g., "F", "B", "P")
modela through modeln ResRef (optional) model ResRefs for different body parts or variations (models a-n)
texa through texn ResRef (optional) texture ResRefs for different body parts (textures a-n)
texaevil, texbevil, texievil, texlevil, texnevil ResRef (optional) Dark side variant textures
race ResRef (optional) Race identifier ResRef
racetex ResRef (optional) Race-specific texture ResRef
racialtype Integer Numeric racial type identifier
normalhead Integer (optional) Default head appearance ID
backuphead Integer (optional) Fallback head appearance ID
portrait ResRef (optional) Portrait image ResRef
skin ResRef (optional) Skin texture ResRef
headtexe, headtexg, headtexve, headtexvg ResRef (optional) Head texture variations
headbone String (optional) Bone name for head attachment
height Float Character height multiplier
hitdist Float Hit detection distance
hitradius Float Hit detection radius
sizecategory Integer size category (affects combat calculations)
moverate string Movement rate identifier
walkdist Float Walking distance threshold
rundist Float Running distance threshold
prefatckdist Float Preferred attack distance
creperspace Float Creature personal space radius
perspace Float Personal space radius
cameraspace Float (optional) Camera space offset
cameraheightoffset String (optional) Camera height offset
targetheight string Target height for combat
perceptiondist Integer Perception distance
headArcH Integer Head horizontal arc angle
headArcV Integer Head vertical arc angle
headtrack Boolean Whether head tracking is enabled
hasarms Boolean Whether creature has arms
haslegs Boolean Whether creature has legs
groundtilt Boolean Whether ground tilt is enabled
footsteptype Integer (optional) Footstep sound type
footstepsound ResRef (optional) Footstep sound ResRef
footstepvolume Boolean Whether footstep volume is enabled
armorSound ResRef (optional) Armor sound effect ResRef
combatSound ResRef (optional) Combat sound effect ResRef
soundapptype Integer (optional) Sound appearance type
bloodcolr string Blood color identifier
deathvfx Integer (optional) Death visual effect ID
deathvfxnode String (optional) Death VFX attachment node
fadedelayondeath Boolean (optional) Whether to fade on death
destroyobjectdelay Boolean (optional) Whether to delay object destruction
disableinjuredanim Boolean (optional) Whether to disable injured animations
abortonparry Boolean Whether to abort on parry
freelookeffect Integer (optional) Free look effect ID
equipslotslocked Integer (optional) Locked equipment slot flags
weaponscale String (optional) Weapon scale multiplier
wingTailScale Boolean Whether wing/tail scaling is enabled
helmetScaleF String (optional) Female helmet scale
helmetScaleM String (optional) Male helmet scale
envmap ResRef (optional) Environment map texture ResRef
bodyBag Integer (optional) Body bag appearance ID
stringRef Integer (optional) string reference for appearance name
driveaccl Integer Vehicle drive acceleration
drivemaxspeed Float Vehicle maximum speed
driveanimwalk Float Vehicle walk animation speed
driveanimrunPc Float PC vehicle run animation speed
driveanimrunXbox Float Xbox vehicle run animation speed

Column Details:

The appearance.2da file contains a comprehensive set of columns for character appearance configuration. The complete column list is parsed by reone's appearance parser:

  • model columns: modela through modeln (14 model variations)
  • texture columns: texa through texn (14 texture variations)
  • Evil texture columns: texaevil, texbevil, texievil, texlevil, texnevil
  • Head texture columns: headtexe, headtexg, headtexve, headtexvg
  • Movement: walkdist, rundist, prefatckdist, moverate
  • Physical properties: height, hitdist, hitradius, sizecategory, perceptiondist
  • Personal space: perspace, creperspace
  • Camera: cameraspace, cameraheightoffset, targetheight
  • Head tracking: headArcH, headArcV, headtrack
  • Body parts: hasarms, haslegs, groundtilt, wingTailScale
  • Footsteps: footsteptype, footstepsound, footstepvolume
  • Sounds: armorSound, combatSound, soundapptype
  • Visual effects: deathvfx, deathvfxnode, fadedelayondeath, freelookeffect
  • Equipment: equipslotslocked, weaponscale, helmetScaleF, helmetScaleM
  • textures: envmap, skin, portrait, race, racetex, racialtype
  • Heads: normalhead, backuphead, headbone
  • Vehicle: driveaccl, drivemaxspeed, driveanimwalk, driveanimrunPc, driveanimrunXbox
  • Other: bloodcolr, bodyBag, stringRef, abortonparry, destroyobjectdelay, disableinjuredanim

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

baseitems.2da

Engine Usage: Defines base item types that form the foundation for all items in the game. Each row represents a base item type (weapon, armor, shield, etc.) with properties like damage dice, weapon categories, equipment slots, and item flags. The engine uses this file to determine item behavior, combat statistics, and equipment compatibility.

Row index: Base item ID (integer)

Column structure (columns accessed by reone):

Column Name type Description
label string Item type label
name StrRef string reference for item type name
basecost Integer Base gold cost
stacking Integer Stack size limit
invslotwidth Integer Inventory slot width
invslotheight Integer Inventory slot height
canrotateicon Boolean Whether icon can be rotated in inventory
itemclass Integer Item class identifier
weapontype Integer Weapon type (if weapon)
weaponsize Integer Weapon size category
weaponwield Integer Wield type (one-handed, two-handed, etc.)
damagedice Integer Damage dice count
damagedie Integer Damage die size
damagebonus Integer Base damage bonus
damagetype Integer Damage type flags
weaponmattype Integer Weapon material type
weaponsound Integer Weapon sound type
ammunitiontype Integer Ammunition type required
rangedweapon Boolean Whether item is a ranged weapon
maxattackrange Integer Maximum attack range
preferredattackrange Integer Preferred attack range
attackmod Integer Attack modifier
damagebonusfeat Integer Feat ID for damage bonus
weaponfocustype Integer Weapon focus type
weaponfocusfeat Integer Weapon focus feat ID
description StrRef string reference for item description
icon ResRef Icon image ResRef
equipableslots Integer Equipment slot flags
model1 through model6 ResRef (optional) 3D model ResRefs for different variations
partenvmap ResRef (optional) Partial environment map texture
defaultmodel ResRef (optional) Default model ResRef
defaulticon ResRef (optional) Default icon ResRef
container Boolean Whether item is a container
weapon Boolean Whether item is a weapon
armor Boolean Whether item is armor
chargesstarting Integer Starting charges (for usable items)
costpercharge Integer Cost per charge to recharge
addcost Integer Additional cost modifier
stolen Boolean Whether item is marked as stolen
minlevel Integer Minimum level requirement
stacking Integer Maximum stack size
reqfeat0 through reqfeat3 Integer (optional) Required feat IDs
reqfeatcount0 through reqfeatcount3 Integer (optional) Required feat counts
reqclass Integer (optional) Required class ID
reqrace Integer (optional) Required race ID
reqalign Integer (optional) Required alignment
reqdeity Integer (optional) Required deity ID
reqstr Integer (optional) Required strength
reqdex Integer (optional) Required dexterity
reqint Integer (optional) Required intelligence
reqwis Integer (optional) Required wisdom
reqcon Integer (optional) Required constitution
reqcha Integer (optional) Required charisma

Column Details (from reone implementation):

The following columns ARE accessed by the reone engine:

  • maxattackrange: Maximum attack range for ranged weapons
  • crithitmult: Critical hit multiplier
  • critthreat: Critical threat range
  • damageflags: Damage type flags
  • dietoroll: Damage die size
  • equipableslots: Equipment slot flags (hex integer)
  • itemclass: Item class identifier (string)
  • numdice: Number of damage dice
  • weapontype: Weapon type identifier
  • weaponwield: Weapon wield type (one-handed, two-handed, etc.)
  • bodyvar: Body variation for armor
  • ammunitiontype: Ammunition type ID (used to look up ammunitiontypes.2da)

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

classes.2da

Engine Usage: Defines character classes with their progression tables, skill point calculations, hit dice, saving throw progressions, and feat access. The engine uses this file to determine class abilities, skill point allocation, and level progression mechanics.

Row index: Class ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Class label
name StrRef string reference for class name
description StrRef string reference for class description
hitdie Integer Hit dice size (d6, d8, d10, etc.)
skillpointbase Integer Base skill points per level
skillpointbonus Integer Intelligence bonus skill points
attackbonus string Attack bonus progression table reference
savingthrow string Saving throw progression table reference
savingthrowtable string Saving throw table filename
spellgaintable string Spell/Force power gain table reference
spellknowntable string Spell/Force power known table reference
primaryability Integer Primary ability score for class
preferredalignment Integer Preferred alignment
alignrestrict Integer Alignment restrictions
classfeat Integer Class-specific feat ID
classskill Integer Class skill flags
skillpointmaxlevel Integer Maximum level for skill point calculation
spellcaster Integer Spellcasting level (0 = non-caster)
spellcastingtype Integer Spellcasting type identifier
spelllevel Integer Maximum spell level
spellbook ResRef (optional) Spellbook ResRef
icon ResRef Class icon ResRef
portrait ResRef (optional) Class portrait ResRef
startingfeat0 through startingfeat9 Integer (optional) Starting feat IDs
startingpack Integer (optional) Starting equipment pack ID
description StrRef Class description string reference

Column Details (from reone implementation):

The following columns ARE accessed by the reone engine:

  • name: string reference for class name
  • description: string reference for class description
  • hitdie: Hit dice size
  • skillpointbase: Base skill points per level
  • str, dex, con, int, wis, cha: Default ability scores
  • skillstable: Skills table reference (used to check class skills in skills.2da)
  • savingthrowtable: Saving throw table reference (e.g., cls_savthr_jedi_guardian)
  • attackbonustable: Attack bonus table reference (e.g., cls_atk_jedi_guardian)

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

feat.2da

Engine Usage: Defines all feats available in the game, including combat feats, skill feats, Force feats, and class-specific abilities. The engine uses this file to determine feat prerequisites, effects, and availability during character creation and level-up.

Row index: Feat ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Feat label
name StrRef string reference for feat name
description StrRef string reference for feat description
icon ResRef Feat icon ResRef
takentext StrRef string reference for "feat taken" message
prerequisite Integer (optional) Prerequisite feat ID
minattackbonus Integer (optional) Minimum attack bonus requirement
minstr Integer (optional) Minimum strength requirement
mindex Integer (optional) Minimum dexterity requirement
minint Integer (optional) Minimum intelligence requirement
minwis Integer (optional) Minimum wisdom requirement
mincon Integer (optional) Minimum constitution requirement
mincha Integer (optional) Minimum charisma requirement
minlevel Integer (optional) Minimum character level
minclasslevel Integer (optional) Minimum class level
minspelllevel Integer (optional) Minimum spell level
spellid Integer (optional) Required spell ID
successor Integer (optional) Successor feat ID (for feat chains)
maxrank Integer (optional) Maximum rank for stackable feats
minrank Integer (optional) Minimum rank requirement
masterfeat Integer (optional) Master feat ID
targetself Boolean Whether feat targets self
orreqfeat0 through orreqfeat4 Integer (optional) Alternative prerequisite feat IDs
reqskill Integer (optional) Required skill ID
reqskillrank Integer (optional) Required skill rank
constant Integer (optional) Constant value for feat calculations
toolscategories Integer (optional) Tool categories flags
effecticon ResRef (optional) Effect icon ResRef
effectdesc StrRef (optional) Effect description string reference
effectcategory Integer (optional) Effect category identifier
allclassescanuse Boolean Whether all classes can use this feat
category Integer Feat category identifier
maxcr Integer (optional) Maximum challenge rating
spellid Integer (optional) Associated spell ID
usesperday Integer (optional) Uses per day limit
masterfeat Integer (optional) Master feat ID for feat trees

Column Details (from reone implementation):

The following columns ARE accessed by the reone engine:

  • name: string reference for feat name
  • description: string reference for feat description
  • icon: Icon ResRef
  • mincharlevel: Minimum character level (hex integer)
  • prereqfeat1: Prerequisite feat ID 1 (hex integer)
  • prereqfeat2: Prerequisite feat ID 2 (hex integer)
  • successor: Successor feat ID (hex integer)
  • pips: Feat pips/ranks (hex integer)
  • allclassescanuse: Boolean - whether all classes can use this feat
  • masterfeat: Master feat ID
  • orreqfeat0 through orreqfeat4: Alternative prerequisite feat IDs
  • hostilefeat: Boolean - whether feat is hostile
  • category: Feat category identifier

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

skills.2da

Engine Usage: Defines all skills available in the game, including which classes can use them, their KEY ability scores, and skill descriptions. The engine uses this file to determine skill availability, skill point costs, and skill checks.

Row index: Skill ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Skill label
name StrRef string reference for skill name
description StrRef string reference for skill description
keyability Integer KEY ability score (STR, DEX, INT, etc.)
armorcheckpenalty Boolean Whether armor check penalty applies
allclassescanuse Boolean Whether all classes can use this skill
category Integer Skill category identifier
maxrank Integer Maximum skill rank
untrained Boolean Whether skill can be used untrained
constant Integer (optional) Constant modifier
hostileskill Boolean Whether skill is hostile
icon ResRef (optional) Skill icon ResRef

Column Details (from reone implementation):

The following columns ARE accessed by the reone engine:

  • name: string reference for skill name
  • description: string reference for skill description
  • icon: Icon ResRef
  • Dynamic class skill columns: For each class, there is a column named {classname}_class (e.g., jedi_guardian_class) that contains 1 if the skill is a class skill for that class
  • droidcanuse: Boolean - whether droids can use this skill
  • npccanuse: Boolean - whether NPCs can use this skill

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

spells.2da

Engine Usage: Defines all Force powers (and legacy spell entries) in KotOR, including their costs, targeting modes, visual effects, and descriptions. The engine uses this file to determine Force power availability, casting requirements, and effects. Note: KotOR uses Force powers rather than traditional D&D spells, though the file structure is inherited from the Aurora engine (originally designed for Neverwinter Nights).

Row index: Spell ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Spell label
name StrRef string reference for spell name
school Integer Spell school identifier
range Integer Spell range type
vs Integer Versus type (self, touch, etc.)
metamagic Integer Metamagic flags
targettype Integer Target type flags
impactscript ResRef (optional) Impact script ResRef
innate Integer Innate Force power level (0 = not available)
conjtime Float Casting/conjuration time
conjtimevfx Integer (optional) Casting time visual effect
conjheadvfx Integer (optional) Casting head visual effect
conjhandvfx Integer (optional) Casting hand visual effect
conjgrndvfx Integer (optional) Casting ground visual effect
conjcastvfx Integer (optional) Casting visual effect
conjimpactscript ResRef (optional) Conjuration impact script
conjduration Float Conjuration duration
conjrange Integer Conjuration range
conjca Integer Conjuration casting animation
conjca2 through conjca50 Integer (optional) Additional casting animations (numbered 2-50)
hostilesetting Integer Hostile setting flags
featid Integer (optional) Associated feat ID
counter1 Integer (optional) Counter spell ID 1
counter2 Integer (optional) Counter spell ID 2
counter3 Integer (optional) Counter spell ID 3
projectile ResRef (optional) Projectile model ResRef
projectilesound ResRef (optional) Projectile sound ResRef
projectiletype Integer Projectile type identifier
projectileorient Integer Projectile orientation
projectilepath Integer Projectile path type
projectilehoming Boolean Whether projectile homes on target
projectilemodel ResRef (optional) Projectile 3D model ResRef
projectilemodel2 through projectilemodel50 ResRef (optional) Additional projectile models (numbered 2-50)
icon ResRef Spell icon ResRef
icon2 through icon50 ResRef (optional) Additional icons (numbered 2-50)
description StrRef Spell description string reference
altmessage StrRef (optional) Alternative message string reference
usewhencast Integer Use when cast flags
blood Boolean Whether spell causes blood effects
concentration Integer Concentration check DC
immunitytype Integer Immunity type identifier
immunitytype2 through immunitytype50 Integer (optional) Additional immunity types (numbered 2-50)
immunityitem Integer Immunity item type
immunityitem2 through immunityitem50 Integer (optional) Additional immunity items (numbered 2-50)

Column Details (from reone implementation):

The following columns ARE accessed by the reone engine:

  • name: string reference for spell name
  • spelldesc: string reference for spell description (note: column name is spelldesc, not description)
  • iconresref: Icon ResRef (note: column name is iconresref, not icon)
  • pips: Spell pips/ranks (hex integer)
  • conjtime: Conjuration/casting time
  • casttime: Cast time
  • catchtime: Catch time
  • conjanim: Conjuration animation type (e.g., "throw", "up")
  • hostilesetting: Hostile setting flags
  • projectile: Projectile ResRef
  • projectileHook: Projectile hook point
  • projectileOrigin: Projectile origin point
  • projectileTarget: Projectile target point
  • projectileCurve: Projectile curve type
  • projmodel: Projectile model ResRef
  • range: Spell range
  • impactscript: Impact script ResRef
  • casthandvisual: Cast hand visual effect

Note: The spells.2da file contains many optional columns for projectile models, icons, and immunity types (numbered 1-50). These ARE used for spell variations and visual effects.

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

Items & Properties 2DA files

itemprops.2da

Engine Usage: Master table defining all item property types available in the game. Each row represents a property type (damage bonuses, ability score bonuses, skill bonuses, etc.) with their cost calculations and effect parameters. The engine uses this file to determine item property costs, effects, and availability.

Row index: Item property ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property label
name StrRef string reference for property name
costtable string Cost calculation table reference
param1 string Parameter 1 label
param2 string Parameter 2 label
subtype Integer Property subtype identifier
costvalue Integer Base cost value
param1value Integer Parameter 1 default value
param2value Integer Parameter 2 default value
description StrRef Property description string reference

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

iprp_damagecost.2da

Engine Usage: Defines cost calculations for damage bonus item properties. Used to determine item property costs based on damage bonus values.

Row index: Damage bonus value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Damage bonus label
cost Integer Cost for this damage bonus value

References:

PyKotor:

Objects & Area 2DA files

placeables.2da

Engine Usage: Defines placeable objects (containers, usable objects, interactive elements) with their models, properties, and behaviors. The engine uses this file when loading placeable objects in areas, determining their models, hit detection, and interaction properties.

Row index: Placeable type ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label String (optional) Placeable type label
modelname ResRef (optional) 3D model ResRef
strref Integer string reference for placeable name
bodybag Boolean Whether placeable can contain bodies
canseeheight Float Can-see height for line of sight
hitcheck Boolean Whether hit detection is enabled
hostile Boolean Whether placeable is hostile
ignorestatichitcheck Boolean Whether to ignore static hit checks
lightcolor String (optional) Light color RGB values
lightoffsetx String (optional) Light X offset
lightoffsety String (optional) Light Y offset
lightoffsetz String (optional) Light Z offset
lowgore String (optional) Low gore model ResRef
noncull Boolean Whether to disable culling
preciseuse Boolean Whether precise use is enabled
shadowsize Boolean Whether shadow size is enabled
soundapptype Integer (optional) Sound appearance type
usesearch Boolean Whether placeable can be searched

Column Details:

The complete column structure is defined in reone's placeables parser:

  • label: Optional label string
  • modelname: 3D model ResRef
  • strref: string reference for placeable name
  • bodybag: Boolean - whether placeable can contain bodies
  • canseeheight: Float - can-see height for line of sight
  • hitcheck: Boolean - whether hit detection is enabled
  • hostile: Boolean - whether placeable is hostile
  • ignorestatichitcheck: Boolean - whether to ignore static hit checks
  • lightcolor: Optional string - light color RGB values
  • lightoffsetx: Optional string - light X offset
  • lightoffsety: Optional string - light Y offset
  • lightoffsetz: Optional string - light Z offset
  • lowgore: Optional string - low gore model ResRef
  • noncull: Boolean - whether to disable culling
  • preciseuse: Boolean - whether precise use is enabled
  • shadowsize: Boolean - whether shadow size is enabled
  • soundapptype: Optional integer - sound appearance type
  • usesearch: Boolean - whether placeable can be searched

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

genericdoors.2da

Engine Usage: Defines door types with their models, animations, and properties. The engine uses this file when loading doors in areas, determining which model to display and how the door behaves.

Row index: Door type ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Door type label
modelname ResRef 3D model ResRef
name String (optional) Door type name
strref Integer (optional) string reference for door name
blocksight Boolean Whether door blocks line of sight
nobin Boolean Whether door has no bin (container)
preciseuse Boolean Whether precise use is enabled
soundapptype Integer (optional) Sound appearance type
staticanim String (optional) Static animation ResRef
visiblemodel Boolean Whether model is visible

Column Details:

The complete column structure is defined in reone's genericdoors parser:

  • label: Door type label
  • modelname: 3D model ResRef
  • name: Optional door type name string
  • strref: Optional integer - string reference for door name
  • blocksight: Boolean - whether door blocks line of sight
  • nobin: Boolean - whether door has no bin (container)
  • preciseuse: Boolean - whether precise use is enabled
  • soundapptype: Optional integer - sound appearance type
  • staticanim: Optional string - static animation ResRef
  • visiblemodel: Boolean - whether model is visible

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

doortypes.2da

Engine Usage: Defines door type configurations and their properties. The engine uses this file to determine door type names, models, and behaviors.

Row index: Door type ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Door type label
stringrefgame StrRef string reference for door type name
model ResRef model ResRef for the door type
Additional columns Various Door type properties

References:

soundset.2da

Engine Usage: Maps sound set IDs to voice set assignments for characters. The engine uses this file to determine which voice lines to play for characters based on their sound set.

Row index: Sound set ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Sound set label
resref ResRef sound set files ResRef (e.g., c_human_m_01)

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

Visual Effects & animations 2DA files

visualeffects.2da

Engine Usage: Defines visual effects (particle effects, impact effects, environmental effects) with their durations, models, and properties. The engine uses this file when playing visual effects for spells, combat, and environmental events.

Row index: Visual effect ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Visual effect label
name StrRef string reference for effect name
model ResRef (optional) Effect model ResRef
impactmodel ResRef (optional) Impact model ResRef
impactorient Integer Impact orientation
impacttype Integer Impact type identifier
duration Float Effect duration in seconds
durationvariance Float Duration variance
loop Boolean Whether effect loops
render Boolean Whether effect is rendered
renderhint Integer Render hint flags
sound ResRef (optional) Sound effect ResRef
sounddelay Float Sound delay in seconds
soundvariance Float Sound variance
soundloop Boolean Whether sound loops
soundvolume Float Sound volume (0.0-1.0)
light Boolean Whether effect emits light
lightcolor string Light color RGB values
lightintensity Float Light intensity
lightradius Float Light radius
lightpulse Boolean Whether light pulses
lightpulselength Float Light pulse length
lightfade Boolean Whether light fades
lightfadelength Float Light fade length
lightfadestart Float Light fade start time
lightfadeend Float Light fade end time
lightshadow Boolean Whether light casts shadows
lightshadowradius Float Light shadow radius
lightshadowintensity Float Light shadow intensity
lightshadowcolor string Light shadow color RGB values
lightshadowfade Boolean Whether light shadow fades
lightshadowfadelength Float Light shadow fade length
lightshadowfadestart Float Light shadow fade start time
lightshadowfadeend Float Light shadow fade end time
lightshadowpulse Boolean Whether light shadow pulses
lightshadowpulselength Float Light shadow pulse length
lightshadowpulseintensity Float Light shadow pulse intensity
lightshadowpulsecolor string Light shadow pulse color RGB values
lightshadowpulsefade Boolean Whether light shadow pulse fades
lightshadowpulsefadelength Float Light shadow pulse fade length
lightshadowpulsefadestart Float Light shadow pulse fade start time
lightshadowpulsefadeend Float Light shadow pulse fade end time
lightshadowpulsefadeintensity Float Light shadow pulse fade intensity
lightshadowpulsefadecolor string Light shadow pulse fade color RGB values
lightshadowpulsefadepulse Boolean Whether light shadow pulse fade pulses
lightshadowpulsefadepulselength Float Light shadow pulse fade pulse length
lightshadowpulsefadepulseintensity Float Light shadow pulse fade pulse intensity
lightshadowpulsefadepulsecolor string Light shadow pulse fade pulse color RGB values
lightshadowpulsefadepulsefade Boolean Whether light shadow pulse fade pulse fades
lightshadowpulsefadepulsefadelength Float Light shadow pulse fade pulse fade length
lightshadowpulsefadepulsefadestart Float Light shadow pulse fade pulse fade start time
lightshadowpulsefadepulsefadeend Float Light shadow pulse fade pulse fade end time
lightshadowpulsefadepulsefadeintensity Float Light shadow pulse fade pulse fade intensity
lightshadowpulsefadepulsefadecolor string Light shadow pulse fade pulse fade color RGB values

Note: The visualeffects.2da file may contain many optional columns for advanced lighting and shadow effects.

References:

PyKotor:

portraits.2da

Engine Usage: Maps portrait IDs to portrait image ResRefs for character selection screens and character sheets. The engine uses this file to display character portraits in the UI.

Row index: Portrait ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Portrait label
baseresref ResRef Base portrait image ResRef
appearancenumber Integer Associated appearance ID
appearance_s Integer Small appearance ID
appearance_l Integer Large appearance ID
forpc Boolean Whether portrait is for player character
sex Integer Gender (0=male, 1=female)

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

heads.2da

Engine Usage: Defines head models and textures for player characters and NPCs. The engine uses this file when loading character heads, determining which 3D model and textures to apply.

Row index: Head ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
head ResRef (optional) Head model ResRef
headtexe ResRef (optional) Head texture E ResRef
headtexg ResRef (optional) Head texture G ResRef
headtexve ResRef (optional) Head texture VE ResRef
headtexvg ResRef (optional) Head texture VG ResRef
headtexvve ResRef (optional) Head texture VVE ResRef
headtexvvve ResRef (optional) Head texture VVVE ResRef
alttexture ResRef (optional) Alternative texture ResRef

Column Details:

The complete column structure is defined in reone's heads parser:

References:

Progression Tables 2DA files

classpowergain.2da

Engine Usage: Defines Force power progression by class and level. The engine uses this file to determine which Force powers ARE available to each class at each level.

Row index: Level (integer, typically 1-20)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
level Integer Character level
jedi_guardian Integer Jedi Guardian power gain
jedi_consular Integer Jedi Consular power gain
jedi_sentinel Integer Jedi Sentinel power gain
soldier Integer Soldier power gain
scout Integer Scout power gain
scoundrel Integer Scoundrel power gain
jedi_guardian_prestige Integer (optional) Jedi Guardian prestige power gain
jedi_consular_prestige Integer (optional) Jedi Consular prestige power gain
jedi_sentinel_prestige Integer (optional) Jedi Sentinel prestige power gain

Name Generation 2DA files

Other Name Generation files

Similar name generation files exist for other species:

  • catharfirst.2da / catharlast.2da: Cathar names (KotOR 2)
  • droidfirst.2da / droidlast.2da: Droid names
  • miracianfirst.2da / miracianlast.2da: Miraluka names (KotOR 2, alternate spelling)
  • miralukafirst.2da / miralukalast.2da: Miraluka names (KotOR 2)
  • rodianfirst.2da / rodianlast.2da: Rodian names
  • twilekfirst.2da / twileklast.2da: Twi'lek names
  • wookieefirst.2da / wookieelast.2da: Wookiee names
  • zabrakfirst.2da / zabraklast.2da: Zabrak names

Additional 2DA files

ambientmusic.2da

Engine Usage: Defines ambient music tracks for areas. The engine uses this file to determine which music to play in different areas based on area properties.

Row index: Music ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Music label
music ResRef Music file ResRef
resource ResRef Music resource ResRef
stinger1, stinger2, stinger3 ResRef (optional) Stinger music ResRefs

References:

PyKotor:

ambientsound.2da

Engine Usage: Defines ambient sound effects for areas. The engine uses this file to play ambient sounds in areas.

Row index: Sound ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Sound label
sound ResRef Sound file ResRef
resource ResRef Sound resource ResRef
description StrRef Sound description string reference

References:

PyKotor:

ammunitiontypes.2da

Engine Usage: Defines ammunition types for ranged weapons, including their models and sound effects. The engine uses this file when loading items to determine ammunition properties for ranged weapons.

Row index: Ammunition type ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Ammunition type label
model ResRef Ammunition model ResRef
shotsound0 ResRef (optional) Shot sound effect ResRef (variant 1)
shotsound1 ResRef (optional) Shot sound effect ResRef (variant 2)
impactsound0 ResRef (optional) Impact sound effect ResRef (variant 1)
impactsound1 ResRef (optional) Impact sound effect ResRef (variant 2)

References:

camerastyle.2da

Engine Usage: Defines camera styles for areas, including distance, pitch, view angle, and height settings. The engine uses this file to configure camera behavior in different areas.

Row index: Camera Style ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Camera style label
name string Camera style name
distance Float Camera distance from target
pitch Float Camera pitch angle
viewangle Float Camera view angle
height Float Camera height offset

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

footstepsounds.2da

Engine Usage: Defines footstep sound effects for different surface types and footstep types. The engine uses this file to play appropriate footstep sounds based on the surface material and creature footstep type.

Row index: Footstep type ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Footstep type label
dirt0, dirt1, dirt2 ResRef (optional) Dirt surface footstep sounds
grass0, grass1, grass2 ResRef (optional) Grass surface footstep sounds
stone0, stone1, stone2 ResRef (optional) Stone surface footstep sounds
wood0, wood1, wood2 ResRef (optional) Wood surface footstep sounds
water0, water1, water2 ResRef (optional) Water surface footstep sounds
carpet0, carpet1, carpet2 ResRef (optional) Carpet surface footstep sounds
metal0, metal1, metal2 ResRef (optional) Metal surface footstep sounds
leaves0, leaves1, leaves2 ResRef (optional) Leaves surface footstep sounds

References:

PyKotor:

Vendor Implementations:

prioritygroups.2da

Engine Usage: Defines priority groups for sound effects, determining which sounds take precedence when multiple sounds ARE playing. The engine uses this file to calculate sound priority values.

Row index: Priority Group ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Priority group label
priority Integer Priority value (higher = more important)

References:

repute.2da

Engine Usage: Defines reputation values between different factions. The engine uses this file to determine whether creatures ARE enemies, friends, or neutral to each other based on their faction relationships.

Row index: Faction ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Faction label
Additional columns Integer Reputation values for each faction (column names match faction labels)

Note: The repute.2da file is a square matrix where each row represents a faction, and each column (after label) represents the reputation value toward another faction. Reputation values typically range from 0-100, where values below 50 ARE enemies, above 50 ARE friends, and 50 is neutral.

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

surfacemat.2da

Engine Usage: Defines surface material properties for walkmesh surfaces, including walkability, line of sight blocking, and grass rendering. The engine uses this file to determine surface behavior during pathfinding and rendering.

Row index: Surface material ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Surface material label
walk Boolean Whether surface is walkable
walkcheck Boolean Whether walk check applies
lineofsight Boolean Whether surface blocks line of sight
grass Boolean Whether surface has grass rendering
sound string Sound type identifier for footstep sounds

References:

PyKotor:

Vendor Implementations:

loadscreenhints.2da

Engine Usage: Defines loading screen hints displayed during area transitions. The engine uses this file to show helpful tips and hints to players while loading.

Row index: Loading Screen Hint ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Hint label
strref StrRef string reference for hint text

References:

bodybag.2da

Engine Usage: Defines body bag appearances for creatures when they die. The engine uses this file to determine which appearance to use for the body bag container that appears when a creature is killed.

Row index: Body Bag ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Body bag label
name StrRef string reference for body bag name
appearance Integer Appearance ID for the body bag model
corpse Boolean Whether the body bag represents a corpse

References:

PyKotor:

Vendor Implementations:

ranges.2da

Engine Usage: Defines perception ranges for creatures, including sight and hearing ranges. The engine uses this file to determine how far creatures can see and hear.

Row index: Range ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Range label
primaryrange Float Primary perception range (sight range)
secondaryrange Float Secondary perception range (hearing range)

References:

regeneration.2da

Engine Usage: Defines regeneration rates for creatures in combat and non-combat states. The engine uses this file to determine how quickly creatures regenerate hit points and Force points.

Row index: Regeneration State ID (integer, 0=combat, 1=non-combat)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Regeneration state label
Additional columns float Regeneration rates for different resource types

References:

animations.2da

Engine Usage: Defines animation names and properties for creatures and objects. The engine uses this file to map animation IDs to animation names for playback.

Row index: animation ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string animation label
name string animation name (used to look up animation in model)

References:

combatanimations.2da

Engine Usage: Defines combat-specific animation properties and mappings. The engine uses this file to determine which animations to play during combat actions.

Row index: Combat animation ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Combat animation label
Additional columns Various Combat animation properties

References:

weaponsounds.2da

Engine Usage: Defines sound effects for weapon attacks based on base item type. The engine uses this file to play appropriate weapon sounds during combat.

Row index: Base Item ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Base item label
Additional columns ResRef Sound effect ResRefs for different attack types

References:

placeableobjsnds.2da

Engine Usage: Defines sound effects for placeable objects based on sound appearance type. The engine uses this file to play appropriate sounds when interacting with placeables.

Row index: Sound Appearance type ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Sound appearance type label
Additional columns ResRef Sound effect ResRefs for different interaction types

References:

creaturespeed.2da

Engine Usage: Defines movement speed rates for creatures based on walk rate ID. The engine uses this file to determine walking and running speeds.

Row index: Walk Rate ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Walk rate label
walkrate Float Walking speed rate
runrate Float Running speed rate

References:

exptable.2da

Engine Usage: Defines experience point requirements for each character level. The engine uses this file to determine when a character levels up based on accumulated experience.

Row index: Level (integer, typically 1-20)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Level label
Additional columns Integer Experience point requirements for leveling up

References:

guisounds.2da

Engine Usage: Defines sound effects for GUI interactions (button clicks, mouse enter events, etc.). The engine uses this file to play appropriate sounds when the player interacts with UI elements.

Row index: Sound ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Sound label (e.g., "Clicked_Default", "Entered_Default")
soundresref ResRef Sound effect ResRef

References:

PyKotor:

Vendor Implementations:

dialoganimations.2da

Engine Usage: Maps dialog animation ordinals to animation names for use in conversations. The engine uses this file to determine which animation to play when a dialog line specifies an animation ordinal.

Row index: animation Index (integer, ordinal - 10000)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string animation label
name string animation name (used to look up animation in model)

References:

forceshields.2da

Engine Usage: Defines Force shield visual effects and properties. The engine uses this file to determine which visual effect to display when a Force shield is active.

Row index: Force Shield ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Force shield label
Additional columns Various Force shield visual effect properties

References:

plot.2da

Engine Usage: Defines journal/quest entries with their experience point rewards and labels. The engine uses this file to manage quest tracking, journal entries, and experience point calculations for quest completion.

Row index: Plot ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Plot/quest label (used as quest identifier)
xp Integer Experience points awarded for quest completion

References:

PyKotor:

Vendor Implementations:

traps.2da

Engine Usage: Defines trap properties including models, sounds, and scripts. The engine uses this file when loading triggers with trap types to determine trap appearance and behavior.

Row index: Trap type ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Trap type label
name StrRef string reference for trap name
model ResRef Trap model ResRef
explosionsound ResRef Explosion sound effect ResRef
resref ResRef Trap script ResRef

References:

PyKotor:

HolocronToolset:

Vendor Implementations:

modulesave.2da

Engine Usage: Defines which modules should be included in save games. The engine uses this file to determine whether a module's state should be persisted when saving the game.

Row index: Module Index (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Module label
modulename string Module filename (e.g., "001ebo")
includeInSave Boolean Whether module state should be saved (0 = false, 1 = true)

References:

tutorial.2da

Engine Usage: Defines tutorial window tracking entries. The engine uses this file to track which tutorial windows have been shown to the player.

Row index: Tutorial ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Tutorial label
Additional columns Various Tutorial window properties

References:

globalcat.2da

Engine Usage: Defines global variables and their types for the game engine. The engine uses this file to initialize global variables at game start, determining which variables ARE integers, floats, or strings.

Row index: Global Variable Index (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Global variable label
name string Global variable name
type string Variable type ("Number", "Boolean", "string", etc.)

References:

subrace.2da

Engine Usage: Defines subrace types for character creation and creature templates. The engine uses this file to determine subrace properties and restrictions.

Row index: Subrace ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Subrace label
Additional columns Various Subrace properties

References:

gender.2da

Engine Usage: Defines gender types for character creation and creature templates. The engine uses this file to determine gender-specific properties and restrictions.

Row index: Gender ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Gender label
Additional columns Various Gender properties

References:

racialtypes.2da

Engine Usage: Defines racial types for character creation and creature templates. The engine uses this file to determine race-specific properties, restrictions, and bonuses.

Row index: Race ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Race label
Additional columns Various Race properties and bonuses

References:

upgrade.2da

Engine Usage: Defines item upgrade types and properties. The engine uses this file to determine which upgrades can be applied to items and their effects.

Row index: Upgrade type ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Upgrade type label
Additional columns Various Upgrade properties and effects

References:

encdifficulty.2da

Engine Usage: Defines encounter difficulty levels for area encounters. The engine uses this file to determine encounter scaling and difficulty modifiers.

Row index: Difficulty ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Difficulty label
Additional columns Various Difficulty modifiers and properties

References:

itempropdef.2da

Engine Usage: Defines item property definitions and their base properties. This is the master table for all item properties in the game. The engine uses this file to determine item property types, costs, and effects.

Row index: Item Property ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property label
Additional columns Various Property definitions, costs, and parameters

Note: This file may be the same as or related to itemprops.2da documented earlier. The exact relationship between these files may vary between KotOR 1 and 2.

References:

emotion.2da

Engine Usage: Defines emotion animations for dialog conversations (KotOR 2 only). The engine uses this file to determine which emotion animation to play during dialog lines.

Row index: Emotion ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Emotion label
Additional columns Various Emotion animation properties

References:

facialanim.2da

Engine Usage: Defines facial animation expressions for dialog conversations (KotOR 2 only). The engine uses this file to determine which facial expression animation to play during dialog lines.

Row index: Expression ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Expression label
Additional columns Various Facial animation properties

References:

videoeffects.2da

Engine Usage: Defines video/camera effects for dialog conversations. The engine uses this file to determine which visual effect to apply during dialog camera shots.

Row index: Video Effect ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Video effect label
Additional columns Various Video effect properties

References:

planetary.2da

Engine Usage: Defines planetary information for the galaxy map and travel system. The engine uses this file to determine planet names, descriptions, and travel properties.

Row index: Planet ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Planet label
Additional columns Various Planet properties and travel information

References:

cursors.2da

Engine Usage: Defines cursor types for different object interactions. The engine uses this file to determine which cursor to display when hovering over different object types.

Row index: Cursor ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Cursor label
Additional columns Various Cursor properties and ResRefs

References:

Item Property Parameter & Cost Tables 2DA files

The following 2DA files ARE used for item property parameter and cost calculations:

iprp_paramtable.2da

Engine Usage: Master table listing all item property parameter tables. The engine uses this file to look up which parameter table to use for a specific item property type.

Row index: Parameter Table ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Parameter table label
Additional columns Various Parameter table ResRefs and properties

References:

iprp_costtable.2da

Engine Usage: Master table listing all item property cost calculation tables. The engine uses this file to look up which cost table to use for calculating item property costs.

Row index: Cost Table ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Cost table label
Additional columns Various Cost table ResRefs and properties

References:

iprp_abilities.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to ability score bonuses. The engine uses this file to determine which ability score is affected by an item property.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Ability score mappings

References:

iprp_aligngrp.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to alignment group restrictions. The engine uses this file to determine alignment restrictions for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Alignment group mappings

References:

iprp_combatdam.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to combat damage bonuses. The engine uses this file to determine damage bonus calculations for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Combat damage mappings

References:

iprp_damagetype.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to damage type flags. The engine uses this file to determine damage type calculations for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Damage type mappings

References:

iprp_protection.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to protection/immunity types. The engine uses this file to determine protection calculations for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Protection type mappings

References:

iprp_acmodtype.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to armor class modifier types. The engine uses this file to determine AC modifier calculations for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various AC modifier type mappings

References:

iprp_immunity.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to immunity types. The engine uses this file to determine immunity calculations for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Immunity type mappings

References:

iprp_saveelement.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to saving throw element types. The engine uses this file to determine saving throw element calculations for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Saving throw element mappings

References:

iprp_savingthrow.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to saving throw types. The engine uses this file to determine saving throw calculations for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Saving throw type mappings

References:

iprp_onhit.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to on-hit effect types. The engine uses this file to determine on-hit effect calculations for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various On-hit effect mappings

References:

iprp_ammotype.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to ammunition type restrictions. The engine uses this file to determine ammunition type calculations for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Ammunition type mappings

References:

iprp_mosterhit.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to monster hit effect types. The engine uses this file to determine monster hit effect calculations for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Monster hit effect mappings

Note: The filename contains a typo ("mosterhit" instead of "monsterhit") which is preserved in the game files.

References:

iprp_walk.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to movement/walk speed modifiers. The engine uses this file to determine movement speed calculations for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Movement speed mappings

References:

iprp_lightcol.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to light color configurations. The engine uses this file to determine light color settings for item properties.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Light color mappings

References:

iprp_monstdam.2da

Engine Usage: Maps item property values to monster damage bonuses. The engine uses this file to determine damage bonus calculations for monster weapons.

Row index: Item Property Value (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Property value label
Additional columns Various Monster damage mappings

References:

difficultyopt.2da

Engine Usage: Defines difficulty options and their properties. The engine uses this file to determine difficulty settings, modifiers, and descriptions.

Row index: Difficulty Option ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Difficulty option label
desc string Difficulty description (e.g., "Default")
Additional columns Various Difficulty modifiers and properties

References:

xptable.2da

Engine Usage: Defines experience point reward calculations for defeating enemies. The engine uses this file to calculate how much XP to grant when a creature is defeated, based on the defeated creature's level and properties.

Row index: XP Table Entry ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string XP table entry label
Additional columns Various XP calculation parameters

Note: This is different from exptable.2da which defines XP requirements for leveling up. xptable.2da defines XP rewards for defeating enemies.

References:

featgain.2da

Engine Usage: Defines feat gain progression by class and level. The engine uses this file to determine which feats ARE available to each class at each level.

Row index: Feat Gain Entry ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Feat gain entry label
Additional columns Various Feat gain progression by class and level

References:

effecticon.2da

Engine Usage: Defines effect icons displayed on character portraits and character sheets. The engine uses this file to determine which icon to display for status effects, buffs, and debuffs.

Row index: Effect Icon ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Effect icon label
Additional columns Various Effect icon properties and ResRefs

References:

pazaakdecks.2da

Engine Usage: Defines Pazaak card decks for the Pazaak mini-game. The engine uses this file to determine which cards ARE available in opponent decks and player decks.

Row index: Pazaak Deck ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Deck label
Additional columns Various Deck card definitions and properties

References:

acbonus.2da

Engine Usage: Defines armor class bonus calculations. The engine uses this file to determine AC bonus values for different scenarios and calculations.

Row index: AC Bonus Entry ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string AC bonus entry label
Additional columns Various AC bonus calculation parameters

References:

keymap.2da

Engine Usage: Defines keyboard and controller KEY mappings for different game contexts (in-game, GUI, dialog, minigame, etc.). The engine uses this file to determine which keys trigger which actions in different contexts.

Row index: Keymap Entry ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Keymap entry label
Additional columns Various KEY mappings for different contexts (ingame, GUI, dialog, minigame, freelook, movie)

References:

poison.2da

Engine Usage: Defines poison effect types and their properties. The engine uses this file to determine poison effects, durations, and damage calculations.

Row index: Poison type ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Poison type label
Additional columns Various Poison effect properties, damage, and duration

References:

feedbacktext.2da

Engine Usage: Defines feedback text strings displayed to the player for various game events and actions. The engine uses this file to provide contextual feedback messages.

Row index: Feedback Text ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Feedback text label
Additional columns Various Feedback text strings and properties

References:

appearancesndset.2da

Engine Usage: Defines sound appearance types for creature appearances. The engine uses this file to determine which sound appearance type to use based on the creature's appearance.

Row index: Sound Appearance type ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Sound appearance type label
Additional columns Various Sound appearance type properties

References:

texpacks.2da

Engine Usage: Defines texture pack configurations for graphics settings (KotOR 2 only). The engine uses this file to determine available texture pack options in the graphics menu.

Row index: texture Pack ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string texture pack label
strrefname StrRef string reference for texture pack name
Additional columns Various texture pack properties and settings

References:

loadscreens.2da

Engine Usage: Defines loading screen configurations for area transitions. The engine uses this file to determine which loading screen image, music, and hints to display when transitioning between areas.

Row index: Loading Screen ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Loading screen label
bmpresref ResRef Loading screen background image ResRef
musicresref ResRef Music track ResRef to play during loading
Additional columns Various Other loading screen properties

References:

fractionalcr.2da

Engine Usage: Defines fractional challenge rating configurations. The engine uses this file to determine fractional CR display strings.

Row index: Fractional CR ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Fractional CR label
displaystrref StrRef string reference for fractional CR display text
Additional columns Various Fractional CR properties

References:

bindablekeys.2da

Engine Usage: Defines bindable KEY actions and their string references. The engine uses this file to determine KEY action names for the KEY binding interface.

Row index: Bindable KEY ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Bindable KEY label
keynamestrref StrRef string reference for KEY name
Additional columns Various KEY binding properties

References:

masterfeats.2da

Engine Usage: Defines master feat configurations. The engine uses this file to determine master feat names and properties.

Row index: Master Feat ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Master feat label
strref StrRef string reference for master feat name
Additional columns Various Master feat properties

References:

movies.2da

Engine Usage: Defines movie/cutscene configurations. The engine uses this file to determine movie names and descriptions.

Row index: Movie ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Movie label
strrefname StrRef string reference for movie name
strrefdesc StrRef string reference for movie description
Additional columns Various Movie properties

References:

stringtokens.2da

Engine Usage: Defines string token configurations. The engine uses this file to determine string token values for various game systems.

Row index: string Token ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string string token label
strref1 through strref4 StrRef string references for token values
Additional columns Various string token properties

References:

disease.2da

Engine Usage: Defines disease effect configurations. The engine uses this file to determine disease names, scripts, and properties.

Row index: Disease ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Disease label
name StrRef string reference for disease name (KotOR 2)
end_incu_script ResRef Script ResRef for end incubation period
24_hour_script ResRef Script ResRef for 24-hour disease effect
Additional columns Various Disease properties

References:

droiddischarge.2da

Engine Usage: Defines droid discharge effect configurations. The engine uses this file to determine droid discharge properties.

Row index: Droid Discharge ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Droid discharge label
>>##HEADER##<< ResRef header resource reference
Additional columns Various Droid discharge properties

References:

upcrystals.2da

Engine Usage: Defines upgrade crystal configurations. The engine uses this file to determine crystal model variations for lightsaber upgrades.

Row index: Upgrade Crystal ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Upgrade crystal label
shortmdlvar ResRef Short model variation ResRef
longmdlvar ResRef Long model variation ResRef
doublemdlvar ResRef double-bladed model variation ResRef
Additional columns Various Crystal properties

References:

grenadesnd.2da

Engine Usage: Defines grenade sound configurations. The engine uses this file to determine grenade sound effects.

Row index: Grenade Sound ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Grenade sound label
sound ResRef Sound ResRef for grenade
Additional columns Various Grenade sound properties

References:

inventorysnds.2da

Engine Usage: Defines inventory sound configurations. The engine uses this file to determine inventory sound effects for item interactions.

Row index: Inventory Sound ID (integer)

Column structure:

Column Name type Description
label string Inventory sound label
inventorysound ResRef Inventory sound ResRef
Additional columns Various Inventory sound properties

References:

Implementation Details

PyKotor Implementation

Reading: Libraries/PyKotor/src/pykotor/resource/formats/twoda/io_twoda.py:12-106

Writing: Libraries/PyKotor/src/pykotor/resource/formats/twoda/io_twoda.py:109-174

Vendor Implementations

reone (C++):

xoreos (C++):

  • Reading: vendor/xoreos/src/aurora/2dafile.cpp - Generic Aurora engine 2DA format parser (shared across KotOR, Neverwinter Nights, and other Aurora engine games). The format structure is the same, but specific 2DA files and their columns ARE KotOR-specific.

KotOR-Unity (C#):

KotOR.js (TypeScript):

Kotor.NET (C#):

This documentation aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the KotOR 2DA file format, focusing on the detailed file structure and data formats used within the games.

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