SSE Can new complexions/head skins be added without editing race records?

[CatOfEvilGenius]

Can new complexions be added without editing race records? There is a mod that adds new complexions do dunmer by editing race records (scarification) but why can't we add complexions just like we add new custom eyes or hair? Is it a limitation of the game engine? Could it be done somehow with an SKSE dll?

 

Complexions (rough1, rough2, age40, age50) are the height map portion of head skin textures (TXST is diffuse, normals, height, etc.). We can replace existing *.dds complexion files (ie. mild complexions) but I want to ADD MORE, not replace. I also want to add different normal map options, like one with an Asiatic/African nose (flat sides, no prominent wings/nostril flare).

 

I managed to add a new head part and give the head part a custom skin texture (TXST) but only the diffuse portion gets used in game. The normal map that's part of that custom skin texture is not used. Instead, the head part uses the normal map for whatever race you have selected. I even used a custom mesh (*.nif) where I set the diffuse and normal map I want but that did not help. Why is the normal map even specified in the TXST record if it doesn't get used??? Can I make it use the normal map and/or height map in the TXST record???

 

Thanks for any help!

[Sphered]

Suppose you could if you made custom sliders, which can be configured to adjust basically anything, including custom texture or texturesets. That type of mod isnt a simple task though unless you are familar making a mod like that. You would use NIOverride to manually assign your selection, and have reload routine in place so your choices persist

 

Unless I am forgetting another alternative thats pretty much the only way if you are hoping to avoid editing game records...

[CatOfEvilGenius]

Thank you for the suggestion! I dont suppose theres any documentation about racemenu slider creation? Im guessing Ill have to reverse engineer some sliders to learn?