Once you're comfortable extracting files, you can try creating a simple mod:
Modding Egosoft’s space simulation game, X Rebirth, requires deep access to the game’s core assets. The development team packed textures, models, scripts, and audio into compressed archive formats. To modify these files, you need a specialized utility. The is the definitive community-standard solution for unpacking and repacking these game archives.
The is not just a nice-to-have; for serious players, it is mission-critical. It takes a clunky, often frustrating asset management experience and turns it into a sleek, data-driven command center. The improvements in parsing speed, trade analysis, and crew management make version 1.10 the definitive release.
If you need help creating the mandatory meta-file for your mod, we can draft a template for your . X Rebirth Catalog Tool 1.10
Instead of replacing entire XML profiles, use Egosoft's XML diff system ( or ). This allows your mod to remain compatible with future game updates and other community projects.
The X Rebirth Catalog Tool 1.10 is a lightweight command-line and graphical utility designed to manipulate .cat (catalog) and .dat (data) file pairs. X Rebirth uses these twin file formats to store all asset data. The .cat file acts as an index directory containing file paths, sizes, and encryption keys, while the .dat file holds the actual compressed data.
So, whether you plan to edit the files or simply want to explore how the game works, the X Rebirth Catalog Tool is an indispensable utility to have in your collection. Once you're comfortable extracting files, you can try
The two primary functions are its ability to both extract and create catalog archives. You can break down the game's main archives to access the raw game files for study or copying, and you can package the files for your own mod into a new .cat archive to be recognized by the game.
What are you trying to modify? (e.g., ship stats, economy, textures)
Place the XRCatTool.exe in a dedicated folder. Ensure you have the .cat file (the index) and the corresponding .dat file (the data) ready. The improvements in parsing speed, trade analysis, and
Before using the tool, ensure your workspace is properly configured. Prerequisites Windows 7, 8, 10, or 11 (64-bit recommended). .NET Framework 4.5 or higher.
Operates with minimal system overhead, making large batch extractions incredibly fast. Step-by-Step Guide: Extracting Game Archives