User:Kesta/FO4PersonnalGuide

From Step Mods | Change The Game




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WIP

BABY is a WIP. While it is usable in its current state, the most interesting sections (gameplay, crafting, settlements,...) are currently hidden.

The guide is currently being updated to revolve around MO2 features, and cooler visuals... but author's computer is starting to have a few issues and need an upgrade :P



Game : Fallout 4

Title : Boston Atomic Bomb Yankee
Version : 0.1.5.1 changelog
Forum thread : HERE

Author : Kesta



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Introduction

This guide is destined to enhance your fallout 4 experience using the extended modding possibilities made possible by both Bethesda and its awesome community. Of course, as every modding guide, it'll be down to personal preferences.

Boston Atomic Bomb Yankee doesn't mean anything... yeah, I know that. It's just some words related to the Fallout 4 universe I mashed-up together. But who care, the acronym is awesome !

While I'm trying to provide as much explanations and tips as I can, BABY isn't suited for complete beginners. If you've never modded a Bethesda's game before, you might have a hard time following the guide.

In BABY, you'll find some great visuals enhancements and retexture. That said, I consider Fallout 4 default visuals to be already decent, so I'm not aiming at "modding everything". Some things just don't need to be improved.
This means that textures and other visuals mods linked here will either be covering some critical aspects where Fallout 4 failed to be good-looking, unexpected but awesome improvements, or personals coup de coeur.

As for gameplay changes, BABY essentially aim to expand player's capabilities rather than overhauling existing ones. I haven't played the game enough yet to get bored already, and don't feel like in-depth gameplay changes balance overhaul is needed to enjoy the game. This might change in future versions though.

Finally, about overall compatibility : The current number of available mods make it rather easy to track down compatibility issues. Patches will be created specifically for this guide when they're not already available on their respective mod page, so you don't have to worry about it as long as you follow the instructions and advice properly.

Plzstdby.jpg


The beginning

How to read this guide ?

From the top to the bottom, obviously !

General Informations

Everything but the mod list under Time to mod is pretty much mandatory for a decent modding setup, though you can skip it / skim through if you're already familiar with commons modding tools, tweaks and extenders.
All the ramble is there so the mod installation section can be streamlined in an easy-to-follow step by step flow (or should I say ftep by ftep ? ).

The mod installation part have been broken down in various categories, as you can see in the content resume on the right.
The way mods are split between categories isn't only thematic but also technical. Save for a few exceptions, there should be close to no conflicts across mods from different section. This mean that you can install categories in a non-linear order, or only those you're interested into, and still get a perfectly functional modded game.

Mods installation

Mods in each sections should be installed in the order they appear, as this is the order they'll overwrite each others if need be.

Mods are presented as a "card", providing informations about everything you need to know about the mod, from download link to mod-specific installation instructions.

Each card is preceded by a flare:

  • CORE
    This mod is a full part of the guide and is expected to be installed.
  • TOOL
    This isn't a mod, but a modding utility to be used during your modding adventure.
  • Performance
    This mod improve game's performance, but might slightly decrease visual quality.
  • Optional
    This mod is optional. This is an addition considered useful to the setup, but might be more of a personal preference.
  • HQ
    This mod is to be used only for users looking for a High Quality visual experience. This doesn't necessarily means it should be avoided at all cost by low-end system users, but simply that the performance hit might not be worth the visuals improvements on weaker machines.
  • NSFW
    This mod contains Not safe For Work content. No childporn, I promise, but depending on where you are when browsing this guide, it's better for you to know. Of course, NSFW are still considered
    CORE
    , because of reasons.

There is no

LQ

flare for main downloads. Obviously, a mod deserving such flare would just be downgrading Vanilla's visuals, without significant performance improvement that would win him the

Performance

flare.

We don't want this kind of mod for BABY. If you need to downgrade vanilla visuals to play the game, here is the best advice I can give you : Close this page, uninstall FO4, find a job, earn money, buy a better computer with the money, come back modding, play, loose your job, keep playing.

The files to download are listed in a similar layout than the one in Nexus. They should be installed in the same order as they appear in the list. This means that the answer to "should I overwrite ?" will always be YES between two files belonging to the same mods, except if explicitly stated otherwise.

Options and Alternatives

Listed mods may also have potentials alternatives and options, aside the main files to download.

  • When there is Optional files listed, this means you have to install them along with the proposed files if you want them.
  • On the contrary, Alternatives files are meant to replace the files from the main download entirely.

Options and alternative usually have flares as well, indicating why they're proposed to complement/replace the main files :

  • Optional
    This is a nice feature, but falls under personal preference.
  • HQ
    This is an higher visuals version of the
    CORE
    one, worth installing on decent machines.
  • LQ
    This is a lower visuals version of the
    CORE
    one, in case the main file is too performance-heavy for low-end machines.
  • SAFE
    There is a safe for work version available, to prevent sexual or not-so-politically-correct content.
  • easy
    This version will make gameplay easier.
  • survival
    This version will make gameplay harder.

Note that not all the files available on the nexus mod page are listed under options/alternatives. This isn't laziness, but usually means that the "lower resolution" version isn't worth installing, the "high quality" one is just overkill, or simply that other files aren't relevant in the context of BABY.

Guide versions

At the beginning of the guide, you maybe noticed the 4-digits version number. It allow you to keep track of the advancement of the guide. The current version being 0.1.5.1

More informations on the version system, along with the last update date and the complete changelog can be found on the BABY - Version page.

Interesting-looking mods planed for review to be potentially added are listed on the testing page, though It's messy. That's basically my online clipboard.

Post-installation

Records conflicts (aka conflicts due to multiple .esp altering the same set of data), and load order management are handled at the end of the guide:

  • Patches tailored specifically for BABY will be provided on their own Nexus page.
  • Advanced load order management, atop of what automated sorting utilities can do, will be explained in the Load Order mangement section.
  • In-game configuration advice for mods are currently given in the mod's card.

Installing Fallout 4

Head to steam, buy the game if you haven't already, and download. Seriously, if you haven't done this yet, what are you even doing here ?

On a more important note : DLCs and updates expand the modding possibilities by providing new features to be used by modders. BABY is built assuming you're using :

  • The latest stable version of FO4, but NOT the beta.
  • All of the currently released DLCs

To make sure you have all the DLCs, check the DLC section of FO4's steam page and make sure all of them are ticked and have the installed mention, or open Fallout 4 steam's properties and check the DLC tab :


If not, right click on Fallout 4 in your game list, select properties, look under the DLC tab, and tick everything.


For easier modding support, make sure that Steam is installed OUTSIDE your program files folder.
This will prevent several modding utilities to be thwarted by windows' UAC.

Installing useful programs

If you don't have them already, there is two generic programs very usefull when modding games :

7-zip : This is an archive extractor. It'll allow you to extract archives (.zip, .rar, .7z). Since most mods and other utilities come in this format, it's critical to be able to extract them.
To make it even more convenient to use :

  • Locate the 7-zip File manager : 7zFM.exe, (located by default in C:\Program Files\7-Zip, or simply type in 7-zip File Manager in windows' search bar)
  • Start it with administrator privileges (right-click -> run as administrator).
  • Navigate under Tools -> Options.. and look at the System tab, you'll find the file association manager.
  • Associate 7zip with .7z, .zip, and .rar files by simply clicking on them.

This way, you will be able to preview the content of archives and extract what you want out of them by simply double-clicking on it.


Notepad++ : An advanced text editor. Usefull to edit various configurations files, as its layout, syntax-coloration, and other built-in search functions are by far superior to what your basic notepad can do.

Since we're going to open a lot of .ini files in this guide, it's a good idea to tell windows that you want to automatically open them with Notepad++ :

  • After you've installed it, right click on any .ini file on your system (if you don't have any yet, just read a bit further, you'll discover them ;) )
  • Select Open With... -> Choose default program...
  • Select Notepad++. If Notepad++ is not on the list, use the Browse... button and navigate to NP++ installation path (by default C:\Program Files (x86)\Notepad++).
  • Make sure that the Always use the selected program to open this kind of file check-box is ticked in.

I also recommend to follow the same procedure for regular text files, as NP++ is more convenient than Notepad anyway.

Optionally, you can also install the NP++ Compare Plugin, which is an addon for Notepad++ that allow for easy comparison between files. In BABY's context, it'll help you check various INI configurations.

Setting some things up

Make sure you have the latest drivers for your GPU. This is especially true if using an AMD video card, as some of the not-so-outdated-but-a-little-bit drivers will lead to a crash on the FO4 main menu.

It is also recommended to clean your computer if you're not doing this regularly.
If you're not exactly an advanced PC user, there is several utilities that can take of that automatically, but free ones aren't extremely efficient. You can still have a look at CCleaner which is one of the most efficient free ones.

Once your computer is ready, the first thing to do is to initialize your game once : Simply press Play in the FO4's steam page, and this message will appear :

This will automatically detect your hardware and select a configuration preset accordingly.

It's time to have a look at two important locations on your computer you'll be visiting often :

  • The game's installation folder, which depend on where Steam is installed : <Steam>\steamapps\common\Fallout 4\
  • The game's document folder, created after the previous step have been completed : <Documents>\My Games\Fallout4

If you intend to dedicate some times to modding your games, it is highly recommended that you favorite those two folders in windows explorer to have a quick access to them, or put a shortcut to them wherever you like to have your shortcuts.

Tailoring your configuration

Now is the moment to configure Fallout 4 according to your preferences. This is done by modifying the INI files Fallout4.ini and Fallout4Prefs.ini located in the game documents folder we just talked about. There is several way of doing it :

  • Manually editing the INI files with Notepad++
  • Using configuration tools with GUI (incomplete and not always error-proof, but easier).
  • Using the game's configuration tool by clicking on Option in the launcher (Very incomplete)

Starting on a good base

Before working with INI files, make sure they are valid. The default files aren't easy to work with, because they're filled with bogus settings, and aren't sorted nor exhaustive.

TOOL
fINIp 4 - 1.0 - by DoubleYou
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - fINIp 4 Installer

Setup :

  • Delete Fallout4.ini and Fallout4Prefs.ini for the game documents folder.
  • Download manually.
  • Run fINIp 4 Installer-67-1-0.exe and follow the instructions.
  • Select your install folder when asked to.
  • Install.
  • Wait for fINIp 4 to start the launcher and let it set your INIs.
  • You can open the settings to adjust some values to your liking.

Fallout INI Project 4 offer a convenient way to prepare your ini files. It will edit the default template used by the automatic INI generation of the launcher in a way that your ini files will be filled exhaustively, free of bogus or placebo settings, and sorted in alphabetical order, and then proceed to run the launcher.

For additional informations on how INI files behave and affect your games, see the Fallout 4 configuration reference. For a complete review of all the settings, see the Fallout4Prefs.ini Guide.

Adjusting your settings

You can most likely skip this if you can play on Ultra without noticing even a slight drop in performances during gameplay. If you can't, two things to test before down-grading your visuals is to

  • Disable Godrays
  • Set Shadow Distance to Medium


If you still can't have decent FPS with it, use a lower setting that match your computer's performance. Some settings have a high quality/performance ratio, and thus should be maxed out :

  • Anisotropy -> Set it to at least 8x. Performance hit is only noticeable at 16x, but 8x look 1000x time better than 0 or 2x.
  • Anti-Aliasing -> TAA. There is a small performance hit, but TAA look infinitely better than FXAA (not even talking about no-AA at all).


Note that there is an issue with Godrays pixelating your character if they aren't set on Ultra. So you either use ultra godrays, or no godrays.
Shadow distance should be left to Medium, as this is handled later in the guide.
An other option for good-quality AA is too use SMAA in combinations with downsampling. Setting this is a bit more complex, so google for it if you want. The main reason for doing so instead of using TAA is to avoid the slight blurriness on edges introduced by TAA.

Further INI tweaking

Go to the game's documents folders and start tweaking your INIs

In Fallout4(Custom).ini

Info-Logo.png

NOTE

It is recommended that you create Fallout4Custom.ini and make your tweaks to the Fallout4.ini settings in there instead of directly editing the original file.

Put bInvalidateOlderFiles=1 and blank out sResourceDataDirsFinal in the [Archive] section, so loose files will load through the game.

[Archive]
bInvalidateOlderFiles=1
sResourceDataDirsFinal=

If you've already played the game enough, you'll probably want to disable tutorials message for your future playthrough:

[Interface]
bShowTutorials=0

You can improve the usability/readability of the console by expanding its size and modifying its font color and size with the following settings:

[Menu]  
iConsoleSizeScreenPercent=65
iConsoleTextSize=16 
rConsoleHistoryTextColor=153,160,153
rConsoleTextColor=255,255,255 
rDebugTextColor=255,235,222

In Fallout4Prefs.ini

Make sure iShadowMapResolution is at least 2048. Even if it cost some FPS, 1024 is way too ugly to play. 4096 is the default Ultra setting. You can even raise this setting to 8192 if you've got an ultra-powerful computer.

[Display]
iShadowMapResolution=4096


External sources :

A lot of interesting settings are exposed here : Useful INI Settings, thanks to InsanePlumber.
There is especially a lot of priceless informations for UI configuration.

Nice UI colors presets can be found in the Vogue UI Colors nexus page.

Setting up your modding environment

Choose and install a mod manager

Only NMM have been properly updated for Fallout 4. This is in my opinion the best choice, since Mod Organizer 2 isn't going to see any updates to fix the various issues and annoyances it come with. An other alternative is Wrye Flash, which also have been partially updated for FO4 support, but the public version got hidden.

Resetting "Download with Manager" for NMM

If you're using Mod Organizer as mod manager for other games, and want to use NMM for now with Fallout4, here is the procedure to re-associate "Download with NMM" buttons on nexus with NMM instead of MO for Fallout 4 only :

Browse through your ModOrganizer install folder and find nxmhandlers.ini. open it with Notepad++

Make it look something like this :

[handlers]
size=2
1\games="oblivion,fallout3,falloutnv,skyrim,other"
1\executable=E:\\Modding Tools\\ModOrganizer\\ModOrganizer.exe
2\games=fallout4
2\executable=E:\\Modding Tools\\Nexus Mod Manager\\NexusClient.exe
Warning-Logo.png
WARNING:
The path to the executable have to match your own installation folder! Don't just copy-paste it!

Save and close nxmhandlers.ini, and run nxmhandler.exe located in the same folder. Click "register active", and press "yes" on the prompt. Done. Fallout4 downloads will now be directed towards NMM instead of MO.

Working with NMM

Tinkering loose files

NMM isn't as convenient as MO to customize your installation, especially when you need to adjust loose files.
To access loose files from a specific mod via NMM :

  • Install the mod so all the files you have to work with are in place.
  • Disable the mod : Icon disabled.PNG it'll avoid glitchy behavior from NMM visualization system.
  • Open NMM's Mod folder : Icon nmmfolders.PNG
  • Browse to Nexus Mod Manager\Fallout4\Mods\VirtualInstall
  • Folders here have the same name as the archive they've been installed with, not necessarily the mod's name !
  • Locate the mod's folder you're looking for
  • Make whatever you have to do in there
  • Go back to NMM and activate the mod to use your "adjusted" version.
Conflicting files installation

When two mods try to install the same file (or should I say, in NMM's case, when a mod try to install a file already installed by an other mod), NMM will ask you to choose between the two with this dialogue :

You have 2x 4 options (4 for "YES" and 4 for "NO") :

  • _ to all
  • _ to folder
  • _ to mod
  • _

Never select "_ to all". This will deprive you from any control on your installation, as the mod will either overwrite/be overridden by any conflicting mods, without you knowing which one.
The "_ to folder" is pretty much the same, except it'll present you with the dialogue again for each different folder (folders being assailable to "category of loose files" here).
"_ to mod" is the option you will usually want to use. It allow you to check exactly with which mods the one you're installing present conflicts, and let you choose for each of them if you want to overwrite it, or let it overwrite the one you're installing.
The simplest "_" option is the most powerful, however it is extremely tedious to use as NMM will present you the dialogue for every conflicting files. This can be thousands of them in the case of large texture overhauls. Plus, if you're still reading this paragraph, this probably means you have no idea what most of the file names represent, so you can't exactly choose ^^

In this guide, conflict-resolution for loose files will be oriented towards the use of the "_ to mod" options.

If you've made a mistake when choosing yes/no, you can simply disable and re-enable the mod, NMM will ask you again for each conflicts which mod should overwrite which one.

Install and Configure LOOT

LOOT (Load Order Optimization Tool) is an utility that aim to sort your load order in the most optimized way possible. This will ensure that mods with dependencies are loaded before their masters properly without having to sort them manually.

TOOL
LOOT - Load Order Optimization Tool - 0.8.1.321 - by WrinklyNinja
  • MAIN FILES - LOOT v0.8.1-321 - gc54be64 - Snapshot

Installation :

  • Download manually
  • Extract the archive in a suitable location. Using a "Modding Tools" or similar folder is strongly advised to keep all your modding utilities together.
  • Start LOOT.exe
  • Make sure the current game (next to the house icon) is Fallout 4 :
  • If not, click on it and select Fallout 4 :

Install Advanced tools

FO4Edit

A good thing to do in those obscure time is also to grab a copy of FO4Edit so you can checks the mods you install yourself.
Some early mods have been released with a lot of errors, so checking them with FO4Edit to ensure they aren't to risky for your playthrough and savegame is a good habit.
On top of that, it will allow you to make some customisations.

TOOL
FO4Edit - 3.1.3 - by the xEdit Team
  • MAIN FILES - FO4Edit 3.1.3 - 1f9c3d8

Installation :

  • Download manually
  • Extract the archive in a suitable location. Using a "Modding Tools" or similar folder is strongly advised to keep all your modding utilities together.
  • Rename TESVEdit.exe to FO4Edit.exe OR
    • Create a shortcut to TESVEdit.exe
    • Rename your shortcut to FO4Edit (optional)
    • Edit this shortcut (right-click-> properties) :
      • under the "target" field of the shortcut, add the following argument :
        -fo4 -edit
      • If using a non-english version of the game : Add also those two arguments :
        -l:XX -cp:utf-8
        Where XX is your language's abbreviation (example : fr for french)
    • Don't forget that you'll need to use the shortcut instead of the main executable to launch it with the parameters we just set up.

FO4Edit will also allow you to check conflicting records when your whole load order is analyzed. This is how you're supposed to organize priorities in your load order to fine-tune what automated tools such as LOOT offer. Indications for load order management specific to BABY are given in the Load Order management section.

More informations on how to use FO4Edit can be found on the xEdit guide

Fallout 4's Creation Kit & Co

The creation kit for fallout 4 is more than just the creation kit. It also come with various tools, especially Archive2, that we're going to use to repack .ba2 files.

The creation kit and its toolpack have to be installed through the Bethesda.net launcher.
You can download the installer by clicking here.
Once the download is complete, run BethesdaNetLauncher_Setup.exe to install it to the location of your choice.

Then, start the launcher (either from the shortcut if you chose to create one during the installation, or by launching BethesdaNetLauncher.exe ). You will be presented with this page:

If you don't already have a Bethesda.net account, you will need to create a one by clicking on CREATE ACCOUNT. If you already have one, simply enter your credentials to gain access to the launcher:

Simply select Creation Kit: Fallout 4 in the left panel, and click INSTALL on the bottom-left corner of the launcher. Accept the EULA, and leave the install options at default (except for shortcuts if you want/don't want them).

Wait for the download/installation to complete (less than 1 minute).

Congratulation ! You know have access the the FO4's creation kit and all of its toolset.

Bethesda Archive Extractor

TOOL
B.A.E. - Beteshda Archive Extractor - 0.10 - by Jon
  • MAIN FILES - Bethesda Archive Extractor v0.10

Installation :

  • Download manually
  • Extract the archive in a suitable location. Using a "Modding Tools" or similar folder is strongly advised to keep all your modding utilities together.

Description : This tool allow you to have a quick peek inside .BA2 or .BSA archive files (Bethesda's specific archive format), or even extract them to an external location. While essentially aimed at modders to extract, analyze, and edit resources, B.A.E. can allow you to better understand which files exist within the original game, and which files will be provided brand new by installed mods.

More informations on how to setup and use B.A.E. are available on its dedicated guide.

If you also installed the Creation Kit, you might want to use Archive2 instead, which offer way possibility. BAE is still nice to just preview .ba2 because of the visualized arborescence.

Installing extenders and injectors

Fallout 4 Script Extender

F4SE have already become critical to your modding setup, as it will allow you to bypass the Launcher, preventing any unwanted modifications and faster gamestart.
It also come with the possibility to customize heavily your keybindings, some extended scripting functions that beta mods might require, and the possibility to load powerful .dll plugins, which you can think of as "mod written in C++ hooking directly in the game engine without the burden of the regular modding API". Those .dll basically allow more freedom on modding possibilities, such as re-enabling achievments on modded game or save/load presets/settings files independently from the original system.

CORE
Fallout 4 Script Extender - 1.9.4 - by ianpatt, behippo, and Purple Lunchbox
Files to download :

Fallout 4 runtime 1.9.7 Current build: 0.3.7 - 7z archive

Installation : Put the following files into your installation folder :

  • f4se_loader.exe
  • f4se_1_9_4.dll
  • f4se_steam_loader.dll
  • Data folder (merge with existing)

Utilization :
From now on, you must always run the game using f4se_loader.exe instead of Fallout4.exe

To customize keymapping (from F4SE readme) :

  • Extract CustomControlMap.txt to Data\F4SE\CustomControlMap.txt
  • Edit that file with Notepad++ to set your bindings.
  • You have to specify what is known as Virtual-Key codes.
  • Do not use the space-bar when editing the file, columns have to be separated by tabulations only.
    • The first column is the name of the internal keybind.
    • The second column is the Virtual-Key code that should activate the bind.
    • The third column is for mice.
    • The fourth column is for controllers.
    • The next three columns control whether or not a control should be written to the user's config file.
    • The final column specifies which input layer the bind is associated with. You will probably not want to change that.
  • Delete Custom_MapControl.txt from Documents\My Games\Fallout4\ if you have one here.

ENBoost and ENBSeries

Not as critical as its Skyrim counter-part, ENBoost allow you to disable fake NPC-lighting without having to enter the command manually each time you load the game.
This also fix some multi-threading issues with shaders, but fixes aren't necessarily noticeable on all configurations.
No performance hit. You also have a nice FPS counter available at will (* key on your numpad).
Download Binaries

Click on the latest binaries available, and on the next page on Down1.gifdownload.
Look for the folder named WrapperVersion in the archive, and extract the following files in your installation folder
Copy the following files in your installation folder :

  • d3d11.dll
  • d3dcompiler_46e.dll
  • enblocal.ini

Edit enblocal.ini with Notepad++ to modify the following setting :

UsePatchSpeedhackWithoutGraphics=true

This will disable the graphical part of enbseries (which require the other files from the wrapper folder we didn't install) to only leave bugfixes enabled. If you install a post-processing mod later based on enbseries, you'll need to come back to set this parameter to false. Note that such post-processing mods (known as ENB Presets) come with their own effect files, so you won't need those in the original enbseries (which are mostly here as template / examples for presets authors, though you can still use them).
If you wish to install the default effect files and tweak them by yourself (i.e. design your own preset), some help to get started is available on the STEP Forum, thanks to JawZ

Info-Logo.png

NOTE

The d3dcompiler_46e.dll isn't technically required for ENBoost only.

This is used for runtime compilation of some specific effect shaders. This file should be already present on the computer and unnecessary for users of windows 8 or above, and users having Visual Studio 2012 or above installed on their computer. Though it won't do any harm to install it along the others, and it ensure you have absolutely anything that could ever be needed for future ENB presets installations.

More informations : Official Nexus Page
There is some information and preset here regarding the ForceVideoMemorySizeparameter. Leaving it at default (disabled) is recommended for lower configuration. Only systems with a lot of RAM will take advantage of this.


More general informations about enbseries can be found around STEP, check the forum and other guides. Keep in mind that some of the content might not apply to Fallout 4 though.

ReShade

ReShade is a framework to enhance post-processing. This allow to inject shaders in games at run-time. The most known shader library now using ReShade is SweetFX.

Warning-Logo.png

WARNING

Do NOT install ReShade if you don't intend to install a preset.

ReShade will be dropped in the next update of the guide.

The main download is here : ReShade
Installation :

  • Extract the archive in a temporary folder
  • Rename ReShade64.dll to dxgi.dll
  • Move dxgi.dll, ReShade.fx, and the ReShade folder with all of its content to your Fallout 4 installation folder.

Note that some presets might require an older ReShade framework to work as intended. Always check the preset's mod page you're downloading for special instructions.

Installing a ReShade Preset

Installing a ReShade is rather straightforward.

  • Go to the (nexus) page of the preset
  • Download manually
  • Open the archive with 7zip
  • Drag and drop the files/folders so :
    • They overwrite the ones installed by the framework.
    • The ReShade folder merge with the one installed by the framework.

As mentioned above, if your preset require a different version than the one you currently have installed, you will first need to uninstall your current ReShade framework, install the legacy version, and only then install your preset.

Info-Logo.png
NOTE:
Doing things manually will result in a need to completely uninstall and reinstall ReShade when switching between presets. This will remain so until a reliable manager is available.

Time to mod !

BugFixes & Annoyances removal

This section aim to fix game's bugs, inconsistencies and issues, as well as removing some annoyances present in the original game.

Nexus Mods

Unofficial Fallout 4 Patch
CORE
Unofficial Fallout 4 Patch - 1.0.2 - by the Unofficial Patch Project Team
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Unofficial Fallout 4 Patch

Description : This is the unofficial patch for Fallout 4. This fix several bugs, glitches, issues and inconsistencies not dealt with by Bethesda in the official version of the game.

Dead Body Collision
CORE
Dead Body Collision - 1.0 - by MadAce
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - DeadBodyCollision

Description : Enable collision physic on dead bodies.

Realistic Death Physics
CORE
Realistic Death Physics - 1.2 - by mm137
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Realistic Death Physics - No Animations

Description : Reduce impacts' strength to prevent NPCs from flying around the place when taking a fatal bullet, and replace odd-looking death animations by simple ragdoll to make body crumbles in a more natural fashion

Faster terminal Display
CORE
Faster terminal Display - 3.0 - by Old Nick
Files to download :
  • OPTIONAL FILES - Faster Terminal Displays (5x) Creation Kit Version

Description : Increase the speed at which terminals text is displayed.

Achievements
Optional
Achievements - 1.0.3 - by Expired
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Achievements v1-0-3

Description : Re-enable steam achievements even when playing a modded game. You obviously don't need it if you already have all of the achievements (or don't care about them).

Unlimited Survival Action
Optional
Unlimited Survival Action - 1.0 - by Lucyf3r and sely1337
Files to download :
  • OPTIONAL FILES - Unlimited Survival Activations - Merged

Description : The original purpose of this mod is to allow the player to switch in and out of survival mode at will, which is basically a cheat to get rid off survival malus. However, this feature might come in handy if you're planing on a long play-through and need to switch survival mode off for a few hours. But the main interest is the merged file download, that re-enable regular save and quicksaves from the menu. (Quicksaves using F5 still won't work).

Highly Customizable Survival Damages
easy
HCSD - Highly Customizable Survival Damages - 1.0 - by Fame7
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - HCSD PC 1.5x Enemy 1.5x

Description : A collection of difficulty presets for survival mode. Recommended download will make NPC and PC damages even.

Survival Mode Console
Optional
Survival Mode Console - 1 - by Zion9876
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Survival Mode Console
Alternative :
  • OPTIONAL FILES - SMC

Description : Re-enable the use of the console in survival mode. The alternative optional download will also re-enable fast-travel, though using it will seriously reduce the interest of survival mode.

Performances Improvements

Though Bethesda did way better with Fallout 4 than with their previous titles regarding stability and performances, there is still work to do to make things as smooth as possible.

External Mods

Shadow Boost
Performance
Shadow Boost - 1.5.157.0 - by Alexander Blade
Use the Download link

Installation :

  • Extract the archive in a temporary folder.
  • Move ShadowBoost.asi, ShadowBoost.ini and xinput1_3.dll in your installation folder.
  • Adjust parameters in ShadowBoost.ini :
    • fTargetFramerate is your minimum desried FPS
    • fDistChangeSpeed is the speed at which shadow distance will be adjusted. Keep it between 0.5 and 5.0.
    • fShadowDrawDistMin is the minimal shadow distance, so even at lower FPS, shadow won't be reduced to a weird-looking distance.
    • fShadowDrawDistMax is the maximal shadow distance. There is no need to set it super-high as you won't be able to see that far anyway

Official Shadow Boost Nexus Page

Description: Remember the advice earlier about setting shadow distance to medium to drastically increase performance ?
Well, this is a fix. This will allow you to set a desired minimum FPS. While you're above the desired FPS, Shadow Distance will be increased dynamically. If your FPS start dropping, it'll be reduced until you go back to your desired limit.

Nexus Mods

Optimized vanilla Textures
Performance
Optimized vanilla Textures - 1.10 - by Myst
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Optimized Vanilla Textures 1-07 Full
  • UPDATES - Optimized Vanilla Textures 1-10 Update

Special installation instructions:

  • Only install the v1.07 through NMM
  • Browse to the mod's folder in the virtual install
  • Unpack the v1.10 update in here so both Textures folder merges
  • Use Archive2 to pack the textures under a .ba2 (see the Archive2 guide)
  • Delete the Textures folder and place your .ba2 in here instead.
  • Add your .ba2 to the sResourceIndexFileList in Fallout4.ini

Description : A set of optimized textures, very little quality loss for a small performance improvement.

Resource

This section install resources mods required by others in the guide in order to function properly.

Nexus Mods

Armor and Weapon Keywords Community Resource (AWKCR)

(My understanding is that AWKCR is depreciated and should be avoided. See https://www.nexusmods.com/fallout4/articles/4504. TobyKenobi)

CORE
Armor and Weapon Keywords Community Resource (AWKCR) - 2.2.2 - by Valdacil and Gambit77
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Armor and Weapon Keywords Community Resource v2.2.2
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FOMOD Instructions
Armor and Weapons Keyword Community Resource
Armor and Weapons Keyword Community Resource
Game Options
Game Options

DotMO.png All DLC

UFO4P
UFO4P

DotMO.png UFO4P Patch

Install

Description : This is a community framework that create and assign a new set of keywords for armors and weapons, offering enhanced possibilities for everything related to the crafting of weapons & armors.

User Interface

This section improve the user interface, bringing more convenience to the use of menus, while preventing a too intrusive UI that could break immersion.

Nexus Mods

Full Dialogue Interface
CORE
Full Dialogue Interface - Beta10 - by shadwar and Cirosan
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Full Dialogue Interface - All languages - NMM installer
  • UPDATES - (English) Automatron DLC support - English version, (English) Far Harbor DLC support - English version
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FOMOD Instructions
Full Dialogue Interface Installation
Full Dialogue Interface Installation
English Version
English Version

DotMO.png Full Dialogue Interface - Horizontal Brackets With Numbers

Install


Notes :

  • If using a non-English version of the game, choose a version compatible with your language.
  • The option you select have no impact on the rest of the guide, just pick the layout you prefer.

Description : Dialogues options now display the full text. The layout is re-designed in a more classic fashion, and can be selected with 1/2/3/4 keys instead of arrow-keys

DEF_UI
CORE
DEF_UI - 1.2.2 - by Neanka and Valdacil
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - DEF_UI 1.2.2
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WARNING

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FOMOD Instructions
Main
Main
Readme
Readme

DotMO.png IMPORTANT

Next
Interface
Interface
Interface
Interface

DotMO.png DEF_HUD

DotMO.png DEF_INV

Language
Language

DotMO.png English (EN)

Screen Ratio
Screen Ratio

DotMO.png 16:9

Next
HUD
HUD
Display Components
Display Components

DotMO.png Use Sorting Mod Component Tags

HUD Config
HUD Config

DotMO.png Vanilla HUD

Next
Sorting-EN
Sorting-EN
Sorting Mod
Sorting Mod

DotMO.png I already have sorting xml files

Next
Readme
Readme
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT

DotMO.png Readme - Mods

DotMO.png Readme - HUD

DotMO.png Readme - INV

Install

Notes :

  • Under Language, pick your game's language.
  • Under Screen Ratio, pick your own monitor's ratio.

Description : This mod come with a lot of improvements to the Inventory, Pipboy and Barter menu, from bigger containers to DPS and Value/Weight indicators, with customized categories for holotapes and notes as well. Everything is configurable through .xml files. Tags in item's names can be replaced by icons.

You can customize the HUD further by yourself by visiting the Data\Interface folder and drag & dropping the HUDMenuSet.swf to the flashplayer_20_sa.exe

Valdacil's Item Sorting
CORE
Valdacil's Item Sorting - 7.4.1 - by Valdacil
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Valdacils Item Sorting v7.4.1
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FOMOD Instructions
Valdacil's Item Sorting
Valdacil's Item Sorting
Main
Main

DotMO.png Val's Picks (DLC Version - Vanilla Weight)

Customize
Customize

DotMO.png Customize

Next
Customize
Customize
Modules
Modules
None
Aid
Aid
None
Ammo
Ammo
None
Armor
Armor
None
Cosmetics
Cosmetics
None
Explosives
Explosives
None
Junk
Junk

DotMO.png Better Junk + DEF_INV

Misc
Misc
None
Mods
Mods
None
Not Junk
Not Junk

DotMO.png Default

Next
Patches
Patches
Compatibility Patches
Compatibility Patches
None
Chem Redux + VIS:Aid
Chem Redux + VIS:Aid

DotMO.png Vanilla Weight

Functional Displays + VIS:Explosives
Functional Displays + VIS:Explosives
None
Functional Displays + VIS:Misc+Junk
Functional Displays + VIS:Misc+Junk
None
ReBallistic + VIS:Ammo
ReBallistic + VIS:Ammo
None
ZephhyrWarrior's F4 PA Overhaul + VIS:Armor
ZephhyrWarrior's F4 PA Overhaul + VIS:Armor
None
DEF_INV Tags
DEF_INV Tags

DotMO.png DEF_INV All

Install

Note: Because ChemRedux haven't been installed yet, the automated installer won't let you pick the option for the patch. If you're going to use the full BABY Patch, the conflict resolution is already handled in it. If not, you need to either bypass the fomod to install the patch, resolve the conflict by yourself, or install ChemRedux before VIS.

Description : This mod will allow to take full advantage of DEF_UI by modifying Item's names so they can be displayed with icons in the menus, and have a better item sorting in menus. Additionally, the "Not Junk" feature prevent valuable junk or collectible to be treated as such, and instead being "Misc" so they can't be scrapped automatically and can be sold or collected instead.

Additional modifications : In order to keep a clear load order and reduce the number of .esp, merge manually the plugins with xEdit :

  • Make sure the plugins are sorted in the right order :
    • Fallout4.esm
    • DLCRobot.esm
    • DLCworkshop01.esm
    • ArmorKeywords.esm
    • ValdacilsItemSorting-00-ValsPicks-DLCVersion-VanillaWeight.esp
    • ValdacilsItemSorting-JunkBetter+DEF_INV.esp
    • ValdacilsItemSorting-NotJunk.esp
  • Open FO4Edit, uncheck everything but the above plugins.
  • Once the background loader is complete, expand the latest plugin in the tree panel.
  • Right click on the first group and select Copy As Deep Override To...
  • In the menu the pop-up, select <new file>
  • In the next textbox, enter the name of your destination plugin without the .esp extension. Item Sorting or VIS for instance.
  • Repeat for each group in the plugin, selecting your newly created .esp in the plugin selection
  • Repeat for each plugin from ValdacilsItemSorting in the load order, from the higher priority one to the lower priority one.
  • Do NOT to do this with ArmorKeywords.esm or any of the official plugins.
  • Close FO4Edit and save your newly created plugin.
  • Remove old ValcadisItemSorting*.esp plugins from your installation.
Info-Logo.png

NOTE

This is not an universal nor error-proof way of merging plugins. This only work because of the low-level of technicality involved in sorting mods (which only changes names). Do not attempt to use a similar technique for more advanced merges, wait for proper tools instead.

For information, this work because the (deep) copy as override function in xEdit copy records only if they don't already exist in the destination plugin.

Doing this procedure starting with mods having the higher priority ensure that their changes will be the ones in the final plugin. If the procedure is followed in reverse order, the destination file will be identical to the original ValdacilsItemSorting-00-ValsPicks-DLCVersion-VanillaWeight.esp
Satellite World Map
CORE
Satellite World Map - 1.0 - by FloorBelow
Files to download :
  • OPTIONAL FILES - Monochrome Version - 4k Resolution
Optional
Alternative
 :

  • OPTIONAL FILES - Coloured Version - 4k Resolution

Notes :

  • Do not be afraid of the resolution size. This is for the worldmap, so the texture is only used when the map is open. Performances and VRAM limits aren't relevant.
  • Bigger resolutions make the map actually bigger, meaning it take more time to move from one point to another in the map menu. It help to spread icons, but 8K can make the map uncomfortable to use.
  • If using the colored version, don't forget to add the following tweaks to your INIs :
[Pipboy]
bPipboyDisableFX=1

[Display]
fPipboyScreenEmitIntensityPA=1.25
fPipboyScreenDiffuseIntensityPA=0.15

Description : Improved map, easier to read and more pleasant to look at.

LooksMenu
CORE
LooksMenu - 1.0.3 - by Expired
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - LooksMenu v1-0-3

Description : Improved looksmenu for character creation/customisation. Bigger lists, possibility to select face parts from the menu, and presets import/export.

Environment

The environment... you see it pretty much everywhere, so better make it as good looking as possible ;)

ReShade/ENB Preset

Cinematic Excellence
CORE
Cinematic Excellence - 6.4.1 - by Archalyus
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Cinematic Excellence v6.4.1

Special Instructions :

  • If you had ReShade 2.0+ installed, uninstall it
  • Install the legacy version of ReShade:
    • Download ReShade v1.1 (bottom of the page)
    • Open the archive in 7zip
    • Move ReShade64.dll, ReShade.fx, and the ReShade folder into your installation folder
    • Rename ReShade64.dll to dxgi.dll
  • Download the archive manually
  • From the ReShade Main Files folder :
    • Install files from the "Cinematic Palette"
    • Install one of the files from the sharpening folder, depending on your liking.
      More sharpening mean more texture details, but this lead to objects that are not seen up-close to look noisy.
    • Ignore the Depth Of Field folder (The SweetFX DoF included is invasive and will blur your UI and conversations scenes).
  • Optional
    From the ENB Test Main Files folder
    • Install everything but the enblocal.ini
    • Edit your own enblocal.ini to make sure that UsePatchSpeedhackWithoutGraphics is set to false.

Note: With the rest of the setup, the ENB part of the mod can darken interiors a bit too much. Also, reflection seems to be somewhat glitchy (might be a GPU-related issue, not everyone seems to encounter the issue) and the eye-adaption is a bit too powerful, thus the ENB part is only optional. It's main interest is the additional bloom.

Description : A high quality ReShade + ENB preset, enhancing shadows, lighting, colors, etc... Good enough for current BABY's state, though it might change in the near future if it doesn't see anymore updates (the eye-adaptation is a bit clunky)

Nexus Mods

WET - Water Enhancement Textures
CORE
WET - Water Enhancement Textures - 1.65 - by SparrowPrince
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - WET 1_65
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FOMOD Instructions
WET 1_65
WET
WET
WET
WET

DotMO.png WET Main Files

WET Rain Optional
WET Rain Optional
None
WET Plugin Optional
WET Plugin Optional
None
Install

Description : Improved water textures and colors, including new ripples effects.

Radiant Clouds and Fogs
CORE
Radiant Clouds and Fogs - 1.3 - by MangaClub
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Radiant Clouds and Fogs
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FOMOD Instructions
Radiant Clouds and Fogs
Radiant Clouds and Fogs
Radiant Clouds and Fogs
Vivid Clouds and Fogs
Vivid Clouds and Fogs

DotMO.png Highres Version

Install

Note : You can pick the MedRes version if the installer if you're worried about performances.

Description : Improve clouds textures, giving them a more volumetric look. They're also designed to improve the shadows casted by sunlight/moonlight.

True Storms
CORE
True Storms - Wasteland Edition - 1.3.1 - by fadingsignal
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - True Storms - Wasteland Edition 1.3.1
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FOMOD Instructions
True Storms - Wasteland Edition 1.3.1
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
Standard or LITE Audio
Standard or LITE Audio

DotMO.png Standard Audio (default)

Next
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
Weather Chances
Weather Chances

DotMO.png Standard Vanilla

Next
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
Volatility
Volatility

DotMO.png Longer Weather (default)

Next
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
Sunset Time
Sunset Time

DotMO.png Standard Vanilla

Next
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
Heavy Fogs
Heavy Fogs

DotMO.png New Heavy Fogs (default)

Next
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
True Storms - Wasteland Edition
Dangerous Glowing Sea
Dangerous Glowing Sea

DotMO.png 3x Damage

Finish

Override : WET - Water Enhancement Textures

Special Instruction :

  • Make sure that rain occlusion is enabled in Fallout4Prefs.ini :
    bEnableRainOcclusion=1

Description : Overhaul the storms weathers, improving both sounds and visuals during various climatic situations, and introducing new type of storms for more variety.

Darker Nights
CORE
Darker Nights - 1.10.6 - by unforbidable
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Darker Nights
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FOMOD Instructions
Darker Nights
Darker Nights 1.10.6
Darker Nights 1.10.6
Darkness Level
Darkness Level

DotMO.png Light (level 4)

Sky
Sky

DotMO.png Vanilla

Next
Darker Nights 1.10.6
Darker Nights 1.10.6
Detection
Detection

DotMO.png Easy (level 4)

Next
Darker Nights 1.10.6
Darker Nights 1.10.6
Night Vision
Night Vision

DotMO.png Alternative (Green Tint)

Next
Darker Nights 1.10.6
Darker Nights 1.10.6
Night Vision Strength
Night Vision Strength

DotMO.png Moderate

Finish

Notes :

  • You don't need the patches from the optional downloads. Those two patches still have conflicts with each others. Everything is handled properly in the "BABY Visuals" patch, or in the full BABY Patch.
  • If you don't use a post-processing mod which already darken nights, such as one of the two recommended at the beginning of this guide, choose the Dark (level 2) option, and make the next parameters match this choice. In this case, you won't be able to use the patches from BABY and will need to install the optional files.

Description : Increase nights darkness, and provide additional tweaks to re-adjust NPC detection and Night vision.

Fr4nsson's Light Tweaks
Optional
Fr4nsson's Light Tweaks - 1.6 - by Fr4nsson
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - Fr4nsson's Light Tweaks V1.6 - Indoor Only

Description : Edit interiors image-spaces (~built-in post-processing) to remove fake skylights (light from the roof) and tweak bloom effects. This result in somewhat darkers/dimmers interiors leading to an enhanced contrast in enlightened areas.
Look good with the Cinematic Excellence ReShade, not so much with the ENB part (which kill an other part of the ambiant lighting, making scenes extremely dark if no lightsources are around). Pick one or the other (choosing the ENB is more performance intensive)

Fallout Textures Overhaul Stars
CORE
Fallout Textures Overhaul Stars - 1.0 - by Gorgulla
Files to download :
  • MAIN FILES - FTO Stars 2K
HQ
Alternative
 :

  • MAIN FILES - FTO Stars 4k
  • Description : Densify the number of stars in the sky.

    FO4 MOON
    CORE
    FO4 MOON - 4.0 - by ramccoid
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - FO4 MOON v4 x1024
    HQ
    Alternative
     :

  • MAIN FILES - FO4 MOON v4 x2048
  • Description : Bigger and better-looking moon !

    BABY Patch

    Optional
    BABY Visuals - 0.1.4.1 - by Kesta
    Files to download :
    • OPTIONAL FILES - BABY Visuals

    Note: Only use this patch if you don't install the whole guide and thus can't use the full BABY Patch.

    Description: Fix conflicts between Darker Nights, True Storms and Radiants Clouds and Fogs, including those between the two patches included in Darker Nights

    Textures - Landscape & Architecture

    Same as for environment, landscape and architectures are seen pretty much everywhere in Fallout 4.

    Nexus Mods

    FAR - Faraway Area Reform
    CORE
    FAR - Faraway Area Reform - 1.1 - by SparrowPrince
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - FAR - Faraway Area Reform 1_1
    • OPTIONAL FILES - FAR - Optimised Default Bump Maps 1-1

    Description : Improved textures of the distant terrain, also improving performances, killing two pidgeys with one stone.

    Rock On
    CORE
    Rock On - 09beta - by 3AMt
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Rock On

    Description : Improved rock textures, more patterned and a bit darker then vanilla's.

    Better Quarry Sights
    CORE
    Better Quarry Sights - 2.2 - by LucidAPs
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Better Quarry Sites
    HQ
    Optional
     :

    • OPTIONAL FILES - Better Quarry Sites - HD Normal Maps

    Description : Improved quarry sights with higher res textures, contributing to rectify some visual glitches/stretching.

    Vivid Fallouts - Landscapes
    CORE
    Vivid Fallouts - Landscapes - 2.1 - by Hein84
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Vivid Fallout - Landscapes - Best Choice
    LQ
    Alternative
     :

  • MAIN FILES - Vivid Fallout - Landscapes - Best Performances
  • HQ
    Alternative
     :

  • MAIN FILES - xVivid Fallout - Landscapes - 2k
  • Description : Improved ground textures. Albeit those textures are higher-res and better looking than vanilla's, they still contribute to improve performances thanks to compression format magic.

    New Road Enhanced
    CORE
    New Road Enhanced - 2.0 - by Rufus696
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - New Road BETA V2

    Override : Vivid Fallouts - Landscapes

    Description : Improved road textures, a little bit more crackled than vanilla.

    Langleys HD Textures Workshop
    CORE
    Langleys HD Textures Workshop - 0.8 - by Langley
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Langleys HD Textures Workshop
    Files to download :
    • OPTIONAL FILES - Optional Files

    Special Instructions :

    • Do not install the optional files as is.
    • Disable the main file install in NMM
    • Open NMM's mod folder for Langley's workshop
    • Open the optional archive with 7zip
    • Extract the content of Rust Bobblehead Stand and Broken Bricks sub-folders into it (Textures folders should merge)

    Override :

    • Vivid Fallouts - Landscapes

    Description : High quality retex of various architecture and decoration items.

    Haul'd Out
    CORE
    Haul'd Out 4K - 1.1.1 - by DUST2DEATH
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - HaulD Out 2K - Pier, HaulD Out 2K - Warehouse

    Description : High-quality retextures of two architecture sets, warehouses and pier.

    Prydwen 2K Textures
    HQ
    Prydwen 2K Textures - 1.0 - by tamu75
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Prydwen 2K Textures v1.0

    Description : Reflective and shiny textures for the Prydwen's floor ! Plus texture improvements to the overall Prydwen's textures.

    Textures - Equipment

    Time to pimp up the various pieces of equipment found around the commonwealth.

    Nexus Mods

    Proto Vault Suit
    CORE
    Proto Vault Suit - 1.2 - by nitronizer
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - ProtoVaultSuit - Blue 1.2
    Alternatives :
    • OPTIONAL FILES - Any of the alternative colors you prefer

    Description : High quality retexture of the vaultsuit, with color alternatives. Different than vanilla though true to the original look.

    Fallout textures Overhaul PipBoy
    CORE
    Fallout textures Overhaul PipBoy - 2.3 - by Gorgulla
    Files to download :
    • OPTIONAL FILES - FTO Pip-Boy UHD 4K
    Alternative :
    • OPTIONAL FILES - FTO Pip-Boy UHD 4K Dark Version

    Note : Do NOT override the map from Satellite World Map

    Description : HD retexture of the Pip-Boy.

    Immersive Wastelander's Ammunition
    CORE
    Immersive Wastelanders Ammunitions - 1.0 - by Atrioch
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Immersive Wastelander's Ammunition

    Description : Retexture of the ammo boxes, giving them a more weathered look way more plausible than the almost-shiny vanilla ones.

    Combat Armor No Star Decal
    Optional
    Combat Armor No Star Decal - 0.1 - by Milacetious
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Combat Armor No Star Decal

    Description : Remove the star decal from the power armor, preventing from an undesired cap'tain america look.

    New Double Barrel Shotgun Textures
    CORE
    New Double Barrel Shotgun Textures - 1.0 - by Millenia
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - ScratchMade - FO4 Double Barrel Shotgun retexture

    Description : HQ retexture for double barrels shotguns.

    New Combat Shotgun and Rifle textures
    CORE
    New Combat Shotgun and Rifle textures - 1.1 - by Millenia
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Fallout 4 Combat Shotgun and Rifle retexture - 4096 tex
    LQ
     :

    • OPTIONAL FILES - Fallout 4 Combat Shotgun and Rifle retexture - 2048 tex

    Override: New Double Barrel Shotgun Textures (same files)

    Description : HQ retexture for shotguns and rifles.

    4K Black Suit and Tuxedo
    CORE
    4K Black Suit and Tuxedo - 1.1 - by TwistedMethod
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - 4k Black Suit (Smoother), 4k Tuxedo (as requested)

    Description : HQ retexture of the black suit and the tuxedo.

    Fallout Textures Overhaul Power Armors
    CORE
    Fallout Textures Overhaul Power Armors - 1.3 - by Gorgulla
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - FTO Power Armors UHD 4K Power Armor FRAME, FTO Power Armors UHD 4K T-45, FTO Power Armors UHD 4K T-60
    LQ
    Alternative
     :

    • OPTIONAL FILES - FTO Power Armors UHD 2K Power Armor FRAME, FTO Power Armors UHD 2K T-45, FTO Power Armors UHD 2K T-60

    Description : HQ retexture of the Power Armor Frame, the T-45 Power Armor, and the T-60.

    .44 Magnum Retexture
    CORE
    .44 Magnum Retexture - 1.1 - by Exodus
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - .44 Magnum Double Resolution
    LQ
    Alternative
     :

  • MAIN FILES - .44 Magnum Standard Resolution
  • Description : Good-looking retexture of the .44 Magnum, slightly cleaner than vanilla.

    Eyewear and mask retexture
    CORE
    Eyewear and mask retexture - 1.4 - by Castell
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Eyewear and mask retexture

    Description : High quality retexture of eyewear (and masks with eye-protection) to give them a realistic look.

    Textures - Clutter

    Improved visuals for various clutters items seen around the commonwealth.

    Nexus Mods

    Weathered First Aid Kit
    CORE
    Weathered First Aid Kit - 1.0 - by Kazeite
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Weathered First Aid Kit

    Description : Retexture of the First Aid Kit so it match better the general atmosphere of the game, vanilla's kit being too clean and thus looking out of place in some places.

    High Resolution Pack - Valius
    CORE
    High Resolution Pack - Valius - 1.2.3 - by Valius
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Textures - 2K Version

    Description : Improve some furniture textures such as desks and cabinets

    Better Computer Terminals
    CORE
    Better Computer Terminals - 1.0 - by Jomla97
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Better Computer Terminals - 2K Dirtier

    Description : Improve terminals textures, with letters on the keyboard !

    HD ReTexture 4X 2X WIP
    CORE
    HD ReTexture 4X 2X WIP - 3.3 - by FlaconOil
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Full Main Fomod installer 3.0
    • UPDATES - Update 3.0 to 3.1, Update 3.1 to 3.2, Update 3.2 to 3.3
    LQ
    Optional
     :

    • OPTIONAL FILES - Optional for performance 3.1, Optional for performance Update 3.2, Optional for performance Update 3.3
    Warning-Logo.png

    WARNING

    Template:FOMOD_Instructions is deprecated and should no longer be used on this wiki. Please change this template call to use the better-looking and simpler Template:Fomod. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    FOMOD Instructions
    FlaconOil 4X 2X FromScratch ReTexture WIP - Main Full
    FlaconOil 4X 2X FromScratch ReTexture WIP - Main Full
    Info
    Info
    None
    Main
    Main

    DotMO.png MegaLoader

    DotMO.png BusStop

    DotMO.png CigaretteMachine

    DotMO.png PowerGenerator

    DotMO.png NewsStand

    DotMO.png RedRocketGasSign

    DotMO.png PlutoniumWellTurbineShell

    DotMO.png FolderPapers

    DotMO.png OfficeBoxPapers

    DotMO.png TrashBin

    DotMO.png Trashcan

    DotMO.png SafeFloor

    DotMO.png SafeStanding

    DotMO.png SafeWall

    DotMO.png ACducts

    DotMO.png CashRegister

    DotMO.png ChashierNumber

    DotMO.png Block and BrickCinder

    Next
    FlaconOil 4X 2X FromScratch ReTexture WIP - Main Full
    FlaconOil 4X 2X FromScratch ReTexture WIP - Main Full
    FlaconOil Style Optional
    FlaconOil Style Optional
    None
    Finish
    Warning-Logo.png

    WARNING

    Template:FOMOD_Instructions is deprecated and should no longer be used on this wiki. Please change this template call to use the better-looking and simpler Template:Fomod. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    FOMOD Instructions
    FlaconOil 4X 2X FromScratch ReTexture WIP - Update
    FlaconOil 4X 2X FromScratch ReTexture WIP - Update
    3.0 to 3.1
    3.0 to 3.1

    DotMO.png Greebs and Lattices

    Finish
    Warning-Logo.png

    WARNING

    Template:FOMOD_Instructions is deprecated and should no longer be used on this wiki. Please change this template call to use the better-looking and simpler Template:Fomod. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    FOMOD Instructions
    FlaconOil 4X 2X FromScratch ReTexture WIP - Update
    FlaconOil 4X 2X FromScratch ReTexture WIP - Update
    3.1 to 3.2
    3.1 to 3.2

    DotMO.png FuseBox

    DotMO.png IceMachine

    Finish
    Warning-Logo.png

    WARNING

    Template:FOMOD_Instructions is deprecated and should no longer be used on this wiki. Please change this template call to use the better-looking and simpler Template:Fomod. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    FOMOD Instructions
    FlaconOil 4X 2X FromScratch ReTexture WIP - Update
    FlaconOil 4X 2X FromScratch ReTexture WIP - Update
    3.2 to 3.3
    3.2 to 3.3

    DotMO.png BookVendingMachine

    Finish

    Override : Langleys Workshop

    Description : High quality retex of various outdoors furnitures and other machines

    OJO BUENO NUKA-COLA MACHINE
    CORE
    OJO BUENO NUKA-COLA MACHINE - 2.0 - by tapioks
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Ojo Bueno Nuka-Cola Machine - 2K Full
    HQ
    Alternative
     :

  • MAIN FILES - Ojo Bueno Nuka-Cola Machine - 4K
  • LQ
    Alternative
     :

  • MAIN FILES - Ojo Bueno Nuka-Cola Machine - 2K Lite
  • Description : Improve Nuka-Cola distributors textures

    OJO BUENO MILK VENDING MACHINE
    CORE
    OJO BUENO MILK VENDING MACHINE - 2.0 - by tapioks
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Ojo Bueno Milk Vending Machine - 2K Lite
    HQ
    Alternative
     :

  • MAIN FILES - Ojo Bueno Milk Vending Machine - 4K
  • LQ
    Alternative
     :

  • MAIN FILES - Ojo Bueno Milk Vending Machine - 1K
  • Description : Improve Milk vending machines textures

    Fallout 4 HD Reworked Project
    CORE
    Fallout 4 HD Reworked Project - 1.0 - by Halk Hogan
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Fallout 4 HD Reworked Project 1.0 - QUALITY
    LQ
    Alternative
     :

  • MAIN FILES - Fallout 4 HD Reworked Project 1.0 - xPERFORMANCE
  • Description : Upgrade several clutters elements to high quality visuals, both textures and meshes.

    FOAM - Better Locks
    CORE
    FOAM - Better Locks - 2.2.1a - by Dread
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Better Locks v2.1.1a

    Note : The mod is wrongly packaged. NMM will install the blue screwdriver by default. That's fine if you're ok with it. Install the alternative folder if you prefer the vanilla red (recommended) or a green one.

    Description : Improve lock's texture seen during the lockpicking mini-game.

    Textures - Items

    Nexus Mods

    Improved Pre-War Money
    CORE
    Improved Pre-War Money - 1.0 - by Zaldiir
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Improved Pre-War Money

    Description : Improve the very low-res Pre-War money texture.

    Comics Got Back
    CORE
    Comics Got Back - 2.0 - by tonicmole
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - COMICS GOT BACK 2.0
    • OPTIONAL FILES - Optional Survival Guide Fix

    Description : Give a back with an ad to collectibles magazines.

    FTO Pip-Boy - Holotape
    CORE
    FTO Pip-Boy - Holotape - 2.3 - by Gorgulla
    Files to download :
    • OPTIONAL FILES - FTO Pip-Boy Holotape

    Description : Part of Gorgulla's pipboy overhaul, huge improvement of the holotapes textures.

    Chem Redux
    CORE
    Chem Redux - 2.5 - by Derp
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Chem Redux 2.5 - No Glow

    Description : Small retexture of chems, offering more variety between the different declination of mentats and other drugs by giving each a more unique appearance.

    Textures - Creatures

    We're don't exactly want awful creatures to look sexy. but that doesn't mean we cannot make them better looking ;)

    Nexus Mods

    Detailled deathclaws
    CORE
    Detailled deathclaws - 2 - by jim
    Files to download :
    • OPTIONAL FILES - Detailed Deathclaws - 2k x 2k resolution
    HQ
    Alternative
     :

  • MAIN FILES - Detailed Deathclaws - 4k x 4k resolution
  • Description : Improve deathclaw's textures.

    Textures - Characters

    Nexus Mods

    Immersive Mouth and Teeth
    CORE
    Immersive Mouth and Teeth - 3.1.0 - by ClearanceClarence
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Immersive Mouth and Teeth - All-In-One - 3.1.0
    Warning-Logo.png

    WARNING

    Template:FOMOD_Instructions is deprecated and should no longer be used on this wiki. Please change this template call to use the better-looking and simpler Template:Fomod. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    FOMOD Instructions
    Immersive Mouth and Teeth - All-In-One - 3.1.0
    Immersive Mouth and Teeth
    Immersive Mouth and Teeth
    Which Type
    Which Type

    DotMO.png Type 1

    Next
    Immersive Mouth and Teeth
    Immersive Mouth and Teeth
    Size (Type1)
    Size (Type1)

    DotMO.png 1K (Recommended)

    Finish

    Description : Improve character's mouth and teeth textures.

    Med-Tek Facial Reconstruction - Eyes
    CORE
    Med-Tek Facial Reconstruction - Eyes - 1.0 - by Xenius
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - MTFR

    Description : Slight improvement of character's eyes and eyelashes textures.

    Lore-Friendly Ghoul Eyes
    CORE
    Lore-Friendly Ghoul Eyes - 1.0 - by Pommymax
    Files to download :
    • OPTIONAL FILES - Lore-Friendly Ghoul Eyes (Nuclear Edition)

    Override : Med-Tek Facial Reconstruction - Eyes

    Description : Change ghouls' eyes to a cataract-looking style instead of the default full black one.

    deLuxe Makeup
    CORE
    deLuxe Makeup - 0.1 - by Cilbas
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Lip Liner Mask

    Note: For now, only the lip-liner part of the mod is recommended for BABY. You can still install the eyeliners modifications if you like them but those are currently untested.

    Description: Improve character's lips, smoothing the weird color gradient on the contour.

    Sounds Improvements

    Often left-aside, the audio setup are actually a critical part of a high-quality (modded) game.

    Weapon.png

    WIP

    This section isn't up to date.

    Nexus Mods

    No More Cash Register Sound
    CORE
    No More Cash Register Sound - 1.0 - by LiquidBronze
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - No more cash register sound

    Description : Remove the annoying gling-gling sound played whenever you gain experience points.

    Power Armor Movement Sounds
    CORE
    Power Armor Movement Sounds - 1.2 - by ONIXer
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - PAMS Heavy
    • OPTIONAL FILES - PAMS Hydraulic
    Special Instruction : Remove the following files from PAMS Hydraulic :
    Sound\FX\FST\ArmorPower\FST_ArmorPower_Dirt_Run_*.wav
    Sound\FX\FST\ArmorPower\FST_ArmorPower_Dirt_Walk_*.wav
    Sound\FX\FST\ArmorPower\FST_ArmorPower_Grass_Walk_*.wav
    
    * means all the files which start by the same path & name

    This is to remove the hydraulic sound from regular movement, and keep it only for special moves such as jumps. Otherwise the hydraulic sounds get very quickly annoying.

    Description : Improve the power armor's sounds, making it sound heavier and somewhat more robotic.

    Towbie's Realistic Weapon Sounds
    CORE
    Towbie's Realistic Weapon Sounds - 0.56 - by towbiekun
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Towbie's Realistic Firearms

    Description : Improve firearms sounds, making them more resounding.

    Energy Weapon Sounds
    CORE
    Energy Weapon Sounds - 1.6 - by Kelleth
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Energy Weapons 1.6 Evreything.

    Description : Improve energy weapon sounds, making the plasma ones sound closer to a blaster and the laser one more... "laseric" ? :)

    Visuals

    Nexus Mods

    Lowered Weapons
    CORE
    Lowered Weapons - 1.1 - by lesma666
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Lowered Weapons 1.1
    Special Instruction : Remove the following folders from Lowered Weapons :
    meshes\actors\character\_1stperson\animations\gaussrifle
    meshes\actors\character\_1stperson\animations\minigun
    meshes\actors\character\_1stperson\animations\gatlinglaser
    meshes\actors\character\_1stperson\animations\fatman
    meshes\actors\powerarmor\_1stperson\animations\gaussrifle
    meshes\actors\powerarmor\_1stperson\animations\minigun
    meshes\actors\powerarmor\_1stperson\animations\gatlinglaser
    meshes\actors\powerarmor\_1stperson\animations\fatman

    There is a glitch with the first 3 which have a warm-up time before firing. The fatman will just block your view if you keep it.

    Description : This mod will allow you to have your weapons lowered in 1st person view, when you are not shooting.

    Enhanced Blood Textures
    CORE
    Enhanced Blood Textures - 1.0 - by dDefinder
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - EBT_Basic v1
    Warning-Logo.png

    WARNING

    Template:FOMOD_Instructions is deprecated and should no longer be used on this wiki. Please change this template call to use the better-looking and simpler Template:Fomod. We apologize for the inconvenience.
    FOMOD Instructions
    Enhanced Blood Textures
    Enhanced Blood Textures
    Enhanced Blood Textures
    Main
    Main

    DotMO.png Enhanced Blood Textures Main

    Screen Blood
    Screen Blood

    DotMO.png Subtle

    Blood Mist
    Blood Mist
    None
    Eye Cube Map
    Eye Cube Map
    None
    Dark Outdoor
    Dark Outdoor
    None
    Screen Duration
    Screen Duration
    None
    Blood Size
    Blood Size
    None
    Next
    Enhanced Blood Textures
    Enhanced Blood Textures
    Resolution and Color
    Resolution and Color

    DotMO.png High, Alternate Darker Color

    Install

    Description : Improvement of blood textures and modifications of various blood splashes impacts. Include a plugin for additional decal and impacts parameters.

    PipBoy Shadows
    CORE
    PipBoy Shadows - 0.4 - by McGuffin
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - PipBoyShadows_HeadLamps

    Note: We're only using the headlamps shadows, not the pipboy shadows, as this one look glitchy in most situations.

    Description: Add shadows casting to power armors and mining headlamps

    Dynamic Muzzle Shadow
    HQ
    Dynamic Muzzle Shadow - 1.3 - by Troy Irving
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Dynamic Weapon Shadows

    Description : Potential FPS crusher, this mod force shadows to be cast by the light of firing weapons.
    The performance hit is only during battle, though that's when you need your game as smooth as possible.

    Shell Rain
    CORE
    Shell Rain - 1.2 - by pauderek
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Shell Rain

    Description : Drastically increase the number of visible shells, as well as the time they stay visible and the distance at which they appear.

    Settlements

    Weapon.png

    WIP

    This section is being revamped, a large part of it and is currently hidden.

    Nexus Mods

    Longer Powerlines
    CORE
    Longer Powerlines - 1.1 - by Puma361
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Longer Power Lines 3x

    Description : Increase the maximal length of power lines.

    Crafting

    Weapon.png

    WIP

    This section have to be reviewed from scratch and is currently hidden.

    New items and paintjobs

    Weapon.png

    WIP

    This section have to be reviewed from scratch and is currently hidden.

    Looting

    Nexus Mods

    Pre War Safes
    CORE
    Pre War Safes - 1.1 - by Armstrad
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Pre War Safes

    Description: Remove post-apocalyptic weapons from pre-war safes, as they don't belong there.

    Dynamic Flora Harvesting
    CORE
    Dynamic Flora Harvesting - 1.1 - by Chikawowwow
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - Dynamic Flora Harvesting

    Description: Make plants yield a number of ingredients consistent with their visual.

    Patches

    BABY Patches
    CORE
    BABY Patches - 0.1.4.1 - by Kesta
    Files to download :
    • MAIN FILES - BABY Patches

    Description : BABY-specific patch, to ensure you get the best out of the whole installation ;)

    Load Order management

    Delete or ghost (change there extensions to something irrelevant such as .ghost) the files made obsolete by the BABY Patch:

    • DarkerNights-TrueStorms.esp
    • DarkerNights-Radiant.esp
    • VIS-PatchChemRedux.esp
    • chem redux.esp

    Start LOOT.

    Added metadata rule to BABY Patch.esp to ensure that it get loaded after all of the mods it override, even if those aren't a direct dependency (In this case, the merged VIS plugin).

    Loot.png
    LOOT:
    BABY Patch.esp

    MAIN:

    • Priority Value: 1000 (or anything above 0)

    Sort plugins with LOOT.

    Credits and Thanks

    DoubleYou - For the fallout background picture.
    DoubleYou and InsanePlumber - Some great INI tweaks mentioned here, and more to come ;)
    The STEP staff - For a wonderful wiki and a lot of advice for wiki-edition