Cockatrice is a widely used open-source software that allows players to enjoy card games like Magic: The Gathering online. One of its core features is the ability to load and use custom card databases, making it essential for users to keep their database updated with the latest card sets and changes. If your database is outdated, you may encounter missing cards, wrong card texts, or difficulties joining games. Learning how to update the Cockatrice card database properly ensures you stay current with every expansion and banlist. The process is straightforward, but requires attention to detail and understanding of where files are stored and how they interact with the application.
Understanding How Cockatrice Uses Card Databases
What the Card Database Does
The card database in Cockatrice contains information about every card available in the game. It includes names, mana costs, types, abilities, power/toughness, set info, and sometimes images. Without an up-to-date card database, you can’t build decks with the newest cards, and your experience becomes limited.
Each card database is stored as an XML file, and it tells the software what cards exist and how they function. It’s important to regularly update this file to include new official sets, custom sets, or even banned/restricted list changes.
Where Cockatrice Stores Database Files
Depending on your operating system, the card database files are stored in different directories:
- Windows:
C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Cockatrice - macOS:
~/Library/Application Support/Cockatrice - Linux:
~/.config/Cockatrice
The main file you are updating is typically namedcards.xml, and it’s the file the software references each time you browse cards or build decks.
Steps to Update the Cockatrice Card Database
Step 1: Open Cockatrice
Start by launching the Cockatrice application. Make sure you’re using the latest version of the software. While you can update the card database without updating the app, it’s always best to keep the application itself current to avoid compatibility issues.
Step 2: Use Oracle Importer Tool
Cockatrice comes with a built-in tool called Oracle Importer, which fetches data from online sources to populate the database:
- Click onOracle Importerfrom the main menu or tools section
- Choose your desired source for the card database, such as the official Magic card database or a custom source
- Set any preferences such as which sets or formats to include
- ClickStart Import
This process will download and generate a newcards.xmlfile in your local Cockatrice directory. It may take a few minutes depending on your internet speed and how many sets you’re importing.
Step 3: Confirm the Update
Once the import is complete, restart Cockatrice. Then, navigate to the deck editor or card browser and search for cards from the latest set (for example, a card from a recently released expansion). If it appears correctly with proper stats and artwork, the update was successful.
Manually Updating the Card Database
When Manual Updates Are Necessary
Sometimes, the automatic importer might not include custom sets or user-generated expansions. In that case, you’ll need to update the database manually. This is especially useful for tournament organizers using special formats or for fan-made set creators.
Step-by-Step Manual Update
- Obtain the XML file for the custom or updated card set
- Navigate to your Cockatrice directory where the
cards.xmlis stored - Backup the original file before replacing it
- Replace the existing
cards.xmlwith the new file - Restart Cockatrice to load the new database
Make sure the XML is correctly formatted. A single syntax error can prevent the application from reading it. Many online card database generators will validate this automatically before export.
Adding Custom Sets Alongside Official Cards
Creating and Adding Custom Cards
If you’re a designer or hobbyist interested in creating custom sets, Cockatrice supports adding new sets alongside existing ones. Here’s how:
- Use a set editor or XML generator to create your card file
- Assign a unique set code and name to avoid conflicts
- Save your custom XML with a different filename, such as
customcards.xml - Place the file in the same folder as the main
cards.xml - Edit the configuration file in Cockatrice to reference this additional file, if necessary
This method allows you to enjoy both the official and custom cards without overwriting your main database.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Database Not Loading
If Cockatrice fails to launch properly or doesn’t display cards after a database update, check the following:
- Ensure the
cards.xmlfile is valid and well-formed XML - Check file permissions and location
- Delete temporary files or cache within the Cockatrice folder
- Re-run the Oracle Importer to regenerate the database
Always keep a backup of the last working database so you can restore it in case of a failed update.
Missing New Cards
If some newly released cards are not appearing, make sure you selected the most recent sets during the Oracle Importer step. If the importer source hasn’t been updated yet, wait a few days or try switching to a different card source within the importer settings.
Best Practices for Database Management
Update Regularly
Check for updates every time a new expansion is released. Wizards of the Coast typically releases new sets quarterly, so expect updates about four times a year. Set a reminder to run the importer or manual update after each release.
Stay Informed
Join communities or forums that track Cockatrice updates. Many card game forums or Discord groups will post announcements when a new database file is available. This helps you avoid delays in accessing new cards.
Use Cloud Backup
If you play on multiple devices, consider syncing your Cockatrice folder with a cloud service like Dropbox or Google Drive. This ensures you maintain consistent access to your decks and databases across systems.
Updating the Cockatrice card database is an essential task for any user who wants to enjoy the game with the latest cards and smooth functionality. Whether you choose the automated Oracle Importer or go the manual route for custom sets, the process is manageable and doesn’t take much time. By understanding how the software organizes card files, where to find and replace them, and how to troubleshoot potential issues, you’ll ensure a seamless gameplay experience. Regular updates and backups will keep your database fresh and prevent errors, letting you focus on building decks and enjoying matches with other players around the world.