Can I install Sawyer's mod on top of my current game, or is it too late and I have to start over? Combat is pretty easy. Maybe too easy.
It's never too late. The default combat in F3/NV is a joke. Between hitpoint bloat, armor and enemies missing, you can AFK fight through most stuff. I've posted this in other NV threads here, but here's my short guide on improving NV combat:
- Don't use VATs, aka Cheating Mode
- install Project Nevada mod or Sawyer's mod, they both reduce hitpoint bloat for you and everyone else. Sawyer's mod still keeps it more RPGish, and you continue to get extra hp at level ups, just less of them. Project Nevada, on the other hand, nerfs both starting hp and removes hp gain at level up, so it's even more hardcore, and basically turns NV combat into a much more shooter-y experience (a couple of shots will take you out, but you can also take out enemies much quicker)
- use Medium Difficulty in settings, harder difficulty just nerfs your damage and increase enemy damage, which you don't need if you installed the mods above
- Play in Hardcore mode, so that stimpaks heal over time, which is one of the most ridiculous exploits in regular mode.
- find a couple of more mods on TESNexus, one to remove auto-aim and another to remove enemy dodging (by default, your shots curve toward enemies and enemies dodge your bullets are superman speeds)
- this last one is bit more subjective, but I feel like with NV's crappy combat mechanics, high powered single shot weapons are the way to go, and are just much more enjoyable, so grab some cowboy repeaters, trail carbines, brush guns and the ranger sequioa for some nice Wild West style shooting.