Vanilla+ Personal Mini Repack - S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: CS Edition mod

Mini Repack - S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: CS Edition

This is a personal project I'm working on to experiment with modding and learn the ropes. My goal is to preserve the core gameplay and visuals while introducing subtle tweaks to enhance immersion and replayability.

While this is a small project, I'm aiming to unify certain aspects of gameplay across the trilogy to create a more consistent experience. This includes features like closed-cycle suits lacking night vision (inspired by COP) for a more unified feel. Additionally, I'm borrowing replayability enhancements like realistic medkit and food usage from PartyBoat's Vanilla Twist mod to add a touch of freshness to the familiar gameplay.

Through this project, I've gained a newfound appreciation for certain vanilla features, like SOC/COP's sound/visibility HUD indicators and the radioactive zone PPE effect. It's important to note that many of the changes are easily reversible if you prefer the original experience. However, reverting them requires some modding knowledge, so please proceed with caution.

Installation: First-time Players.

1. Download and install the full release mini-repack v0.1. You can find the download link on the "Files" tab of this page.
2. Download and install the latest cumulative patch (currently v0.6). This patch updates the mini-repack from v0.1 to the latest version and includes all previous fixes.
3. (Optional) If you want a different and more challenging approach to combat in a new playthrough, download and install the Alternative Ballistics Core addon on top of the latest cumulative patch.
4. (Optional) You can also install additional optional addons like Helios (Spawn Menu) Mod on top of the latest cumulative patch or Alternative Ballistics Core, depending on your desired features.

Updating the Mod: Existing Players.

1. To update your existing mini-repack installation, simply delete the current version's files from your gamedata directory. Savegames are usually compatible with updates, so you can likely continue your playthrough without issues.
2. Important Note: If the new cumulative patch requires a new game, I will clearly specify this in the patch notes. In such cases, you may need to finish your current playthrough before updating.
3. Once you've deleted the old files, simply repeat the installation steps for first-time players (steps 2-4) to install the latest patch and any desired optional addons.

General Notes:

- Specific information about installation, setup, and tips can be found on its respective download page and optional addon.
- Core gameplay mechanics like ballistics, damage systems, and AI remain faithful to the vanilla experience. Some player attributes have been adjusted to align more closely with the values found in COP. Item consumable properties are modified by the Medicine Mod.
- Due to time constraints and limited modding experience. An optional "Alternative Ballistics Core" addon is planned to potentially port these features directly from SRP in the future.
- Original graphics and visuals are preserved.
- Limited compatibility: supports 16:9 aspect ratio monitors, resolutions up to 1920x1080, and English language (subtitles included).
- Heads Up: Unfortunately, my UPS is currently malfunctioning, and due to unreliable electricity in my area, I haven't been able to test the mod as extensively as I would have liked before releasing it.

The Inspiration:

This Vanilla+ Personal Mini Repack was created out of a desire to revisit the trilogy with a touch of consistency and some light replayability improvements. My aim is to stay close to the original experience while adding personal touches to enhance my enjoyment.

After playing SOC with ZRP for the first time in 2023, I was inspired to create my own mini-repack with English subtitles, and personal adjustments.

Drawing inspiration from others:

I admire PartyBoat's approach to replayability and have incorporated some of their ideas. However, I also have my own vision for certain aspects of the game. This project is an attempt to combine these influences while staying true to my own modding goals.

Remember, this is a work in progress. Feedback and comments are always welcome as the project evolves.