Introduction
Sobat Raita,
Welcome to our ultimate guide on importing text format to Magic Set Editor (MSE). MSE is a free and open-source program that allows you to create and edit your own Magic: The Gathering cards. Importing text format is a great way to quickly add a large number of cards to your MSE project, or to create cards from scratch.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about importing text format to MSE. We’ll cover the basics of text format, show you how to prepare your text file for import, and provide some tips and tricks for getting the most out of the import process.
Understanding Text Format
What is Text Format?
Text format is a simple, human-readable format for representing Magic cards. It’s similar to the way cards are written on Gatherer, but with some additional information added to make it easier to import into MSE.
Structure of a Text Format Card
Each card in text format is represented by a single line of text. The line is divided into several fields, which are separated by commas. The fields, in order, are:
- Name
- Mana cost
- Card type
- Subtype
- Power/toughness
- Rules text
- Flavor text
- Set
- Rarity
- Artist
- Number
- Multiverse ID
Not all of these fields are required. For example, flavor text and artist are optional. You can also leave out the number and multiverse ID fields if you don’t know them.
Preparing Your Text File for Import
Formatting Your Text File
Before you can import your text file into MSE, you need to make sure it’s formatted correctly. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Each card should be on its own line.
- The fields should be separated by commas.
- Any text that contains commas, such as rules text or flavor text, should be enclosed in double quotes.
- If you’re importing a large number of cards, it’s a good idea to use a spreadsheet program to help you format your text file.
Example Text Format File
Here’s an example of a text format file with two cards:
“`
Name,Mana Cost,Card Type,Subtype,Power/Toughness,Rules Text,Flavor Text,Set,Rarity,Artist,Number,Multiverse ID
Lightning Bolt,R,Instant,,,”Lightning Bolt deals 3 damage to target creature or player.”,,”Revised Edition”,Common,Christopher Rush,36,14405
Giant Growth,G,Instant,,,”Target creature gets +3/+3 until end of turn.”,,”Revised Edition”,Common,Anson Maddocks,47,14409
“`
Importing Text Format into MSE
Importing Your Text File
Once you have your text file formatted correctly, you can import it into MSE. To do this, open MSE and go to File > Import > Text Format.
A dialog box will appear asking you to select your text file. Once you’ve selected your file, click Open.
MSE will now import your text file. This process may take a few minutes, depending on the size of your file.
Tips for Importing Text Format
- If you get an error while importing your text file, check the error log in MSE. The error log will tell you which line of your text file is causing the error.
- If you’re importing a large number of cards, it’s a good idea to break your text file up into smaller chunks. This will help to speed up the import process.
- Once you’ve imported your text file, you can use MSE to edit your cards, add images, and print them out.
Table Breakdown: Importing Text Format to MSE
| Feature | Description |
|—|—|
| Format | Comma-separated values (CSV) |
| Fields | Name, mana cost, card type, subtype, power/toughness, rules text, flavor text, set, rarity, artist, number, multiverse ID |
| Required fields | Name, mana cost, card type |
| Optional fields | Flavor text, artist, number, multiverse ID |
| Formatting | Double quotes for text containing commas |
| Import method | File > Import > Text Format |
| Error handling | Error log in MSE |
| Tips | Break large files into chunks, check error log |
FAQ: Importing Text Format to MSE
1. How do I import text format to MSE?
Go to File > Import > Text Format and select your text file.
2. What are the required fields for a text format card?
Name, mana cost, and card type.
3. How do I handle text containing commas in text format?
Enclose the text in double quotes.
4. What if I get an error while importing my text file?
Check the error log in MSE.
5. Can I import a large number of cards at once?
Yes, but it’s recommended to break your text file up into smaller chunks.
6. What can I do with my cards after I’ve imported them?
You can edit them, add images, and print them out.
7. Is there a way to automate the import process?
Yes, you can use a script or program to import text format files into MSE.
8. Where can I find more information about importing text format to MSE?
The MSE documentation has a section on importing text format.
9. What are some tips for getting the most out of the import process?
Use a spreadsheet program to help you format your text file, and break large files into smaller chunks.
10. What are some common pitfalls to avoid when importing text format?
Make sure your text file is formatted correctly, and check the error log if you get an error.
Conclusion
Sobat Raita, now you have everything you need to know about importing text format to Magic Set Editor. Whether you’re a new user or an experienced card creator, we hope this guide has been helpful.
If you have any questions or feedback, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. We’re always happy to help!
To learn more about Magic Set Editor and other tools for creating custom Magic cards, be sure to check out our other articles.
