Difference between revisions of "Postal III"
m (added simplified chinese fan translation thanks to discord user ABRAoriginal for spending tireless nights finding it. also put down a note for english in the localization section saying the rest of the translations (except russian) use it as a base) |
(added info about angel mod, and info about commands put into the config files that need to be removed to make the game more stable. removed info about the previous no drm patch due to it being obsolete) |
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(64 intermediate revisions by 13 users not shown) | |||
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|publishers = | |publishers = | ||
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Akella}} | {{Infobox game/row/publisher|Akella}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/publisher|CYBERFRONT Corporation|Japan}} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/publisher|Deep Silver|Austria/Switzerland}} | ||
|engines = | |engines = | ||
{{Infobox game/row/engine|Source}} | {{Infobox game/row/engine|Source}} | ||
|release dates= | |release dates= | ||
− | {{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|November 23, 2011}} | + | {{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|November 23, 2011|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120106145941/http://postal3.ru/News/97|title=17:00 - время новостей! (retrieved)|date=2023-11-22}}</ref>}} |
|reception = | |reception = | ||
{{Infobox game/row/reception|Metacritic|postal-iii|24}} | {{Infobox game/row/reception|Metacritic|postal-iii|24}} | ||
Line 19: | Line 21: | ||
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives | Third-person }} | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives | Third-person }} | ||
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls | Direct control }} | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls | Direct control }} | ||
− | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres | | + | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres | TPS }} |
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports | }} | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports | }} | ||
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles | }} | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles | }} | ||
Line 26: | Line 28: | ||
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series | Postal }} | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series | Postal }} | ||
|steam appid = 10220 | |steam appid = 10220 | ||
+ | |steam appid side = | ||
|gogcom id = | |gogcom id = | ||
+ | |gogcom id side = | ||
+ | |official site= https://web.archive.org/web/20200627071245/https://runningwithscissors.com/postal-iii-2/ | ||
|hltb = 7243 | |hltb = 7243 | ||
|lutris = postal-3 | |lutris = postal-3 | ||
|strategywiki = | |strategywiki = | ||
− | |mobygames = | + | |mobygames = 54281 |
|wikipedia = Postal III | |wikipedia = Postal III | ||
|winehq = 13799 | |winehq = 13799 | ||
Line 36: | Line 41: | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | ''' | + | {{Introduction |
− | {{ | + | |introduction = '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is a {{Glossary:singleplayer}} {{Glossary:TPS}} game in the ''[[Series:Postal|Postal]]'' series developed by [[Company:Trashmasters|Trashmasters]] and published by [[Company:Akella|Akella]]. |
− | + | ||
+ | |release history = The game is known for its instability and poor optimization, to the point of being officially disavowed by series creator, [[Company:Running With Scissors|Running With Scissors]].<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20200627071245/https://runningwithscissors.com/postal-iii-2/|title=Postal III|date=May 2023}}</ref> | ||
+ | |||
+ | |current state = Versions outside of the original Russian retail release and the DRM-free releases require a workaround to bypass the ActControl DRM; see [[#Game doesn't launch|Use the updated Starforce domain for ActControl DRM activation]]. | ||
+ | }} | ||
'''General information''' | '''General information''' | ||
Line 45: | Line 54: | ||
==Availability== | ==Availability== | ||
{{Availability| | {{Availability| | ||
− | {{Availability/row| retail | | activation | {{DRM|StarForce|5}}. | | Windows }} | + | {{Availability/row| retail | | activation | {{DRM|StarForce|5}} Orignal Russian release. | | Windows }} |
− | {{Availability/row| retail | | | + | {{Availability/row| retail | | activation | {{DRM|ActControl|}} Complete Japanese version.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Hoongoons|date=2023-12-07|comment=Asked the technical lead at ZOOM and was able to confirm it doesn't require Steam, like the Russian release, but still uses ActControl}}</ref> | | Windows }} |
− | {{Availability/row| | + | {{Availability/row| retail | | Steam | All other releases. Uses the Steamworks installer. | | Windows }} |
+ | {{Availability/row| Steam | 10220 | DRM-free | Not available in Germany. | | Windows }} | ||
+ | {{Availability/row| developer | https://runningwithscissors.com/product/postal-3-steam-key/ | Steam | Sold by series creator, Running with Scissors. Formerly sold a physical base game copy, Collector's Edition in pink box, or the XX 20th Anniversary Pack with the game included. | Steam | Windows | }} | ||
{{Availability/row| ZOOM | postal-iii | DRM-free | | | Windows }} | {{Availability/row| ZOOM | postal-iii | DRM-free | | | Windows }} | ||
− | {{Availability/row| | + | {{Availability/row| GamersGate | postal-3 | Steam | | | Windows | unavailable }} |
+ | |||
}} | }} | ||
− | {{ii}} | + | {{ii}} Delisted off [[Store:Steam|Steam]] in November 2022 due to issues related to {{Term|DRM}},<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://twitter.com/RWSstudios/status/1594519861719343104|title=Running With Scissors on X|date=2023-10-19|snippet=With Postal 3's DRM issues and overall shittiness of the game itself, the game is officially no longer being sold on Steam.}}</ref> later returned on October 13th, 2023. |
+ | {{ii}} {{DRM|ActControl|}} was removed from the Steam release on October 13, 2023.<ref name="DRMfree"/> | ||
+ | {{--}} Versions that use the Steamworks installer no longer install on Steam via the CD/DVD installer feature, requiring a download through Steam itself or manual extraction. | ||
+ | ===Version differences=== | ||
+ | {{ii}} Russia received three different special edition versions. The '''Deluxe Edition''' includes the base game, a soundtrack CD, a "making of" DVD, a map of Catharsis, and a magnetic Krotchy. The '''Collector's Edition''', in either a big black or pink box, includes the same as the '''Deluxe Edition''' but now has an added copy of the Postal movie, an artbook, and a Krotchy plush doll.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://gamer.ru/postal-iii/vidy-izdaniy-postal-iii|title=Gamer.ru|date=May 2023}}</ref> The Gama-Gama exclusive '''Гама-edition''' has the soundtrack, "making of" movie, map of Catharsis, and artbook now in digital form, but also includes other bonuses like a cardboard pattern, the Fart Gun DLC, early access to playing the game, and +1622 bonuses added to your Gama-Gama account.<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.gamer.ru/postal-iii/polnyy-pipets|title=Gamer.ru|date=May 2023}}</ref> | ||
+ | {{ii}} Japan received three different versions of the game. The '''English with Japanese Manual''' version was simply just the English retail release of the game. The '''Complete Japanese''' version had the full Japanese translation. The '''Special''' edition which includes the game, the full Japanese translation, and a pink Krotchy mousepad.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.4gamer.net/games/147/G014744/20120621009|title=4gamer.net|date=May 2023}}</ref> | ||
+ | {{ii}} The game received 3 more updates under Akella's control. Official patch notes (alongside a translated version) [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qD4tzkcEaybjJNaSowTQnBONIme58KxasukbDEMzBI8/edit here]. | ||
+ | {{ii}} Pre-October 13th 2023 Steam version is slightly different compared to v1.12, most notably being compiled at a later date (January 24 2012) and the cat upgrade icons for certain weapons not showing up. | ||
+ | {{ii}} The ZOOM Platform 1.2 version includes the Fart Gun DLC weapon and multiple bug fixes, most notably fixing the main issues caused by the No DRM patch, throwing items and taking human shields crashing the game.<ref name="Postal3ZoomPlatform2023">{{Refurl|url=https://www.zoom-platform.com/news/postal-iii-im-filled-with-glee|title=Zoom Platform - Postal III, I'm filled with glee!|date=2023-09-26}}</ref> | ||
+ | {{ii}} The Steam update from October 13th, 2023 includes the bug fixes from the ZOOM Platform 1.2 version but does not include any of the bonus material, including the Fart Gun.<ref name="DRMfree">{{Refurl|url=https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/10220/view/3714964345762861725|title=Postal III - Postal III: 'No DRM' Update - Steam News|date=2023-10-19}}</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=https://twitter.com/RWSstudios/status/1712921791100846230|title=Running With Scissors on X|date=2023-10-13}}</ref> | ||
+ | {{ii}} The ZOOM Platform 1.3 version now includes proper mod support, included new and updated translations, and a multitude of bug fixes.<ref name="Postal3ZoomOct16">{{Refurl|url=https://www.zoom-platform.com/news/postal-iii-for-you-and-me|title=Zoom Platform - Postal III, for you and me!|date=2023-10-16}}</ref> | ||
+ | {{ii}} The ZOOM Platform 1.4 version includes the official Japanese and unofficial Polish translations, certain mission-specific loading screens now show up, cutscene fixes, and some community fixes.<ref name="Postal3ZoomDec7">{{Refurl|url=https://www.zoom-platform.com/news/postal-iii-as-seen-on-tv|title=Zoom Platform - Postal III, as seen on TV!|date=2023-12-07}}</ref> The Steam version later received this update on January 29th, 2024.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/10220/view/3904122509831534253|title=Postal III - Postal 3: Update #2|date=2024-01-29}}</ref> | ||
+ | |||
+ | ==Monetization== | ||
{{DLC| | {{DLC| | ||
− | {{DLC/row| Fart Gun / Гамамет | | + | {{DLC/row| Fart Gun / Гамамет | An exclusive bonus weapon that was for sale from the Russian digital game key store Gama-Gama, either for pre-ordering Postal III '''Гама-edition'''<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://gama-gama.ru/detail/postal-3-pipec-edition|title=Gama-Gama|date=May 2023}}</ref> or by buying it individually.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111128035416/http://www.gama-gama.ru/Prod/Postal_3_DLC_GamaGun|title=Gama-Gama|date=May 2023}}</ref> The weapon is also available in the retail copies released outside Russia, with an official UI translation into English. | Windows}} |
}} | }} | ||
− | {{ii}} | + | {{++}} Included in the current Steam/ZOOM Platform version by default. |
− | {{--}} | + | {{ii}} Free downloads for the addons with the official UI translations are available [https://www.speedrun.com/postal3/resources/57vv8 here] for English, and [https://www.speedrun.com/postal3/resources/s5v9g here] for Russian if on a version where they are not included by default. |
+ | {{--}} Does not work on every version of the game, as it was officially accessible to the player in the v1.10 update if the files were installed. | ||
==Essential improvements== | ==Essential improvements== | ||
===Skip intro videos=== | ===Skip intro videos=== | ||
{{Fixbox|description=Delete or rename files|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Mars icecream|date=2017-9}}</ref>|fix= | {{Fixbox|description=Delete or rename files|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Mars icecream|date=2017-9}}</ref>|fix= | ||
− | Delete or rename {{file|logo_1_akella.bik}}, {{file|logo_2_RWS.bik}} and {{file| | + | Delete or rename {{file|logo_1_akella.bik}}, {{file|logo_2_RWS.bik}}, {{file|logo_3_TMS.bik}}, and {{file|zoom_logo.bik}} in {{folder|{{P|game}}\p3\media}}, and {{file|SOURCE_LOGO.bik}}, {{file|NVIDIA.bik}} in {{folder|{{P|game}}\p3_english\media}}. If using the Russian translation, go to {{folder|p3_russian}} instead and also delete {{file|WARNING.bik}} in {{folder|{{P|game}}\p3_russian\media}}. |
− | and {{file|SOURCE_LOGO.bik}}, {{file|NVIDIA.bik}} in {{folder|{{P|game}}\p3_english\media}}. | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | ===[https://archive.org/details/postal-3-update-files | + | ===[https://archive.org/details/postal-3-update-files Patches]=== |
− | {{ii}} Updates released periodically after the original retail release from Russia, previously hosted on Running with Scissors' | + | {{ii}} Updates released periodically after the original retail release from Russia, previously hosted on both Akella's and Running with Scissors' websites.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190214113655/https://runningwithscissors.com/?page_id=853|title=Postal III|date=May 2023}}</ref> |
− | {{ii}} | + | {{ii}} Only meant for the original Russian retail release, as the Japanese retail, Steam, and ZOOM Platform versions are already updated to the most recent game version. |
{{--}} Requires an activation key for the Russian version for the DRM, which makes it incompatible with every other version. | {{--}} Requires an activation key for the Russian version for the DRM, which makes it incompatible with every other version. | ||
− | ===[https:// | + | ===[https://www.moddb.com/mods/postal-3-angel Angel Mod]=== |
− | {{ | + | {{++}} Adds the addition of AngelScript for modders, but also includes many other bug fixes and improvements that has plagued the game for years. Full patch notes on the page. |
− | {{ | + | {{ii}} Works only with v1.12, Japanese retail, Steam, and ZOOM Platform releases. |
− | + | {{--}} Steam/ZOOM Platform version requires {{file|p3.exe}} to be replaced and {{file|p3.dll}} to be deleted as it is not fully compatible with the mod. The mod has all the fixes the current versions include apart from the mod loading feature. | |
− | |||
− | {{ | ||
− | |||
− | |||
− | {{ | ||
− | {{ | ||
==Game data== | ==Game data== | ||
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|multimonitor = unknown | |multimonitor = unknown | ||
|multimonitor notes = | |multimonitor notes = | ||
− | |ultrawidescreen = | + | |ultrawidescreen = true |
|ultrawidescreen notes = | |ultrawidescreen notes = | ||
|4k ultra hd = true | |4k ultra hd = true | ||
Line 142: | Line 161: | ||
|upscaling notes = | |upscaling notes = | ||
|vsync = true | |vsync = true | ||
− | |vsync notes = | + | |vsync notes = Double buffered <ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qShOm6pwUbA|title=Black mesa vsync is double buffered|date=2024}}</ref> |
|60 fps = true | |60 fps = true | ||
|60 fps notes = | |60 fps notes = | ||
|120 fps = true | |120 fps = true | ||
|120 fps notes = | |120 fps notes = | ||
− | |hdr = | + | |hdr = false |
− | |hdr notes = | + | |hdr notes = Rendered image uses {{term|SDR}} color space. In-game {{term|HDR}} option refers only to {{term|HDR Rendering}}. |
|color blind = unknown | |color blind = unknown | ||
|color blind notes = | |color blind notes = | ||
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|controller support notes = Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]], open {{file|config.cfg}} and change <code>joystick "0"</code> to <code>joystick "1"</code>. | |controller support notes = Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]], open {{file|config.cfg}} and change <code>joystick "0"</code> to <code>joystick "1"</code>. | ||
|full controller = false | |full controller = false | ||
− | |full controller notes = | + | |full controller notes = Mouse and keyboard are required to navigate through menus. |
|controller remap = true | |controller remap = true | ||
|controller remap notes = | |controller remap notes = | ||
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|surround sound notes = | |surround sound notes = | ||
|subtitles = true | |subtitles = true | ||
− | |subtitles notes = Certain | + | |subtitles notes = Needs the "Subtitles (dialog only)" option set.<br>Certain languages (such as German) only have subtitles in the FMV cutscenes. |
− | |closed captions = | + | |closed captions = false |
− | |closed captions notes = | + | |closed captions notes = Closed captions exist in the files, but are all from Half-Life 2 and do not work in game. |
|mute on focus lost = true | |mute on focus lost = true | ||
|mute on focus lost notes = | |mute on focus lost notes = | ||
|eax support = | |eax support = | ||
|eax support notes = | |eax support notes = | ||
− | |royalty free audio = | + | |royalty free audio = false |
− | |royalty free audio notes = | + | |royalty free audio notes = Licensed music is used throughout the game, but can be disabled by muting the music through options and skipping the FMV cutscenes. |
}} | }} | ||
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|audio = true | |audio = true | ||
|subtitles = false | |subtitles = false | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = Unless otherwise specified, all translations (except Russian) use English as a base, so they will have English audio and UI assets. |
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
|language = French | |language = French | ||
− | |interface = | + | |interface = true |
|audio = false | |audio = false | ||
|subtitles = false | |subtitles = false | ||
|fan = true | |fan = true | ||
− | |notes = Fan translation, [https://www.moddb.com/mods/patch-fr-and-tools-outils/downloads download]. | + | |notes = Fan translation, [https://www.moddb.com/mods/patch-fr-and-tools-outils/downloads download]. The version that's included in the Steam/ZOOM Platform version has translated UI assets and also better translated text. |
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
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|audio = false | |audio = false | ||
|subtitles = true | |subtitles = true | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = The version that's included in the Steam/ZOOM Platform version has translated UI assets. |
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
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{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
|language = Japanese | |language = Japanese | ||
− | |interface = | + | |interface = true |
+ | |audio = false | ||
+ | |subtitles = true | ||
+ | |fan = false | ||
+ | |notes = Formerly retail only. The version that's included in the Steam/ZOOM Platform version has a different font for the ammo count text. | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | {{L10n/switch | ||
+ | |language = Polish | ||
+ | |interface = true | ||
|audio = false | |audio = false | ||
− | |subtitles = | + | |subtitles = true |
|fan = true | |fan = true | ||
− | |notes = Fan translation, [https:// | + | |notes = Fan translation by JakX2 & ArtekXDPL, [https://gamebanana.com/mods/477115 download]. The version that's included in the Steam/ZOOM Platform version lacks Dude's in-game subtitles and loading screen translations. |
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Brazilian Portuguese |
− | |interface = | + | |interface = true |
|audio = false | |audio = false | ||
− | |subtitles = | + | |subtitles = true |
|fan = true | |fan = true | ||
− | |notes = Fan translation, [https://www. | + | |notes = Fan translation by AlgumOtario, [https://www.moddb.com/games/postal-3/addons/traduo-pt-br-postal-iii/downloads download]. The version that's included in the Steam/ZOOM Platform version has translated UI assets and also better translated text. |
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
Line 309: | Line 328: | ||
}} | }} | ||
}} | }} | ||
+ | {{ii}} To change the language, use the <code>-language {language}</code> and/or <code>-norussian</code> launch argument. | ||
==Issues fixed== | ==Issues fixed== | ||
===Game doesn't launch=== | ===Game doesn't launch=== | ||
− | {{ii}} Postal III has issues with | + | {{ii}} Postal III has issues with its DRM, which has been one of the main suspected reasons for its removal from Steam. |
− | {{ | + | {{++}} Does not apply for the current Steam and ZOOM Platform versions. |
{{Fixbox|description=Use the updated Starforce domain for ActControl DRM activation|fix= | {{Fixbox|description=Use the updated Starforce domain for ActControl DRM activation|fix= | ||
# On the DRM activation window, select manual activation. | # On the DRM activation window, select manual activation. | ||
− | # Then, proceed the activation as usual, but using https://proactive.star-force.com/2.0/activate.php instead of the outdated link specified. | + | # Then, proceed the activation as usual, but using [https://proactive.star-force.com/2.0/activate.php StarForce's official website] instead of the outdated link specified. |
− | {{ii}} If | + | {{ii}} If a prompt window is not shown upon launching the game (via Steam or booting up {{file|p3.exe}} directly), boot up {{file|acpc.exe}}, or boot up {{file|p3.exe}} while holding down either {{Key|Shift}} or {{Key|Ctrl}}. Then, press the manual activation button and continue from there. |
+ | {{ii}} If the Steam version is updated to the latest No DRM update and the user wishes to downgrade, [https://mega.nz/file/TmRwlSBZ#yliBl9lsHaffEO6vYcg1B4lWRsYbXXCmwVwJUsPTcbQ click here to download the original DRM files]. | ||
{{++}} Various reports indicate properly activating the game, to result in better stability of the game, and resolve some of the down-sides of the NoDRM fix indicated below. | {{++}} Various reports indicate properly activating the game, to result in better stability of the game, and resolve some of the down-sides of the NoDRM fix indicated below. | ||
{{--}} The game still has a chance to crash when using throwables, but due to a more rare occurrence not affiliated with the DRM. | {{--}} The game still has a chance to crash when using throwables, but due to a more rare occurrence not affiliated with the DRM. | ||
+ | {{--}} Previous owners of the Steam version can no longer get their serial key due to the feature of viewing it getting removed. The only way to activate the game would be to use the serial key if it was backed up beforehand. | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Use [https://www.moddb.com/mods/postal-3-angel Angel Mod]|ref=|fix= |
− | Use [https:// | + | {{ii}} Removes the DRM entirely, and also fixes the main issues from the previous No DRM patch (throwables and human shields crashing). |
− | {{ | ||
}} | }} | ||
+ | |||
===FPS is unstable/game is laggy=== | ===FPS is unstable/game is laggy=== | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description=Edit the autoexec.cfg|ref=<ref>https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=650247633</ref><ref>http://yuanpaper.blogspot.com/2012/02/postal-iii-fix-performance-crash-fix.html</ref>|fix= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Edit the autoexec.cfg|ref=<ref>https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=650247633</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=http://yuanpaper.blogspot.com/2012/02/postal-iii-fix-performance-crash-fix.html|title=yuanpaper.blogspot.com|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix= |
#Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]]. | #Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]]. | ||
− | #Open {{file|autoexec.cfg}} | + | #Open {{file|autoexec.cfg}} |
− | #Change <code>mat_queue_mode -2</code> to <code>mat_queue_mode 2</code>. | + | #Change <code>mat_queue_mode -2</code> to either <code>mat_queue_mode -1</code> or <code>mat_queue_mode 2</code>. |
− | #Next, add the following lines anywhere | + | #Next, add the following lines anywhere: |
− | * <code>physx_enabled 0</code> (the only noticeable thing this does is that it make the Postal Dude's jacket less flappy but it | + | * <code>physx_enabled 0</code> (the only noticeable thing this does is that it make the Postal Dude's jacket less flappy but it will still move about, prevent animation problems and give the user a decent performance boost). |
* <code>r_threaded_particles 1</code> (this allows for the game's particle system to be multi-threaded) | * <code>r_threaded_particles 1</code> (this allows for the game's particle system to be multi-threaded) | ||
* <code>r_threaded_renderables 1</code> (this allows for the game's rendering system to be multi-threaded) | * <code>r_threaded_renderables 1</code> (this allows for the game's rendering system to be multi-threaded) | ||
Line 340: | Line 362: | ||
* <code>ai_expression_optimization 1</code> (disables NPC expressions whenever those NPCs are off-screen) | * <code>ai_expression_optimization 1</code> (disables NPC expressions whenever those NPCs are off-screen) | ||
{{ii}} <code>mat_queue_mode</code> determines the threading mode the material system uses. A value of -1 uses the default for your system, a value of 0 uses synchronous single thread, 1 uses queued single threaded mode, and value of 2 uses multi-threaded mode. The default value is -2, and reading the translated Russian within the default configuation files reveals that this was intentional: multi-threading breaks Postal 3's PhysX implementation when turned on (the coat detaches from the protagonist, along with other physics bugs). | {{ii}} <code>mat_queue_mode</code> determines the threading mode the material system uses. A value of -1 uses the default for your system, a value of 0 uses synchronous single thread, 1 uses queued single threaded mode, and value of 2 uses multi-threaded mode. The default value is -2, and reading the translated Russian within the default configuation files reveals that this was intentional: multi-threading breaks Postal 3's PhysX implementation when turned on (the coat detaches from the protagonist, along with other physics bugs). | ||
+ | {{++}} Does not apply for the Steam/ZOOM Platform version as they are included by default inside both {{file|autoexec.cfg}} and {{file|zoom_p3_fix.cfg}}, alongside a few other commands. | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Achievements don't work/game crashes on NPC spawning=== | ||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Edit the config files|ref=<ref>https://steamcommunity.com/app/10220/discussions/0/4298195716597380224/</ref><ref>https://steamcommunity.com/app/10220/discussions/0/4361246746316652755/</ref>|fix= | ||
+ | {{ii}} Applies only to the current Steam/ZOOM Platform version. Previous versions do not have this problem. | ||
+ | #Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]]. | ||
+ | #Open {{file|autoexec.cfg}} | ||
+ | #Remove <code>host_thread_mode 2</code> | ||
+ | {{ii}} This command is broken across all Source Engine games, and should never be modified to be past the default value of 0. This will fix the achievements to be able to unlock properly. | ||
+ | #Open {{file|zoom_p3_fix.cfg}} | ||
+ | #Remove <code>cl_threaded_bone_setup 1</code> | ||
+ | {{ii}} This command when set to 1 breaks every time an NPC is spawned, most prevalent in the Save Uwe Boll mission on Bad Path due to a scripting error spawning multiple at once, but this can occur anywhere in the game, even on map load. | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 400: | Line 435: | ||
====[https://gamebanana.com/scripts/8761 Postal 3 First Person Mod]==== | ====[https://gamebanana.com/scripts/8761 Postal 3 First Person Mod]==== | ||
{{ii}} Allows you to play the game in first person mode. Paste the script in your ''autoexec.cfg''. | {{ii}} Allows you to play the game in first person mode. Paste the script in your ''autoexec.cfg''. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ====[https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=806842626 Postal III Unofficial Patch 1.13]==== | ||
+ | {{ii}} Fixes many mission script issues and bugs, re-balances some weapons and missions, adds extra unused and new voice lines for Postal Dude, as well as missing sound effects for weapons and unused loading screens for several missions. | ||
+ | {{--}} Beta Mod Pack and Improvement Mod are incompatible with this patch. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ====[https://www.moddb.com/mods/postal-iii-improvement-mod/downloads/p3-improvement-mod-download POSTAL III Improvement Mod]==== | ||
+ | {{ii}} Fixes various game issues whilst also re-implementing some of the game's missing features/beta content. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ====[https://postal.fandom.com/wiki/Beta_Mod_Pack Beta Mod Pack]==== | ||
+ | {{ii}} Alternative to the Improvement Mod. | ||
+ | {{ii}} Fixes various game issues, while focusing on the restoration of beta content. | ||
==System requirements== | ==System requirements== | ||
Line 405: | Line 451: | ||
|OSfamily = Windows | |OSfamily = Windows | ||
− | |minOS = XP | + | |minOS = XP, Vista, 7 |
|minCPU = Intel Pentium 4 3.0 GHz | |minCPU = Intel Pentium 4 3.0 GHz | ||
− | + | |minRAM = 2 GB (XP)<br>4 GB (Vista, 7) | |
− | |||
− | |minRAM = | ||
|minHD = 13.5 GB | |minHD = 13.5 GB | ||
− | |minGPU = | + | |minGPU = Nvidia GeForce 6600 |
+ | |minGPU2 = ATI Radeon X800 | ||
|minVRAM = 128 MB | |minVRAM = 128 MB | ||
− | |minDX = 9. | + | |minDX = 9 |
+ | |minSM = 2.0 | ||
+ | |minaudio = DirectX 9 compatible | ||
− | | | + | |recCPU = Intel Core 2 Duo 2.4 GHz |
− | | | + | |recRAM = 3 GB (XP)<br>4 GB (Vista, 7) |
− | | | + | |recGPU = Nvidia GeForce 7600 |
− | | | + | |recGPU2 = ATI Radeon X1600 |
− | | | + | |recSM = 3.0 |
+ | |ref = <ref>{{Refurl|url=http://cdn.akamai.steamstatic.com/steam/apps/10220/manuals/Postal%203%20User%20Manual.pdf#page=6|title=Postal III manual|date=2023-10-19}}</ref> | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{References}} | {{References}} |
Revision as of 06:40, 3 May 2024
Developers | |
---|---|
Trashmasters | |
Publishers | |
Akella | |
Japan | CYBERFRONT Corporation |
Austria/Switzerland | Deep Silver |
Engines | |
Source | |
Release dates | |
Windows | November 23, 2011[1] |
Reception | |
Metacritic | 24 |
Taxonomy | |
Monetization | One-time game purchase |
Microtransactions | None |
Modes | Singleplayer |
Pacing | Real-time |
Perspectives | Third-person |
Controls | Direct control |
Genres | TPS |
Art styles | Cartoon |
Themes | Comedy, North America |
Series | Postal |
Postal | |
---|---|
Postal | 1997 |
Postal² | 2003 |
Postal III | 2011 |
Postal Redux | 2016 |
Postal 4: No Regerts | 2022 |
Postal: Brain Damaged | 2022 |
Poostall Royale | 2023 |
Postal III is a singleplayer TPS game in the Postal series developed by Trashmasters and published by Akella.
The game is known for its instability and poor optimization, to the point of being officially disavowed by series creator, Running With Scissors.[2]
Versions outside of the original Russian retail release and the DRM-free releases require a workaround to bypass the ActControl DRM; see Use the updated Starforce domain for ActControl DRM activation.
General information
Availability
Source | DRM | Notes | Keys | OS |
---|---|---|---|---|
Retail | StarForce 5 DRM Orignal Russian release. | |||
Retail | ActControl DRM Complete Japanese version.[3] | |||
Retail | All other releases. Uses the Steamworks installer. | |||
Steam | Not available in Germany. | |||
Developer website | Sold by series creator, Running with Scissors. Formerly sold a physical base game copy, Collector's Edition in pink box, or the XX 20th Anniversary Pack with the game included. | |||
ZOOM Platform | ||||
GamersGate (unavailable) |
- Delisted off Steam in November 2022 due to issues related to DRM,[4] later returned on October 13th, 2023.
- ActControl DRM was removed from the Steam release on October 13, 2023.[5]
- Versions that use the Steamworks installer no longer install on Steam via the CD/DVD installer feature, requiring a download through Steam itself or manual extraction.
Version differences
- Russia received three different special edition versions. The Deluxe Edition includes the base game, a soundtrack CD, a "making of" DVD, a map of Catharsis, and a magnetic Krotchy. The Collector's Edition, in either a big black or pink box, includes the same as the Deluxe Edition but now has an added copy of the Postal movie, an artbook, and a Krotchy plush doll.[6] The Gama-Gama exclusive Гама-edition has the soundtrack, "making of" movie, map of Catharsis, and artbook now in digital form, but also includes other bonuses like a cardboard pattern, the Fart Gun DLC, early access to playing the game, and +1622 bonuses added to your Gama-Gama account.[7]
- Japan received three different versions of the game. The English with Japanese Manual version was simply just the English retail release of the game. The Complete Japanese version had the full Japanese translation. The Special edition which includes the game, the full Japanese translation, and a pink Krotchy mousepad.[8]
- The game received 3 more updates under Akella's control. Official patch notes (alongside a translated version) here.
- Pre-October 13th 2023 Steam version is slightly different compared to v1.12, most notably being compiled at a later date (January 24 2012) and the cat upgrade icons for certain weapons not showing up.
- The ZOOM Platform 1.2 version includes the Fart Gun DLC weapon and multiple bug fixes, most notably fixing the main issues caused by the No DRM patch, throwing items and taking human shields crashing the game.[9]
- The Steam update from October 13th, 2023 includes the bug fixes from the ZOOM Platform 1.2 version but does not include any of the bonus material, including the Fart Gun.[5][10]
- The ZOOM Platform 1.3 version now includes proper mod support, included new and updated translations, and a multitude of bug fixes.[11]
- The ZOOM Platform 1.4 version includes the official Japanese and unofficial Polish translations, certain mission-specific loading screens now show up, cutscene fixes, and some community fixes.[12] The Steam version later received this update on January 29th, 2024.[13]
Monetization
DLC and expansion packs
Name | Notes | |
---|---|---|
Fart Gun / Гамамет | An exclusive bonus weapon that was for sale from the Russian digital game key store Gama-Gama, either for pre-ordering Postal III Гама-edition[14] or by buying it individually.[15] The weapon is also available in the retail copies released outside Russia, with an official UI translation into English. |
- Included in the current Steam/ZOOM Platform version by default.
- Free downloads for the addons with the official UI translations are available here for English, and here for Russian if on a version where they are not included by default.
- Does not work on every version of the game, as it was officially accessible to the player in the v1.10 update if the files were installed.
Essential improvements
Skip intro videos
Delete or rename files[16] |
---|
Delete or rename |
Patches
- Updates released periodically after the original retail release from Russia, previously hosted on both Akella's and Running with Scissors' websites.[17]
- Only meant for the original Russian retail release, as the Japanese retail, Steam, and ZOOM Platform versions are already updated to the most recent game version.
- Requires an activation key for the Russian version for the DRM, which makes it incompatible with every other version.
Angel Mod
- Adds the addition of AngelScript for modders, but also includes many other bug fixes and improvements that has plagued the game for years. Full patch notes on the page.
- Works only with v1.12, Japanese retail, Steam, and ZOOM Platform releases.
- Steam/ZOOM Platform version requires
p3.exe
to be replaced andp3.dll
to be deleted as it is not fully compatible with the mod. The mod has all the fixes the current versions include apart from the mod loading feature.
Game data
Configuration file(s) location
System | Location |
---|---|
Windows | <path-to-game>\p3\cfg\[Note 1] |
Steam Play (Linux) | <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/10220/pfx/[Note 2] |
Save game data location
System | Location |
---|---|
Windows | <path-to-game>\p3\SAVE\[Note 1] |
Steam Play (Linux) | <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/10220/pfx/[Note 2] |
Save game cloud syncing
System | Native | Notes |
---|---|---|
Steam Cloud |
Video
Graphics feature | State | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|
Widescreen resolution | |||
Multi-monitor | |||
Ultra-widescreen | |||
4K Ultra HD | Interface scales poorly. | ||
Field of view (FOV) | |||
Windowed | |||
Borderless fullscreen windowed | Launch the game with -window -noborder parameter. |
||
Anisotropic filtering (AF) | Up to 16x. | ||
Anti-aliasing (AA) | Up to 8x MSAA and 16xQ CSAA for Nvidia GPUs. | ||
Vertical sync (Vsync) | Double buffered [18] | ||
60 FPS and 120+ FPS | |||
High dynamic range display (HDR) | Rendered image uses SDR color space. In-game HDR option refers only to HDR Rendering. |
Input
Keyboard and mouse | State | Notes |
---|---|---|
Remapping | ||
Mouse acceleration | ||
Mouse sensitivity | ||
Mouse input in menus | ||
Mouse Y-axis inversion | ||
Controller | ||
Controller support | Go to the configuration file(s) location, open config.cfg and change joystick "0" to joystick "1" . |
|
Full controller support | Mouse and keyboard are required to navigate through menus. | |
Controller remapping | ||
Controller sensitivity | ||
Controller Y-axis inversion |
Controller types |
---|
XInput-compatible controllers | Go to the configuration file(s) location, open config.cfg and change joystick "0" to joystick "1" . |
|
---|---|---|
Xbox button prompts | ||
Impulse Trigger vibration |
PlayStation controllers |
---|
Generic/other controllers |
---|
Additional information | ||
---|---|---|
Controller hotplugging | ||
Haptic feedback | ||
Digital movement supported | ||
Simultaneous controller+KB/M |
Audio
Audio feature | State | Notes |
---|---|---|
Separate volume controls | ||
Surround sound | ||
Subtitles | Needs the "Subtitles (dialog only)" option set. Certain languages (such as German) only have subtitles in the FMV cutscenes. |
|
Closed captions | Closed captions exist in the files, but are all from Half-Life 2 and do not work in game. | |
Mute on focus lost | ||
Royalty free audio | Licensed music is used throughout the game, but can be disabled by muting the music through options and skipping the FMV cutscenes. |
Localizations
Language | UI | Audio | Sub | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
English | Unless otherwise specified, all translations (except Russian) use English as a base, so they will have English audio and UI assets. | |||
French | Fan translation, download. The version that's included in the Steam/ZOOM Platform version has translated UI assets and also better translated text. | |||
German | The version that's included in the Steam/ZOOM Platform version has translated UI assets. | |||
Italian | Fan translation, download. | |||
Japanese | Formerly retail only. The version that's included in the Steam/ZOOM Platform version has a different font for the ammo count text. | |||
Polish | Fan translation by JakX2 & ArtekXDPL, download. The version that's included in the Steam/ZOOM Platform version lacks Dude's in-game subtitles and loading screen translations. | |||
Brazilian Portuguese | Fan translation by AlgumOtario, download. The version that's included in the Steam/ZOOM Platform version has translated UI assets and also better translated text. | |||
Russian | ||||
Simplified Chinese | Fan translation, download. |
- To change the language, use the
-language {language}
and/or-norussian
launch argument.
Issues fixed
Game doesn't launch
- Postal III has issues with its DRM, which has been one of the main suspected reasons for its removal from Steam.
- Does not apply for the current Steam and ZOOM Platform versions.
Use the updated Starforce domain for ActControl DRM activation |
---|
|
Use Angel Mod |
---|
|
FPS is unstable/game is laggy
Edit the autoexec.cfg[19][20] |
---|
|
Achievements don't work/game crashes on NPC spawning
Edit the config files[21][22] |
---|
|
Other information
API
Technical specs | Supported | Notes |
---|---|---|
Direct3D | 9.0c | |
Shader Model support | 2.0, 2.0b, 3.0 |
Executable | 32-bit | 64-bit | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Windows |
Middleware
Middleware | Notes | |
---|---|---|
Physics | Havok, PhysX, APEX | Heavily modified variant, 2.8.4.6, 1.0.0.1 |
Audio | Miles Sound System | 6.6a |
Cutscenes | Bink Video | 1.8w |
Mods
Postal 3 First Person Mod
- Allows you to play the game in first person mode. Paste the script in your autoexec.cfg.
Postal III Unofficial Patch 1.13
- Fixes many mission script issues and bugs, re-balances some weapons and missions, adds extra unused and new voice lines for Postal Dude, as well as missing sound effects for weapons and unused loading screens for several missions.
- Beta Mod Pack and Improvement Mod are incompatible with this patch.
POSTAL III Improvement Mod
- Fixes various game issues whilst also re-implementing some of the game's missing features/beta content.
Beta Mod Pack
- Alternative to the Improvement Mod.
- Fixes various game issues, while focusing on the restoration of beta content.
System requirements
Windows[23] | ||
---|---|---|
Minimum | Recommended | |
Operating system (OS) | XP, Vista, 7 | |
Processor (CPU) | Intel Pentium 4 3.0 GHz | Intel Core 2 Duo 2.4 GHz |
System memory (RAM) | 2 GB (XP) 4 GB (Vista, 7) |
3 GB (XP) 4 GB (Vista, 7) |
Hard disk drive (HDD) | 13.5 GB | |
Video card (GPU) | Nvidia GeForce 6600 ATI Radeon X800 128 MB of VRAM DirectX 9 compatible Shader model 2.0 support |
Nvidia GeForce 7600 ATI Radeon X1600 Shader model 3.0 support |
Sound (audio device) | DirectX 9 compatible |
Notes
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 When running this game without elevated privileges (Run as administrator option), write operations against a location below
%PROGRAMFILES%
,%PROGRAMDATA%
, or%WINDIR%
might be redirected to%LOCALAPPDATA%\VirtualStore
on Windows Vista and later (more details). - ↑ 2.0 2.1 Notes regarding Steam Play (Linux) data:
- File/folder structure within this directory reflects the path(s) listed for Windows and/or Steam game data.
- Use Wine's registry editor to access any Windows registry paths.
- The app ID (10220) may differ in some cases.
- Treat backslashes as forward slashes.
- See the glossary page for details on Windows data paths.
References
- ↑ 17:00 - время новостей! (retrieved) - last accessed on 2023-11-22
- ↑ Postal III - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ Verified by User:Hoongoons on 2023-12-07
- Asked the technical lead at ZOOM and was able to confirm it doesn't require Steam, like the Russian release, but still uses ActControl
- ↑ Running With Scissors on X - last accessed on 2023-10-19
- "With Postal 3's DRM issues and overall shittiness of the game itself, the game is officially no longer being sold on Steam."
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 Postal III - Postal III: 'No DRM' Update - Steam News - last accessed on 2023-10-19
- ↑ Gamer.ru - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ Gamer.ru - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ 4gamer.net - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ Zoom Platform - Postal III, I'm filled with glee! - last accessed on 2023-09-26
- ↑ Running With Scissors on X - last accessed on 2023-10-13
- ↑ Zoom Platform - Postal III, for you and me! - last accessed on 2023-10-16
- ↑ Zoom Platform - Postal III, as seen on TV! - last accessed on 2023-12-07
- ↑ Postal III - Postal 3: Update #2 - last accessed on 2024-01-29
- ↑ Gama-Gama - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ Gama-Gama - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ Verified by User:Mars icecream on 2017-9
- ↑ Postal III - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ Black mesa vsync is double buffered - last accessed on 2024
- ↑ https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=650247633
- ↑ yuanpaper.blogspot.com - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ https://steamcommunity.com/app/10220/discussions/0/4298195716597380224/
- ↑ https://steamcommunity.com/app/10220/discussions/0/4361246746316652755/
- ↑ Postal III manual - last accessed on 2023-10-19