Hi guys, here is the new big update for my S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Ultimate Realistic mod!
2.30 is a bigger rework and optimization update for my Engine.ini, RenoDX and Reshade preset. I've also simplified the install process and instructions for convenience and better understanding. Expect futher optimization and fine-tuning.
8.7.2026: Modlist updated for version 1.9
7.7.2026: HDR Update, Engine.ini bug fix
Im also making a new install guide video which covers the full setup of my mod.
Huge thanks everyone for your long-time support, love you guys!
UR 2.30 changes:
Reworked Engine.ini
Reworked RenoDX SDR, HDR preset
Reworked Reshade SDR, HDR preset
10-20% FPS increase compared to 2.23
CinematicDOF, FreeAim removed
UR 2.23 changes:
Optimized Engine.ini
RenoDX SDR preset changes
Less blurry Reshade preset
UR 2.22 changes:
Improved reflections in Engine.ini
RenoDX SDR preset changes
Reshade SDR preset changes (mostly camera shake)
UR 2.21 changes:
RenoDX SDR preset changes
Reshade SDR preset changes
Engine.ini changes for Free Look mod
UR 2.20 changes:
Engine.ini changes
More cinematic reshade presets
RenoDX presets adjusted for Dynamic Weather Overhaul mod
Game version is 1.8.1.1 and 1.9 (some mods are not updated yet)
Mods used from Nexusmods (Make sure to use the latest version for the latest patch):
Authentic HK 416
Backpacks
BloodFX
Bloodsucker Glowing Eyes
Damascus Knife Skin
Dynamic Weather Overhaul
Dust Cloud Removal
Enemy Weapon Attachments + OXA Patch
Enhanced Combat VFX
(Not using anymore) Fake Free Aim (no need for separate download, implemented it in my reshade preset)
Flashlight Tweaker
FN SCAR
Forest Rebirth
Free Look
Gestures
Hide Low Radiation Effect
Improved Puddles (not sure if it causes constant wet look)
Inspect Weapons
Ledge Grabbing and Balanced Stamina
Modular 7.62x39 AR
More Sandy Ground
ND's Camera Rework (Increased cam shake when firing)
OXA Expanded Armory (Standard version)
Remove All Item Weight
Remove Crouch Vignette
Reticles by Flash (EN x8 Scope, ACOG, EN x2 Scope)
Realistic Attachment Skins
Shay's Visual Combat Rework
Shay's Living Zone
Simple BP ModLoader
Sota Faster Reload ADS Equip
Unlimited saves
Weapon Reposition Project
Zone Unchained
INSTALL INSTRUCTIONS
Check my previous install guide videos posted on Patreon for easier install.
ATTENTION:
My Engine.ini is not compatible with other performance or visual mods, engine.inis or pak files.
Its pretty heavy on performance so if you have a less powerful PC consider not using it. (2.30 has much better performance)
Im using DLSS 4.5 which you can download from here (along with the newest frame gen and other nvidia stuff): https://www.techpowerup.com/download/drivers/
Put the Engine.ini into /AppData/Local/Stalker2/Saved/Config/Windows folder or...
If you have Engine.ini file already copy-paste the content of mine into yours.
To open /Appdata/Local folder, type %localappdata% into your Windows search bar.
RESHADE INSTRUCTIONS
Apart from the Engine.ini, my mod uses Reshade and RenoDX to achieve these visuals.
You must adjust the renoDX presets manually for both SDR and HDR.
IF YOU PLAY IN SDR USE THE SDR PRESET FOR RESHADE/RENODX. DON'T TURN ON IN-GAME HDR.
IF YOU PLAY IN HDR USE THE HDR PRESET FOR RESHADE/RENODX. TURN ON IN-GAME HDR.
Im using the Dynamic Weather Overhaul mod and the presets will be adjusted along this mod in the future.
My In-game HDR settings:
Reshade Install and Setup
RenoDX is necessary for the full visual experience which requires the Add-ons version of Reshade.
Download the add-on version of the latest ReShade from here: "https://reshade.me" The game may crash with older versions.
Install ALL the shaders by clicking twice on the "Check/Uncheck all" button.
Do NOT install any add-ons from the setup, finish the install.
Copy the contents of the "reshade_renoDX files" folder into your main folder where your ".exe" is located. (GAMEFOLDER/Stalker2/Binaries/Win64)
Launch the game and press "Home" to bring up the Reshade interface, you can Skip Tutorial.
My reshade presets no longer require the Generic Depth Buffer in Reshade. I RECOMMEND turning it OFF so you can get more fps. (check picture: depth_buffer_off) You have to restart the game for this to take effect.
Manually configure the RenoDX presets in the RenoDX window according to the pictures: I use Preset #1 for SDR, and Preset #2 for HDR.
RenoDX 2.30 SDR Preset:
RenoDX 2.30 HDR Preset:
Now go to the Home tab and choose the Reshade preset in the upper bar on the interface then press Select.
I recommend binding a toggle key to quickly turn on/off the preset. You can set this in the Settings tab.
Check the attached pictures and the video guide on how your reshade should look like.
If you play with HDR, don't forget to turn on RenoDX Preset#2 every time you launch the game, it loads Preset#1 by default. OR if you only play in HDR set Preset#1 your HDR preset.
MAKE SURE YOU ALWAYS USE THE LATEST UPDATED PRESETS TO AVOID ISSUES!
Feel free to ask any question on Patreon, will try my best to answer them ASAP.