Fallout4:1.0

Fallout4 v1.0

Changelog   |   Release Date: August 27, 2023

NOTE

This is the current version of the Step Fallout4 Guide. Don't forget to endorse Step on the Nexus if you like the guide. Please report any problems or confusing instructions on the latest Feedback & Bug Reports pinned forum topic.

WARNING

This guide was made prior to the current Next Gen Update. It was also designed for use with PRP 69. Currently mods are in a state of flux as they update to the new version, so instructions will quickly fall out of date. Please direct support questions to the forums during this time if you need help figuring out how to use this guide at present.

Current notes:

• The game will need to be downgraded. The F4SE mod comments has a pinned comment with instructions. There is also the Fallout 4 Downgrader mod. The guide doesn't currently support the updates to the plugins and archives, so a full downgrade is required.
• F4SE mods will need to be for version 1.10.163.0.
• Unofficial Fallout 4 Patch needs to be the previous version. Direct link in case it gets archived: LINK.
• Previsibines Repair Pack needs to be version 69, and all mods in the guide with PRP patches also need to be for version 69.

Initial Release

This is our initial release of the Step Fallout 4 (Fallout4, FO4) guide. This Guide requires Fallout 4 GOTY edition (or all DLC).

See the changelog for more details and to determine if upgrading from a previous version is advisable.

Step Fallout4 Guide

General Information

This is the official Step modding guide for Fallout 4 GOTY Edition. Its goal is to provide an "enhanced vanilla" look and feel with a focus on exploration gameplay. It is built for Fallout 4 on the PC without VR. This Guide requires Fallout 4 GOTY edition (or all DLC).

• Visit the forums to learn more or contribute.
• Also follow Step Modifications on Facebook.
• To support hosting and maintenance of this website, consider donating to the project.

New to Modding?

We recommend that you review this entire guide before attempting installation, especially if this is your first exposure to a Step mod-build guide. We and the community, have consolidated a lot of information into our guides for use as a free resource for all. New and experienced modders alike will find many answers within these guides and linked resources. This guide is written in such a way that it expects users to know the basics of modding and related tools (e.g. mod managers, LOD optimizers, configuration utilities, etc.). However our support forums are always available for Q&A.

Nomenclature and Instructions

The following nomenclature is used throughout this guide and should be understood before proceeding.

• 'tick' means 'check': Frequently, the word 'check' or 'checked' can mean 'ensure' in addition to "check mark", so 'check' is not used where it is synonymous with 'tick' to avoid any mistakes that can (and have) happened from this conflation.
• Baseline: The recommended install option is shown within the Baseline column of the mod tables below.
• Step Patches: Custom patches created for the respective Step Guides. Always use them!

Expand Instructions!

Click the heading below to expand detailed instructions that are collapsed by default for readability:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Click Me, I'm a Spoiler!

I have more instructions for those that need them.

Expand mod table detailed instructions:

System Requirements

Fallout4 should be run on a relatively modern Windows 10/11 64-bit desktop or laptop, gaming capable PC. While CPU specs and performance are important factors, they matter only to a point beyond which is diminishing return on investment. Smooth gameplay is most limited by the GPU performance coupled to the resolution at which the game is run.

• The minimum specs assume that the recommended 'baseline' mod options will be installed, which are biased towards 'performance' options when available.
• The recommended specs assume a bias toward 'quality' and assume higher quality mod options will be installed when available.
• CPU/GPU Marks should be within the ranges listed below. Refer to the links for examples.

Hardware	Minimum	Recommended
CPU CPU Mark Range	4,000 - 7,000	> 7,000
System RAM	8GB	16GB
GPU G3D Mark Range	8,000 - 10,000	> 10,000
Video RAM	at least 4GBs	8GBs or higher
Game Drive	HDD	SSD
Resolution	1080p (HD)	1440p (QHD)

Time Commitment

Be aware it will take anywhere from several hours to a several days to complete this build from start to finish. This time will vary greatly depending on internet download speed and user experience. Following are cumulative time estimates on average:

3-6 hours : Steps 1 - 3 (modding-environment setup)

8-12 hours : Step 4 (mod download, installation)

1-2 hours : Steps 5 - 6 (LODGen, post-build configuration, and fine-tuning the build)

STEP 1

Game & Tool Installation

Follow the System Setup Guide!

WARNING

It is not recommended to install or use the official High Resolution Texture Pack DLC as it has significant issues that are not worth fixing for the few textures that would be used from it. If it is already installed, remove it by unchecking the DLC in the Steam library.

Those who have not completed the System Setup Guide (SSG) should STOP and do so now BEFORE beginning Step 2! This is a perquisite for completing this guide, as many of the following instructions reference concepts, tools, and even file paths established in the SSG.

STEP 2

Tool Configuration

Mod Organizer - Fallout4 Initialization

FIRST, follow the System Setup Guide. The below instructions describe how to initialize a Fallout4 instance in Mod Organizer (MO). If MO was installed as a Portable application, the instructions below will need to be interpreted accordingly. If a Fallout 4 instance was created in Step 1 or otherwise, simply select the instance and skip the following:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Steps - Fallout4 Initialization Steps

1. Launch MO by running its executable (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/Mod Organizer/ModOrganizer.exe)
2. Upon load, click the Instance Manager button .
3. Click on [Create new instance].
4. Select Fallout 4 and click [Next].

   If the game wasn't found, manually browse to the game's location.

5. Name the instance something like Step Fallout 4 or keep the default. Click [Next].
6. (optional) change the location of data stored. Step recommends the default location, unless space restraints prevent this. Click [Next].
7. A confirmation window will display with the installation information. Click [Finish].
8. MO is now ready to use with this guide.

Step 2

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Profile Setup

MO's profile feature allows the creation of multiple mod builds that rely on the same mod list and mod-level configurations. In other words, if a mod was installed with option 'A', then that mod is only available in this configuration for all profiles under an instance. Profiles can have different mods enabled, separate save games, and game INIs, but the mod configuration is identical among each profile. Different MO-game instances must be used for different mod configurations. For the purpose of this guide, a single mod configuration is all that's needed, so profiles are sufficient. Begin by creating/editing two profiles:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Steps - Profile Creation Steps

1. Launch MO, choosing the applicable Fallout4 Instance.
2. Click the button on the menu bar.
3. Select the Default profile.
4. Ensure the Use profile-specific Game INI Files box is ticked and click [Copy].
5. Name the new profile Step Fallout4, or similar.
6. Ensure the Use profile-specific Game INI Files box is ticked.
7. Close the window by clicking [Close].
8. Select the Step Fallout4 profile from the profile selection down-drop.
   • It is normal to get a notice saying some INI files were missing and will be copied.
   • If an error is displayed about missing "modlist.txt" files, restart MO (or do a system reboot if that doesn't resolve).
9. Click the button and select [Create empty mod].
10. Name it xEdit Output.

Tool Setup

All tools installed in the System Setup Guide should already be configured in MO. Some tools will have been auto-detected and added; nevertheless, ensure the settings below are set correctly for all tools. xEdit is used in this example:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Steps - Tool Setup

1. For xEdit, it is useful to create a mod into which all xEdit ouput can be directed in order to keep it all together:
   1. Click at the top of the left pane in MO, and select "Create empty mod".
   2. Type xEdit Output, and select [OK].
   3. Place this mod at the top of the mod list just below the vanilla game files.
2. Click at the top of the main Mod Organizer window.
3. In the left pane of the executables config, click the [+] to add a new executable, and then [Add from file...].
4. Browse to the SSEEdit.exe file (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/xEdit/SSEEdit.exe).
   • This should auto-fill most of the fields.
5. Change the title to xEdit.
6. Input the following in the Arguments field separated by a single space:
   • e.g. -IKnowWhatImDoing -FO4 -AllowMasterFilesEdit
   • "-IKnowWhatImDoing": This turns off a warning presented when users make edits.
   • "-AllowMasterFilesEdit": By default xEdit will not allow master file editing. This enables that.
7. Tick the Create files in mod instead of overwrite box. Select the xEdit Output mod from the drop-down.
8. Tick the Use applications icon for desktop shortcuts box.
9. Click [Apply].
10. Repeat these steps to add the remaining executables as indicated in the table following.

    Arrange the tools in any order using the up and down buttons above the list. This will dictate the order that tools are listed in the MO "Run" dropdown menu. Close the window by clicking the [OK] button.

NOTE

For tools previously installed, adjust the arguments below for use with Fallout4.

Application Title	Executable	Argument(s)
xEdit	SSEdit.exe	-FO4 -IKnowWhatImDoing -AllowMasterFilesEdit Tick the Create files in mod instead of overwrite box and select the xEdit Output mod from the drop-down.
xEditQuickAutoClean	SSEditQuickAutoClean.exe	-FO4 Tick the Create files in mod instead of overwrite box and select the xEdit Output mod from the drop-down.
LOOT	LOOT.exe	--game="Fallout4"
xLODGen	xLODGenx64.exe	-lodgen -FO4 -o:"DriveLetter:\Modding\Tools\xLODGen\xLODGen_Output" Replace DriveLetter: with the drive letter of the 'Modding' folder.

Tools can be arranged in any order using the up and down buttons above the list. This will dictate the order they are listed in the MO "Run" dropdown menu. When complete, close the window by clicking the [OK] button.

BethINI Setup

BethINI needs to be run for the current MO profile to establish the configuration files before beginning mod installation. This ensures that all users share a common configuration during the modding process. As such, please do not deviate from the instructions below. Once the guide is complete and things are confirmed to be working, BethINI can be revisited to improve performance/quality.

BethINI Initialization

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Steps - BethINI Initialization

1. Close MO, and run BethINI (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/BethINI/BethINI.exe).

   If prompted by Windows protection, click More Info and then [Run anyway].

2. When BethINI launches, select "Fallout 4" from the game selection box.

   Allow BethINI to handle custom INIs, if prompted.

3. Go to the Setup tab and ensure the
   • Ensure the Game path is correct (e.g. ..\Steam\steamapps\common\Fallout 4).
   • Ensure the Mod Organizer path is correct (e.g. ..\Modding\Tools\Mod Organizer).
   • The INI Path name depends on the MO Profile Setup
     • If BethINI does not automatically display the profile created previously in step 5 of the MO initialization instructions, browse to and set that profile (e.g., %LOCALAPPDATA%\ModOrganizer\{instanceName}\profiles\STEP Fallout4).
     • Select the Step Fallout4 profile folder, and click [Open].
     • Click [OK] at the prompts to restart BethINI with the desired profile configured. Allow BethINI to handle custom INIs, if prompted.
4. Return to the Setup tab.
   • The “Auto-detect Invalid Settings”, “Always Select Game”, and “Modify Custom INIs” boxes should be ticked.
5. Keep BethINI open.

BethINI Setup

BethINI Baseline Configuration

Configure BethINI as described in the steps below, which are reflected in the images where applicable. Please do no deviate from these instructions at this time:

[  Basic  ]Click to show/hide
Click the [Default] button and wait until the "Your INI files have been successfully reset to default values." message is displayed. Click the [High] preset and wait until the "Video settings have been set for BethINI high quality." message is displayed. Please avoid the temptation to click 'Ultra' for now, even if the PC is high-end. Tick Recommended Tweaks and wait until the "Recommended tweaks have been automatically applied." message is displayed. Window Resolution should match the system resolution. Tick Borderless. Tick Always Active. Untick VSync.
[  General  ]Click to show/hide
Nothing should need to be changed.
[  Gameplay  ]Click to show/hide
Tick Remove Borders.
[  Interface  ]Click to show/hide
Most settings on the Interface tab are up to user preference, but the defaults are fine.
[  Detail  ]Click to show/hide
The settings on the detail tab can make large differences to performance. Keep the defaults for now.
[  View Distance  ]Click to show/hide
Change Distant Object Detail Preset to BethINI Medium.
[  Visuals  ]Click to show/hide
The grass settings on the Visuals tab should be left to the defaults.
[  Custom  ]Click to show/hide
Additional shadow tweaks: In the Section drop-down, select Display. In the Setting drop-down, select fBlendSplitDirShadow. Change the value to 512 and click [Save]. In the Section drop-down, select Display. In the Setting drop-down, select iDirShadowSplits. Change the value to 2 and click [Save]. It is recommended to increase the distance that decals will show: In the Section drop-down, select Display. In the Setting drop-down, select fDecalLOD0. Change the value to 12288 and click [Save]. (Optional) Prevents pop-in, but may cost some performance: In the Section drop-down, select LOD. In the Setting drop-down, select bMeshLODRenderAllLevels. Change the value to 1 and click [Save]. Recent reverse-engineering research has shown that increasing iMaxAllocatedMemoryBytes improves script performance: In the Section drop-down, select Papyrus. In the Setting drop-down, select iMaxAllocatedMemoryBytes. Change the value to 500000 and click [Save]. Users who want their flashlight to always be white instead of what their Pipboy is colored can do the following: In the Section drop-down, select Pipboy. In the Setting drop-down, select bPipboyEffectColorOnLight. Change the value to 0 and click [Save]. It is recommended to increase the Pipboy resolution by doing the following: In the Section drop-down, select Display. In the Setting drop-down, select uPipboyTargetHeight. Change the value to 1400 and click [Save]. In the Section drop-down, select Display. In the Setting drop-down, select uPipboyTargetWidth. Change the value to 1752 and click [Save]. NVidia users should enable NVFlex by doing the following: In the Section drop-down, select NVFlex. In the Setting drop-down, select bNVFlexEnable. Change the value to 1 and click [Save]. Return to Basic tab, and click [Save and Exit]

STEP 3

Plugins & Considerations

Sorting Plugins With LOOT

At any time during the mod installation process, LOOT should be used to sort plugins before running the game. This is necessary to ensure proper plugin priority (load order), which can have a dramatic impact on the game:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Steps - Sort Plugins

1. Relaunch Mod Organizer, if it isn't already running.
2. Launch LOOT via MO from the executables drop-down menu at the top of the right pane.
   • If LOOT fails to start, try adding the following argument as described in Tools Setup: --single-process. If LOOT cannot find the game directory, add the path to ../Fallout 4 folder to Install Path under LOOT settings.
3. Click the [Sort Plugins] waffle icon at the top of the LOOT window next to the game name.
4. Several plugins will show warnings in yellow. The next section describes how to clean them up.
5. Click the [Apply Sorted Load Order] checkmark button at the top of the LOOT window next to the game name.
6. Close LOOT.

Up to this point, only the following plugins should be listed in the MO right pane in the order listed. (If not, run LOOT again):

1. Fallout4.esm
2. DLCRobot.esm
3. DLCworkshop01.esm
4. DLCCoast.esm
5. DLCworkshop02.esm
6. DLCworkshop03.esm
7. DLCNukaWorld.esm

If the plugins are not in the order listed, run LOOT now.

Standard Cleaning Procedures

NOTE

There is some debate as to whether or not the vanilla masters for Fallout 4 should be cleaned with xEdit. LOOT will offer warnings informing the users to clean these. These warnings may be ignored, or heeded. There is likely little difference. In testing this guide, uncleaned vanilla masters were used, and no issues were observed. This applies to the following:

1. Fallout4.esm
2. DLCRobot.esm
3. DLCworkshop01.esm
4. DLCCoast.esm
5. DLCworkshop02.esm
6. DLCworkshop03.esm
7. DLCNukaWorld.esm

LOOT will often provide yellow 'warning' blocks for 'dirty' plugins that require cleaning with xEdit, which should be performed by following the instructions below, unless otherwise noted.

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Steps - Plugin Cleaning

1. Run xEditQuickAutoClean from the drop-down executable list in MO.
2. On the plugin selection window, double-click on the plugin being cleaned.
3. Once xEdit is finished, click [X] at upper right to close. A backup of the original plugin will automatically be saved into (e.g., ..\xEdit Output\FO4Edit Backups\PluginName.es*.DateTime) inside of xEdit Output mod (or in Overwrite at the bottom of the MO mod list (left) pane if previous instructions were NOT followed!).
4. To verify the plugin has been cleaned, LOOT can be run again, and no warnings should be apparent.

STEP 4

Step Fallout4 Mod List

At this point, the PC modding environment should be fully set up and ready for mod installation.
IMPORTANT: Please read ALL of the following carefully BEFORE requesting support on the forums!

• This guide can be installed in one of two (2) ways:
  1. All mods from all ModGroups (mod tables) installed. This installs our recommended lighting and weather setup.
  2. All mods from all ModGroups EXCEPT for the optional ModGroup, 18-Lighting and Weather. Use this option if you want to configure a different lighting and/or weather setup.

Understanding the Step Patches

A “conflict resolution” patch is a plugin that resolves conflicts between various active plugins. They allow using various mods together that would otherwise be incompatible. The Step Patches are built exclusively for the Step mod build. They are required and are dependent on specific mods as noted by indicators in the mod tables in Step 4. They will not resolve conflicts with any conflicting mod pluginss that are not in this guide.

Step Patches

1. Step Patch - Conflict Resolution - required
   • Patches all conflicting plugins except for mods in the optional 18-Lighting and Weather ModGroup.
2. Step Patch - Lighting and Weather - optional
   • Patches the 18-Lighting and Weather ModGroup

Mod Table Reference

Below is the legend and reference for the mod tables used in this guide.

Mod Table Legend

				Table Flags	A red vertical bar indicates that the mod is required by Step Patch - Conflict Resolution. A yellow bar indicates that the mod is required by Step Patch - Lighting and Weather.
				Mod Name	Nexus mod name presented as a link to Nexus for download.
					Link to the mod's wiki page, which includes various information about the mod.
				Baseline	This notes the Step Baseline version or option of the corresponding mod that should be installed, and usually refers to options affecting performance/quality. General suggestions are located in the "Notes" column; see below.
				Instructions	Brief note specifying a recommended install option. In some cases, mods will have several options. In such cases, click [Expand] to expand the mod row to reveal detailed instructions.

Quick Reference

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions
				Master to NO patches	Baseline	Notes
				Master to all patches	Baseline	Notes

Mod Installation Considerations

• Do not extract BA2 files unless specifically instructed to do so.
• Consider installing additional mod files separately to keep better track of installed options rather than merging all files from the mod together. This is not required, but a recommendation, as it generally helps with maintenance of the mod list in regards to mod updates, and provides a more visible reminder of the installed options. See the discussion here and more instructional information about this here for more details.
• If no Notes or Step recommendations are provided for a particular mod, all options are valid.
• After installing a mod, ALWAYS enable the mod and any related plugins in MO unless otherwise instructed.
• Mods are listed in alphabetical order within each ModGroup and any deviations from this are purposeful to achieve the desired outcome.
• Mods should be arranged in MO in the order that they are listed to ensure other mods further down the list overwrite/override those occurring before them.
• Always install plugins (ESLs/ESMs/ESPs), unless otherwise noted. When there is a choice to use an ESL, always choose that UNLESS continuing a playthrough using a previously-existing savegame (ESL-flagged plugins can 'break' a save that relies on a ESP or ESM version of the same plugin!).
• Always follow LOOT's advice in regards to mod cleaning and sorting unless otherwise noted.

ModGroup Separators

Mod Organizer features the ability to create separators within the mod list to group mods for easier visual reference. Step recommends using these separators for each ModGroup below:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Steps - Create MO Separators

1. Click at the top of the mod list pane.
2. Select [Create Separator], and give the separator a name. Step recommends using the Mod Group names (i.e., Extensions, Resources, Lighting and Weather, etc.).
   • Create a new separator for each new Mod Group while working through the Guide.
   • Separator colors can be customized by right-clicking on any separator and selecting Select Color.

---

01-Tools

Standalone applications that aid in the management of the modding process

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Cathedral Assets Optimizer		Detailed Instructions available
Tool Installation Make a new folder called Cathedral Assets Optimizer in your ..\Modding\Tools\ directory you made while following the System Setup Guide. Extract the latest MAIN file to the newly created ..\Modding\Tools\Cathedral Assets Optimizer directory. Run Cathedral Assets Optimizer.exe Click [OK] at the prompt. Beside the [Profile] dropdown, click the [New] button. Click [OK] at the prompt. Name the profile Step Fallout 4 Profile or similar and click [OK]. Set the Base Profile to FO4 and click [OK]. In the BSA tab, ensure that the following are ticked: Extract BSA Create BSA Delete backups [This deletes the backups of the original BA2 archives upon completion and is recommended to save storage space.] Delete source files [Be aware that this deletes the source files that are packed.] Create dummy plugins Allow compression Separate textures BSA In the Textures tab, ensure that the following are set: Necessary optimization Generate mipmaps Close Cathedral Assets Optimizer. It is recommended to create a shortcut on the desktop for ease of access. Usage This tool is used to modify various mods as noted throughout the guide by following the General usage instructions.

02-Extenders

Mods that expand on the inherent functionality of a game or another mod without themselves affecting content

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				F4SE		Detailed Instructions available
Root Files Installation Download the main file. Open the archive and extract the following files to the Fallout 4 root folder ..\Steam\steamapps\common\Fallout 4: CustomControlMap.txt f4se_1_10_163.dll f4se_loader.exe f4se_steam_loader.dll Data Files Installation In Mod Organizer, install the same archive. At the Install Mods window, type F4SE Scripts Expand the top level to reveal the Data folder. Right-click the Data folder and select [Set ‹data› directory]. Click [OK] to finish installing the mod.

				Address Library for F4SE Plugins

				Baka Framework		Install only the 1.10.0 main file.

				Base Object Swapper		Install the version 1.1.0 file.

				Buffout 4		Detailed Instructions available
Once installed, double-click on the mod to open up the information window, and ensure the following settings in config.toml ("Text Files" tab): [Compatibility] F4EE = true

				Canary Save File Monitor

				Console Commands Extender

				RobCo Patcher

				Shadow Boost FO4		Detailed Instructions available
General Installation and Setup Install the version 1.8 main file and the ShadowBoostFO4 ini optional file. Double-click on the mod in the MO left pane and set the following in ShadowBoostFO4.ini [Main] fMinDistance = 2048.0 fMaxDistance = 6144.0 fDynamicValueFactor = 12.8 [Lod] fLODFadeOutMultObjectsMin = 5 fLODFadeOutMultObjectsMax = 15 fLODFadeOutMultItemsMin = 3 fLODFadeOutMultItemsMax = 6 fLODFadeOutMultActorsMin = 6.0 fLODFadeOutMultActorsMax = 12.0 fDynamicValueFactor = 0.2 [Grass] fGrassStartFadeDistanceMin = 1024.0 fGrassStartFadeDistanceMax = 6144.0 fDynamicValueFactor = 25.6 [TerrainManager] bEnable = 0 NOTES: The default key to change setting in-game is the Home key. Consider changing the fFpsTarget setting to a lower or higher value as desired. If any of these dynamic changes are too noticeable, tweak or disable them in the in-game menu. Do not enable the TerrainManager tweaks, as they will introduce stutter. This mod includes the godrays fix to make ultra godrays performance friendly.

				Workshop Framework		Install the main file and the Old-Gen Replacers optional file.

				XSE PluginPreloader F4		Detailed Instructions available
Visual C++ Redistributable Package This mod requires the latest Microsoft Visual C++ 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022 Redistributable Package to be installed in order to function. Download and install the X86 and X64 installers. Root Files Installation Extract the archive into the root Fallout 4 directory (e.g. ..\SteamApps\common\Fallout 4). Open the xSE PluginPreloader.xml file with a text editor. Change <LoadMethod Name="ImportAddressHook"> to <LoadMethod Name="OnThreadAttach"> and save.

Game Launch Test

At this stage, the preliminary build should be tested to confirm that there are no issues with the modding environment or engine-level mod configurations:

1. Start the game by running the F4SE launcher from Mod Organizer. The game should load to the main menu without issue.
2. Open the console (~), type in coc RedRocketExt, and press Enter/Return. The game should load at the Red Rocket Truck Stop without issue.
3. Exit the game using the qqq console command or the standard menu options.

If the game launched and loaded as expected, continue forward. Otherwise, all instructions were not followed, and something was missed. Revisit the installation steps above starting with the System Setup Guide in Step 1. If a careful review of the previous instructions does not resolve the issue, post on the guide support forums for help.

WARNING

Beyond this point, DO NOT launch the game again until instructed to do so.
Many of the following mods are interdependent, and launching the game prematurely will most likely result in issues or failures. Please DO NOT post on the forums for support of non-issues relating to a failure to RTFM.

03-Resources

Mods solely providing assets intended specifically for use by other mods without themselves affecting content

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				HUDFramework

				Mod Configuration Menu		Install the version 1.39 main file.

				Settlement Menu Manager

04-Foundation

Baseline mods that should be overridden by other mods AND/OR that make widely-accepted programmatic changes expected by other mods

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Fallout 4 HD Overhaul 2k		Detailed Instructions available
Install all of the main files via Mod Organizer. Alternately (not recommended), install all of the main files directly into the game data directory, overwriting the vanilla texture BA2 files, if you want to save disk space. Performance-wise, there will be no difference. If you do this, you may want to backup the vanilla texture BA2 files to another location. If you do this, understand that if you Verify integrity of game files in Steam, it will erase this mod with the vanilla textures.

				FO4LODGen Resources		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions FO4LODGen Resources Options ☑ FO4LODGen.esp ☑ FO4LODGen-DLCCoast-WindTurbines.esp Install

				HD LOD Textures		Detailed Instructions available
Install the HD LOD Textures main file and the LOD Fixes and Additions optional file. Disable the following plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): LOD Fixes and Additons.esp

				Far Object LOD Improvement Project		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Far Object LOD Improvement Project Assets Core Files ☑ Core Files Generations ◉ I will generate LOD Next Options Textures ◉ I will use TexGen Synthesis ◉ I will use Synthesis Install

				High Resolution Texture Pack	2k	Detailed Instructions available
Install either of the optional files. Right-click the mod in the left pane and select Open in Explorer. Copy the folder path to your clipboard. Follow the Cathedral Assets Optimizer Usage Instructions. Referring to the LOOT Meta Rule Instructions, create a Group rule for High Resolution Texture Pack 2K and 4K - Valius.esp to sort in the Texture Overhauls (the plugin name may vary if you named the mod differently at installation).

				Jesters Better Destroyed Vehicles		Detailed Instructions available
Install the old 1.0 version instead of the main file. Once installed, right-click the mod in the left pane and select Open in Explorer. Copy the folder path to your clipboard. Follow the Cathedral Assets Optimizer Usage Instructions. Referring to the LOOT Meta Rule Instructions, create a Group rule for Jesters Better Destroyed Vehicles.esp to sort in the Texture Overhauls (the plugin name may vary if you named the mod differently at installation).

				Langleys HD Textures Workshop		Detailed Instructions available
Install the main file only. Right-click the mod in the left pane and select Open in Explorer. Delete the following folders: materials textures\architecture\buildings Copy the folder path to your clipboard. Follow the Cathedral Assets Optimizer Usage Instructions. Referring to the LOOT Meta Rule Instructions: Create a Group rule for Langleys HD Textures Workshop.esp to sort in the Texture Overhauls (the plugin name may vary if you named the mod differently at installation). Create a Load After rule for Langleys HD Textures Workshop.esp to load after High Resolution Texture Pack 2K and 4K - Valius.esp (names may vary if you named the mod differently at installation).

				FlaconOils Complete Retexture Project	2k	Detailed Instructions available
Install the FlaconOil 2k Loose files optional file and the 2k The Patch update file, merging together for simple rearchiving. Right-click the mod in the left pane and select Open in Explorer. Delete the following files: Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechFullPanels_02.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechFullPanels_03.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechFullPanels_04.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechFullPanels_05.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechFullPanels_06.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechFullPanels_07.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechFullPanels_08.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechLargePanels_01.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechLargePanels_02.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechLargePanels_03.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechLargePanels_04.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechLargePanels_05.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechLargePanels_06.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechLargePanels_07.bgsm Materials\Architecture\Buildings\Hightech\HitTechLargePanels_08.bgsm Textures\Architecture\Buildings\Bricks01_d.dds Textures\Architecture\Buildings\Bricks01_n.dds Textures\Architecture\Buildings\Bricks01_s.dds Textures\Architecture\Buildings\bricks01trim_d.dds Textures\Architecture\Buildings\bricks01trim_n.dds Textures\Architecture\Buildings\bricks01trim_s.dds Textures\Architecture\Buildings\BuildingFoundation01_d.dds Textures\Architecture\Buildings\BuildingFoundation01_n.dds Textures\Architecture\Buildings\BuildingFoundation01_s.dds Copy the folder path to your clipboard. Follow the Cathedral Assets Optimizer Usage Instructions. Referring to the LOOT Meta Rule Instructions: Create a Group rule for FlaconOil's Complete Retexture Project.esp to sort in the Texture Overhauls (the plugin name may vary if you named the mod differently at installation). Create a Load After rule for FlaconOil's Complete Retexture Project.esp to load after Langleys HD Textures Workshop.esp (names may vary if you named the mod differently at installation).

				Unofficial Fallout 4 Patch

05-Animation and Physics

Mods that affect animations or physics

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Automatically Lowered Weapons

				Corpse Collision

				Fallout 4 - Hot Coffee

				Faster Getup

				Grab the Damn Mag

				Immersive Animation Framework

				NPC Drinking Fix

				Realistic Death Physics		Install the Realistic Death Physics - ALL DLC version main file.

				Sprint Reload		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Sprint Reload Introduction Introduction ☑ Description Installation Base Files ◉ Sprint Reload Install {{{1}}}

06-Models and Textures

Mods that replace existing models or textures

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				All Weapons HD	2K

				Better Ammo Boxes	medium	Detailed Instructions available
1. Install the Better Ammo Boxes Overhaul main file using whatever options you prefer. Here are some suggestions. FOMOD Instructions Better Ammo Boxes Overhaul .308 Ammo Box .308 Ammo Box ☑ .308 Retexture (Medium) Next .38 Special Ammo Box .38 Special Ammo Box ☑ .38 Yellow/Black (Medium) Next .44 Magnum Ammo Box .44 Magnum Ammo Box ☑ .44 Dirty (Medium) Next .45 Auto Ammo Box .45 Auto Ammo Box ☑ .45 Camo/Green (Medium) Next .50 Cal Ammo Box .50 Cal Ammo Box ☑ .50 With Writing (Medium) Next 10mm Ammo Box 10mm Ammo Box ☑ 10mm Retexture (Medium) Next 5.56 Ammo Box 5.56 Ammo Box ☑ 5.56 Orange/Green (Medium) Next 5mm Ammo Box 5mm Ammo Box ☑ 5mm Green (Medium) Next Shotgun Shells Ammo Box Shotgun Shells Ammo Box ☑ Shotgun Shells Green (Medium) Install 2. Also install the Far Harbor 45-70 Box Retexture and Nuka World 7.62 Ammo Box files.

				Delightful Dead Fish		Step Recommends: Delightful Dead Fish HD - Unhealthy Version

				Enhanced Blood Textures	Medium	Detailed Instructions available
Install the EBT_Basic v101 main file only. FOMOD Instructions EBT_Basic v101 Custom Main ☑ Enhanced Blood Textures Main Screen Blood ◉ EBT - Default Blood Mist -Optional- ☐ Disable Blood Mist Eye Cubemap -Optional- ◉ None Dark Outdoor Cubemap -Optional- ☐ Darker Cubemap Screen Duration -Optional- ◉ None Blood Amount and Size -Optional- ☐ Small Blood Splatter ☐ Limited Blood Decals Next Decals Resolution and Color ☑ Medium, Default Color Install

				Enhanced Vanilla Armor and Clothing	2K

				Enhanced Vanilla Plants		Options are user choice.

				Enhanced Vanilla Rocks

				Enhanced Vanilla Vines		Step Recommends: Vanilla Colors

				Eye Normal Map Fix Fallout 4 Edition

				Fallout Texture Overhaul Moons	1k

				Fallout Texture Overhaul PipBoy		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions FTO Pip-Boy All in one Pip-Boy Color Pip-Boy Color ◉ Vanilla Next Vanilla 4K or 2K ◉ 2K Pip-Boy Next Holotape HoloTape ☑ Holotape Next ScreenBlack ScreenBlack ☐ ScreenBlack Next Optionals Optionals ☐ Clean Screen ☐ Cracked Glass ☐ Glass with no cracks ☐ Map ☐ No Shine Install

				Fallout Texture Overhaul Power Armors	2K	Download and install Optional Files: ...Power Armor FRAME, ...T-45 and ...T-60

				Fallout Texture Overhaul Stars	4k

				Far Harbor 3D Tree LODs		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Far Harbor 3D Tree LODs Options Core Files ☑ Core Files Textures ◉ I will use TexGen Materials ◉ Default Billboards ◉ HD Billboards Next HD Billboards Beach Pines ☐ LOD4 ☑ LOD8 Red Pines ☐ LOD4 ☑ LOD8 Install

				Far Harbor Marine Armor Boots Fix

				Far Harbor Pine branches 4K		Install the Far Harbor Pine branches 4K BA2 main file.

				Faraway Area Reform		Install the DoubleYou Is a Sexy Beast optional file only.

				Fixed Alpha Maps

				Fixed Gobo Effects

				High Poly Vanilla Weapons

				LC's UHD Fungus Brain

				Leaf Piles Improved		Detailed Instructions available
Disable the following plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): Leaf Piles Improved.esp

				Less Ugly Intercom

				Make Like a Tree	2k	Detailed Instructions available
Install according to user preference. Right-click the mod in the left pane and select Open in Explorer. Copy the folder path to your clipboard. Follow the Cathedral Assets Optimizer Usage Instructions.

				Marine Combat Armor Material Fix

				Marine Wet Suit Material Fix

				ModernHouseLOD

				MystiriousDawn's HD Lensflare	2K

				No More Glowing Mouths

				Northern Foothills Rocks Fix

				Nuanced Eye Reflection		Install only the MainfileV5 main file.

				Optimized Vanilla Tree LODs		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Optimized Vanilla Tree LODs Options Core Files ☑ Core Files Textures ◉ I will use TexGen Materials ◉ Default Billboards HD Billboards Next Blasted Tree HD Billboards Blasted Burnt Trees ☑ LOD4* ☑ LOD8* ☐ LOD16 Blasted Destroyed Trees ☑ LOD4* ☑ LOD8* ☐ LOD16 Blasted Forest Fungal Trees ☐ LOD4 ☑ LOD8* ☐ LOD16 Next Maple Tree HD Billboards Branchless Maples ☑ LOD4* ☑ LOD8* ☑ LOD16* Maples Few Branches ☑ LOD4* ☑ LOD8* ☑ LOD16* Maples Many Branches ☐ LOD4 ☐ LOD8* ☑ LOD16* Hero Maple Tree ☐ LOD4 ☐ LOD8* ☑ LOD16* Next HD Billboards Elm Trees ☐ LOD4 ☑ LOD8* ☑ LOD16* Glowing Sea Trees ☑ LOD4* ☑ LOD8* ☐ LOD16 Marsh Trees ☑ LOD4* ☑ LOD8* ☐ LOD16 Install

				Prydwen 2K Textures	2K	Detailed Instructions available
Install the main file only. Right-click the mod in the left pane and select Open in Explorer. Copy the folder path to your clipboard. Follow the Cathedral Assets Optimizer Usage Instructions. Referring to the LOOT Meta Rule Instructions, create a Group rule for Prydwen 2K Textures.esp to sort in the Texture Overhauls (the plugin name may vary if you named the mod differently at installation).

				Radiant Clouds and Fogs	Highres	Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Radiant Clouds and Fogs Options Vivid Clouds and Fogs ◉ Highres Version Install Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): Textures\Sky\skyrimcloudslower04.dds

				Retextured Chems v1

				Terrain Undersides

				Ultimate Window Overhaul Redone		Detailed Instructions available
Install only the Ultimate Window Overhaul (.BA2 Version) optional file. FOMOD Instructions Ultimate Window Overhaul (.BA2 Version) Texture Quality and Archive Type Version Selection ☑ Archived Version (UP TO 4K - .BA2) Installation Options ◉ Full Installation Next Reflections; SSR and Cubemaps Material Pack Selection ◉ No SSR Cubemap Pack Selection ◉ Realistic Dark Install

				Vault-Tec Workshop Gear Door Fix

				Wasteland Creatures Redone

				Wave Animation Vanilla Enhanced

				WET Water Enhancement Textures		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions WET - Water Enhancement Textures Step1 WET Assets ◉ WET Assets With Rain WET Plugins ◉ WET Install

				Wetness Shader Fix

07-Sounds and Music

Mods that affect sounds or music

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Diamond City Radio Extended

				Fallout 4 High Quality Audio		Detailed Instructions available
Install the 4 main files. High Quality Voices Automatron High Quality Voices Far Harbor High Quality Voices Nuka World High Quality Voices Vault-Tec Workshop Delete all the esp plugin files. Rename the ba2 archives as follows: Original archive name New archive name HQAudio1 - Voices.ba2 DLCRobot - Voices_en.ba2 HQAudio2 - Voices.ba2 DLCCoast - Voices_en.ba2 HQAudio3 - voices_en.ba2 DLCworkshop03 - Voices_en.ba2 HQAudio4 - Voices.ba2 DLCNukaWorld - Voices_en.ba2 NOTES: Installing in this manner ensures that this mod does not contribute to increased ba2 usage, as the game has a limit of how many ba2 archives it can load. The archives serve as direct replacements for the DLC sound ba2 archives. Do NOT install the PS4 Voices Fallout 4 Base Game optional file.

				High Quality Music from PS4		Install only the High Quality Music - All in One main file.

				Jolly Item Sounds

				LOST Audio Tweaks

				Persistent Volume Sliders

				Project Reality Footsteps FO4		Install the Project Reality Footsteps FO4 BA2 main file

				Reverb and Ambiance Overhaul - Tweaked

				Under the Hood Mechanical Power Armor Audio

08-Character Appearance

Mods that affect the appearance of the player character or NPCs

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				DeLuxe Makeup		Install only the Eye Liner Masks main file.

				Enhanced Vanilla Bodies		Detailed Instructions available
Mod page is NSFW! Step Recommends: Both NeverNude files. NeverNude Female NeverNude Male

				The Eyes Of Beauty Fallout Edition		Detailed Instructions available
Install the main file according to user preference. Below are suggestions. FOMOD Instructions The Eyes of Beauty Fallout Kaleidoscope Edition - All-in-One Introduction Table of Contents ☑ Part 1. New Standalone Plugins ☑ Part 2. Eyelash Options ☑ Part 3. Vanilla Eye Replacement ☑ Part 4. Looking Stranger Combo Sets ReadMe ☑ ReadMe ☑ Eye Normal Map Fix Next 1.0 Standalone Options Main Plugin ◉ Standalone Plugin Optional Plugins ☐ All-In-One Compatibility Plugin ☑ Looking Stranger Standalone Next 1.1 Plugin Type Lash Type ◉ Custom Lashes Next 2.1 Female Lashes Female - Thick Lashes ◉ Thick Female - Full Lashes ◉ Full Female - Thin Lashes ◉ Thin Next 2.0 Male Lashes Male - Thick Lashes ◉ Thick Male - Full Lashes ◉ Full Male - Thin Lashes ◉ Thin Next 3.0 Vanilla Eyes Replacer Options ◉ Author's Picks Next 4.01 Combo01 (Thin Lash) Left Eye Combo01 (Thin Lash) Left Eye Replacers ◉ Blue: Volcano Reflection (Default) 4.02 Combo01 (Thin Lash) Right Eye Combo01 (Thin Lash) Right Eye Replacers ◉ Cyborg Surreal: Cyber Punk (Default) 4.03 Combo02 (Full Lash) Left Eye Combo02 (Full Lash) Left Eye Replacers ◉ Hazel-Green: Earth Reflection (Default) 4.04 Combo02 (Full Lash) Right Eye Combo02 (Full Lash) Right Eye Replacers ◉ Hazel-Green: Mystery Light Reflection (Default) 4.05 Combo03 (Thick Lash) Left Eye Combo03 (Thick Lash) Left Eye Replacers ◉ Brown: Dark Brown Reflection (Default) 4.06 Combo03 (Thick Lash) Right Eye Combo03 (Thick Lash) Right Eye Replacers ◉ Hazel: Complex Brown Reflection (Default) Install

				WX Hair Colors		Detailed Instructions available
Install the WX Edited Hair Textures miscellaneous file and the WX All Naturals optional file.

09-Fixes

Mods have a programmatic component that fixes various bugs and/or inconsistencies

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Better Landscape Grass

				Bullet Counted Reload System		Install the main file and the BCR- Lever Action Rifle v1.02 optional file.

				Car Physics Death bug fix		Install the version 1.0 main file (the third one).

				Crafting Highlight Fix		Install the Crafting Highlight Fix 1.8.8 Old Version file.

				Diamond City Billboards

				F4z Ro D-oh - Silent Voice		Install the old version 1.1 file.

				Goodneighbor View

				High FPS Physics Fix		Detailed Instructions available
General Installation and Setup Install the second High FPS Physics Fix main file for the 1.10.163.0 game version. Double-click on the mod in the MO left pane and set the following in HighFPSPhysicsFix.ini [Main] DisableBlackLoadingScreens=true DisableAnimationOnLoadingScreens=true PostloadingMenuSpeed=3.0 [Limiter] LoadingScreenFPS=350 PipBoyFPS=60.0 OneThreadWhileLoading=false FPS Limiter Recommendations It is recommended to set the InGameFPS FPS Limiter settings in accordance with your hardware to improve latency. PC has NVIDIA G-SYNC or AMD Freesync video card AND monitor support, set each frame limit (FPS cap) to: [monitor refresh rate] - 3 (e.g., 144 Hz monitor should have 141 limit: 144 - 3 = 141) PC does NOT have NVIDIA G-SYNC or AMD Freesync video card OR monitor support, set each frame limit (FPS cap) to: [monitor refresh rate] - 1 (e.g., 60 Hz monitor should have 59 limit: 60 - 1 = 59) [Limiter] InGameFPS=??

				Im Talking to You

				Long Range Bullet Holes		Detailed Instructions available
Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): LongRangeBulletHoles.INI

				Long Save Bug Fix

				Moddable Robot Settlers Compilation

				Newton's Regards - No More Falling Cars

				Perception Bug Fix Redux

				Piezonucleic Lining Fix		Install the Piezonucleic Fix 2nd var. main file.

				Pip-Boy Flashlight		Detailed Instructions available
Install the Pip-Boy Flashlight v6 BETA 3.02 main file using the instructions below. The file has some textures packaged incorrectly, requiring manual installation. Select the [Manual] button at the prompt. Expand the textures folder. Drag and drop the nested Textures folder onto ‹data›. Click [OK] to finish installation.

				Place Everywhere		Install the Place (Fallout4 1.10.163 - latest release) old file.

				Power Armor Ownership Fix		Install only the PA Ownership Fix (with No PA Battery Pathing) optional file.

				Previsibines Repair Pack		Detailed Instructions available
Install the PRP Resources main file. Install the PRP Plugins main file as a separate mod (click [Rename] instead of [Merge] and name it PRP Plugins). NOTE: Only install the PRP - Clarity 4.3 Patch if installing Clarity, which is a part of the optional 18-Lighting and Weather mod group. FOMOD Instructions PRP Updates Choose Your Language Languages ◉ EN - English Next Main Files + Compat Grabbag Main Files ☑ PPF ☑ PRP Compat Grabbag ☐ PRP - Clarity 4.2 Patch ☑ PRP - Clarity 4.3 Patch ☐ PRP - Diamond City Ambience Patch ☐ PRP - Fogout Patch ☐ PRP - Interiors Enhanced Patch ☑ PRP - Region Names Patch ☐ PRP - Ultra Exterior Lighting Patch ☐ PRP - Ultra Interior Lighting Patch ☐ PRP - Ultra Interior Lighting Patch (Darker) ☐ PRP - JSRS Regions Patch Install

				Radio Tower Transparency Fix		Install the Radio_Tower_Fix_Loose main file.

				RAW INPUT - The Ultimate Mouse Sensitivity Fix		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions RAW INPUT - NMM Installer Choose ADS Multiplier INI ◉ 75% - Default Install

				Sanctuary - No Dead Dog and Raider		Install the No Dead Dog ESL main file.

				Search and Destroy - Fixed

				Settlement Dead Zone Fixes		Install only the Settlement Dead Zone Fixes - Max Compatibility main file.

				Settler Sandbox Expansion

				Sprint Stuttering Fix

				Thaylar's Settlement Lighting Fixes		Detailed Instructions available
Install the Thaylars Light Fixes Big Edition main file. Disable the following plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): Thaylar Lighting 3.2 VTWO Patch - Big Edition.esp Thaylar Lighting 3.2 Workshop Rearranged Patch - Big Edition.esp

				The Missing Nukalurk Recipe Book

				Vault Door Announce Warning for Vaults 81 88 114 and 118		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Vault Door Announce Warning for Vaults 81 88 114 and 118 Version Version ◉ Far Harbor, Vault-Tec Workshop and Vault 81 Close Door Install

				Weapon Debris Crash Fix		Only install if you have an NVidia graphics card.

				Weston Water LOD Fix

10-Gameplay-General

Mods that affect general or multiple gameplay mechanics

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Equipment and Crafting Overhaul Redux		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Equipment and Crafting Overhaul (ECO) - Redux Main Files Primary Files ☑ ECO Texture Size ◉ 2048p DLC Expansions ☑ Automatron ☑ Far Harbor ☑ Nuka World Extended INNR ◉ Enabled Optional ☑ RobCo Patcher Support ☑ Disable Placed Objects Next Extensions Universal Workbench Extensions ☐ Auto OMOD Stripper ☐ Immersive Hunting Overhaul ☐ Universal Disaasembler Crafting and Quick Mod ☐ Burst-Fire Framework (BFF) ☐ Real Time Cover Penetration Framework ☐ Tactical Reload ☐ Uneducated Reload ☐ West-Tek Optics Pack Munitions - Ammo Expansion Project ◉ Disabled Miscellaneous ☐ Armament (Retired) ☐ AWKCR ☐ Gunsmith Overhaul ☐ Standalone Workbenches Install

				Fixes and Tweaks by Aurelianis

				New Equipment Overhaul		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions NEO Config New Equipment Overhaul (NEO) ◉ Enabled Armor Paint Extended (APE) ◉ Enabled Eli's Armour Compendium (EAC) - Tweaks ◉ Disabled Misc Tweaks ◉ Disabled Next New Equipment Overhaul (NEO) Modules ☑ Base Game ☑ DLC - Automatron ☑ DLC - Far Harbor ☑ DLC - Nuka World ☑ DLCs Interconnected Optional ☐ AWKCR Patch ☑ Complex Sorter Tagging Rules ☐ Improved and Extended INNR Next Armor Paint Extended (APE) Optional ☐ Default Black Synth Armor ☑ INNR for Complex Item Sorter users Install

				Vault 88 Essentials		Install only the main file.

				VaultTec Workshop Overhaul Redux

11-Gameplay-AI and Combat

Mods that affect AI, stats, or combat mechanics of NPCs

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Companion Stealth Distance Fix		Install the Follower Stealth Distance Fix (No Free Hugs) - ESL-tagged main file.

				Encounter Zone Recalculation		Install the old version 1.0 file.

				Fallout 4 AI Overhaul

				Leveled Item Fixes		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions LIF Step1 Variant ◉ Complete Install

				Natural Resistances

				Protected Unique NPCs Traders and Merchants

				Settler and Companion Dialogue Overhaul

				Settler Sleep AI Fixes		Detailed Instructions available
Install the Settler Sleep AI Fixes - ESL main file and the Sleep AI Fixes - Base Game Beds - Replacer - ESL optional file.

12-Gameplay-Economy

Mods that affect currency, rewards, values, rates, or any other economy-related mechanics

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Worthwhile Caps Stashes

13-Gameplay-Immersion

Mods that help to improve game immersion and role-playing scenarios

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Another Vault 81 Molerat Disease Cure

				Classic Holstered Weapons System

				Climbable Ladders for Settlements		Install the Climbable Ladders 1.1 ESL - Workshop Framework main file.

				Craftable Display Shelves		Install only the Eli Display Shelves 1.2 DLC main file.

				CVc Dead Wasteland		Detailed Instructions available
Install the main file, and the DLC1 and DLC2 optional files, merging together into a single mod for easy re-archiving. Right-click the mod in the left pane and select Open in Explorer. Copy the folder path to your clipboard. Follow the Cathedral Assets Optimizer Usage Instructions.

				Diamond City Auto Close Gate

				Everyone's Best Friend

				Handmade Turrets

				Holotape Display Shelves		Install the Holotape Display ESL main file.

				Nuka Cola Swap

				Realistic Conversations Fallout 4		Install only the main file.

				Scrapping Machine

				See Through Scopes		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions See Through Scopes Main Mod Settings ADD or REPLACE ◉ ADD DLC ☑ Far Harbor ☑ Nuka World ☑ Install and Merge both DLC's Add-ons ☐ Install addon patches for other weapon mods ☐ Auto-detect and select add-ons Tweaks ☐ Remove lens reflection when aiming ☑ Power Armor Fix ☐ Remove Ripple Effect for Recon Scopes Next Patches Patches (Optional) ☐ Weaponsmith Extended 2 ☐ Smaller Institute Weapons ☐ Take Cover ☐ G67 Combat Rifle Replacer ☐ Robco Recon Scopes ☐ Tactical Reload ☐ LString / Weapon Jiggle Remover Patch ☐ Improved Prototype Gauss Rifle (CC) Patch Animation patches ☐ Right Handed Hunting Rifle by Wardaddy ☐ Right Handed Handmade Assault Rifle ☐ Right Handed Creation Club Anti-Material Rifle Install

				This Settlement Does Not Need Your Help - BS Defence Redone

				Toggleable Night Vision

				Vault 81 Close Door

				Vertibird Jump

				Workshop Rearranged

14-Gameplay-Quests

Mods that alter aspects of quests and/or related lore

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				DLC Timing		Install only the DLC Timing ESL main file.

				Keep Radiants in the Commonwealth UFO4P Version

				Nuka-World Collectable Quest Markers

				Piper Interview Restored

				Random Encounter Framework

				SKK Fast BOS

				Who's The General - Minutemen Quest Cleanup		Detailed Instructions available
Install the Who's The General - Minutemen Quest Cleanup (Loose Files Version) main file and the 1 - Keep Radiants in the Commonwealth Patch optional file.

15-Gameplay-Skills and Perks

Mods that affect the player character's or NPC skills and perks or related leveling

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Perk Up - Full Vanilla Plus perk Overhaul

16-Interface

Mods that affect any aspect of the user interface

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Alternative Satellite World Maps	8k	Install only the Angled Alternative Satellite World Maps 8k main file.

				Better Console

				CCCleaner		Install the CCCleaner 1.10.163.0 old file.

				Clock Widget - Show Real Time While Loading

				Configurable Hotkeys		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Configurable Hotkeys Options Options ☐ Empty Batch Files Install

				Extended Dialogue Interface		Install the version 1.3.6 main file.

				FallUI - Confirm Boxes		Detailed Instructions available
NOTE: If updating from an older version, untick the Default settings option and use the [Merge] button. FOMOD Instructions FallUI - Confirm Boxes Select installation options Main files ☑ FallUI - Confirm Boxes ☑ Default settings Compatibility ☐ DavesMod - ESP Explorer Next Default Settings Choose your preferred design type ☑ Modern (Default) ☐ Fancy ☐ Classic Next Installation Configuration done ☑ Install Install

				FallUI - HUD		Detailed Instructions available
NOTE: Tick the Default settings option and use the [Merge] button only if you have trouble saving the FallUI - HUD layout in MCM. You may need to customize the layout manually to resolve overlapping issues if you tick this the Default settings option. FOMOD Instructions FallUI - HUD Select installation options Main files ☑ FallUI - HUD ☑ Addon: Workshop ☑ Addon: PromptMenu Settings ☐ Default settings Install

				FallUI - Icon Library		Detailed Instructions available
NOTE: If updating from an older version, untick the Default settings option and use the [Merge] button. FOMOD Instructions FallUI - Icon Library Select installation options Main files ☑ FallUI - Icon Library ☑ Default settings Install

				FallUI - Inventory		Detailed Instructions available
NOTE: If updating from an older version, untick the Default settings option and use the [Merge] button. FOMOD Instructions FallUI - Inventory Select installation options FallUI - Inventory ☑ FallUI - Inventory ☑ Default settings Optional ☐ Mod: Disable PipboyFX Next FallUI - Inventory Settings Do you use bPipboyDisableFX? ◉ Yes (Read description!) Next Readme and information Please read the following notes ☐ Enable 'ArchiveInvalidation' ☐ Item Sorter ☐ Icons: Icon Library ☐ Pipboy: High-Resolution INI-Settings ☐ FAQ: Colored Pipboy (Disable Pipboy FX) Install NOTE: The bPipboyDisableFX=1 setting is included in the plugin INI for There It Is - Satellite Maps For Collectors.

				FallUI - Map		Detailed Instructions available
NOTE: If updating from an older version, untick the Default settings option and use the [Merge] button. FOMOD Instructions FallUI - Map Select installation options Main files ☑ FallUI - Map ☑ Default settings Next Default Settings Choose your preferred design type ☐ Uncolored (Default) ☐ Colored ☑ Colored 4k ☐ Colored 8k Next Installation Configuration done ☑ Install Install

				FallUI - Sleep and Wait		Detailed Instructions available
NOTE: If updating from an older version, untick the Default settings option and use the [Merge] button. FOMOD Instructions FallUI - Sleep And Wait Select installation options Main files ☑ FallUI - Sleep and Wait ☑ Default settings Install

				FallUI - Workbench		Detailed Instructions available
NOTE: If updating from an older version, untick the Default settings option and use the [Merge] button. FOMOD Instructions FallUI - Workbench Select installation options Main files ☑ FallUI - Workbench ☑ Default settings Install

				FIS - The NEW FallUI Item Sorter		Detailed Instructions available
NOTE: If updating from an older version, untick the Default settings option and use the [Merge] button. FOMOD Instructions FIS - The NEW FallUI Item Sorter Select installation options Main files ☑ FIS - FallUI Item Sorter ☑ Default settings Sorting ☐ Light (No sorting plugins) ☐ Basic (name reordering for weapon/apparel) ☑ Pro (Complex Sorter plugin) Install

				FO4 Photo Mode		At the manual installation prompt, right-click Data and select Set as directory.

				Immersive HUD

				Legendary Mutation Messages Fix - Cut Content Restored

				LooksMenu		Detailed Instructions available
Install the main file for your display's aspect ratio. OG version regular aspect ratio: LooksMenu v1-6-20 old file. OG version 21:9 aspect ratio: LooksMenu v1-6-20 21-9 old file.

				MCM Booster

				MCM Categorizer - Sorter Folder Categories

				Organized Workbench Menu		Detailed Instructions available
NOTE: Do not install the DLC addons. That is covered by the Synthesis patcher. FOMOD Instructions OrganizedWorkbenchMenu Game Type Overhauls ◉ Default/Vanilla Next DLCs/Other Addons DLCs ☐ Automatron ☐ Nuka World Mods ☐ AWKCR Install

				PA Rainbox HUD FIX		Step Recommends: Improved Rainbox - PA HUD Rainbox fix

				QuickTrade Redux

				See region names on your save files		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions See region names on your save files Step1 Select a language ◉ English Patches ◉ None Patches for weather mods ◉ None Install

				See Through Scopes - MCM Settings Menu		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions See Through Scopes - MCM Settings Menu See Through Scopes - MCM Settings Menu ADD or REPLACE ◉ ADD Install

				Visible Companion Affinity		Detailed Instructions available
Install the main file using the following options: FOMOD Instructions Visible Companion Affinity EN DLC Support DLC Support ◉ Support for all DLCs Install

				Visible Companion Affinity - MCM Settings Menu with Hotkey

				Whose Quest Is It Anyway

17-Locations

Mods that programmatically add new or alter vanilla locations

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Boston Public Library Settlement		Detailed Instructions available
Install the main file, the Base Object Swapper Light Replacer Config optional file, and the LibraryExtras optional file. FOMOD Instructions BPLSettlement Installation Main File ☑ Main File Compatibility Patches ☑ Automatron ☐ Previsibines Repair Pack ☐ Sim Settlements 2 Chapter 2 Install NOTE: The included Previsbines Repair Pack patch is unnecessary as it will be patched in the Step Patch - Conflict Resolution.

				Nuka-World Transit Center Settlement		Install the Nuka-World Transit Center Settlement - PRP 74 optional file.

				We Can Live In - Natick Substation		Install the Natick Substation main file and the Previs - Previsibines Repair Pack (PRP) update file.

18-Lighting and Weather

Mods that affect lighting and/or weather systems **installation is optional**

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Clarity - A Visual Overhaul		Detailed Instructions available
Install the Clarity 4.3 BETA main file. Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): Clarity.ini

				Lightweight Lighting

				Sunlight Alignment Tweak

				True Storms - Wasteland Edition		Detailed Instructions available
1. Install the main file with the following options. FOMOD Instructions True Storms - Wasteland Edition Page 1 - Main and DLC Main Files ☑ True Storms (required) ☑ Far Harbor DLC (optional) Next Page 2 - Dangerous Glowing Sea Dangerous Glowing Sea ◉ No change (default) Next Page 3 - Dangerous Far Harbor Dangerous Far Harbor ◉ No change (default) Next Page 4 - Sunset Time Sunset Time ◉ Earlier Sunset (default) Next Page 5 - Heavy Fogs Heavy Fogs New Heavy Fogs (default) Install 2. Install the Nuka World Plus Far Harbor Add-On optional file. 3. Disable the following plugin (instructions for disabling plugins): TrueStormsFO4-EarlierSunsetsFH.esp

				True Storms - MCM Settings Menu with Hotkeys

19-Utilities

Mods that generate derived mod output from load-order-specific assets

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				4estGimp - M8r98a4f2's Complex Item Sorter Enhancements		Install only the 4estGimp - M8r's Complex Item Sorter Enhancements main file.

				M8r98a4f2's Complex Item Sorter		Detailed Instructions available
Install the main file as a normal mod in Mod Organizer. Create a new empty mod and name it Step Fallout4 - Complex Sorter Output. In the right pane, go to the Data tab, and scroll down to locate the Complex Sorter.bat file. Right-click Complex Sorter.bat, select Add as Executable, and click [OK] at the name prompt (should default to Complex Sorter). Click at the top of the main Mod Organizer window to open the Executables menu. Select the new Complex Sorter entry, and click the [...] button to the right of the Start in field. Navigate to and select the xEdit installation folder ..Modding/Tools/xEdit. Tick the Create files in mod instead of overwrite box. Select the Step Fallout4 - Complex Sorter Output mod from the drop-down. Click [Apply] and [OK]. The finished executable will have been configured as follows (items in [brackets] will be specific to your setup). Title Complex Sorter Binary [Driveletter]:\Windows\system32\cmd.exe Start in [...]\Modding\Tools\xEdit Arguments /C "[...]\mods\M8r98a4f2's Complex Item Sorter\Complex Sorter.bat" Create files in... Step Fallout4 - Complex Sorter Output Complex Sorter will be run later in STEP 5 of the guide.

				Synthesis		Detailed Instructions available
Official and in-depth instructions can be found on the Synthesis wiki page. The following instructions should be sufficient in most cases. .NET SDK This mod requires the installation of the .NET 9.0 SDK in order to function. A restart is recommended following installation. Installation Download the Synthesis.zip file and extract it to the Tools folder (e.g. ..\Modding\Tools\Synthesis). Create a new empty mod and name it Step Fallout4 - Synthesis Output. Configure MO Executable Configure as follows (If necessary, revisit the Tool Setup in the guide.): Title Synthesis Binary Synthesis.exe Create files in... Step Fallout4 - Synthesis Output Synthesis will be run later in STEP 5 of the guide.

				TexGen		Detailed Instructions available
NOTE: TexGen for Fallout 4 is included within DynDOLOD 3 Alpha for Skyrim Special Edition. Ensure that both x86 and x64 versions of Visual Studio 2015, 2017 and 2019 are installed. Download the Main File. Extract the archive to the Tools folder (e.g. ..\Modding\Tools\DynDOLOD). Configure MO Executable Configure as follows (If necessary, revisit the Tool Setup in the guide.): Title TexGen Binary TexGen64.exe Argument(s) -FO4 NOTE: The output path is defined in the TexGen GUI and NOT in the MO executable configuration. TexGen will be run later in STEP 5 of the guide.

20-Patches

Mods that programmatically resolve load-order conflicts

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				EBF UFO4P compatibility fix

				Step Patch - Conflict Resolution		Install the Step Patch - Conflict Resolution main file.

				Step Patch - Lighting and Weather		Install the Step Patch - Lighting and Weather optional file ONLY if the 18-Lighting and Weather ModGroup is installed.

Mod List Cleanup

Reiteration of LOOT rules

Various mods throughout the guide include custom LOOT rules that cannot be added to the masterlist, typically because the created plugins would not otherwise exist, and are being used to sort assets as intended. Throughout this guide, you should have already added these rules using the LOOT Meta Rule Instructions. The applicable mods are listed below for easy verification purposes:

Mod Name	Plugin	Group	Load After
High Resolution Texture Pack	High Resolution Texture Pack 2K and 4K - Valius.esp	Texture Overhauls
Jesters Better Destroyed Vehicles	Jesters Better Destroyed Vehicles.esp	Texture Overhauls
Langleys HD Textures Workshop	Langleys HD Textures Workshop.esp	Texture Overhauls	High Resolution Texture Pack 2K and 4K - Valius.esp
FlaconOils Complete Retexture Project	FlaconOil's Complete Retexture Project.esp	Texture Overhauls	Langleys HD Textures Workshop.esp
Prydwen 2K Textures	Prydwen 2K Textures.esp	Texture Overhauls

Final Sorting and Cleaning

If plugins have not been sorted this session, run LOOT again. Examine the plugins in LOOT for errors or warnings (ignoring the game's default masters at the top of the list). Ignore any reported missing compatibility patches or other warnings. These are either handled by the Step Patches or not of any concern. Perform the standard cleaning procedures on any mods requiring cleaning (except for the game's default masters).

Be aware that the Step Patches are designed to work with a default, LOOT-sorted plugin order. From this point on:

• Ensure all applicable mods are ticked in the left pane of MO.
• Ensure all plugins are ticked in the right pane of MO.
• Sort the load order using LOOT whenever plugins are added/removed.
• Update LOOT (the program and masterlist) whenever updates are available.

STEP 5

Dynamic Modding

Now that the mod list has been installed, sorted, and finalized, the next step is to run the various utilities that will dynamically apply the finishing touches that wrap it all together.

Setup

It is recommended to make a new separator and call it STEP 5 - Dynamic Mods or similar and move the following empty mods we created into it:

• Step Fallout4 - Complex Sorter Output
• Step Fallout4 - Synthesis Output

Now create three more empty mods below them, naming them as follows:

• Step Fallout4 - TexGen Output
• Step Fallout4 - xLODGen Object Output
• Step Fallout4 - xLODGen Terrain Output

NOTE

Complete the following in order, and ensure that all mods and plugins are enabled and sorted before doing so.

Complex Sorter

M8r98a4f2's Complex Item Sorter will add tags, patch food and drink for use with Immersive Animation Framework, and (if desired) modify item weight for miscellaneous items.

NOTE:

If using a dark theme for xEdit, click [Advanced Options] and tick Dark theme active to correct the foreground/background color on the progress bars.

Complex Sorter

1. Run Complex Sorter from the MO executable drop-down list.
2. Click [OK] at the Module Selection prompt to load all plugins.
3. Wait for the M8r Complex Item Sorter window to pop up.
4. Ensure that it says Purge / New under Mode.
5. Under CS plugins, configure as follows:

   ☑ Item Sorter Tags (FIS)

   ☑ FIS (NEW FallUI Item Sorter)

   ☐ INNR Reorderer R88-Style

   ☑ 4estGimp CIS Enhancements II

   ☐ 4estGimp NPC Scaling (Standalone)

   ☑ Add Scrap Component Tags

   ☑ Add Tags To Basic Components

   ☑ Fix Missing Object Template

   ☑ ECO Patcher

   • [Configure]
   • Step Recommends:

     -= ARMOUR =-

     ☑ Add Entry Point Keyword

     ☑ Add missing INNR

     ☑ Nick can wear Armour

     -= Weapons =-

     ☑ Add Entry Point Keyword

     ☑ Add missing INNR

     -= CRAFTING RECIPES =-

     ☑ Enable Crafting Recipe Processing

     ☑ Ignore Vanilla Items

     ☑ Only move recipes from Chem Station

     ☑ Move Ammo recipes to Ammo Station

     ☑ Move Armour recipes to Armor Station

     ☑ Move Weapon recipes to Weapon Station

     ☐ Move ALCH (aid,food,...) recipes to Utility Station

     ☑ Move MISC (mods,junk,...) recipes to Junk and Utility Station respectively

     ☑ Move NOTE (notes, holotapes,...) recipes to Utility Station

   • [✓ OK]

   ☑ Immersive Animation Fr. Patcher

   ☑ Perk Magazine Numbers

   ☑ Quest Tags

   ☑ Radio Tags

   ☑ Valueable Tag

   ☑ Weightless Items

   • [Configure]
   • Step Recommends:

     ☐ Ingestibles

     ☑ Ammunition

     ☑ Books/Magazines

     ☑ Keys/Passcards

     ☑ Notes/Holotapes

     ☑ Misc (Mods only)

     ☐ Misc (All)

   • [✓ OK]

6. Ensure that under Record types, all record types are selected.
7. Click [✓ Generate Patch]
8. Click [OK] at the No R88_SimpleSorter.esp prompt.
9. Once the Processing window closes, and the log says "You can close this application now," close the application. There should be no warnings or errors.

The patch has been completed and save to the Step Fallout4 - Complex Sorter Output mod.

Synthesis FOLIP Patcher

We will use the Synthesis FOLIP patcher to add additional LOD information.

1. Run Synthesis from the MO executable drop-down list.
2. Choose Fallout4 if prompted to choose the game to target.

   

   Step 2

3. Click the Git Repository button, third from top left.

   

   NOTE:

   The Blocking Error messages are there because no patchers have been added yet.

   

   Step 3

4. Find FOLIP in the list, and click the [+] button that says Add patcher.

   

   Step 4

5. Wait until it says Ready, then go to FOLIP's Settings and tick the Moveable Statics checkbox.

   

   Step 5

6. Click the triangular [Run] button at bottom left.

   

   Step 6

7. Once the patcher says it has Completed, close Synthesis.

   

   Step 7

The patch has been completed and saved to the Step Fallout4 - Synthesis Output mod that was set up during installation in Step 4.

TexGen

TexGen

TexGen will generate custom object LOD textures based on enabled mods.

WARNING

Using higher resolutions than recommended will result in a waste of PC resources with NO BENEFIT. It makes ZERO sense to impulsively increase the resolutions beyond the specifications indicated.

1. Run TexGen from the MO executable drop-down list.
2. Set Base size to 256 if it isn't automatically.
3. Click [Start].
4. Once the completed message has appeared (1-5 minutes, depending on the PC), click [Exit].

   NOTE: If the TexGen window closes itself, post in the DynDOLOD 3 Alpha topic and include ../Modding/Tools/DynDOLOD/bugreport.txt and any logs created.

5. Navigate to the DynDOLOD TexGen_Output folder location (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/DynDOLOD/TexGen_Output).
6. Move the files from the TexGen_Output folder into the Step Fallout4 - TexGen Output mod:

   In MO, hold down the Ctrl key and double-click the Step Fallout4 - TexGen Output mod. Alternatively, right click the mod to open it in an Explorer window.

7. Enable the Step Fallout4 - TexGen Output mod in MO.

xLODGen

We will use xLODGen to generate terrain and object LOD. For this guide, we separate generation of terrain LOD from generation of object LOD, even though they can be generated at the same time. We have chosen to do this because:

• Terrain LOD rarely ever needs to be updated.
• Terrain LOD takes the most time to generate.
• Terrain LOD is less difficult to get right the first time.
• Object LOD is more likely to need updating.
• Object LOD is more difficult to get right the first time.

Object LOD

xLODGen is run to generate updated LOD Object textures and meshes so that object LOD is updated with mod changes:

1. Ensure that any previous xLODGen generations have been removed, including any generated terrain LOD.
2. Ensure the xLODGen output folder (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/xLODGen/xLODGen_Output) is completely empty.
3. Run xLODGen from the MO executable drop-down list.
4. Tick the following worldspaces in the left pane:
   • Commonwealth
   • DLC03FarHarbor
   • NukaWorld
5. Ensure that ONLY the Object LOD box is ticked in the right pane.
6. Use the following settings:

   NOTE: Resist the urge to blindly alter the texture resolutions shown, which will only reduce FPS and degrade texture fidelity. The resolution settings do NOT scale object LOD textures in any way, shape, or form, and are instead used to determine the maximum size of textures placed on the atlas for draw call optimization purposes.

   

   xLODGen Object LOD settings

7. Click [Generate] to run the process, which will require upwards of 10 minutes, depending on the PC.
8. Once the "LOD generation complete" message has appeared, close xLODGen.

   NOTE: If the xLODGen window closes itself, post in the xLODGen topic and include ../Modding/Tools/xLODGen/bugreport.txt and any logs created.

Object LOD Wrap-Up

1. Browse to the xLODGen output folder (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/xLODGen/xLODGen_Output).
2. In MO, open the Step Fallout4 - xLODGen Object Output mod in Windows Explorer (Ctrl + double-click).
3. Cut and paste the files from ../xLODGen_Output into the Step Fallout4 - xLODGen Object Output folder.
4. Copy the Step Fallout4 - xLODGen Object Output mod folder path to your clipboard.
5. Follow the Cathedral Assets Optimizer Usage Instructions.

Terrain LOD

xLODGen is run again to generate updated LOD terrain textures and meshes so that landscape LOD is updated with mod changes:

1. Ensure the xLODGen output folder (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/xLODGen/xLODGen_Output) is completely empty.
2. Run xLODGen from the MO executable drop-down list.
3. Tick the following worldspaces in the left pane:
   • Commonwealth
   • DLC03FarHarbor
   • NukaWorld
4. Ensure that ONLY the Terrain LOD box is ticked in the right pane.
5. Use the following settings:

   NOTE: Unless you are running FO4 at ≥ 4k resolution, resist the urge to wastefully increase the texture resolutions shown, which will only reduce FPS with NO BENEFIT. Those running ≥ 4k resolution WILL benefit by doubling the resolution for LOD4, LOD8, and LOD16 from 256 to 512.

   

   LOD4

   

   LOD8

   

   LOD16

   

   LOD32

6. Click [Generate] to run the process, which will require upwards of 20 minutes, depending on the PC.
7. Once the "LOD generation complete" message has appeared, close xLODGen.

   NOTE: If the xLODGen window closes itself, post in the xLODGen topic and include ../Modding/Tools/xLODGen/bugreport.txt and any logs created.

Terrain LOD Wrap-Up

1. Browse to the xLODGen output folder (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/xLODGen/xLODGen_Output).
2. In MO, open the Step Fallout4 - xLODGen Terrain Output mod in Windows Explorer (Ctrl + double-click).
3. Cut and paste the files from ../xLODGen_Output into the Step Fallout4 - xLODGen Terrain Output folder.
4. Copy the Step Fallout4 - xLODGen Terrain Output mod folder path to your clipboard.
5. Follow the Cathedral Assets Optimizer Usage Instructions.

Synthesis Final

We will run Synthesis again for final setup.

1. Run Synthesis from the MO executable drop-down list.
2. Un-tick FOLIP.
3. Click the Git Repository button, third from top left.
4. Find HasDistantLOD in the list, and click the [+] button that says Add patcher.
5. Repeat the last two steps, adding POVMessages and WorkbenchOrganizer patchers.
6. Wait until it says Ready, then click the triangular [Run] button at bottom left.
7. Once the patcher says it has Completed, close Synthesis.

The patch has been completed and saved to the Step Fallout4 - Synthesis Output mod.

When to Regenerate

Dynamic mods will need to be regenerated following certain changes/updates to the mod list.

Complex Sorter

Whenever there are changes/updates to plugins.

Synthesis

• FOLIP

  Only directly before generating Object LOD.

• Final

  Whenever there are changes/updates to plugins.

TexGen

Whenever there are changes/updates that modify textures or LODs.

xLODGen

• Terrain LOD

  Whenever there are changes/updates that modify exterior landscapes or landscape textures.

• Object LOD

  Whenever there are changes/updates that modify textures, exterior objects, or LODs.

STEP 6

Mod Configuration Menu (MCM)

The game is now ready to be loaded to configure mods in the Mod Configuration Menu (MCM). The MCM allows mod authors to provide custom, game-accessible settings for their mods. Recommendations are provided below for select mods. The remainder are user preference.

First Launch

To run the game, select the F4SE executable from the drop-down list and click the Run button. Keep the following in mind when first launching from a fresh Guide installation:

• A new game is required!

  In other words, don't load from a save after a fresh Guide install to avoid issues. Review the changelog before upgrading from a previous version of this Guide to determine whether or not a new game is advisable.

• Finally, INI files may appear in the Overwrite folder after closing the game. It is recommended to move these files to their respective mod folders, respecting their folder structure during the move.

Mod Configuration Menu Settings

Mod configuration settings can be set according to user preference. The following are some recommendations.

⟡ CCCLeaner ⟡Click to show/hide
All three settings should be off.
⟡ Configurable Hotkeys ⟡Click to show/hide
Setting the hotkey for the Wait Menu allows waiting anywhere. It is also useful to set separate hotkeys for the grenade and melee attacks.
⟡ Crafting Highlight Fix ⟡Click to show/hide
⟡ DLC Timing ⟡Click to show/hide
Increasing minimum levels for DLCs effectively disables them until you reach that level.
⟡ FallUI - Inventory ⟡Click to show/hide
Optionally add the local time to the Pipboy. Colors can be changed as desired.
⟡ FIS - FallUI Item Sorter ⟡Click to show/hide
Turn on Enable auto tagging feature Set variations to use 4estGimp's armor icons.
⟡ Fixes and Tweaks ⟡Click to show/hide
Set Hacking Mini-Game Maximum Words to 20. Click Reset Lockpicking and exit the MCM menu.
⟡ Immersive Animation Framework ⟡Click to show/hide
Enable/disable animations for eating food and drink depending on combat.
⟡ Immersive HUD ⟡Click to show/hide
Turn on Immersive HUD Enabled.
⟡ LIF ⟡Click to show/hide
Inject All Forms can be used to inject DLC items into the leveled lists.
⟡ MCM Booster ⟡Click to show/hide
Turn on Booster enabled.
⟡ MCM Categorizer ⟡Click to show/hide
MCM menus can be categorized with this MCM menu. Here is an example: Fixes CCleaner Crafting Highlight Fix MCM Booster Terrain Undersides HUD Immersive HUD MCM Categorizer MCM Settings Photo Mode QuickTrade XDI FallUI FallUI - Inventory FallUI - Confirm Boxes FallUI - HUD FallUI - Icon Library FallUI - Map FallUI - Sleep And Wait FallUI - Workbench FIS - FallUI Item Sorter QOL Configurable Hotkeys Hotkey Manager Persistent Volume Sliders Visible Companion Affinity Gameplay BS Defence DLC Timing ECO Fixes and Tweaks Immersive Animation Framework LIF See Through Scopes Toggleable Night Vision Workshop Workshop Framework Workshop Rearranged Visuals Sun Alignment Tweaks True Storms
⟡ Photo Mode ⟡Click to show/hide
Setting a hotkey to open Photo Mode is recommended.
⟡ QuickTrade ⟡Click to show/hide
Step Recommends: Set the NPC Greeting Distance to 85.
⟡ Toggleable Night Vistion ⟡Click to show/hide
Set a hotkey to toggle night vision effect. Step Recommends: Turn on Use mod provided night vision effect.
⟡ Terrain Undersides ⟡Click to show/hide
Leave default unless the underside peeks through and becomes visible (it has not been noticed to do so in testing).
⟡ Visible Companion Affinity ⟡Click to show/hide
Setting the Companion Image Color to Colored is recommended. There is no need to enable the Item Sorting Compatibility since we use Complex Item Sorter.
⟡ Workshop Framework ⟡Click to show/hide
Enable Power Grid Auto-Repair Enable Power Grid Auto-Destroy Enable Autoplay Messages

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS

Become a part of the Step Team

About Step

Created by TheCompiler (Daniele Ferraro), Step is a collaborative project with input from the modding community, technical volunteers, and project administrators. The goal is to provide tested and validated methods for establishing and maintaining an enhanced, modded game. Thus, the Step Guides provide detailed, well-tested build instructions for a solid, modded game that achieves an enhanced, vanilla experience.

The Step team collects information from the modding community through extensive mod testing, detailed reviews, feedback, and suggestions exchanged on the Step Community Forums. Posting rules apply, so be sure to read and follow them. Engage and enjoy a warm welcome and plenty of high-quality support from a large community of experienced members.

Step Modifications can only get better with contributions and help from the community. It is very time consuming for the Step team to ensure that Step's Game Guides are consistently maintained at the highest quality possible. As such, we rely on the community. Whether a regular user or a knowledgeable modder, below are some ways to contribute in maintaining Step as a reliable, high-quality resource:

The Community

All members of the community can help build the Guides they love and utilize for their own games. Step relies on the community (e.g., you) to help identify mods that improve the vanilla game while adhering to our Mandate through mod suggestions. We also need ongoing bug reports, feedback, reviews, and updates on included mods that may cause problems or that stray from the Mandate. This help can be as simple as reporting an encountered bug or as extensive as providing a one-off review of a mod based from personal experience with it.

In order to suggest a mod for inclusion in this Guide, visit the Mods section of the forums and use the Create Mod Topic button on the editor toolbar.

Staff Roles

There are official staff roles that are almost always open for new candidates.
Community members interested in becoming a member of the Step staff, please contact any Administrator or Step Staff member on the forums. Please include some idea of the role desired and include strengths and weaknesses within that role! For example, if applying for a Curator include the game desired to curate, strengths (xEdit, conflict resolution, texture editing), and weaknesses (mesh work, CK, scripting). This gives Step some initial idea of the candidate's skill sets.

Forum Moderators

Most of the moderation work for our Moderators is simply to keep topics on track and do general forum maintenance; such as moving topics to the correct forum and handling spammers. Very rarely does moderation on the Step forums end up in warnings and bannings (and we all like it that way). To be effective Moderators, community members who desire this role are expected to be familiar with the Step community and actively involved. As such, Moderator criteria is be based upon level and quality of activity within our community. Moderators will be expected to be more familiar with the Community Guidelines than the average member and be able to remain unbiased in their moderating.

Guide Curators

Guide Curators are the super-stars of the staff at Step Modifications. They are those who curate the Guides for members. Guide creation, growth, and maintenance takes a lot of time, effort, and skill. As such, Curators are generally required to be of a higher skill-level than the average modder. In an ideal world there would be 2-4 Curators per Guide. However, Curators are often working alone on Guides; thus, they require the knowledge and skills to be able to follow Mandate while building mod lists, patches, and writing all Guide and ancillary content in a way members can easily follow. This is no small feat for a single staff member to do! For more information about Guide Curation, see Game Guide Curation.

Testers

Generally, Testers are required to maintain a non-deviated Guide installation from which to install and test mods that are tagged for testing on the forums, as well as, general testing of Guides as a whole with the goal of finding bugs, issues, possible improvements, etc. Testers will be given access to Staff forums that house useful information on the Guides they test for. For more information about our testing process, read through the Mod Testing Guide to get a sense of what's involved.

Thank you for reading and enjoy the game!

Credits

The STEP administrators would sincerely like to thank (from the bottoms of our fuzzy little hearts):

• The authors of mods recommended within our guides
• The authors of mods who granted permission for their mods to be incorporated into the Step Patches
• The core Community for feedback, suggestions and input
• The Beta and Mod Testers for their good humor and rigorous analyses
• sheson for DynDOLOD and all things LODGen
• The Nexus community
• Bethesda Softworks for their games
• Tannin for the gift that is Mod Organizer
• All the developers that kept MO going

Personnel

Testers

• D1Z4STR
• Mercury71
• Mousetick

LODGen Support

• sheson

MO Support

• GSDfan

Step Administrators

• DoubleYou
• Greg
• TechAngel85
• z929669

Retired Staff

Aiyen Bealdwine deathneko11 EisDrache EssArrBee

Farlo frihyland GrantSP hishutup Kelmych

MontyMM Nebulous112 oqhansoloqo phazer11 rootsrat

stoppingby4now TheCompiler torminater Uhuru WilliamImm

wolverine2710