Updating AGS Version

[Custerly]

Hi,

I have been working on a project on AGS 3.6, and realized recently there is a newer version. A few questions:
- Can I set it up to auto update? (I was not made aware of this update, I just stumbled upon its existance from coming on the forum)
- Is there a harm to updating to the new version? Could it corrupt my project file in some way?
- Do I update by downloading and running the new installer?

Thanks

[eri0o]

1. AGS doesn't auto update. Yes, you go to the forum topic with latest release and get it from there.

2. It depends, ags3 is forever backwards compatible, ags4 you will need to put a little effort to use newer APIs if your project is using APIs from before AGS 3.6.

3. The installer only updates minor versions (patches), for major versions it will install in a new directory in program files - by default.

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I do have a tool that can be used as an any AGS version and project launcher, called AGS toolbox .

[Crimson Wizard]

1. AGS doesn't auto update. Yes, you go to the forum topic with latest release and get it from there.

Worth mentioning, there's a webpage for the latest downloads:
https://www.adventuregamestudio.co.uk/site/ags/

- Is there a harm to updating to the new version? Could it corrupt my project file in some way?

AGS is made to run the project upgrade process, where it may adjust the game settings if necessary.
If it's a patch, or next minor version (3.6.0 -> 3.6.1), then there should not be any harm.
If the versions are too far apart, it may be necessary to go in steps (2.6 -> 2.72 -> 3.6.1 -> 4.0)

In any case, the safest approach is to make backups before upgrading.

If the new version changes certain behavior, or deprecates a script function, that usually is controlled by a switch in General Settings. Backwards Compatibility section is the first to check out, but some options may be in other categories.
https://adventuregamestudio.github.io/ags-manual/GeneralSettings.html#backwards-compatibility

All the changes are explicitly mentioned in the changelog, so that's the first thing to check out if you experience a difference in behavior.
There is also a dedicated section in the manual that explains major changes between versions:
https://adventuregamestudio.github.io/ags-manual/UpgradingFromPreviousVersion.html

[Custerly]

Ok. Thanks a bunch for clearing all of the up guys. You are always so helpful.