Fallout3:Unofficial-Kelmych-1.0.0: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 05:45, August 17, 2014

"You want to know about politics in Washington? Four words. Watch your back, Jack." - Admiral Greer

Last Update: 5:45:16 17 August 2014 (UTC)

CURRENT USERS: The updates made during the latest revision (prior revisions can be found here):

We were somewhere around Bethesda...

Both Fallout 3 and Fallout New Vegas have been out for a number of years now and there is a truly amazing community that has supported both games with really creative mods since the game's release. This guide covers mods and utilities for Fallout 3, but as mentioned below it has a similar format, and many similar mods, to the Fear and Loathing in New Vegas guide. When the same mod is in this guide and the Fear and Loathing in New Vegas guide, the comments about the mods are typically taken from the FNV guide. In addition, some of the general text was also retained from that guide.

This guide will help make Fallout 3 look as good as possible while maintaining a setup that adds to gameplay, stability, and re-playability. With that in mind, Fallout 3 is old enough that only the Game of the Year (GOTY) Edition will be supported, with all DLC will be required. Users without all the major DLC can still use the guide, but without a couple mods or patches. STEP officially supports the use of Mod Organizer and everyone who uses it for a long enough period sees that is the premier mod manager for Bethesda games. This guide will use Mod Organizer as its main mod manager, but Fallout Mod Manager will be needed for part of the installation and Wrye Flash can be used to generate a Bashed Patch.

Users already familiar with STEP , the Fear and Loathing in New Vegas guide, and Skyrim Revisited will notice that this takes queues from both styles of guides. Also, due to the somewhat silly nature of the Fallout series, this guide will not take itself too seriously, but nonetheless a little more seriously than the highly irreverent Fallout 1 and 2; Fallout 3 is a little more serious than the previous Fallout games and even the followon "Fallout New Vegas", perhaps because of the Washington DC area setting . The initial candidate title of this guide, "Clear and Present Danger", is a bit serious, however, so if it used there needs to be some material added from other Washington DC area based popular books/movies that aren't quite as serious or at least have some good quotes. The goal is a theme that reflects the overall impression of Fallout 3 as well as remaining true to the Falloput tradition.

STEP changes the way so many people mod video games and really gave birth to new type of mod community that was very strict in its pursuit for a better experience of Bethesda games. It only makes sense to extend some of STEP, Fear and Loathing in New Vegas, and Skyrim Revisited to other Bethesda games, and that is the goal of this guide. When this guide was being created it was apparent that there were significant similarities between the mods and utilities for Fallout 3 and Fallout New Vegas. The game engines of the two games are closely related, and the directory structures of the resources in the Data directory for the game are nearly identical. The authors of quite a few of the best mods for Fallout 3 created new but related mods for Fallout New Vegas, and in the last few years many excellent mods created for Fallout New Vegas have been ported to Fallout 3. The guide layout and even the mod descriptions from Fear and Loathing in New Vegas have been preserved whenever possible. In addition, a line was added to each mod descriptions in this guide to indicate the related Fallout New Vegas mod, almost all of which are in the "Fear and Loathing in New Vegas" guide.

While going through the guide remember that this is merely an initial working version and is quite far from completion. There also will be a forum to post any questions that might arise. This guide will also likely eventually have an official thread This guide isn't intended to be the size and scope of the STEP guide, but the current mods listed seem to work together without major compatibility issues.

The mods, utilities, and guidance in this guide is listed from top down. It's recommended that mods be installed in that order to make sure that all directions are followed correctly and no mods are missed. Keep in mind, there are very specific directions to install the interface mods and those directions are very important to make sure there are no problems when starting Fallout 3.

What this guide is still lacking

Theme: "Clear and Present Danger" is one of 6 fairly straightforward book/action movies about Jack Ryan; it's a reasonable choice until a better one comes along. The guide needs supplementary material (quotes, etc.) that seem a little less serious for consistency with the other Fallout games, and that provides some good quotes and comments like those in theFear and Loathing in New Vegas guide for Fallout NV.
More INI tweaks for Fallout 3. There are a few in this guide, but the tweak guide mentioned below has more suggestions that haven't been tested yet.
Some Post install instructions are lacking, including more inputs on recommended Control Panel menu values (currently the default values are used for almost all these values).
Comments on game balance including mods and Control Panel menu settings would also be very helpful.
Texture selection, particularly for clutter items and weapons. This guide include a number of high resolution texture replacer packs that have been used before and have been recommended by various modders and Fallout 3 guides. So far there have only been some spot comparisons of these textures to determine which sets should be installed with higher priority. Obviously Millenia's weapon retextures always have the highest priority, but unfortunately only a few of these have been ported to Fallout 3 from Fallout NV.
Texture optimization. DDSopt works for Fallout 3, but evaluation is needed to determine textures that should not be optimized and to determine which textures should be modified and by how much. The vanilla optimization collapses many textures, and this needs to be tested to make sure it doesn't cause problems. Mod optimization (and/or selection) of exterior textures needs to be tested to get the right balance or graphic quality and game performance.

Pre-Installation Checklist

Make sure that everything is ready to install before proceeding with this guide.

Make sure the Fallout 3 goty directory is clean from any other modding previously done.
- A good way to make sure is to delete everything in the Fallout 3 goty folder except the Data folder.
- Now open the Data folder and delete everything that is not a vanilla ESM or BSA from Fallout 3 or the DLCs.
- Now go to Fallout 3 goty in Steam and verify game cache and Steam will download all the necessary files.
Delete the Fallout.ini and FalloutPrefs.ini in the "Documents\My Games\Fallout3" folder and start the Fallout launcher so new ones can regenerate. This will allow the INIs to revert back to vanilla before starting.
Set the Fallout 3 launcher settings to max for the system being used to play the game. Fallout 3 should be able to perform quite well on any modern hardware.

A Word About Gamebryo and Plugin Limits

The game engine for Fallout 3 has quite a few issues, but fortunately for users of this game the limit of the number of plugins (*.esm and *.esp files) is a little less than 255, as is true for most of the other Gamebryo-based Bethesda games except Fallout New Vegas (which has a ~140 plugin limit which will cause the game to function incorrectly or just not load at all if this number is reached in Fallout New Vegas). The number of plugins in the mods recommended in this Fallout 3 guide will always be below this limit so users can add some other mods of their choosing, but even with the large plugin limit in Fallout 3 it's very easy to exceed the limit. Some mods have separate plugins for each DLC and each other mod with compatibility issues, so the plugin count can increase rapidly. Merging any mods that add new objects in each plugin (new FormIDs) can cause significant compatibility problems with other mods that expect the separate (vs. merged) plugins as discussed in the Merging Plugins guide. When adding mods on top of the guide, be aware of the plugin cap and learn to use the merge script when appropriate to lower the count on mods that have multiple plugins that won't cause compatibility problems when merged. This is also the reason that Wrye Flash is so important, along with its conflict resolution for levelled lists, since the Bashed Patch will lower plugin count.

Utilities

There are a few tools that are necessary to mod Fallout 3 and they should be downloaded and installed before any modding starts. These utilities, as well as Steam itself, should be installed in directories that are not subdirectories of any User Access Controlled (UAC) directories (e.g., Program Files, Program Files (x86)). If Steam is currently installed in a UAC directory this page provides instructions on how to easily move Steam and the games already installed by Steam.

It is also best if these utilities (other than Wrye Flash and FOSE) are not installed in subdirectories of the Steam directory including the game directory itself (Steam\Steamapps\common\Fallout 3 goty) to keep the Steam and game directories as close to vanilla as possible. TThis is especially important for any games installed on an SSD since space is always limited on an SSD and there is no real value in having these utilities in the game directory. Even when the game is installed on an HDD this is a good practice. The only exception is that when an SSD is used for the game directory the Mod Organizer\mods directory (but no other Mod Organizer files) should be installed on the SSD.

BOSS

Author: The BOSS Development Team
Version: v2.3.0

BOSS is the best way to sort the load order of any plugins for all the Bethesda games. Without it, the community would be lost. There is a drop down menu that allows switching between different games, so a different installation for New Vegas, Fallout 3, Oblivion, or Skyrim is unnecessary.

BUM

Author: Surazal
Versions: v6.7.2

Opens up BOSS userlist functions not available by using BOSS alone. Creating custom load orders or adding plugins not yet part of the masterlist is much easier with BUM. As with BOSS, only one copy of BUM is needed so a different installation for New Vegas, Fallout 3, Oblivion, or Skyrim is unnecessary.

DDSopt

Author: Ethatron
Version: v0.8.0.upd4
Installation: The program is portable so it should be extracted to a folder that is easy to access, like D:\Games\DDSopt. Also, it may be easier to make a shortcut on the desktop and the program should be set to 'Run as Administrator'. The default ddsopt.ini needs changed, so get the latest version here and overwrite the ddsopt.ini in the DDSopt folder.
Note: Detailed information on installation and use of DDSopt for Fallout 3 can be seen in the FNV Quick Start Tab of the DDSopt Guide. The Fallout 3 unique information, namely different folder names for the main texture BSA and the DLCs, is in a sidebar in this FNV guide . Because of the similarities of the subdirectories of the Data folders in both "Fallout 3" and Fallout New Vegas, the batch files included and described in this portion of the DDSopt guide work equally well for both games.

Needed to optimize and/or reduce textures and the resolution of textures for increased quality and performance.

Fallout Mod Manager - FOMM - Fork

Author: Q Timeslip and kaburke
Version: v0.14.11.9
Note: When Installing MODS with FOMM - Fork, they will go into Mod Organizer's "\Overwrite" folder. Follow the instructions for FOMM if used for a mod.

This is a continuation of the FOMM development. Mod Organizer had problems running the original FOMM, but this version works well. This will allow the installation of mods that MO cannot handle with its external installer.

FO3Edit

Author: ElminsterAU
Version: v3.0.32EXP

It would really be impossible to have a heavily modded game or a stable game without this amazing little tool. Essential for anyone wanting to mod a Bethesda game.

Merge Plugins xEdit Script

Author: matortheeternal
Version: 1.65
Installation: Extract the contents of this mod into the folder used for FO3Edit.

This optional mod provides a merge plugins script for FO3Edit While this utility isn't critical, it may be quite useful in reducing the number of plugins used for Fallout 3.

Mod Organizer

Author: Tannin
Version: v1.2.9
Installation: To use MO for multiple games it must have multiple installs in different locations or folder names. The Mod Organizer directory, or at least the Mod Organizer\mods subdirectory, should be installed on a fast drive (HDD or SSD).

Note: There is some information to be aware of when installing Mod Organizer:
1. The newest version of Mod Organizer introduces a new system of handling mods not installed by Mod Organizer and the official DLC. They will now be listed in the left pane of MO and can be moved around so those files will become part of the file priority.
  - Left Pane should have the official content listed first, without check boxes to tick and the category should say Non-MO. Any mods installed in the Data folder will also be listed the same way.

MO is a powerful mod manager that does not install mods into the game's data folder like other mod managers. Instead, MO uses a virtual directory which gives modders the ability to switch between profiles very easily without having to install and uninstall mods. For more information, see the Mod Organizer Guide.

Wrye Flash

Author: valda and Sharlikran
Version: v15.9
Installation: This program is NOT optional. To install Wrye Flash, WryePython04a must be installed first. Install the following:

Python 2.7.7 (Note that the Wrye Flash page on nexusmods says use Python 2.7.3, but 2.7.7 is needed for Wrye Flash NV and 2.7.7 seems to also work fine in Fallout 3 with Wrye Flash)
- Do not install the 64-bit version or Wrye Flash will not be able to work correctly with Mod Organizer.
wxPython 2.8.12.1 ansi for Python 2.7
comtypes 0.6.2 for Python
PyWin32 for Python 2.7
- If any up-to-date version of Wrye Bash/Smash/Flash is already installed then these files might not be needed. For example, if Wrye Flash NV is already installed these files are not needed as they are already installed.
Now extract the Wrye Flash archive to your Fallout 3 goty' directory so that the Mopy folder is in the Fallout 3 goty folder.

Wrye Flash is only going to be used for its Bashed Patch abilities to merge mods or parts of mods to increase compatibility while using many mods.

Large Address Aware Enabler for FO3

Author: NMC and MadBoris
Version: v1.0
Installation: First, extract the contents of the archived utility to a new folder.

Make a backup copy of the original Fallout 3.exe file in the Fallout 3 goty folder.
Move Fallout 3.exe to this new folder.
Double click START.BAT in this folder.
Follow the instructions in the command window.
The "large Address Aware flag in the Fallout 3.exe has now been set. Move this revised version of Fallout 3.exe back into the Fallout 3 goty folder.

This utility is used to add the Large Address Aware flag to the Fallout 3 executable. Even though Fallout is a 32 bit program, this flag allows the operating system to use additional address space to support the program. Fallout 3 only allows for 2 GB of RAM to be accessed by "Fallout3.exe"; this flag will allow up to 4 GB of RAM to be accessed.

Once the utility has run and added the flag, the folder for the utility is no longer needed and can be deleted since there will be no new versions of Fallout 3.exe.

If the OS being used for Fallout is a 64 bit OS no additional steps are needed. If a 32 bit OS is being used, some additional steps might be required depending on the OS being used. Typically no additional steps are needed except for 32 bit Windows XP. Details on this are provided in the READ ME.txt file included with the utility.

Note that having added this flag, the Fallout executable is no longer compatible with Games for Window Live. This is addressed with the next utility.

Games for Windows LIVE Disabler

Author: Quarn (uploaded by Quazzy)
Version: v1.2.2

Open the zip file, or extract the contents of the zip file, and double click Games for Windows LIVE Disabler.exe. Click the Disable GFWL button, then exit.

This utility stops Fallout 3 from using the (now obsolete) xlive.dll used for connection to Games for Windows Live. If GFWL is not disabled and the Fallout 3 executable has the LAA flag set, Fallout will have a CTD during launch. The FOSE extender discussed below is also incompatible with GFWL.

Setting up Mod Organizer

Now that all the programs necessary to mod Fallout 3 are installed, it is time to set them up for installing mods and running Fallout 3 with Mod Organizer. First, in case this has not already been done while following the earlier instructions in this guide, launch the game at least once by double clicking on Fallout launcher.exe in the Fallout 3 goty folder so the game configuration settings and some important registry values are set.

Start MO and click the Profiles button.
1. Now highlight the Default profile, make sure Archive Invalidation is checked, and click [Copy].
2. Name this new profile Vanilla Fallout. This profile will include only the files present when the game is initially installed by Steam.
3. Now highlight the Vanilla Fallout profile and click [Copy].
4. Rename the new profile to the desired name (Modded fallout 3 would be a good choice), and click [Okay], then [Close]. (change this name once the guide is named)
  - This procedure can be repeated for copying any profile in the future.
Setup MO to download mods from the Nexus, follow the directions provided on the Mod Organizer Guide.
Click the Executables button and set up the programs that will be run from the MO launcher using directions from the Mod Organizer Guide.
- For this guide add: BOSS, BUM, FOMM - Fork, FO3Edit, and Wrye Flash. Only add the GECK if necessary.
  - Wrye Flash has special instructions to setup:
    1. In the Executables menu type Wrye Flash into the Title text box.
    2. Next to the Binary text box, click [...], and navigate to the "...\Fallout 3 goty\Mopy" folder, select "Wrye Bash Debug.bat" and click [Open].
    3. Click [Add], then [Close].
  - This will start up Wrye Flash in debug mode, but that has no effect on generating a Bashed Patch, the only thing Wrye Flash will be used for.
Set up optional settings as desired:
1. Click the Settings button.
2. Choose style, language, mod folders, customize mod categories among other things.
Check that the official DLC is sorted correctly.
1. In the left pane make sure the official DLC are listed as the first mods when sorted by priority.
  - New users should have something that looks like the image here.<add new figure for Fallout 3>
  - Users updating from older versions of MO may have to drag the DLC into place. Put them at the top as shown in the image here, but the rest of the mods will be listed underneath.
  - Fallout may or may not show as a mod in the left pane.

Mod Organizer should now be installed and properly set up for modding from this point forward.

BSAs and Mod Organizer

Bethesda Software Archives (BSA) can be used to store mod files in an attempt to reduce file sizes. The added benefit is the reducing in file system fragmentation caused by having many loose, small files. The main problem with BSAs is, if there are loose files that need to be overwritten by a mod that is packaged in a BSA, then the BSA must be extracted. This is due to loose files always 'winning' when the game loads the "Data" folder. Enter Mod Organizer. Using the 'Hide' feature of MO, it is easy to remove the loose file without much extra work from the user. This means that BSAs would only need to be extracted if the textures in the BSA need to be optimized.

There is a limit to how many characters are allowed by the game engine when loading BSAs. If the names of all the BSAs being loaded are more than 254 characters, the game will not load or if there are just to many files in the data folder directory, thrashing can take place which causes the game not to load either. This creates an issue that either causes users to rename BSAs or extract some of them to remain under the 255 character limit.

So, how does MO even know what files are in a BSA? Simple, just go to the Archives tab on the right pane of MO and tick the checkbox for every BSA and any mod that overwrites a file will have an icon next to it on the left pane. If the BSA's file is the preferred file then just hide the file from the mod that overwrites it. Greyed out BSAs will be checked no matter what due to their plugin requiring that BSA to load, but it can still be extracted.

The other option is to just extract all the BSAs from mods and put everything in the correct order in the left pane. Some people say one way is correct and some say the other is correct. If the advice is all or nothing, it is best to ignore it. Life is not black and white, it is gray. Extract when necessary.

INI Tweaks

The Fallout INIs are used for a few different reasons, from disabling mouse acceleration to increasing grass render distance. This section will cover the necessary tweaks for the Fallout 3 guide to operate with all the mods in the guide.

The MO INI Editor will be used for this section. To access it, click the MO puzzle icon and choose INI Editor.

When the editor is open, use the find function (ctrl-f) to quick find the line that needs to be edited.

Fallout.ini Tweaks

The Fallout 3 Tweak Guide is a good source for recommendations on Fallout 3 ini settings as well as other game settings.

Remove mouse acceleration

[Controls]
fForegroundMouseAccelBase=0
fForegroundMouseAccelTop=0
fForegroundMouseBase=0
fForegroundMouseMult=0

Darnified UI Font Tweak

Copy-paste the following:
[Fonts]
;sFontFile_1=Textures\Fonts\Glow_Monofonto_Large.fnt
sFontFile_1=Textures\Fonts\DarN_FranKleinBold_14.fnt
;sFontFile_2=Textures\Fonts\Monofonto_Large.fnt
sFontFile_2=Textures\Fonts\DarN_FranKleinBold_16.fnt
sFontFile_3=Textures\Fonts\Glow_Monofonto_Medium.fnt
;sFontFile_4=Textures\Fonts\Monofonto_VeryLarge02_Dialogs2.fnt
sFontFile_4=Textures\Fonts\DarN_Sui_Generis_Otl_10.fnt
sFontFile_5=Textures\Fonts\Fixedsys_Comp_uniform_width.fnt
;sFontFile_6=Textures\Fonts\Glow_Monofonto_VL_dialogs.fnt
sFontFile_6=Textures\Fonts\DarN_Sui_Generis_Otl_13.fnt
;sFontFile_7=Textures\Fonts\Baked-in_Monofonto_Large.fnt
sFontFile_7=Textures\Fonts\DarN_Libel_Suit_Otl_24.fnt
sFontFile_8=Textures\Fonts\Glow_Futura_Caps_Large.fnt
sFontFile_9=Textures\Fonts\NVFont_Test.fnt

Fallout 3 Dual-Core and Multi-Core Fix; these settings are often needed with multi-core CPUs to avoid a CTD during launch

[General]

bUseThreadedAI=1 iNumHWThreads=2

recommended settings from Higher Resolution In-Game Rendered Terminal Text mod to enable higher resolution text displayed within in-game rendered terminals.

[RenderedTerminal]

fRenderedTerminalZoom=33

[Fonts]

sFontFile_5=Textures\Fonts\Darn_Sui_Generis_Otl_13.fnt

The following optional fallout.ini settings are from Fallout Street Lights. They are intended to improve the effects of lighting when it's dark, but they could reduce game performance so they should be tested after installation if they are used.

[Display]

fLightLODDefaultStartFade=10240.0
fLightLODRange=10240.0
fLightLODMinStartFade=10240.0
fLightLODMaxStartFade=10240.0
fShadowLODDefaultStartFade=200.0
fShadowLODRange=200.0
fShadowLODMinStartFade=100.0
fShadowLODMaxStartFade=1000.0
fSpecularLODDefaultStartFade=10240.0
fSpecularLODRange=10240.0
fSpecularLODMinStartFade=10240.0
fSpecularLODMaxStartFade=10240.0

FalloutPrefs.ini Tweaks

Allow additional plugins to be loaded.

[Launcher]
bEnableFileSelection = 1

Increase Grass Render distance from 3 to 5 cells.

[Grass]
fGrassStartFadeDistance = 17000

Allow facial morphs from mods to work correctly.

[General]
bLoadFaceGenHeadEGTFiles = 1

Remember to click [Save] before exiting the INI Editor.

Extenders

Fallout 3 will need to take advantage of a couple extenders to open up functionality for certain mods.

FOSE

Author: Ian Patterson, Stephen Abel and Paul Connelly.
Version: v1.2 beta2
Installation: Download v1.2beta2.7z . Follow these instructions:

Extract the files from the archive into the Fallout 3 goty folder, NOT into the Data folder. The src folder and text files are not needed.

Without FOSE, many mods that add incredible features to Fallout 3 cannot be used. This is an essential mod for any gamer.

TBA

-->

Clean the Bethesda ESMs

Open FO3Edit through MO.
Make sure Fallout3.esm and all the DLC plugins are checked and click [OK].
When FO3Edit is loaded right click any plugin on the left pane and select Apply Filter for Cleaning.
When FO3Edit is done filtering right click "Anchorage.esm" and select Undelete and Disable References.
Right click "Anchorage.esm" again and select Remove "Identical to Master" records.
Repeat step 4 & 5 for "BrokenSteel.esm", "PointLookout.esm", "ThePitt.esm", and "Zeta.esm".
Close FO3Edit and make sure to save the plugins, but untick Backup Plugins and click [Okay].

==== Comment on Cleaning Mods with FO3Edit When mod plugins are cleaned with FO3Edit, the mods should be cleaned individually, and when FO3Edit is closed the plugin should saved and Backup Plugins should be ticked. The previous version of the mod that was just cleaned will be saved in a FO3Edit Backups folder in Overwrite. As described in the STEP guide subsection on cleaning plugins the following steps should be used:

After cleaning, there will be files in Overwrite (essentially a fake mod located at the bottom of the left pane if sorted by priority ascending) created by FO3Edit.
Right-click Overwrite and select [Create Mod].
Name it FO3Edit Backups and click OK. This will create a new mod listing in the left pane for the FO3Edit Backups useful if the changes failed to be successful.
Each subsequent time FO3Edit is used to edit a file, open Overwrite and drag the FO3Edit Backups back to this mod. This will keep them in an organized and safe location. The files have no impact on the game.
Right-click the FO3Edit Backups mod and select [Ignore Missing Data] to remove the red X Big Red X MO.png flag.

Gopher has a great video on his Youtube channel about the basics of the xEdit mods (i.e., TES5Edit, FNVEdit, FO3Edit, and TES4Edit), here.

Fixes

The comprehensive patches for Fallout 3 have seen many changes since release. There have been individual authors posting some small fixes and one major group that has tried to take on the task of fixing most of the bugs in Fallout 3. Other than that, there are few other fixes and some excellent utilities to increase stability and performance.

UPDATED Unofficial Fallout 3 Patch

Author: BenWah and Hairylegs
Version: v1.6.1
Fallout NV Equivalent: Yukichigai Unofficial Patch - YUP , main bugfix patch for Fallout NV
Installation: Install with MO.

This mod is the most recent version of the unofficial patch for Fallout 3 and is still being actively updated.

New Vegas Anti-Crash

Author: Queue
Version: v6.6.0.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: New Vegas Anti-Crash, this mod works in both Fallout versions.
Requirements: FOSE
Installation: After Installation, open the information pop up of this mod in the left pane of MO and go to the Filetree tab. Change the NVSE folder's name to FOSE. This will allow the mod to work with Fallout 3.
Note: The Grass Rendering Distance INI tweak will not work without this mod.

This mod helps with some of the offsets and structures the exception handling of Fallout 3 to reduce crashes for the supported addresses. This mod will be updated frequently and should be followed for updates. Even though it was written for Fallout NV it will still work in Fallout 3.

Fallout Stutter Remover

Author: SkyRanger-1
Version: v4.1.36
Requirements: FOSE
Fallout NV Equivalent: New Vegas Stutter Remover, Fallout NV version of this mod by the same author
Installation: During install right click Data and select "Set data directory". This mod has an INI file that has some options users should be aware of. Changes should made by right clicking FSR in the left pane of MO and select the INI-Files. FOSE/plugins/sr_New_Vegas_Stutter_Remover.ini should be listed in the top left box, click it, and use the following to make changes accordingly (this needs to be reviewed for Fallout 3):

Master section (Enable/Disable FSR functions):

Master = {
        _comment = You can turn on or off each distinct feature from here.
        bManageFPS = 1
        bHookGetTickCount = 1
        bHookCriticalSections = 1
        bHookHashtables = 1
        bReplaceHeap = 0     <-- Needed for heap replacement, only for advanced users, detailed info in the readme
        bLogToConsole = 0
        bFastExit = 1
        bFlushLog = 1
        iSchedulingResolution = 1
        bReplaceRandom = 1
        bExperimentalStuff = 0     
        iMainHookPoint = 1
}

FPS section:

FPS_Management = {
	bInject_iFPSClamp = 1
	fMaximumFPS = 60     <-- Default is 30, but should bet set to monitor refresh rate or either 1/2 or 1/3 refresh rate
	fMinimumFPS = 20
	iFPS_Report_Period = 4000
	fExtraSleepPercent =0.05
}

Heap Section (used for Heap replacement):

Heap = {
	_comment = Heap replacement can produce MAJOR improvements in performance on Oblivion at a significant cost in stability
	_comment = It crashes instantly on Fallout3 last I remember checking
	_comment = It seems to work on Fallout: New Vegas ?
	_comment = Algorithms: 1=FastMM4, 2=Microsoft (slow on XP), 3=SimpleHeap1, 4=TBBMalloc, 5=ThreadHeap2, 6=ThreadHeap3, 8=tcmalloc
	_comment = Algorithms numbers 1, 4, and 8 require external DLL files in the Data/OBSE/Plugins/ComponentDLLs folder
	iHeapAlgorithm = 6     <-- Only #2, #3, #5, and #6 are the only methods supported by FNV at the moment
                                   #3, #5, and #6 require a change to iHeapMainBlockAddress in Experimental section
                                   From NVSR Readme:
                                   1: FastMM4 heap.  This requires an external dll (BorlndMM.dll) to be present in
                                      Data\nvse\plugins\ComponentDLLs, otherwise it will prevent the game from starting up.  
                                   2: Windows standard heap.  OS dependant.  A really bad idea on XP, but okay on Vista and Windows 7.  
                                   3: SimpleHeap1, made by me.  
                                   4: TBBMM, aka TBBMalloc.  Made by Intel.  Fast.  This requires an external dll (tbbmalloc.dll) to be present
                                   5: ThreadHeap2, made by me.  Fast.  
                                   6: ThreadHeap3, made by me.  Fast.  
                                   8: tcmalloc.  Made by Google.  Usually fast.  This requires an external dll (libtcmalloc_minimal.dll) to be
                                      present.  
                                   Note that heap algorithms 3, 5, and 6 are statically sized based upon the iHeapSize setting.  Heap algorithms
                                   1, 2, 4, and 8 will resize themselves as needed.  The fastest algorithms tend to be 6, 4, 5, and 8, but it
                                   varies from computer to computer.  
	bEnableProfiling = 0
	iHeapSize = 250     <-- This only affects heap algorithms #3, #5, and #6, default is 250
	bEnableMessages = 0
	bZeroAllocations = 0
}

Cannot recommend this plugin enough. In addition to the fix for the stutter bug, it can do so many more things. Many of them are really advanced for even advanced modders. To understand some of these functions a decent knowledge of software architecture and imperative, procedural, or declarative programming is required. This does not mean that those advanced features should be avoided. Overtime this section will expand with more details and suggestions for general users. Right now all the information is made directly from the readme which is the best source of information for the mod.

Rivet City Realignment

Author: Alystin
Version: v5.2

Changes the orientation of the Rivet City interior cells to match the exterior cells.

Dialogue Tweaks

Author: jordik
Version: v0.7d

Fixes some dialog problems.

Scribe Yearling takes all Pre-War Books

Author: Yukichigai
Version: v1.0

Scribe Yearling now accepts both types of Pre-war Books.

Mesmetron and Enslavement Fixes

Author: Yukichigai
Version: v0.32

Fixes multiple problems with Mesmetron and Enslavement.

Protectron Fixes

Author: Yukichigai
Version: v1.0

Fixes bug causing Protectrons to ask repeatedly for ID.

Books Debunked

Author: odin_ml
Version: v1.0
Installation: Get the main file and install with MO.

Fixed the UV maping of all book meshes so that the books can have a different texture on the back side of the book.

FireLightFix

Author: Yoshikinakota
Version: v2.0.0.9b
Installation: Get the main file and install with MO. Plugins for English and Russian are included, so hide the plugin that isn't being used.

Adds fire effects to some fires that are missing these effects.

User Interface

The interface section will be the first section where mods that affect the actually in game elements are installed. It is important to know, some mods will need to be installed with FOMM - Fork until the external installer of MO can handle the scripted installer of mods like Adjustable HUD, Interactive HUD, and Unified HUD Project. Luckily the install procedure when using FOMM - Fork is straight forward and only required for a few mods.

The Need for Unified HUD Project

For the following section it is required to use Unified HUD to combine the XML files to get the require effects from each mod and Fallout Mod Manager - Fork is the mod manager that supports the installer for Unified HUD. Install these mods in the specific order they are listed as well. After installation of each mod, the files will be placed in MO's Overwrite folder where they can be moved to their own mod folder.

For the following section if a mod does not say to specifically install with FOMM - Fork, then use MO.

A word of caution for users that try add mods post install to this section, say JIP Selective Fire or Advanced Recon Thermal Nightvision, be careful installing with FOMM - Fork. When installing new mods and then having to rerun Unified HUD Project, DO NOT deactivate it. Instead reactivate the mod and then move the files from the Overwrite folder to the Unified HUD Project folder. Otherwise files get deleted from MO's virtual directory and will cause many nightmares. Maybe even banishment, jail time, or death.

Template:Warning

DarNified UI

Author: DarN
Version: a11
Fallout NV Equivalent: Darnified UI, the followon mod from DarN for Fallout NV
Installation: To install this mod with MO click [Manual], then [Okay] during the installation or the default installer will skip a very important file.

The Author's Page in the Bethesda forums has more details about the mod.

Even though this mod never made it out of beta it is still complete enough to be used for all interface text. Some other modders have also expanded the DarNified font to other parts of the game. Note that the hotfix version (f3a11_HF.7z) is not needed as it is already incorporated into"DarnUI_Support_for_FWE" which will be downloaded as part of the next mod.

FWE - FO3 Wanderers Edition

Author: FWE Team
Version: v6.03
Requirements: FOSE, DarNified UI
Fallout NV Equivalent: Project Nevada, the followon mod from the FWE team for Fallout NV
Installation: Download FWE_Master_Release_6-0_-_Part_1-2761.7z, FWE_Master_Release_6-0_-_PART_2-2761.7z, FWE_6-03a_HOTFIX_PATCH-2761.7z.

Install these three mods separately, in the same order as the download order, using MO. Download and then install with MO DarnUI_Support_for_FWE-2761.7z. This mod includes an updated version of the DarNifiedUIF3.esp plugin (which already includes the DarNifiedUIF3 hotfix); this plugin will be used instead of the plugin from the DarNified F3 mod previously installed. Download and then install with MO Primary Needs Sound Disabler to eliminate the annoying heartbeat sound when one or more of the primary need values is low.

More details about FWE are available on the Fallout 3 Wanderers Edition site.

Major overhaul of Fallout 3 gameplay and equipment. Adds many new features from managing grenades to sprinting, bullet time, a Primary Needs feature and HUD for more "hardcore" immersion (incorporated into vanilla Fallout New Vegas by Bethesda), Portable Campsite, bottling water, and Roleplayer's Alternative Start.

Advanced Recon Trap Detection

Author: Gopher
Version: v2.0
Requirements: FOSE
Fallout NV Equivalent: Advanced Recon Trap Detection, the non-UI portions of trap detection were ported to this Fallout 3 mod.
Installation: Install with MO; this mod does not add any menus but is needed for the next mod which does include the related menus.

This mod will add some very cool ways to detect traps.

Advanced Recon Thermal Nightvision

Author: Gopher
Version: v5.2
Fallout NV Equivalent: Advanced Recon Trap Detection ( the UI portions of trap detection were ported to this Fallout 3 mod), Advanced Recon Thermal Nightvision (portions of this mod were ported to this Fallout 3 mod), Project Nevada for the Fallout NV guide the thermal nightvision in PN is used vs. Gopher's mod.
Installation: During installation make sure all options are ticked.

This mod adds thermal nightvision and, in conjunction with the previously installed mod, will add some very cool ways to detect traps. This is very helpful when using darker interiors and nights.

Advanced Recon Range Finder FO3

Author: Gopher
Version: v1.2
Requirements: FOSE
Fallout NV Equivalent: Advanced Recon Range Finder, which was ported to Fallout 3.

This mod will add a range finder to scoped weapons up to 200 meters.

Flashlight

Author: documn
Version: 1.4
Requirements: FOSE
Fallout NV Equivalent: Flashlight NVSE, a similar but expanded mod for Fallout NV by a different author.
Installation: Install only the Flashlight-LOS.esp plugin.

Great mod to use with darker nights. This really helps navigate the wastes for users that do not want to always use the Advanced Recon Thermal Nightvision modes.

Dynamic Crosshair

Author: ShadauxCat
Version: 1.6.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Project Nevada, which includes the dynamic crosshair mod functionality.
Installation: Download Dynamic Crosshair - Darnified UI and install with MO.

This mod dynamically resizes the circle or cross crosshair (whichever type is used) based on weapon accuracy. This mod does not include the basic crosshair itself; a mod for this will be installed in the next subsection.

Antistars Assorted Add-ons

Author: Antistar
Version: 1.0
Requirements: FOSE
Fallout NV Equivalent: Stimpak Counter NV, ported from this Fallout 3 mod.
Installation: Download Stimpak Counter and install with MO.

Stimpak Counter adds a counter to the HUD with the number of stimpaks in player inventory. If desired, the Minigun Sound Replacer mod can also be downloaded from this mod page and installed with MO.

Powered Power Armor

Author: Imp of the Perverse
Version: 1.4gold
Fallout NV Equivalent: Powered Power Armor, followon from this Fallout 3 mod.
Installation: Download Powered Power Armor 1_4 gold and install with MO.

When it is installed rename it Powered Power Armor. Download PPA 1_4 gold Hotfix a and FWE 6 compatibility file and when installing these merge them with MO into 'Powered Power Armor.

This mod provides some upgrades and improvements to Power Armor; the power armor it includes is much easier to use but needs to be balanced by a plugin installed later so it isn't so overpowered.

JIP Realistic Weapon Overheating

Author: jazzisparis
Version: v0.74
Fallout NV Equivalent: JIP Realistic Weapon Overheating, which was ported to Fallout 3.
Installation: Get the FOMOD version. During the installation there will be a pop-up, just click [OK]. This mod overwrites a DarnUI file, follow these instructions:

Double-click "JIP Realistic Weapon Overheating" and select the Conflicts tab.
Find ".../menus/main/hud_main_menu.xml", then "right click->Hide".

This mod adds in weapon overheating so play and spray is a little less easy in big fire fights. Also, adds to weapon degradation if the weapon is hot constantly.

JIP Selective-Fire

Author: jazzisparis
Version: v0.81
Fallout NV Equivalent: JIP Selective-Fire, which was ported to Fallout 3.
Installation: Get the JIP Selective-Fire - FOMOD main file. During the installation there will be a pop-up, just click [OK]. This mod overwrites a DarnUI file, follow these instructions:

Double-click "JIP Selective-Fire" and select the Conflicts tab.
Find ".../menus/main/hud_main_menu.xml", then "right click->Hide".

Changes the firing mode of the guns in game. It is compatible with any gun added by mods, and has a menu to customize the options.

Adjustable HUD - aHUD

Author: Gopher
Version: v1.2
Fallout NV Equivalent: One HUD - oHUD, both aHUD and iHUD were ported to Fallout 3 from OneHUD
Installation: This mod requires installation with FOMM - Fork, follow these instructions:

Select FOMM from the executables dropdown in MO and run it.
When FOMM - Fork starts click [Package Manager].
From the Package Manager click [Add FOMod].
Select aHUD v 1_2-15886-1-2.rar and click [Open].
Select Adjustable HUD (aHUD) from the Mod List and click [Activate].
When the installer pops up, click [Install].
If asked about overwrites, click [Yes to all] then close FOMM - Fork.
In the left pane of MO, go to the bottom of the mod list and right click->Create Mod on "Overwrite".
Type in aHUD and click [OK]. Drag the newly created mod folder right behind JIP Selective-Fire if need be.

This mod allows moving HUD elements to different places on the screen.

Immersive HUD - iHUD

Author: Gopher
Version: v2.3
Fallout NV Equivalent: One HUD - oHUD, both aHUD and iHUD were ported to Fallout 3 from OneHUD
Installation: This mod requires installation with FOMM - Fork, follow these instructions:

Select FOMM from the executables dropdown in MO and run it.
When FOMM - Fork starts click [Package Manager].
From the Package Manager click [Add FOMod].
Select iHUD v2_3-15790-2-3.rar and click [Open].
Select Immersive HUD (iHUD) from the Mod List and click [Activate].
When the installer pops up, click [Install].
If asked about overwrites, click [Yes to all] then close FOMM - Fork.
In the left pane of MO, go to the bottom of the mod list and right click->Create Mod on "Overwrite".
Type in iHUD and click [OK]. Drag the newly created mod folder after aHUD if need be.

This mod hides HUD elements when they are not needed.

Unified HUD Project

Author: Gopher
Version: v1.9
Fallout NV Equivalent: Unified HUD Project - uHUD
Installation: This mod requires installation with FOMM - Fork, follow these instructions:

Select FOMM from the executables dropdown in MO and run it.
When FOMM - Fork starts click [Package Manager].
From the Package Manager click [Add FOMod].
Select Unified HUD Project v1_9-15771-1-9.rar and click [Open].
Select Unified HUD Project from the Mod List and click [Activate].
When the installer pops up, click [Install]. 
When asked, click [Yes to all] then close FOMM - Fork.
In the left pane of MO, go to the bottom of the mod list and right click->Create Mod on "Overwrite".
Type in Unified HUD Project and click [OK]. Drag the newly created mod folder right behind iHUD if need be.

Unified HUD allows including multiple HUD mods in the Fallout 3 HUD.

If installing any mods not listed in this guide, check this mod's Nexus page to see if those mods are supported by Unified HUD so they can be installed before Unified HUD. Any mod that is listed on the Unified HUD page needs to have xml file data combined; that is why it must be installed prior to Unified HUD.

{{{title}}}

{{{text}}}

Supplemental UI

The rest of the User Interface section does not change HUD elements, so they can be installed after Unified HUD and do not require a specific install order.

CASM

Author: Cipscis
Version: v1.2.3
Requirements: FOSE
Fallout NV Equivalent: CASM with MCM, followon to Fallout 3 version

Autosave ability to prevent losing progress if game crashes. Use menu to customize.

KTs_Centercamera

Author: TSURUGA
Version: v1.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Centered 3rd Person Camera, somewhat more functionality than this Fallout 3 mod

Every game has a crappy over the shoulder camera and modders always fix that problem.

Better High Detail map and Icons

Author: nisen
Version: v2.2
Fallout NV Equivalent: several are available, but the 8K maps in this mod are higher resolution than the ones for the FNV Pipboy map mod.

Pip-Boy map replacer that adds a highly detailed map and icons to the terrain.

Faster Pipboy Faster

Author: throttlekitty
Version: v1.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Faster Pipboy Faster, same mod works for Fallout 3 and Fallout NV

Adds meshes that allow the Pipboy to open and close faster.

Smaller Crosshair

Author: ziher
Version: v1.1
Fallout NV Equivalent: Project Nevada, provides this function for Fallout NV
Installation: Select one of the four crosshair mods, download, and install with MO.

Provides the basic crosshair needed for the Dynamic Crosshair mod.

Fallout 3 Item Descriptions

Author: Mikael Grizzly
Version: v1.15

Adds text descriptions to some of the Fallout 3 Items

Pipboy Item Descriptions Mod

Author: weedking
Version: v1.9.5
Fallout NV Equivalent: New Vegas Pipboy Item Descriptions, Fallout NV followon to this mod

Adds text descriptions to some of the Pipboy Icons.

Omnis Hi-Res Pip-Boy 3000 - FIXED

Author: OmniDeath
Version: v1.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Omnis Hi-Res Pip-Boy 3000 , Fallout NV equivalent to this mod by the same author

Make that bling bling look good. Shout out to Brainfever for this one.

Hectrol Lockinterface Deluxe HighRes Retex

Author: hectrol
Version: v1.0
Installation: 1024
Fallout NV Equivalent: Hectrol Lockinterface Deluxe HighRes Retex , Fallout NV equivalent to this mod by the same author

Wouldn't shooting locks be more fun? Oh well, this will help it look good.

Quests

Let me make this very clear: this is your deal, not mine, so unless I have written authorization, this whole thing is over before it starts because I'm not going to be the only one left without a chair when the music stops. - Ritter

Nothing really breathes new life into a game like additional content. This section will add content mods to open up new areas and quests for users that have played through the game a few times and might be looking for something new.

Puce Moose Quest Mods

This series of 5 Fallout 3 mods was made by Puce Moose, and they are fairly unique among the mods for Fallout 3 and Fallout New Vegas. These are for the people that like the old school RPGs where quests require lots of reading and actually paying attention because quest markers are not part of the mix. Lots of detail is added to these mods and it is quite easy to overlook a lot of it, so keep an eye out. Puce Moose continued this type of mod in Fallout New Vegas with the multi-chapter Tales from the Burning Sands mod whose total content is roughly comparable to the combination of the five Fallout 3 mods.

A Note Easily Missed

Author: Puce Moose
Version: v1.07
Installation: Get A_Note_Easily_Missed_v107' and install it

This is the first of the Puce Moose quest mods, and it is best to complete this quest before starting the next Puce Moose quest mod.

An Evening With Mister Manchester

Author: Puce Moose
Version: v1.81
Installation: Get An_Evening_with_Mister_Manchester_v181 and install it. The "FasterMorePowerfulMines.esp" plugin is optional but recommended.

This is the second of the Puce Moose quest mods, and it is best to complete this quest before engaging in the other Puce Moose quest mods. It is also recommended that this quest, and the "A Note Easily Missed" quest, be completed fairly early in the game so some of the items from these quests will be available for use during the rest of the game.

To sleep - perchance to dream

Author: Puce Moose
Version: v1.061
Installation: Get A_Note_Easily_Missed_v106 and install it with MO, then merge "To_sleep_-_perchance_to_dream_v1061" with the mod using MO.

This is the third of the Puce Moose quest mods. This quest can take a while to complete and typically requires coming back to the quest several times.

In the Shadow of the Swamp

Author: Puce Moose
Version: v1.08
Installation: Get In_The_Shadow_of_the_Swamp_v108 and install it with MO.

This is the fourth of the Puce Moose quest mods.

The Mantis Imperative

Author: Puce Moose
Version: v1.08
Installation: Get The_Mantis_Imperative_v1071 and install it with MO. Get "The_Mantis_Imperative_v108_UPDATE_ONLY" and "Nasty Zeta v101" then install these two files in any order, but make sure to install the same folder as the main file and when asked click [Merge], not [Replace].

This is the fifth of the Puce Moose quest mods. It also includes several plugins to alter gameplay; these are generally incompatible with FWE. It is recommended that only the "The Mantis Imperative - Mantis", "The Mantis Imperative - Jello", and "The Mantis Imperative - Nasty Zeta No Scaling" plugins should be enabled; if installed the other plugins can be hidden.

Other Quests

Existence 2_0 - Robot Radio

Author: Macabre Productions
Version: v1.3
Fallout NV Equivalent: Existence 2-0 -Robot Radio- is a port of the quest to Fallout NV.
Installation: Get "v1-3_Full__Install" and install with MO.

Interesting quest mod that uses a radio station to communicate clues to the player. A few of the clues are under rubble and it can be quite difficult to get the player in exactly the right position where they can be noticed.

More Quests to be added soon! Currently under consideration are:

RR Expanded

A Quest for Heaven 1 & 2

A World of Pain (for Fallout 3)

The Institute

Firefly Ranch

The Librarian - Orions gate

Covering the Mojave

Texture Overhauls

Hall Of Equipment

Author: Deblazkez
Version: v.2
Fallout NV Equivalent: Hall Of Equipment
Installation: Get the main file and all four optional files. Install the main file, then install the four optional files in any order into the same folder as the main file and when asked click [Merge], not [Replace].

This mod will enhance the vanilla textures to higher resolution versions. It is a good base to use and let other equipment mods overwrite.

Hall Of Weapons

Author: Deblazkez
Version: v.2
Installation: Get the main file and all four optional files. Install the main file, then install the four optional files in any order into the same folder as the main file and when asked click [Merge], not [Replace].

This mod complements the Hall of Equipment mod by adding higher resolution versions of vanilla weapon textures. It is a good base to use and let other weapon mods overwrite.

Hi-Res Weapons and Ammo Textures

Author: Quarn
Version: v1.2.0
Installation: Get Volumes 1-3 and install the first mod with MO, then use [Merge] when installing the other 2.

Another mod, with higher resolution versions of vanilla textures, in this case weapon and armor textures. Along with the previous two mods it is a good base to use and let other mods overwrite.

Better clutter and furniture pack

Author: macintroll
Version: v0.1.2
Installation: Get the 2 files, install one with MO, then use [Merge] when installing the other one.

Adds a large set of high resolution furniture and clutter retextures.

Fallout 3 Hirezd

Author: EmeraldReign
Version: v1.22
Installation: Get the main files and optionals, selecting the files with texture resolution compatible with the system being used. Install one with MO with file name "Hirezd", then use [Merge] when installing the rest of the files.

Adds a set of high resolution retextures of various game weapons and Supermutants.

NMCs_Texture_Pack_for_FO3

Author: NeilMc_NMC
Version: v1.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: NMCs Texture Pack For New Vegas, followon mod for FNV
Installation: There are four different versions of the mod, each in an individual file. Most users should choose the Performance version.

This largest texture pack for Fallout 3 is a great base to build from. There are four sizes of this texture pack. The Performance pack is a mix of different sized textures matched together quite well. The large is mostly 1K with some 2k and 4k textures, which may be too much for a heavily modded setup except with graphics cards having >2GB VRAM.

Precision Collision - Clutter

Author: by KSte41k
Version: 0.8
Installation: Get main file and install with MO.

This mod changes the collision meshes of many game items, making them much smaller.

Weather & Lighting

Fallout Street Lights

Author: SpeedyB64 and RW2112
Version: v2.0
Installation: Get the main file and install with MO.

Adds a bunch of lights to the wasteland. This helps with the darker nights in Enhanced Weather. The mod includes recommendations for Fallout.ini settings.

Megaton Lighting Overhaul

Author: Leaping Lizard
Version: v1.0
Installation: Get the main file and install with MO.

Adds lights to Megaton. This helps with the darker nights in Enhanced Weather..

Realistic Interior Lighting

Author: Scarecrow
Version: v0.8
Installation: Get the merged plugin version of Realistic Interior Lighting from the Paradox Ignition page. This version has a single merged plugin which merges all the plugins. Install the main file with MO.

Adds Interior lights to Fallout 3. Interior Lighting Overhaul is working on a Fallout 3 version, but until it's done use this.

Enhanced Weather - Rain and Snow v2 Hotfix

Author: Skingrad24
Version: v2.0b
Installation:

Get and install only the "RECCOMANDED Enhanced Weather - Rain and Snow v2  hotfix b Fomod Package- FULL DO NOT DOWNLOAD ANYTHING ELSE-6170" main file
Choose only the "Weather Sounds in interiors" option.
Ignore the error message about not finding the file.
When installation is complete, double click the mod in the left pane of MO and select the Optional ESPs tab.
Move Enhanced Weather - REBOOT.esp to Optional ESPs.

Enhanced Weather is a an excellent weather overhaul that works well with Dynamic Weather. It adds rain and snow storms (snow in winter only) and makes the nights fairly dark.

Dynamic Weather

Author: Xepha
Version: v3.0
Installation: The file is not packaged in a way that it can easily be installed.

Install the mod normally with MO.
Right click the mod in the left pane of MO, select Open in Explorer, and open the Optional Files folder. 
Open the "Dynamic Weather - Weather Machine" folder and drag all the files to the top level Dynamic Weather folder.
Do the same for the Dynamic Weather - Sandstorms, Dynamic Weather - Rain, and Dynamic Weather - Dynamic Sneak Bonus folders.
Open the Dynamic Weather - DLC folder and drag the Xepha's Dynamic Weather - Main + DLC Merged.esp to the top level Dynamic Weather folder.
Go back to the top level folder and delete the Optional Files folder and Xepha's Dynamic Weather - Main.esp.
Close the Explorer window.
Double click the mod in the left pane of MO and select the Optional ESPs tab.
Move either the "Xepha's Dynamic Weather - Weather Machine (Start Game Added).esp to Optional ESPs, or if preferred instead move Xepha's Dynamic Weather - Weather Machine (Quest Added).esp to Optional ESPs.
Move either Xepha's Dynamic Weather - Sandstorms + Armor Damage (FOSE).esp or Xepha's Dynamic Weather - Sandstorms.esp to Optional ESPs.

In conjunction with Enhanced Weather this mod adds rain, sand storms, more weather variation, and sneak bonuses that depend on weather conditions.

DCInteriors Project

Author: chucksteel
Version: v2.9.1
Fallout NV Equivalent: NVInteriors Project, an equivalent mod by the same author.
Installation: Get DCInteriors_combo Edition Total Merge-5573-1-9-1.7z and install with MO.

This mod adds many new interiors to the game for exploration and looting. Fits perfectly into the game world.

Plants & Stuff

Chernobyl, only a few decades removed from the second biggest nuclear meltdown in history, is completely covered in vegetation, radioactive vegetation, but still covered in the stuff. The point being that nuclear war would allow for plants to just cover the Mojave and make the world feel much less empty and devoid of life. Hopefully this section can address that problem.

Flora Overhaul

Author: vurt
Version: v1.4
Fallout NV Equivalent: Wasteland Flora Overhaul, an equivalent mod by the same author.
Installation: Use the Forested or Dead versions (preferred), but the Total Devastation and especially the Lite versions do not have as much effect on performance.

Install the main file version of choice normally.

Warning: Do not clean UDR records from this mod, otherwise, the game will crash on startup.
Contains dirty edits: xxx ITM records. Follow instructions for cleaning here.

Of course, this is the best floral mod for FO3. Did you expect anything less from Vurt?

Raider Grafitti Re-done

Author: macintroll
Version: v0.1
Installation: Choose one of the two styles and install it with MO.

Improved LOD Noise Texture

Author: Cyberlazy
Version: v1.00
Fallout NV Equivalent: Improved LOD Noise Texture, the same noise texture also works in Fallout NV.

This is one of those mods that you did not know you needed until you had it and now you cannot play without it.

C93 - Distant LOD Rock Fix for NMCs Texture Pack

Author: Cag93
Version: v1
Requirements: NMC's Texture Pack for FO3

This makes the distant rocks darker to better match the rock textures in the NMC texture pack.

Laurens Bathroom Poetry

Author: lauren_dr
Version: v1
Fallout NV Equivalent: Laurens Bathroom Poetry, a port of this FO3 mod to FNV

Some say this will be the highest form of art in the future.

Enhanced Night Sky

Author: CptJoker
Version: v1.0b
Installation: Choose preferred moon size and moon glow. 140% moon size and default moon glow is recommended.
Fallout NV Equivalent: Mojave Nights - a moon and stars replacer, enhanced FNV port of FO3 mod

What color do you think the moon and stars would be through an atmosphere that went through a nuclear war? I think it would be rainbow colored.

krzymar HI-RES Moon

Author: krzymar
Version: v0.2.0
Installation: Choose preferred moon glow; dark moon glow is recommended.

krzymar Moon Size Tweak

Author: krzymar
Version: v0.2.0
Installation: Choose plugin with preferred moon size, 120% recommended.

Mod that sets the iMasserSize game setting which controls moon size. Mod also works in Fallout NV.

People and Mutants

"Looking good, Billy Ray."

"Feeling Good, Louis" Sorry to change up the movie references, but it works. The vanilla bodies in Bethesda games tend to be weird and ugly. Lucky for us some excellent modders have made much better bodies to conquer the wasteland with. Exeter not only offers a version of the Type3 female body by Dimon99, but also redid all the meshes for female outfits. On the other side Nivea has taken over Robert's Males body replacer, so all the bases are covered for just about every character.

Exeter's Type 3 female armor and outfits

Exeter provides the largest set of armor and clothing for the Type 3 female body in the Fallout series. The mods below include a portion of these.

Type3 Armor Replacers

Author: Exeter
Version: v2.0
Requirements: Type 3 female body
Fallout NV Equivalent: Type3 Body and Armor Replacer an equivalent mod by the same author.
Installation: Install the T3 armors and outfits- full release main file. Install the Charmer with stockings, FOV patch, Patch for Combat armorr, Patch for v2, 'V2 Business suit patch update files; during install click [Merge], not [Replace] when asked.

This is the non-nude version of the armor meshes to go along with the Type 3 female body replacer. Vanilla body type is really weird looking in the Fallout series, and Type3 is the solution for females.

Point Lookout outfits for Type 3

Author: Exeter
Version: v1.0
Requirements: Type 3 female body

MZ Outfits for Type3

Author: Exeter
Version: v1.0
Requirements: Type 3 female body
Installation: Get the main file and the spacesuit patch. Install the main file and then use [Merge] when installing the patch.

Pittraider replacer for Type3

Author: Exeter
Version: v1.0
Requirements: Type 3 female body

Type3 Leather Armors

Author: Exeter
Version: v1.0
Requirements: Type 3 female body

Type3 Businesswear

Author: Exeter
Version: v2.0
Requirements: Type 3 female body
Installation: Get the main file and the FOV patch. Install the main file and then use [Merge] when installing the patch.

MZ Samurai and combat female armor replacers

Author: Exeter
Version: v1.0
Requirements: Type 3 female body
Installation: Get the main file and the "Medic tweak" optional file. Install the main file and then use [Merge] when installing the optional file.

Freebooter Armor for Type3

Author: Exeter
Version: v1.0
Requirements: Type 3 female body
Installation: Get the main file and the update file. Install the main file and then use [Merge] when installing the update file.

Other armor and clothing

Breezes FO3 Males

Author: Breeze58200
Version: v1.6d
Requirements: Breeze (1.4+) or Roberts (RMF32) male body
Installation: For the 3 main files FOMM - fork needs to be used for installation.

Get the 3 main files and the 3 optional files for this mod.
If MMM is being used with FO3 (see Optional Mods later in the guide) it needs to be installed before this mod.
Some MMM raider textures are replaced by this mod).
Install the 1.6d main file, choosing the desired options in FOMM.
Right click on the Overwrite folder and select "Create Mod".
Use "Breezes FO3 Males" for the mod name.
Install the Armor Fixes main files with FOMM.
Right click on the Overwrite folder and select "Create Mod"; use Breezes FO3 Armor Fixes for the name.
Install the final main file with FOMM.
Right click on the Overwrite folder and select "Create Mod"; use Breezes FO3 PL Armor Fixes for the name.
Install the 3 optional files using MO.
These can be installed using [Merge] on top of the file used for the 1.6d main file, or installed separately.

Large collection of armor and clothing for Breezes (1.4+) and Roberts (RFM32) males.

Wasteland Scout for Type3 and BFM

Author: Exeter
Version: v2.0
Requirements: Type 3 female body and Breeze or Roberts male body
Installation: Get the main file and 2 update file. Install the main file and then use [Merge] when installing the update files.

Wasteland Scout outfits for Type 3 female body and Breeze (or Roberts RFM32) male body.

Body mods

Roberts Male Body

Author: Sickleyield
Version: v2.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Roberts Male Body, an equivalent mod by the same author.
Installation: Get the RMF32, Armor Quick Fix, and Lucas Simms Armor Fix.

Install the main file, then install the 2 patches on top of the main file selecting [Merge], not [Replace].
The main file includes six body type options, plus some variants, including the default "malebase".
If one of the alternate body styles is desired do the following:
Right click the mod in the left pane of MO, select Open in Explorer, and open the Data\meshes\characters\_male\ folder.
Delete the existing upperbody.nif file.
Open the folder for the selected male body type.
Copy the selected "upperbody.nif" (or "upperbody2.nif" or "upperbody3.nif")  to the Data\meshes\characters\_male\ folder.
If either "upperbody2.nif" or "upperbody3.nif" was selected change the name to "upperbody.nif".
Close the Explorer window.

Note: If black bars are showing on male bodies in game, try ticking or unticking the BSA for Roberts Males. If that does not work check that no other mod than the Bornagain armor mods, Ghouls Hires retexture, "KDS Feral Ghoul Retextures High Resolution", or Wasteland Scout for Type3 and BFM overwrite Roberts Males.

Robert's Males is the best male body made for Fallout games. Mods that require Breeze's Males (version 1.4 or higher) are also compatible with Robert's body RFM3.2. Too bad he never finished his Skyrim body replacer.

Ghouls Hires retexture

Author: Macintroll
Version: v1.3
Requirements: Type 3 female body and Breeze or Roberts male body
Fallout NV Equivalent: Ghouls Hires retexture, equivalent FNV mod to FO3 mod
Installation: Get ONLY the Ghoul retexture for Breeze Male Body replacer optional file. The main file is not needed.

Great little retexture of the Ghouls. Shout out to Brainfever for suggesting this mod.

Type 3 Underwear Replacer

Author: Exeter
Version: v1.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Type3 Body and Armor replacer, related FNV mod by same author that also includes clothing with the body replacer.
Installation: Install with MO.

Type 3 fenale body replacer with underwear with the same body used in the "Fear and Loathing in New Vegas" guide for Fallout NV.

Fallout 3 Redesigned - Formerly Project Beauty HD

Author: Dracomies and SpaceOden
Version: v2.73
Fallout NV Equivalent: New Vegas Redesigned 3, enhanced FNV mod from FO3 mod
Installation: Download the main file. Install with MO, selecting the HD version as the data file.

The Fallout 3 version is primarily the older Project Beauty mod. Both the Fallout 3 and Fallout NV mods are under development. Hide the MMM compatibility plugin if MMM is not being used. This mod changes the heads of NPCs to provide a more natural appearance; it doesn't affect the bodies.

Fallout Character Overhaul

Author: Drumber
Version: v2.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Fallout Character Overhaul, the FO3 version is an incomplete port of the FNV mod
Requirements:

The FNV version is a great character edit of just about every NPC in game. Amazing amount of time and dedication went into this mod. The FO3 version currently provides only the edits to Races; the NPC edits are not yet complete.

KDS Feral Ghoul Retextures High Resolution

Author: KDStudios
Version: v1.0
Installation: Get the 2048 resolution version and install with MO.

The Ghouls will now look much more like rotting, radiation ridden zombies, and that is a good thing.

"If you'll be my bodyguard...

...I can be your long lost pal". The wasteland can be a lonely hellhole that leads you to soul crushing depression and complete shellshock. It is probably better if you partner up and spread the misery with a friend. Willow seems as good a companion as any and the mod comes with a quest, dog, and player home. Also, in this section are mods that cover the other NPCs in game until more companions are added so a new section makes sense.

I haven't used any companion mods myself so some suggestions here would be useful. I do use the companion-like entity from the second Puce Moose quest mod (slight hint).

The Most Dangerous Game

Does This Make Me Look Fat?

Bornagain Combat Armor

Author: EmeraldReign and Cabal120
Version: v1.02
Fallout NV Equivalent: Bornagain Combat Armor an equivalent mod by the same author.
Installation: Lite versions: Get the "BornagainCombatArmor2048" and "BornagainAnchorageCombatArmor2048" and install separately with MO

Combat armor is big, bulky, and makes soldiers look ridiculous, which is the most accurate representation of combat armor. This will just make it look more big, bulky, and ridiculous.

Bornagain FO3 T51b

Author: CaBaL
Version: 3.00000
Fallout NV Equivalent: aMidianBorn NV Book Of Water, a port of a book of steel armor from FNV to FO3.
Installation: Install the "bornagain t51b power armor 2048 res".

More big, bulky power armor but with high quality textures.

Bornagain fo3 t45d power armor

Author: CaBaL
Version: 3
Fallout NV Equivalent: aMidianBorn NV Book Of Water a port of a book of steel armor from FNV to FO3.
Installation: Install the "bornagain fo3 t45d 2048 mid v3".

More big, bulky power armor but with high quality textures.

Bornagain Fo3 Outcast

Author: CaBaL
Version: 3
Fallout NV Equivalent: aMidianBorn NV Book Of Water a port of a book of steel armor from FNV to FO3.
Installation: Install the main file "bornagain Bornagain Fo3 outcast MAIN", "helmet fix", and the optional "Bornagain Fo3 outcast low res" (to reduce texture size to 2Kx2K). During install click [Merge], not [Replace], when asked.

More big, bulky power armor but with high quality textures.

Dragonskin Tactical Outfit

Author: Antistar
Version: v1.1.
Requirements: FOSE
Fallout NV Equivalent: Dragonskin Tactical Outfit, FNV port of this FO3 mod
Installation: Install main file with MO, and install optional "DTO Bonus Pack v1_0_2" file using [Merge]

Armor loosely based on the real Dragon Skin body armour apparently in use today by elite troops; includes Camo package options. May be a bit overpowered, but the FWE compatibility plugin (installed later) helps reduce this.

Merc Adventurer Armor

Author:d_ivanov
Version: v1.0
Installation: Install main file with MO.

Adds male and female Merc Adventurer Armor to the inventory of several merchants.

Do You Feel Lucky?

"Well, do you punk? America may be dead and gone, but the 2nd Amendment is alive and well in the Mojave, so make sure that rifle is real nice and shiny when you stand your ground."

Perhaps I'm supposed to kill you with this bat! - Ernesto Escobero

eXcalibr - ammo eXpansion pack

Author: Earache42
Version: v2.3
Requirements: CALIBR
Fallout NV Equivalent: CaliberX a port of the mod to FNV.
Installation: Get and install the "eXcalibr_Ammo_Pack_v2-3_Full_FOMOD" main file and then merge the "Weapons patch for 20th Century Weapons" with it.

The greatest bullet mod ever created.

FO3-WRP - Weapon Retexture Project

Author: Millenia
Version: v1.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Weapon Retexture Project - WRP, portions of the FNV mod were ported to FO3.
Installation: Install Fallout_3_Weapon_Retexture_Project main file.

There is not a whole lot to say about this mod that has not already been said. Millenia is a gun nut who is also the best texture artist making mods ever. We are just lucky that he was making mods and not scooped up by a studio earlier.

32 revolver Millenia replacer

Author: Millenia
Version: v0.1
Fallout NV Equivalent: Smith and Wesson M10 38 special, this FO3 mod uses the textures from this FNV mod.
Installation: Install the mod (which has only the plugin). Right click the mod in the left pane of MO and select "Open in Explorer". Open the referenced FNV mod archive file and copy the "meshes", "sound", and "textures" folders into the mod, then close the Explorer window.

This replaces the .32 revolver with Millenia's S&W Model 10 revolver.

AK-47 replacer

Author: Millenia
Version: v1.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Weapons of the New Millenia , portions of the FNV mod were ported to FO3.
Installation: Install the mod with MO.

Replaces the Chinese Rifle with Millenia's AK-47.

AKS-74U

Author: Millenia
Version: v1.3a
Fallout NV Equivalent: Weapons of the New Millenia portions of the FNV mod were ported to FO3.
Installation: Install the mod with MO.

Adds a standalone AKS-74U; the plugin provides leveled list integration.

Combat Shotgun replacer

Author: Millenia
Version: v1.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Weapons of the New Millenia portions of the FNV mod were ported to FO3.
Installation: Install the mod with MO.

Retexture of the vanilla Combat Shotgun

Weapon Mod Kits

Author: antistar
Version: v1.1.9
Requirements: FOSE
Fallout NV Equivalent: Weapon Mods Expanded - WMX, expanded version of the FO3 mod for FNV.
Installation: Get the Weapon Mod Kits main file, WMK AA-12 Combat Shotgun replacer, and the 5 WMK-DLC compatibility patches. Follow these install instructions:

Install the Weapon Mod Kits file normally.
Install the WMK AA-12 Combat Shotgun replacer file and during the installation select [Merge], not [Replace].
Install each of the 5 WMK-DLC compatibility patches, selecting [Merge], not [Replace].

Adds many new weapon mods for guns and melee weapons.

Plasma Rifles Awesomefied

Author: MadCat221
Version: v1.1
Fallout NV Equivalent: Plasma Rifles Awesomefied, FO3 mod ported to FNV.

This mod improves the appearance and sounds of the plasma rifle.

RH_IronSights - FOSE

Author: Rogue Hallow
Version: vbeta
Fallout NV Equivalent: RH IronSights - New Vegas, FO3 mod ported to FNV. Vanilla FNV includes basic Ironsight capability.
Requirements: FOSE
Installation: Get the merged plugin version of RH Ironsights from the Paradox Ignition page. This version has a single merged plugin which merges all the plugins except for the compatibility plugins. Install this with MO. Then on the original mod page get the "Fallout 3 Re-Animated Patch" and (if the optional EVE mod is used) "RH_Ironsights - EVE Bridge" optional files. Install the optional files with MO.

RH_IronSights adds what should have been in Fallout 3 at launch, namely iron sights, or the ability to look down your weapon when aiming in first person.

20th Century Weapons

Author: Einherjrar
Version: v5.12
Fallout NV Equivalent: the mod is still in development for Fallout NV; see 20th Century Weapons NV
Requirements: Calibr
Installation: Get the mod. It needs to be repackaged before use (add details).

Adds a large set of 20th Century Weapons.

Zealotlees ACR - Adaptive Combat Rifle

Author: Zealotlee
Version: v1.23
Fallout NV Equivalent: ACR adaptive combat rifle, FO3 mod ported to FNV.
Installation: Get the "ACR V 1_2" main file and "ACR V 1_23" update. Install main file with MO, then install the update using [Merge].

Adds an Adaptive Combat Rifle Assault Rifle with multiple variants.

SVD Dragunov

Author: Zealotlee
Version: v1.21
Requirements: CALIBR
Fallout NV Equivalent: ZL Armaments - A Wasteland Arsenal, expanded FNV mod based on FO3 mod
Installation: Get the "SVD Dragunov 1_21 Full" main file and "CALIBR Add-On V3" option. Install main file with MO, then install the update using [Merge].

Adds a SVD Dragunov rifle to the game as well as a unique version called The People's Dragunov.

Zealotlees MP5 Pack

Author: Zealotlee
Version: v1.31
Requirements: CALIBR
Fallout NV Equivalent: ZL Armaments - A Wasteland Arsenal, expanded FNV mod based on FO3 mod
Installation: Get the "MP5 Pack V 1_31" main file. Install main file with MO.

Adds a MP5A4 SMG, a MP5K SMG and a MP5SD5 SMG.

Packrat Mentality

Lets be honest, there is a ton of ugly, rundown crap in the wasteland. This section will help that crap look as good as possible.

Chems and Meds Re-Texture Pack

Author: Kevkas
Version: v1.0
Installation: Get the main file and install with MO.

High resolution retextures of Ammo boxes, Medkits, Motorcycles, and Footlockers.

Essentials Retex

Author: weijiesen
Version: v0.2
Installation: Get the main file and install with MO.

High resolution retextures of Chems and Meds.

Better HiRes Skill Books

Author: ObsidianStag
Version: vFinal
Installation: Get the main file and "Wasteland Survival Guide Redone" and install with MO.

High resolution retextures of skill books

Hi-Res Historical Documents

Author: Executor32
Version: v1.0
Installation: Get the main file and "Magna Carta Update". Install the main file with MO, then install the update using [Merge].

High resolution retextures of several documents

Skykappas Water Bottles

Author: Skykappa - Johssy
Installation: Get the no esp version and install with MO.

High resolution retexture of water bottle.

Better Booze

Author: CptJoker and odin_ml
Version: v0.2b
Installation: Get the "Full Bar", "Wine Addon", and "Bottle Mesh Addon" files. Using MO select the desired Bar bottle option and install, then using MO select the desired Wine bottle option and install with [Merge], then install the "Bottle Mesh Addon" with MO using [Merge].

High resolution retexture of booze bottles.

BatteriesPlus_V1_3

Author: Staggeron
Version: v1.3
Installation: Get the main file, extract the selected style, and install with MO.

High resolution retexture of battery with many choices for the brand and condition

Sandbag Retexture

Author: macintroll
Version: v0.1
Installation: Get the main file and install with MO.

High resolution retexture of sandbags.

Retextured Labels - Food - Abraxo - Detergent

Author: Jokerine
Version: v1.0
Installation: Get the main file and install with MO; get one each of the detergent and cleaner optional files and install using [Merge].

High resolution retexture of several labels.

Retextured Clutter Collection

Author: ObsidianStag
Version: vfinal
Installation: Get the main file and install with MO.

High resolution retexture of many clutter items.

MGs Neat Clutter

Author: Mental Gear
Version: v0.2
Installation: Get the main file and install with MO.

High resolution retextures of more than 100 items.

Pre-War Money Retexture

Author: RedRoomService
Version: v1.0F
Fallout NV Equivalent: Pre-War Money Retexture, FO3 mod ported to FNV.
Installation: Choose "$5 Light Distress" during the installer.

Money will survive the apocalypse and this mod will make sure it does it in style.

Hectrol Vintage Radio Deluxe HighRes Retex

Author: hectrol
Version: v1.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Hectrol Vintage Radio Deluxe HighRes Retex, FO3 mod ported to FNV.
Installation: Get main file and install with MO.

Hectrol's retextures are always great.

Poosh

Not sure you're gonna make it, but that sure is a pretty shade of red. Make sure that some of the special effects look special with this section.

Animated Fan

Author: KiCHo666
Version: v1.2
Fallout NV Equivalent: Animated Fan, the FO3 mod is a port of the FNV mod .
Installation: BOSS does not recognize this mod's plugin, follow these instructions:

Open Boss Userlist Manager.
Select the "AnimatedFan.esp" to be ordered in the lower-left pane.
In the selection box below "ADD", select "BOTTOM".
In the adjacent text box, type "Later Misc" and click [Save Rule].
Close Boss Userlist Manager and click [Yes] when prompted to save.

Just a nice little mod that adds in something nice to a world of garbage. One thing though, where are all the power cords?

Better Posture

Author: JW1
Version: v1.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Better Posture

Stand up straight soldier!

Ragdoll Overhaul FO3 Edition

Author: KiCHo666
Version: v1.1
Fallout NV Equivalent: Ragdoll Overhaul equivalent FNV mod by same author.
Installation: Get the Ragdoll Overhaul FO3 ULTIMATE main file and install it.

This needs to be cleaned with FNVEdit, BOSS reports:

RagdollOverhaulULTIMATE.esp

Contains dirty edits: 15 ITM, 0 UDR records. Follow instructions for cleaning here.

For a game with as much killing as Fallout, proper ragdolls are a must. Shout out to whoever suggested this originally, cannot find who did it on the forums.

Fallout3 Re-Animated

Author: Alendor
Version: v2.2.1
Installation: Get the "Release v0_22" main file and the update "Idle_Revisions2_-_Fixed". Install the main file with MO, then install the update using [Merge].

This mod will fix many of the weird looking animations that the vanilla game has with weapon animations; it primarily includes rifle animations.

Holster animations and models

Author: Kenkuro
Version: v1.2.0
Installation: Get the "1HM-wastelander" main file (or another main file if preferred) and the update to v1.2. Install the main file with MO, then install the update using [Merge].

This mod will add animations for using holsters.

In the Wasteland No One Can Here You Scream

Oh wait... that's space. Anyways, there are some annoying sounds in the wasteland, but this section will help with that.

Ambient Wasteland 2

Author: Leviathan1753
Version: v1.1
Fallout NV Equivalent: Ambient Wasteland 2 port to FNV of FO3 mod.
Note: The WAV version is the best for solution for Audiophiles, sorry no FLAC. The MP3 version is the best solution for everyone else. If the WAV version is used, after installing the main file with MO install "Ambient Wasteland 2 Wav Patch" using [Merge].

Adds many new ambient sounds to the wasteland.

CONELRAD 640-1240 - Civil Defense Radio

Author: Macabre Productions
Version: v1.2
Fallout NV Equivalent: CONELRAD 640-1240 - Civil Defense Radio, port to FNV of FO3 mod by same author.

Great list of songs that fit right into the Fallout universe.

CRL9000 Sound Modification V046 - DLC Edition

Author: Crawlius
Version: v046
Fallout NV Equivalent: http://www.nexusmods.com/newvegas/mods/35429, port to FNV of FO3 mod.
Installation: Get the main file "CRL9000 Sound Modification V046" and optional "DLC Weapons Soundpack", or instead for reduced volume sounds get the main file "CRL9000_Quieter_Edition_-_045-613" and optional files "CRL9000_Quieter_Edition_-_DLC-613" and "Incremental Update - 045 to 046".

Install the selected main file with MO, then install the optional file(s) using [Merge].

The mod provides better quality weapon sounds for Fallout weapons.

Improved Sound FX v1_3

Author: dDefinder
Version: v1.3
Fallout NV Equivalent: Improved Sound FX v0821 expanded port to FNV of FO3 mod.
Installation: Get the main file "Improved Sounds FX v13" and if desired the Lower Gunshot Volume optional file. Install the main file using MO, then if lower volume sounds are desired install the optional file using [Merge].

A rebalance of many weapon sounds and other game sounds.

Optional Mods

Three optional mods are included here. These are very popular mods, but MMM can have a significant effect on gameplay and the other two can cause performance problems on some systems.

Marts Mutant Mod - RC 62

Author: Martigen
Version: v1.oRC62
Installation: Download the main file "Marts Mutant Mod 1-RC61 FOMOD Ready" and the update file with some replacement plugins "MMM-6_2-update".

Install the main mod with MO; it should handle the MMM FOMOD. This mod has MANY options, so it is recommended that the user first read the "README - Mart's Mutant Mod.txt", "README - Mart's Mutant Mod - Increased Spawns.txt", and "README - Mart's Mutant Mod - FAQ.txt" to determine how to configure the mod. After the main mod is installed, install the update with [Merge] to overwrite the replaced plugins.

This is the premiere mod in Fallout 3 for adding additional and varied enemies, created by one of best known mod makers. Unfortunately it was never ported to Fallout NV, much to the disappointment of its many fans. Install this if you want the challenge or tougher and more varied enemies.

EVE - Essential Visual Enhancements

Author: weijiesen
Version: v0.98
Fallout NV Equivalent: EVE - Essential Visual Enhancements , expanded version of the FO3 mod for FNV.
Installation: This mod comes with extra plugins, follow these instructions:

In Mod Organizer's left pane double-click the mod and in the pop-up box select the "Optional ESPs" tab.
Move "EVE FNV - NO DLC.esp" and "EVE FNV - NO GRA.esp" to the "Optional ESPs" box.

EVE is just better at energy weapons than anything else. Many great modders contributed to the project and that means it is essential to any mod list. Note that its splashy graphic effects can produce fairly large transient VRAM usage spikes which can cause CTDs with less capable graphics cards.

Enhanced Blood Textures v2_22b

Author: dDefinder
Version: v2.22b
Fallout NV Equivalent: Enhanced Blood Textures for NV v2_22c , expanded version of the FO3 mod for FNV.
Installation: Get the merged plugin version of Enhanced Blood Textures from the Paradox Ignition page. This version has a single merged plugin which merges all the plugins. Install the main file, setting the data directory to the desired option in the 'More Gore FWE" folder. Note that the merged version includes at least some of the optional gore-related plugins; if more limited gore is desired the original mod can be used at the cost of more plugins.

Probably the only blood mod for Fallout 3 that matters, but it can cause performance problems with some systems due to a significant increase in VRAM and script usage over short time periods.

Compatibility Patches

I didn't sign up for this. This is someone's bullshit political agenda. Who authorized this? - Jack Ryan.

But you must persevere to the end, knowing that only then can you proceed with your head held high!

You didn't really think that after installing so many mods you wouldn't need to add a bunch of compatibility patch mods, did you! Seriously?

Now you probably think that when these are installed all the compatibility issues will be fixed. This is where I usually provide the pointer to the FO3Edit manual so you can learn how to build additional compatibility patches (in case you forgot to ask it's here)

Fallout Interoperability Program - FOIP

Author: Mezmorki
Requirements: Mods in this guide including FWE 6.03, WMK and Project Beauty and some optional mods including EVE, and MMM
Installation: Choose and download "FOIP - Weapon Mod Kits and FWE 6-03", "FOIP - Project Beauty and FWE", and patches for whichever other mod combinations are needed based on optional mods being used. Install with MO.

This mod contains patches for many of the most popular FO3 mods with conflicts.

Blackened

Author: BlackRampage
Version: v3.1
Requirements: Mods in this guide including FWE 6.03, DC interiors, and Project Beauty and some optional mods including EVE and MMM.
Installation: Choose and download and patches for whichever other mod combinations are needed. Install with MO.

This mod is an alternate source of compatibility patches, particularly if the optional mods EVE and/or MMM are used. You might need to try patches from both to see which works better.

Ammunition Schematics for FWE-WMK-CRAFT-Full CalibrV1_4

Author: Highlander4242
Version: v1.30
Requirements: FWE 6.03, WMK, CRAFT, CALIBR
Installation: Download and install "CALIBRv14 Ammunition Schematics for FWE-WMK-CRAFT-V1_3" with MO.

Provides compatibility so ammunition for FWE and WMK weapons can be created at a workbench.

PPA and FWE Armor Balancer

Author: lanceuppercut47
Version: v1.5
Requirements: PPA, FWE 6.03
Installation: Download and install "PPA-FWE-Balance_1point5" with MO.

Provides compatibility between PPA and FWE so the PPA armor stats are more consistent with those of FWE armor.

T3TForFWE

Author: The 3rd Type
Version: v1.0
Requirements: Antistar's DTO, FWE 6.03, Zealotee's MP5 Pack, SVD Dragonov (CALIBR), and ACR balanced for FWE,
Installation: Download and install both patch files with MO.

Balances DTO and 3 of Zealotee's weapons mods for compatibility with FWE.

RH_IronSights FWE- WMK compatible

Author: stabbycarrot
Version: vlatest
Requirements: FWE 6.03, WMK, RH_Ironsights (original version or the recommended Paradox Ignition merged version)
Installation: Download and install patch files with MO.

This replaces the "WeaponModKits - FWE Master Release" plugin from "FOIP - Weapon Mod Kits and FWE 6-03" and the "RH_WMK_Bridge" plugin from RH_Ironsights.

This mod allow iron sights to be used with all FWE modded weapons without messing up their damage values.

20th Century Wpns -Plus- Reborn for FWE 603-WMK for FWE-Calibrv14-eXcalibrv23

Author: Highlander4242
Version: v1.73RC
Requirements: FOSE, 20th Century Weapons, FWE 6.03, Calibr v14, eXcalibr Munitions v2.3
Installation: Get the "20th Century Weapons -Plus- Reborn FWE-WMK-Calibr14_V1_70RC_Full_Version" main file and the update. Install main file with MO, then install the update using [Merge].

If the "RH Ironsights" mod is being used also get the optional "20th_Century_Weapons -Plus- Reborn_v1_70RC-18668_Ironsights_v1_1_Full_Version" and the update. Install main file with MO, then install the update using [Merge]. Get the optional "xCALIBR_ammo_Override_v1_01_for_20th Century Weapons -Plus- Reborn FWE-WMK-Calibr14_V1_70RC" and install with MO. This adds xCalibr features to all Ammunition for 20th -Plus- Reborn (check to see if this is needed)

Provides compatibility among 20th Century Weapons, FWE, Calibr, and eXcalibr Munitions

Gameplay

Armour Repair Kits

Author: Antistar
Version: vBeing Updated!
Fallout NV Equivalent: [Armour Repair Kits equivalent FNV mod to FO3 mod.
Requirements: NVSE

Allows player to repair armor just like weapons. Fixes up the equipped piece of armor with the lowest condition. Currently unavailable as it is being updated.

Delay DLC

Author: 4th of Eleven
Version: v1.0
Fallout NV Equivalent: Delay DLC - TTW, equivalent FNV mod to FO3 mod.
Installation: Install "Delay DLC".

This mod reduces the size of the region over which you receive messages about starting the DLC.

Brahmin Dairy Products

Author: Smosh
Version2.2

Adds milk, cheese, smoothies, and cheescake from Brahmin to the game.

More Perks

Author: dree74 aka Kyung-Bum Lee
Version: v2.3.7
Fallout NV Equivalent: More Perks, followon mod for FNV
Installation: Get the main file, the five DLC optional files, and "More Perks Req 1_3_5" optional file.

Follow these instructions:

Install the main file, the five DLC optional files, and "More Perks Req 1_3_5" optional file. Make sure each mod goes into "More Perks" and select [Merge] when asked.
In Mod Organizer's left pane double-click the mod and in the pop-up box select the Optional ESPs tab.
Move all the plugins into the Optional ESPs box

There should be no plugins left from this mod after following the above directions. The following mod will install a merged ESM for this mod. It is called Paradox Ignition presents More Perks, but the file is from the "Paradox Ignition presents The Mergers" page.

This excellent mod will give many new perks and traits to players that are every bit as good or better than the vanilla perks and traits.

Paradox Ignition presents More Perks

Author: Paradox Ignition (robert01 and hairylegs222)
Version: v1.1
Fallout NV Equivalent: More Perks Merged, (one of the files on the NVEC page) equivalent mod for FNV by same author (hairylegs222)
Installation: In the Files tab of the "Paradox Ignition presents The Mergers" page get the merged plugin version of More Perks, and the "Dree Perks Hotfix". Install the main file with MO using [Merge] into the More Perks mod above, then install the hotfix also using [Merge].

Merged version of More Perks from above. Reduces load order immensely.

Crowded Cities v2

Author: Volek
Version2.2
Installation: Install the v22 main file with MO, choose one of the two optional plugins and hide the other one.

This mod creates over 70 different Wastelander NPCs who spawn all over the settlements.

Wasteland Guards aka DC Defence

Author: djmystro
Version1.0
Installation: Install the main file with MO.

This mod adds over 50 guard NPCs spread around settlements and towns to protect the inhabitant NPCs.

Post Installation Checklist

Run BOSS.
Create Bashed Patch

Run BOSS

Open BOSS through Mod Organizer and sort the mod list. When completed there should not be any mods listed in the Unrecognized Plugins from this list. If so double check that all the mods listed in the Unrecognized Plugins do not have directions for BUM.

Creating a Bashed Patch

The Bashed Patch is almost as versatile for Fallout 3 as it is for Oblivion. This means that many more options exist to merge things to the Bashed Patch.

Run Wrye Flash through Mod Organizer. When started right click "Bashed Patch,0.esp" and select Rebuild Patch.
If there is a pop-up that saying certain mods will be disable because they are mergeable, click [Yes]. If not disregard.
In the Bashed Patch menu in the left pane make sure all these check boxes are ticked: Merge Patches, Import Actors, Import Actors: AIPackages, Import Actors: Death Items, Import Cells, Import Destructible, Import Factions, Import Graphics, Import Inventory, Import NPC Faces, Import Names, Import Scripts, Import Sounds, Import Stats, Tweak Settings, Content Checker, FormID Lists, Leveled Lists, Race Records.
Now go through all the sections that are checked and make sure to tick every check box in the right pane that you see except for:
For Import Names leave Fallout3.esm unticked.
For Tweak Settings tick Terminal Speed Adjustment and then right click and set to 'x 6'.
Click Build Patch and wait for it to finish. Wrye Flash should take care of everything from here and ask to activate itself if that is needed.
When done close Wrye Flash.
In the left pane of MO, go to the bottom of the mod list and right click->Create Mod on "Overwrite".
Type in <Profile Name> Bashed Patch and click [OK]. There is no specific place to put the new folder since it is only a plugin with some files that are irrelevant and BOSS/LOOT will sort it.
Once the folder is created, a new Bashed Patch can be generated again and again without having to transfer the Bashed Patch from the "Overwrite" folder repeatedly.

Using a Merged Patch

An FO3Edit merged patch can be used if that is preferred over the Bashed Patch. There are many videos explaining how to make it on YouTube.

In Game Settings

The many mods that take advantage of the Pipboy Control Panel menus to allow for a plethora options to customize the Fallout 3 experience. These Fallout 3 Control Panel menus are much less fancy than the Mod Configuration Menu (MCM) menus available in Fallout New Vegas and Skyrim, but they do allow easy access to many of the parameters for the mods with User Settings Interfaces.

The following link has a suggested list of settings for Control Panel menu settings from a few mods that allow customizing the experience with these menus. The menus in Fallout 3 are shown as items with square brackets in the Pipboy Item menus (e.g., [FWE Control Panel]) in the Apparel menu.

If any user would like to have their settings listed, just look at the menu settings page linked below and format it the same way. Also, only include mods that are listed in this guide and make sure the URL is correct. It is very simple, after the "http://wiki.step-project.com" add "/User:<Username>/Fallout3_ControlPanelMenu_Settings". That is all that's needed to start a menu settings page; when finished just link it in the forum or send a PM to Kelmych and it will get added below for other users to see.

An initial Control Panel menu settings page for the Fallout 3 mods is available here. The format didn't work out quite as well as I hoped so more work is needed.

Hotkeys for Fallout 3, including those added by mods in this guide, are listed in the Fallout 3 Hotkey guide.

Controller Support

Fallout New Vegas and Fallout 3 support the Xbox 360 controller natively, but there is no way to change the default button settings other than switching two button's commands. This is a problem when using mods like Project Nevada that add in new hotkeys or for users that have any other type of controller. To solve this issue, the best option is to use an emulator or wait until a modder figures out how to fix the whole thing (which is being worked on, so there is hope). The link below is for a page that will have instructions to setup Xpadder with an Xbox 360 controller and some other instructions for users with different gamepads to create their own profiles. User that are using other emulators can create their own wiki pages and they will be linked to from here.

Xpadder Setup

Optimize Field of View (FOV)

It is suggested that these steps in the STEP guide be followed in Fallout 3 to make the game FOV consistent with the monitor aspect ratio.

Credits

You, yes you for keeping the Fallout 3 community going for this long (since October 2008).
EssArrBee - For the incredible "Fear and Loathing in New Vegas" guide as well as assistance with this guide
STEP for being one the best communities on the internet, gaming or not
The Nexus for hosting all the mods
The Modders for making their excellent contributions, really cannot say enough good things about them
There are some names missing, and new ones to add in the future, but they will get added later ;)

@@ Line 490: / Line 490: @@
 * '''Author''': Gopher
 * '''Version''': v2.0
+* '''Requirements''': FOSE
 * ''Fallout NV Equivalent'': [http://www.nexusmods.com/newvegas/mods/39476/? Advanced Recon Trap Detection], the non-UI portions of trap detection were ported to this Fallout 3 mod.
 * '''Installation''': Install with MO; this mod does not add any menus but is needed for the next mod which does include the related menus.
@@ Line 506: / Line 507: @@
 * '''Author''': Gopher
 * '''Version''': v1.2
+* '''Requirements''': FOSE
 * ''Fallout NV Equivalent'': [http://www.nexusmods.com/newvegas/mods/40051/? Advanced Recon Range Finder], which was ported to Fallout 3.
@@ Line 513: / Line 515: @@
 * '''Author''': documn
 * '''Version''': 1.4
+* '''Requirements''': FOSE
 * ''Fallout NV Equivalent'':  [http://www.nexusmods.com/newvegas/mods/39968/? Flashlight NVSE], a similar but expanded mod for Fallout NV by a different author.
 * '''Installation''': Install only the Flashlight-LOS.esp plugin.
@@ Line 529: / Line 532: @@
 * '''Author''': Antistar
 * '''Version''': 1.0
+* '''Requirements''': FOSE
 * ''Fallout NV Equivalent'':  [http://www.nexusmods.com/newvegas/mods/49566 Stimpak Counter NV], ported from this Fallout 3 mod.
 * '''Installation''': Download [http://www.nexusmods.com/fallout3/download/75293 Stimpak Counter] and install with MO.
@@ Line 630: / Line 634: @@
 * '''Author''': Cipscis
 * '''Version''': v1.2.3
+* '''Requirements''': FOSE
 * ''Fallout NV Equivalent'': [http://www.nexusmods.com/newvegas/mods/45652/? CASM with MCM], followon to Fallout 3 version
@@ Line 1,049: / Line 1,054: @@
 * '''Installation''': Install with MO.
-Type 3 fenale body replacer with underwear that's the same body as the one used in the "Fear and Loathing in New Vegas" guide for Fallout NV.
+Type 3 fenale body replacer with underwear with the same body used in the "Fear and Loathing in New Vegas" guide for Fallout NV.
 <!--
@@ Line 1,466: / Line 1,471: @@
 ''' This is someone's bullshit political agenda. Who authorized this?''' - Jack Ryan.
- But you must persevere to the end, knowing that only then can you proceed with your head held high.
+But you must persevere to the end, knowing that only then can you proceed with your head held high!
 You didn't really think that after installing so many mods you wouldn't need to add a bunch of compatibility patch mods, did you! Seriously?
-You probably now think that when these are installed all the compatibility issues will be fixed. This is where I usually provide the pointer to the FO3Edit manual so you can learn how to build additional compatibility patches (in case you forgot to ask it's [http://www.nexusmods.com/fallout3/mods/8629/ here])
+Now you probably think that when these are installed all the compatibility issues will be fixed. This is where I usually provide the pointer to the FO3Edit manual so you can learn how to build additional compatibility patches (in case you forgot to ask it's [http://www.nexusmods.com/fallout3/mods/8629/ here])
 ===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/fallout3/mods/4968 Fallout Interoperability Program - FOIP] =====