Questions from a noob... (about Estrus, Wyre Bash, and random question

[jcscrogs]

Ok, I am new at modding (started a month ago), but understand a lot more than some noobs, it seems.

 

1. Using Vista, when I add files to the data folder of Oblivion, the choices I get are:

 

A. This destination already contains a folder named 'Data'. If any files have the same names, you will be asked if you want to replace those files. Do you still want to merge this folder 'A' with this one 'B' ('B' being the Oblivion main data folder)).

 

[i always choose yes here, if I don't I can't proceed to the next step (the mod won't be installed).]

 

B. The next step I get is the Confirm Folder Replace option - This destination already contains a folder named 'Whatever'. If any files have the same names, you will be asked if you want to replace those files. Do you still want to merge this folder 'A' with this one 'B'. The options are (Yes, Skip, or Cancel)

 

[Again I always choose yes]

 

C. Now this step is the entire reason I am even asking this question, and took the time to type what I did above, it is the Copy File option - There is already a file with the same name in this location. Click the file you want to keep. (The choices I have are):

a. Copy and Replace - Replaces the file in the destination folder with the file you are copying.

b. Don't Copy - No files will be changed. Leave this file in the destination folder.

c. Copy, but keep both files. *This is the option I have a question about*

 

With the Copy, but keep both files, I can see how it would be advantageous to have every copy of every file, but if I use this step, will it essentially use both files at the same time, or would it only use one of them? How do I proceed with this step, or should I use Copy and Replace?

 

**Before I ask my next question, I have to say that when I first started modding, I downloaded the mod(s) and sometimes used Copy and Replace, and other times I used Copy, but keep both files, but I never (Copy/Pasted) the downloaded mod into a separate folder until later when I realized how useful it is to do this. But my file structure is probably completely screwed up, which is why I am debating on just completely uninstalling and deleting all of Oblivion from my computer and reinstalling everything over again.

 

2. Quick question about Wyre Bash, I first found out about OBMM (Oblivion Mod Manager) before I found out about Wyre Bash, so OBMM is what I have installed and use, which I like it, but after researching Wyre Bash, it has more options and settings than OBMM, so I tried installing it on my computer, but it wouldn't let me. Do OBMM and Wyre Bash conflict with each other? (Can they both be run on the same computer for the same game?)

 

3. And finally my Estrus question. I have the Estrus program running perfectly fine (a few minor problems, usually a conflict with another mod, I have the red smoke thing too, nothing major), I get all of the animations, the estrus, I can pull up the Estrus configuration, and everything, but the one thing I cannot find is the Estrus Position Adjuster (ring, I guess), it isn't in my inventory, and I have tried disabling the mod, starting the game, saving the game, turning on the mod, and loading the game without any Estrus information, and many other methods, but nothing has seemed to work. Any suggestions at all?

 

To anyone who responds to my question(s), I greatly appreciate it, as I am doing my best to find answers on my own, but sometimes I can't figure it out. I'm sure I will have more questions to ask in the future also, once I run into more problems/issues.

[Zetsuboketti]

1) I recommend that you whenever you download mods from here or anywhere else that you keep a backup of the mod (preferably in some archived/zipped form) so that if you need to reinstall oblivion later, you will not have to try to find the mods that you have come to like. In addition, if you reinstall oblivion, you can keep a copy of your original Data folder to restore your installation of Oblivion back to its default (commonly referred to as "vanilla") state.

 

As for A, B, & C, you should always copy and replace files as to keep your data folder free of files that are not being used as I believe that Oblivion still loads them even if they are not needed. Basically if you keep multiple versions of the same file only the one with the name that your mod(s) specially look for will likely appear in your game, but to my knowledge Oblivion will still load the other files even if you never see or use them in game. Also, in Vista and Windows 7, it may help to install Oblivion outside the Program Files folder as by default those OSes are protective of those folders. You can install Oblivion into your Documents folder, the root drive, or on another harddisk entirely, just as long as its not in the Programs Files folder.

 

2) Wyre Bash and OBMM work well together as there are some things that are easier to accomplish in one that are more complicated or perhaps impossible with the other (i.e. overwriting specific files using OBMM or resolving conflicts with Wyre Bash's Bashed Patch). I would most definitely recommend that you learn to use Wyre Bash if only for the ability to make a Bashed Patch, not to mention removing savegame bloat or fixing the Abomb which Bethesda has left unpatched. Keep in mind though that although you can manually adjust the load order of your mods with either program, if one of them locks the load order, then neither program can adjust it until it is unlocked.

 

More than likely, your problems with installing/running Wyre Bash has to do with an incorrect or incomplete install of Python and its related software. Check Wyre Bash's thread here on the Nexus and see if someone can help troubleshoot your specific case.

 

3) I only tested Estrus briefly to see why it was so popular and uninstalled it right after using it for a couple of minutes, so I unfortunately cannot provide any advice on that subject.

 

Hope this helps! :thumbsup:

[nisen]

3) I only tested Estrus briefly to see why it was so popular and uninstalled it right after using it for a couple of minutes, so I unfortunately cannot provide any advice on that subject.

 

had the same reaction updating it with the English voices, changes the theme a bit. Great binding spell, if your faced with a sorceress throwing one hit kill spells at you, and sometimes works to distract the male npc's preparing for stealth attack

 

jcscrogs, how've you installed estrus and did you add the patch? Correct installation would be unzip both main and patch files, copy the zzEstrus.esp from the patch file (nothing else) and past it into the Estrus - japanese main file folder (overwriting the esp), then copy/paste that folder into oblivion/data, or turn it into an omod.

Edited December 19, 2010 by nisen

[Smooth613]

Below is a bit of information on why you should not install Oblivion to the default location and also included are the proper steps to follow for installing and updating Wrye Bash. Just to hit a quick few points, as mentioned by a previous poster... Wrye Bash and OBMM will work side-by-side just fine. When you are installing files you merge the folders by using Copy and Replace. You should select the "overwrite all" or similar message when prompted.

 

If you installed to a protected directory that's likely your cause for some issues you have. Below is the default installation location and should be avoided on Windows 7 and Vista.

File "C:\Program Files (x86)\Bethesda Softworks\Oblivion\

Bad idea to install Oblivion and mods to Program Files. You'll only have issues with mods and utilities due to UAC. UAC doesn't like it when files are altered in anyway and sees this as a security threat. This is why you should always install Oblivion outside of Program Files to a directory such as <drive letter>:\Games\Oblivion. Follow Bben's Installation Procedure to reinstall outside of a protected directory. In all likelihood this alone will solve any issues you have and prevent weird issues from happening in the future.

 

Upon reinstalltion you need to ensure you properly install Wrye Bash and the Python Libraries. Proper procedure is as follows.

 

1. Go to Control Panel and remove anything with the word Python in it.
   
2. Next, uninstall Wrye Bash and delete the Mopy folder. If you used the installer version you should have an uninstaller as well.
   
3. After you have removed everything related to Python and Wrye Bash it's time to reinstall, properly.
   
4. Install WryePython03a from the Wrye Bash page here on TESNexus
   
5. Install Wrye Bash 275 from the Self-Installer
   
6. Update to Wrye Bash 287 by overwriting the Oblivion\Mopy folder.
   
7. Finally, Update to Wrye Bash 290 by again overwriting the Mopy folder.
   
8. Go to your Oblivion Mopy folder and create a shortcut for Wrye Bash Launcher.pyw and send to desktop.
   
9. You're done! Double click the shortcut and Wrye Bash should launch and you're good to go.
   

 

Wrye Bash v291 will be released as a full Self-Installer version and will eliminate many of the above steps. It's currently in BETA and it's working very well, I've had virtually no problems with v291. The full release to the public should happen in the near future so keep your eyes open for it.

 

The Wrye Bash Pictorial Guide for Newbies is also an excellent way to get your hands dirty with Wrye Bash. Check it out!

 

If Wrye Bash fails to start or you are still having issues, first check in your Oblivion\Mopy folder for a pidfile.tmp. If that file is present and Wrye Bash is not running, delete it. Then try to start Wrye Bash again. If that fails you need to post the bug dump information in the Official Thread @ BethSoft for someone to look over.

 

Another great resource is Tomlong's site, TESIV:POSItive. She has included information on nearly every aspect of Oblivion you might need help or just be curious about. It has information for anyone from beginner to advanced. I urge everyone to bookmark this site and soak up as much information as you possibly can.

 

Good luck!

[jcscrogs]

Ok, thank you for your wonderful advice, everyone, I have been busier today than I expected, or I would have responded earlier.

 

I recommend that you whenever you download mods from here or anywhere else that you keep a backup of the mod (preferably in some archived/zipped form) so that if you need to reinstall oblivion later, you will not have to try to find the mods that you have come to like.

 

Yes, I find this to be very true, as I have learned from trial and error. I am now uninstalling all Oblivion files off my computer, as I have overwritten too many files, which have caused many issues with my game (uneven skin textures, glitching, messed with font - have made it too small, many other issues...). I am going to reinstall Oblivion, keeping a "vanilla" version to use as backup, and do things the correct way now.

 

you should always copy and replace files as to keep your data folder free of files that are not being used as I believe that Oblivion still loads them even if they are not needed. Basically if you keep multiple versions of the same file only the one with the name that your mod(s) specially look for will likely appear in your game, but to my knowledge Oblivion will still load the other files even if you never see or use them in game.

 

This is very helpful to know, as I had been curious about this ever sense I realized how "modding" works, and will follow this when I reinstall everything (later today...).

 

Also, in Vista and Windows 7, it may help to install Oblivion outside the Program Files folder as by default those OSes are protective of those folders. You can install Oblivion into your Documents folder, the root drive, or on another harddisk entirely, just as long as its not in the Programs Files folder.

 

Once again, I learned the hard way (which is just another reason I am uninstalling/reinstalling Oblivion) every time I add a mod, I have to give administrative permission to my computer, because I had it installed in the [programs/bethesda softworks/...] location, which made it a pain in my @$$, I am just going to install it to my desktop (will make for easy everything [to open, not having to give permission, etc.], I am assuming).

 

Wyre Bash and OBMM work well together as there are some things that are easier to accomplish in one that are more complicated or perhaps impossible with the other (i.e. overwriting specific files using OBMM or resolving conflicts with Wyre Bash's Bashed Patch). I would most definitely recommend that you learn to use Wyre Bash if only for the ability to make a Bashed Patch, not to mention removing savegame bloat or fixing the Abomb which Bethesda has left unpatched.

 

I will definitely have working versions of both when I reinstall Oblvion, it just makes sense.

 

Keep in mind though that although you can manually adjust the load order of your mods with either program, if one of them locks the load order, then neither program can adjust it until it is unlocked.

 

I will figure this out when I run across this problem (unless someone has advice in order to avoid this issue).

 

More than likely, your problems with installing/running Wyre Bash has to do with an incorrect or incomplete install of Python and its related software. Check Wyre Bash's thread here on the Nexus and see if someone can help troubleshoot your specific case.

 

Lol, I don't even know if I have Python or related software, which is probably the issue, I will (and have been) utilizing all of Tesnexus' resources as THIS IS AN AWESOME SITE (WITH AWESOME PEOPLE)!!!

 

As for my Estrus issue, I figured out how to find/get the position adjuster, but I am on a laptop which doesn't have a number pad (as you have to use the 10 key method in order to utilize this feature, I am assuming). Thank you Zetsubo Ketti for all of your wonderful advice, it is very much appreciated, and nisen and Smooth613, I am responding to your posts shortly (I want to check to see if I used the quotes feature correctly...).

[jcscrogs]

Ok, to nisen, as I mentioned in my above post, I figured out how to get the position adjuster ring (all I did was re-download and re-install the Estrus files), which I am pretty sure I did as you describe below (I am unsure as I have downloaded so many mods I have lost track how I installed each one, but usually try to follow the readme files):

 

jcscrogs, how've you installed estrus and did you add the patch? Correct installation would be unzip both main and patch files, copy the zzEstrus.esp from the patch file (nothing else) and past it into the Estrus - japanese main file folder (overwriting the esp), then copy/paste that folder into oblivion/data, or turn it into an omod.

 

Again, thank you for your advice, I will refer back to this post, if I choose to install Estrus again...

[jcscrogs]

Ok, before I respond to Smooth613, I have another question. By using a certain mod (downloaded from Tesnexus) I can't remember which one, but in the readme, it had instructions on how to convert those files to an OMOD, which I did, and which worked perfectly. I see the advantage in creating OMOD's and would like to do so with all/most of the mods I will use, is there a guide on how to convert regular mods not in OMOD format into OMOD's? I only ask because I screwed up on other mods which I tried to convert to OMOD, which is just another reason I am uninstalling/reinstalling Oblivion.

 

Of course, I have yet to use Wyre Bash, and possibly wouldn't need to have all mods in OMOD format if Wyre Bash can help me.

[jcscrogs]

Ok, now to Smooth613:

 

Below is a bit of information on why you should not install Oblivion to the default location and also included are the proper steps to follow for installing and updating Wrye Bash. Just to hit a quick few points, as mentioned by a previous poster... Wrye Bash and OBMM will work side-by-side just fine. When you are installing files you merge the folders by using Copy and Replace. You should select the "overwrite all" or similar message when prompted.

 

If you installed to a protected directory that's likely your cause for some issues you have. Below is the default installation location and should be avoided on Windows 7 and Vista.

 

Yes, the location you gave above is exactly where I had my Oblivion installed, and as described above, has been a huge headache for me (as it has been the source of many issues) and I will install it to the desktop when I reinstall.

 

Bad idea to install Oblivion and mods to Program Files. You'll only have issues with mods and utilities due to UAC. UAC doesn't like it when files are altered in anyway and sees this as a security threat. This is why you should always install Oblivion outside of Program Files to a directory such as <drive letter>:\Games\Oblivion. Follow Bben's Installation Procedure to reinstall outside of a protected directory. In all likelihood this alone will solve any issues you have and prevent weird issues from happening in the future.

 

This above quote is more of why I had issues with my game, and will definitely refer to Bben's Installation Procedure for instructions on how to install properly.

 

Bben's Installation Procedure

 

Upon reinstalltion you need to ensure you properly install Wrye Bash and the Python Libraries. Proper procedure is as follows.

 

* Go to Control Panel and remove anything with the word Python in it.

* Next, uninstall Wrye Bash and delete the Mopy folder. If you used the installer version you should have an uninstaller as well.

* After you have removed everything related to Python and Wrye Bash it's time to reinstall, properly.

* Install WryePython03a from the Wrye Bash page here on TESNexus

* Install Wrye Bash 275 from the Self-Installer

* Update to Wrye Bash 287 by overwriting the Oblivion\Mopy folder.

* Finally, Update to Wrye Bash 290 by again overwriting the Mopy folder.

* Go to your Oblivion Mopy folder and create a shortcut for Wrye Bash Launcher.pyw and send to desktop.

* You're done! Double click the shortcut and Wrye Bash should launch and you're good to go.

 

 

 

Wrye Bash v291 will be released as a full Self-Installer version and will eliminate many of the above steps. It's currently in BETA and it's working very well, I've had virtually no problems with v291. The full release to the public should happen in the near future so keep your eyes open for it.

 

The Wrye Bash Pictorial Guide for Newbies is also an excellent way to get your hands dirty with Wrye Bash. Check it out!

 

If Wrye Bash fails to start or you are still having issues, first check in your Oblivion\Mopy folder for a pidfile.tmp. If that file is present and Wrye Bash is not running, delete it. Then try to start Wrye Bash again. If that fails you need to post the bug dump information in the Official Thread @ BethSoft for someone to look over.

 

This will definitely help me in figuring out how to get Wyre Bash up and running, thank you for the detailed instructions.

 

Links you gave (added here just for ease of access for me):

Wyre Bash Page

Wrye Bash Pictoral Guide

Wrye Bash Official Thread @ Bethesda

TESIV:POSItive

 

Damn, I just realized I have been spelling Wrye Bash wrong (as Wyre Bash, lol).

 

I guess I should mention that before I installed Oblivion (originally), I did update all of my drivers, yet DIDN'T defragment my computer, so after I finish uninstalling Oblivion, and before I reinstall it, I will defragment it.

 

Ok, so I have definitely been "schooled" by you, so now I will try to use all of this advice to get a version up and running properly.

 

Thank You All again so much for all of your advice, as it is greatly appreciated.

[jcscrogs]

Another thing that will help me, being that I am uninstalling/reinstalling Oblivion, the more mod packages I can find (basically that have a bunch of compatible mods together in 1 location or bundle) the better, as it will considerably reduce the time I will have to re-download all of these mods again. I have found a few of these here on Tesnexus, but the more I can find, the better.

[jcscrogs]

So after deleting all of Oblivion off my computer, I am thinking about trying out a new game, Fallout New Vegas... Due to space limitations on my computer, I don't have enough room for both Oblivion and Fallout, but all of the help on the topics here are interchangeable from Oblivion to Fallout, for the most part, as far as I can tell.