How do you view eq2 dds map files in color?
 

How did you guys view the eq2 .dds map files in full color? I have opened them in a dds viewer and i get the maps in that mud color (when you haven't explored a zone).

They are in the .pak files, but for EQ2MAP I simply made screenshots. ;)

i am able to open the pak files and i see them. But my dss viewer complains about a missing header (i'm assuming their encrypted) anyone know a way around that?

I'm not sure what DDS file viewer you're using, but you can try:
IrfanView

Ya that what i'm using. It can open the old maps, but not the new ones.

I do not know, no. Files appeared to be scrambled, not missing a header (file size is exactly what it needs to be including a header). That's why I made the screenshots, easiest solution unless you are into reverse engineering, then just disassemble the client to see how it reads those files (and break the EULA in the process).

I use the Windows Texture Viewer, DDS thumbnail viewer, and the PhotoShop plugin (with Paint Shop Pro). I've never had an issue with full-color DDS files not opening in full-color with any of these utilities. :)
http://developer.nvidia.com/object/n...ure_tools.html

Edit: Keep in mind that some DDS files are meant to be greyscale, and those are typically bump or glow maps. The DDS files that are meant to be in color will usually have a "_c.dds" suffix (but not always...sometimes there's no "_c").