Hi,
I uploaded a plugin that replaces Nova's 8-bit transparency table, and it was just posted on the Add-ons page. The transparency table that comes with Nova is designed for alpha-blending, while engine glows and running lights are designed for additive color. This means that, while glows were SUPPOSED to be added to the base image (i.e. green + red = yellow), in 8-bit color they are merely pasted on top (green + red = red). This probably looks worst on the Vell-Os ships. Here's an example:
As you can see, on the left the glow is pasted on top of the base image, while on the right it is added. This plugin only affects 8-bit color mode, but I think enough of you use 8-bit color to warrant a mention here. It makes the game look so much better that I would consider this a must-have for anyone using EVN in 8-bit. Ionization colors are also additive. The only disadvantages I have discovered so far are the following:
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The base sprites of translucent ships are additive, but this doesn't look too bad.
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When you are in a murky system, ships look really strange out towards the edges of your view.
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Running lights are only additive when they are at less than 100% brightness - if they are at 100%, then they are still drawn opaquely.
The plugin is called "AdditiveColorTtab.bin".
-Vaumnou
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(This message has been edited by Vaumnou (edited 05-31-2003).)