XpressTuning's Remaster Edition mod for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Shadow of Chernobyl

What i did was take all the mods listed above and merge them together into one tightly knit package that's flawless in its stability and easy to add (drag 'n drop).

Mr. Haandi's SMAA is a separate download due to some people experiencing issues with the Injector. It should work, but it's better as an optional addon rather than included in the package itself.

Purpose of this package

The purpose of this package is a desire to share with the community what i think is a fantastic way to experience the game - it's purely vanilla, but with vastly improved graphics. This is practically a complete remaster of the game's visuals.

Preparation before adding the mod

• After installing Shadow of Chernobyl, run the game at least once. Make sure that the render is set to Full Dynamic Lightning. If you see it at "Static Lightning", change it to "Full Dynamic Lightning". Max everything related to graphics, while you're at it; Except the Anti-aliasing bar - it doesn't work, so disable it by moving the bar all the way to the left. Once you're done, save and exit the game.
• There's a file called "fsgame.ltx" in the main game directory. Open it with notepad, make sure that the game_data line is set to 'true', for example:

$game_data$ = true| true| $fs_root$| gamedata\

Installation instructions:

1. Follow the "Preparation before adding the mod" section in the Summary page!
2. Extract the zip file.
3. Add the "gamedata" folder in the game's root directory folder.
4. Add the "xrRender_R2.dll" in the "Bin" folder located in the game's root directory. (should replace the original "xrRender_R2.dll") - this is the larger grass render.
5. Done, enjoy.

[OPTIONAL] 6. Download "Mr. Haandi's SMAA" zip file located below and simply extract & add the contents of "Mr. Haandi's SMAA" folder to the main game directory folder. To uninstall, delete the following files:

• "d3d9.dll" and "injector.ini" from the "bin" folder in the root directory (Stalker's main folder)
• "SMAA.fx" and "SMAA.h" from the root directory.

1. The excessive headbob is nauseating, how do I reduce/remove it?

• Open up the Modifier application located in your 'gamedata' folder. In the list, there's the "Head Bobbing - Part 1" line. Go there, and check either "Reduced head bobbing" or "No head bobbing". Click "Apply" and exit.

2. I don't like "X", "Y" and "Z" ENB effects. How do i alter/remove them?

• Press Shift + Enter to access the ENB Menu, or edit enbseries.ini located in the "Bin" folder. The settings i used are what i prefer, but that doesn't necessarily mean that i expect them to have universal appeal.

3. Why doesn't this play like a typical FPS/Why are enemies bullet-sponges/Why do my guns miss the target?

Because there are a number of underlying mechanics that influence the gunplay for which you need to adjust, keep in check and learn to take advantage:

• Default Gun Accuracy
• Ammo type
• Stance
• Gun Condition
• Varied damage multipliers based on specific body parts
• Aiming through iron sights raises accuracy
• Reduction of accuracy on rapid fire - meant to simulate recoil.

Early guns and sawn-off shotguns are low-tier inaccurate garbage with a 50 meter limit to their range, it's a rough start that push players to question if something is wrong with how the gunplay was designed. The design is based on progression, you will eventually get good weapons (with no limit) and as you gain some experience under your belt accuracy will be a non-issue.

4. How do i git gud?

• Use weapons that are in great condition, and aim for the head/torso while (if the opportunity arises) crouching or low-crouching (ctrl+shift). Advance slowly, stay hidden from enemy fire (keep your distance once you've acquired a rifle with a mountable scope and position yourself accordingly).