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Difference between revisions of "F.E.A.R."

From PCGamingWiki, the wiki about fixing PC games
(Added a native way to enable borderless windowed mode, added locations for Perseus Mandate, multiple fixes)
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{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/21090/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
 
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/21090/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
 
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/21110/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions] (Extraction Point)
 
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/21110/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions] (Extraction Point)
 +
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/21120/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions] (Perseus Mandate)
 
{{mm}} [http://fear-community.org/ F.E.A.R. Combat Community]
 
{{mm}} [http://fear-community.org/ F.E.A.R. Combat Community]
  
Line 76: Line 77:
 
'''Notes'''
 
'''Notes'''
 
{{ii}} This doesn't skip the first splash screen which acts as a loading screen.
 
{{ii}} This doesn't skip the first splash screen which acts as a loading screen.
 +
{{ii}} The main menu music will no longer play.
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 89: Line 91:
 
===Configuration file(s) location===
 
===Configuration file(s) location===
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
−
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|public}}\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR\settings.cfg|{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP\settings.cfg}}
+
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|public}}\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR\settings.cfg|{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP\settings.cfg|{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP2\settings.cfg}}
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{ii}} Key bindings are stored in <code>{{p|public}}\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR\Profiles\Profile000.gdb</code> and <code>{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP\Profiles\Profile000.gdb</code>
+
{{ii}} Key bindings are stored in <code>{{p|public}}\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR\Profiles\Profile000.gdb</code> (Original game) <code>{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP\Profiles\Profile000.gdb</code> (Expansion Point) <code>{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP2\Profiles\Profile000.gdb</code> (Perseus Mandate)
  
 
===Save game data location===
 
===Save game data location===
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
−
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|public}}\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR\Save\Profile000\SinglePlayer|{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP\Save\Profile000\SinglePlayer}}
+
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|public}}\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR\Save\Profile000\SinglePlayer|{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP\Save\Profile000\SinglePlayer|{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP2\Save\Profile000\SinglePlayer}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{ii}} F.E.A.R. has 10 save slots, plus 1 quicksave slot and 1 autosave slot. Additional save slots can be made by creating a new player profile. There is no ability to replay completed levels other than loading a manual save.
 
{{ii}} F.E.A.R. has 10 save slots, plus 1 quicksave slot and 1 autosave slot. Additional save slots can be made by creating a new player profile. There is no ability to replay completed levels other than loading a manual save.
Line 159: Line 161:
  
 
===[[Glossary:Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]===
−
{{ii}} Widescreen fix is required for the Extraction Point expansion only (STEAM and GOG VERSIONS).  
+
{{ii}} Widescreen fix is required for the expansions only (Steam and GOG versions).
  
−
{{Fixbox|description=Set custom resolution|ref={{cn|date=November 2019}}|fix=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Set custom resolution for the original game|ref={{cn|date=November 2019}}|fix=
−
# Click the <code>Settings</code> symbol on Steam and then <code>Manage\Browse Local Files</code>
+
# Click the <code>Settings</code> (cogwheel) symbol on Steam and then <code>Manage\Browse Local Files</code>.
−
# Doubleclick the <code>FEARXP</code> folder, and right click on the <code>FEARXP.exe</code> application and click on Properties
+
# Right click on the <code>FEAR.exe</code> application and click on Properties.
−
# Click the <code>Compatibility</code> tab and tick the <code>Disable fullscreen optimizations</code> box and hit Apply
+
# Click the <code>Compatibility</code> tab and tick the <code>Disable fullscreen optimizations</code> box and hit Apply.
−
# Run the game once from Steam and then quit once you reach the main menu. This will generate the <code>settings.cfg</code> file
+
# Run the game once from Steam and then quit once you reach the main menu. This will generate the <code>settings.cfg</code> file.
 
# Go to <code>{{p|public}}\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR</code>
 
# Go to <code>{{p|public}}\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR</code>
 
# Open <code>settings.cfg</code> with a text editor.
 
# Open <code>settings.cfg</code> with a text editor.
 
# Change the <code>"ScreenWidth" "640"</code> and <code>"ScreenHeight" "480"</code> lines to match your resolution.
 
# Change the <code>"ScreenWidth" "640"</code> and <code>"ScreenHeight" "480"</code> lines to match your resolution.
 
# Save your changes and set the file to read-only.
 
# Save your changes and set the file to read-only.
 +
}}
 +
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Set custom resolution for Expansion Point|ref={{cn|date=November 2019}}|fix=
 +
# Click the <code>Settings</code> (cogwheel) symbol on Steam and then <code>Manage\Browse Local Files</code>.
 +
# Doubleclick the <code>FEARXP</code> folder, and right click on the <code>FEARXP.exe</code> application and click on Properties.
 +
# Click the <code>Compatibility</code> tab and tick the <code>Disable fullscreen optimizations</code> box and hit Apply.
 +
# Run the game once from Steam and then quit once you reach the main menu. This will generate the <code>settings.cfg</code> file.
 +
# Go to <code>{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP</code>
 +
# Open <code>settings.cfg</code> with a text editor.
 +
# Change the <code>"ScreenWidth" "640"</code> and <code>"ScreenHeight" "480"</code> lines to match your resolution.
 +
# Save your changes and set the file to read-only.
 +
}}
  
−
'''Notes'''
+
{{Fixbox|description=Set custom resolution for Perseus Mandate|ref={{cn|date=November 2019}}|fix=
−
{{ii}} For some versions, <code>settings.cfg</code> for the Extraction Point expansion is located at <code>{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP</code>
+
# Click the <code>Settings</code> (cogwheel) symbol on Steam and then <code>Manage\Browse Local Files</code>.
 +
# Doubleclick the <code>FEARXP2</code> folder, and right click on the <code>FEARXP2.exe</code> application and click on Properties.
 +
# Click the <code>Compatibility</code> tab and tick the <code>Disable fullscreen optimizations</code> box and hit Apply.
 +
# Run the game once from Steam and then quit once you reach the main menu. This will generate the <code>settings.cfg</code> file.
 +
# Go to <code>{{p|public}}\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP2</code>.
 +
# Open <code>settings.cfg</code> with a text editor.
 +
# Change the <code>"ScreenWidth" "640"</code> and <code>"ScreenHeight" "480"</code> lines to match your resolution.
 +
# Save your changes and set the file to read-only.
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===[[Glossary:4K Ultra HD|4K Ultra HD]]===
 
===[[Glossary:4K Ultra HD|4K Ultra HD]]===
 
{{ii}} In-game FSAA setting '''must''' be set to Off before enabling 4K resolution, otherwise you will be stuck in a black screen. If this happens, reset resolution via {{file|settings.cfg}}. If you need AA at 4K, see [[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]].
 
{{ii}} In-game FSAA setting '''must''' be set to Off before enabling 4K resolution, otherwise you will be stuck in a black screen. If this happens, reset resolution via {{file|settings.cfg}}. If you need AA at 4K, see [[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]].
−
{{ii}} F.E.A.R maintains 1:1 HUD scaling at all resolutions (i.e. there is no HUD scaling). This has the benefit of keeping HUD elements sharp, but they also may become very small on high-density monitors, such as 4K monitors sized below 30". Use this fix corresponding to your chosen resolution to increase the HUD size: https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=180211741
+
{{ii}} F.E.A.R maintains 1:1 HUD scaling at all resolutions (i.e. there is no HUD scaling). This has the benefit of keeping HUD elements sharp, but they also may become very small on high-density monitors, such as 4K monitors sized below 30". [https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=180211741 Use this fix] corresponding to your chosen resolution to increase the HUD size.
  
 
===[[Glossary:Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]]===
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#* Base game: <code>\FEAR</code>
 
#* Base game: <code>\FEAR</code>
 
#* Extraction Point: <code>\FEARXP</code>
 
#* Extraction Point: <code>\FEARXP</code>
 +
#* Perseus Mandate: <code>\FEARXP2</code>
 
# Create a file named {{file|autoexec.cfg}} with a text editor.
 
# Create a file named {{file|autoexec.cfg}} with a text editor.
 
# If using a widescreen resolution add this line: <code>"FovYWidescreen" "XX.00"</code> where XX is the vertical FOV value. If using a non-widescreen resolution use <code>"FovY" "XX.00"</code>
 
# If using a widescreen resolution add this line: <code>"FovYWidescreen" "XX.00"</code> where XX is the vertical FOV value. If using a non-widescreen resolution use <code>"FovY" "XX.00"</code>
Line 197: Line 219:
 
#* Base game: <code>\FEAR</code>
 
#* Base game: <code>\FEAR</code>
 
#* Extraction Point: <code>\FEARXP</code>
 
#* Extraction Point: <code>\FEARXP</code>
 +
#* Perseus Mandate: <code>\FEARXP2</code>
 
# Create a file named {{file|autoexec.cfg}} with a text editor.
 
# Create a file named {{file|autoexec.cfg}} with a text editor.
 
# Add {{code|"Windowed" "1"}} on a new line.
 
# Add {{code|"Windowed" "1"}} on a new line.
 +
}}
 +
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Set borderless windowed mode|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
 +
# Go to the game's directory:
 +
#* Base game: <code>\FEAR</code>
 +
#* Extraction Point: <code>\FEARXP</code>
 +
#* Perseus Mandate: <code>\FEARXP2</code>
 +
# Create a file named {{file|autoexec.cfg}} with a text editor.
 +
# Add {{code|"Windowed" "2"}} on a new line.
 +
}}
 +
 +
===[[Glossary:Borderless fullscreen windowed|Borderless fullscreen windowed]]===
 +
{{ii}} FSAA is unavailable in windowed mode. See [[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]] for an alternative.
 +
{{ii}} If this method doesn't work or causes issues, you can try [[Glossary:Borderless fullscreen windowed|Borderless fullscreen mode]].
 +
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Set borderless fullscreen windowed mode|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
 +
# Ensure the game's resolution matches your monitor's resolution:
 +
#* Launch the game.
 +
#* Go to the game's Options > Display > Resolution and change it accordingly. If it's unsupported, check out [[#Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]].
 +
#* Close the game.
 +
# Go to the game's directory:
 +
#* Base game: <code>\FEAR</code>
 +
#* Extraction Point: <code>\FEARXP</code>
 +
#* Perseus Mandate: <code>\FEARXP2</code>
 +
# Create a file named {{file|autoexec.cfg}} with a text editor.
 +
# Add {{code|"Windowed" "2"}} on a new line.
 
}}
 
}}
  
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==Issues fixed==
 
==Issues fixed==
−
{{ii}} '''TweakGuides''' has created a comprehensive guide for fixing issues in this game. It can be found https://tweakguides.pcgamingwiki.com/FEAR_1.html here].
+
{{ii}} '''TweakGuides''' has created a comprehensive guide for fixing issues in this game. It can be found [https://tweakguides.pcgamingwiki.com/FEAR_1.html here].
  
 
===Slow loading level and aero disabling===
 
===Slow loading level and aero disabling===
 
{{Fixbox|description=Fix slow load level and spontaneous shutdown aero interface|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Fix slow load level and spontaneous shutdown aero interface|fix=
−
* Install game and addons only on Windows XP, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://vk.com/topic-149428471_39019230|title=|date=}}</ref>
+
* Fix 1: Install game and addons only on Windows XP, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://vk.com/topic-149428471_39019230|title=|date=}}</ref>
−
* Also you can use 4gb_patch for game and addons Extraction Point, Perseus Mandate.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://ntcore.com/?page_id=371|title=|date=}}</ref>
+
* Fix 2:
 +
*# Go to the game's directory:
 +
*#* Base game: <code>\FEAR</code>
 +
*#* Extraction Point: <code>\FEARXP</code>
 +
*#* Perseus Mandate: <code>\FEARXP2</code>
 +
*# [https://ntcore.com/?page_id=371 Use the 4GB Patch] on <code>FEAR.exe</code>, <code>FEARXP.exe</code>, and <code>FEARXP2.exe</code><ref>{{Refurl|url=https://ntcore.com/?page_id=371|title=4GB Patch - NTCore|date=}}</ref>
  
 
'''Notes'''
 
'''Notes'''
 
{{ii}} Occurs only on Windows Vista and Windows 7, because of the special graphic stack WDDM.
 
{{ii}} Occurs only on Windows Vista and Windows 7, because of the special graphic stack WDDM.
 
{{ii}} Using Windows 8.1 or 10 significantly reduces the launch time of the level, perhaps this is due to improvements in the WDDM graphics stack.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.anandtech.com/show/9543/the-windows-10-review/13|title=DirectX 12 & WDDM 2.0: Reworking the Windows Graphics Stack|date=}}</ref>
 
{{ii}} Using Windows 8.1 or 10 significantly reduces the launch time of the level, perhaps this is due to improvements in the WDDM graphics stack.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.anandtech.com/show/9543/the-windows-10-review/13|title=DirectX 12 & WDDM 2.0: Reworking the Windows Graphics Stack|date=}}</ref>
−
{{ii}} Despite the fact that this patch increases the limit of used memory from 2GB to 4GB, the game doesn't need this much, but it does noticeably increase the launch speed of the level.
+
{{ii}} The patch noticeably increases the launch speed of the level on 64-bit systems.
 
{{--}} This patch is not compatible with the original game from Steam and F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin.
 
{{--}} This patch is not compatible with the original game from Steam and F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin.
 
}}
 
}}
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# If using a non-Creative sound card, use [http://forums.thedarkmod.com/topic/18249-tutorial-how-to-setup-eax-for-tdm-on-any-soundcard/ Alchemy Restriction Remover] as well.
 
# If using a non-Creative sound card, use [http://forums.thedarkmod.com/topic/18249-tutorial-how-to-setup-eax-for-tdm-on-any-soundcard/ Alchemy Restriction Remover] as well.
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Black textures in certain areas===
 +
# Go to the game's directory:
 +
#* Base game: <code>\FEAR</code>
 +
#* Extraction Point: <code>\FEARXP</code>
 +
#* Perseus Mandate: <code>\FEARXP2</code>
 +
# [https://ntcore.com/?page_id=371 Use the 4GB Patch] on <code>FEAR.exe</code>, <code>FEARXP.exe</code>, and <code>FEARXP2.exe</code>
  
 
===Low frame rate===
 
===Low frame rate===
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# Download the [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/789-directinput-fps-fix/ DirectInput FPS Fix].
 
# Download the [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/789-directinput-fps-fix/ DirectInput FPS Fix].
 
# Extract into <code>{{p|game}}</code> for the main campaign.
 
# Extract into <code>{{p|game}}</code> for the main campaign.
−
# For the Expansion extract it into <code>{{p|game}}\FEARXP</code>
+
# For the expansion packs extract it into <code>{{p|game}}\FEARXP</code> and <code>{{p|game}}\FEARXP2</code>.
−
}}
 
−
 
 
−
{{ii}} If you are still having frame rate issues.
 
−
{{Fixbox|description=Borderless fullscreen mode|ref={{cn|date=November 2016}}|fix=
 
−
# First make game into windowed mode. See [[#Windowed|Windowed]].
 
−
# Then use [[Glossary:Borderless fullscreen windowed|Borderless fullscreen mode]].
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
{{Fixbox|description=Disable Soft Shadows|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Disable Soft Shadows|fix=
−
* Go into settings in game and disable <code>Soft Shadows</code>.
+
* Go into the game's Options > Performance > Advanced video card options > Graphics and disable <code>Soft Shadows</code>.
 
{{ii}} Soft Shadows are a taxing feature even today on some lower-end machines.
 
{{ii}} Soft Shadows are a taxing feature even today on some lower-end machines.
 
{{--}} Changes the look of the game.
 
{{--}} Changes the look of the game.
Line 576: Line 631:
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{Fixbox|description="Disconnected from server" when playing singleplayer|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description="Disconnected from server" when playing singleplayer|fix=
−
* This only happens in Extraction Point. When the game crashes with this message while trying to load a level, set texture detail to medium (not maximum) and try again.
+
* Fix 1:
 +
*# Go to the game's directory:
 +
*#* Base game: <code>\FEAR</code>
 +
*#* Extraction Point: <code>\FEARXP</code>
 +
*#* Perseus Mandate: <code>\FEARXP2</code>
 +
*# [https://ntcore.com/?page_id=371 Use the 4GB Patch] on <code>FEAR.exe</code>, <code>FEARXP.exe</code>, and <code>FEARXP2.exe</code>
 +
* Fix 2:
 +
** When the game crashes with this message while trying to load a level, set texture detail to medium (not maximum) and try again.
 
}}
 
}}
  

Revision as of 11:15, 7 August 2021

F.E.A.R.
F.E.A.R. cover
Developers
Monolith Productions
Extraction Point TimeGate Studios
Publishers
Sierra Entertainment
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment
Engines
Lithtech Jupiter EX
Release dates
Windows October 18, 2005
Reception
Metacritic 88
IGDB 81
Icon overlay.png
F.E.A.R. on HowLongToBeat
F.E.A.R. on IGDB
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
F.E.A.R. on MobyGames
F.E.A.R. on Wikipedia
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png

Warnings

GameSpy online services have been shut down (see Network for solutions).
F.E.A.R.
F.E.A.R. 2005
F.E.A.R. Perseus Mandate 2007
F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin 2009
F.E.A.R. 3 2011
F.E.A.R. Online 2014

Key points

Master servers for multiplayer were shut down on December 19, 2012. See FEAR Combat Community.
The multiplayer component (F.E.A.R. Combat) is free to download and continues to be supported by the community.
Features an in-game benchmarking system. (It is not accurate to in game performance)
Potential performance issues on modern machines, See Low Frame Rate.
Potential graphics issues on modern nVidia GeForce only, use the Dx9->Dx11 Wrapping.

General information

Official manual
GOG.com Community Discussions for game series
GOG.com Support Page
Steam Community Discussions
Steam Community Discussions (Extraction Point)
Steam Community Discussions (Perseus Mandate)
F.E.A.R. Combat Community

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Disc check (requires the CD/DVD in the drive to play)
CD key
 SecuROM 7.00.00.0128 DRM, 5 CDs or 1 DVD.
Windows
GamersGate (unavailable)
Requires online activation
 SecuROM PA DRM
Windows
Gamesplanet logo.svg
Icon overlay.png
 Ultimate Shooter Edition.
Windows
GOG.com
DRM-free
 Multiplayer executable creates dormant SecuROM files.[1]
Windows
Green Man Gaming
Icon overlay.png
Windows
Steam
Icon overlay.png
 Complete Pack also available. SDK need fixes on registry.
Windows
The GOG.com and Steam releases include both F.E.A.R. Extraction Point and F.E.A.R. Perseus Mandate
The GOG install removes SecuROM, GameSpy, and Punkbuster. GOG is 15.6GB [136 files], Steam is 16.5GB [161 files]. [2]
Additional weapons, instant action levels, and a bonus mission are only in the console versions. Also, content added in F.E.A.R. Files, a Xbox 360 port of expansion packs, are not present on PC.[3]

DLC and expansion packs

Name Notes
Extraction Point Demo (standalone) (German website, but demo is in English)
Windows
Perseus Mandate Standalone, work without original game.
Windows
Not available for sale in Germany due to German censorship laws.

Essential improvements

Patches

Latest version is 1.08.

Community patch

The FEAR multiplayer master server was shut down on December 19, 2012. The community has developed an unofficial patch for the game and is offering new FEAR Combat CD keys for free. The latest version of the community-supported FEAR Combat client and new CD keys can be obtained from the Fear Combat Community website or lastremain.de.

Skip intro videos

Skip intro videos via native config tool
  1. You can navigate to the game's folder, open the Config.exe, move over to the Options tab and tick the disable movies box here to skip movies easily.
Skip intro videos[4]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open settings.cfg.
  3. Add a new line: "DisableMovies" "1"

Notes

This doesn't skip the first splash screen which acts as a loading screen.
The main menu music will no longer play.

F.E.A.R: HD Textures v1.1

AI upscale texture pack that has been processed to aim for stability and upgrading textures that practically improve visual quality
Includes an installer that allows you to between a more stable basic installation and a full installation
Does not support Extraction Point yet and will not support Perseus Mandate
Completely replaces some textures with new ones

Game data

In-game general settings.
In-game general settings.

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
Windows %PUBLIC%\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR\settings.cfg
%PUBLIC%\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP\settings.cfg
%PUBLIC%\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP2\settings.cfg
Steam Play (Linux) <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/21090/pfx/[Note 1]
Key bindings are stored in %PUBLIC%\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR\Profiles\Profile000.gdb (Original game) %PUBLIC%\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP\Profiles\Profile000.gdb (Expansion Point) %PUBLIC%\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP2\Profiles\Profile000.gdb (Perseus Mandate)

Save game data location

System Location
Windows %PUBLIC%\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR\Save\Profile000\SinglePlayer
%PUBLIC%\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP\Save\Profile000\SinglePlayer
%PUBLIC%\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP2\Save\Profile000\SinglePlayer
Steam Play (Linux) <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/21090/pfx/[Note 1]
F.E.A.R. has 10 save slots, plus 1 quicksave slot and 1 autosave slot. Additional save slots can be made by creating a new player profile. There is no ability to replay completed levels other than loading a manual save.

Save game cloud syncing

System Native Notes
GOG Galaxy
Steam Cloud

Video settings

In-game general video settings.
In-game general video settings.
In-game advanced video settings (for CPU).
In-game advanced video settings (for CPU).
In-game advanced video settings (for GPU, 1/2).
In-game advanced video settings (for GPU, 1/2).
In-game advanced video settings (for GPU, 2/2).
In-game advanced video settings (for GPU, 2/2).

Template:Video settings

Widescreen resolution

Widescreen fix is required for the expansions only (Steam and GOG versions).
Set custom resolution for the original game[citation needed]
  1. Click the Settings (cogwheel) symbol on Steam and then Manage\Browse Local Files.
  2. Right click on the FEAR.exe application and click on Properties.
  3. Click the Compatibility tab and tick the Disable fullscreen optimizations box and hit Apply.
  4. Run the game once from Steam and then quit once you reach the main menu. This will generate the settings.cfg file.
  5. Go to %PUBLIC%\Documents\Monolith Productions\FEAR
  6. Open settings.cfg with a text editor.
  7. Change the "ScreenWidth" "640" and "ScreenHeight" "480" lines to match your resolution.
  8. Save your changes and set the file to read-only.
Set custom resolution for Expansion Point[citation needed]
  1. Click the Settings (cogwheel) symbol on Steam and then Manage\Browse Local Files.
  2. Doubleclick the FEARXP folder, and right click on the FEARXP.exe application and click on Properties.
  3. Click the Compatibility tab and tick the Disable fullscreen optimizations box and hit Apply.
  4. Run the game once from Steam and then quit once you reach the main menu. This will generate the settings.cfg file.
  5. Go to %PUBLIC%\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP
  6. Open settings.cfg with a text editor.
  7. Change the "ScreenWidth" "640" and "ScreenHeight" "480" lines to match your resolution.
  8. Save your changes and set the file to read-only.
Set custom resolution for Perseus Mandate[citation needed]
  1. Click the Settings (cogwheel) symbol on Steam and then Manage\Browse Local Files.
  2. Doubleclick the FEARXP2 folder, and right click on the FEARXP2.exe application and click on Properties.
  3. Click the Compatibility tab and tick the Disable fullscreen optimizations box and hit Apply.
  4. Run the game once from Steam and then quit once you reach the main menu. This will generate the settings.cfg file.
  5. Go to %PUBLIC%\Documents\TimeGate Studios\FEARXP2.
  6. Open settings.cfg with a text editor.
  7. Change the "ScreenWidth" "640" and "ScreenHeight" "480" lines to match your resolution.
  8. Save your changes and set the file to read-only.

4K Ultra HD

In-game FSAA setting must be set to Off before enabling 4K resolution, otherwise you will be stuck in a black screen. If this happens, reset resolution via settings.cfg. If you need AA at 4K, see Anti-aliasing (AA).
F.E.A.R maintains 1:1 HUD scaling at all resolutions (i.e. there is no HUD scaling). This has the benefit of keeping HUD elements sharp, but they also may become very small on high-density monitors, such as 4K monitors sized below 30". Use this fix corresponding to your chosen resolution to increase the HUD size.

Field of view (FOV)

This game uses vertical FOV. See FOV Calculator for help.
Set custom FOV[5]
  1. Go to the game's directory:
    • Base game: \FEAR
    • Extraction Point: \FEARXP
    • Perseus Mandate: \FEARXP2
  2. Create a file named autoexec.cfg with a text editor.
  3. If using a widescreen resolution add this line: "FovYWidescreen" "XX.00" where XX is the vertical FOV value. If using a non-widescreen resolution use "FovY" "XX.00"

Windowed

FSAA is unavailable in windowed mode. See Anti-aliasing (AA) for an alternative.
Set windowed mode[citation needed]
  1. Go to the game's directory:
    • Base game: \FEAR
    • Extraction Point: \FEARXP
    • Perseus Mandate: \FEARXP2
  2. Create a file named autoexec.cfg with a text editor.
  3. Add "Windowed" "1" on a new line.
Set borderless windowed mode[citation needed]
  1. Go to the game's directory:
    • Base game: \FEAR
    • Extraction Point: \FEARXP
    • Perseus Mandate: \FEARXP2
  2. Create a file named autoexec.cfg with a text editor.
  3. Add "Windowed" "2" on a new line.

Borderless fullscreen windowed

FSAA is unavailable in windowed mode. See Anti-aliasing (AA) for an alternative.
If this method doesn't work or causes issues, you can try Borderless fullscreen mode.
Set borderless fullscreen windowed mode[citation needed]
  1. Ensure the game's resolution matches your monitor's resolution:
    • Launch the game.
    • Go to the game's Options > Display > Resolution and change it accordingly. If it's unsupported, check out Widescreen resolution.
    • Close the game.
  2. Go to the game's directory:
    • Base game: \FEAR
    • Extraction Point: \FEARXP
    • Perseus Mandate: \FEARXP2
  3. Create a file named autoexec.cfg with a text editor.
  4. Add "Windowed" "2" on a new line.

Anti-aliasing (AA)

The Soft Shadows option will have no effect if the FSAA option is enabled.
MSAA solution (Nvidia only)[6]
  1. Open the game and disable the FSAA option.
  2. Download and run Nvidia Profile Inspector.
  3. Search and open the game profile.
  4. Set Antialiasing Compatibility to 0x004000C1.
  5. Set Antialiasing Mode to Override any application setting.
  6. Set Antialiasing Setting to 8x Multisampling or your desired level of MSAA/CSAA.
  7. Apply changes. Do the same for the Extraction Point expansion.

Notes

May have a very negative performance impact even on modern systems.
Alternatively, SMAA is available through an injector.

Input settings

In-game key map settings.
In-game key map settings.
In-game mouse settings.
In-game mouse settings.
In-game joystick axis map settings.
In-game joystick axis map settings.

Template:Input settings

Audio settings

In-game audio settings.
In-game audio settings.

Template:Audio settings

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
French
German
Retail only. For digital version download from DeutschPatch or CompiWare. Includes Extraction Point and Perseus Mandate.
Italian
Retail only. For digital version download from See here for the Steam version translation.
Hungarian
Retail only, which is called Gold Edition and includes Extraction Point. Language files available here.
Brazilian Portuguese
Fan translation, download.
Fan translation for Extraction Point, download.
Russian
Retail only. Patch for digital release here.
Spanish
Retail only. Patch for digital release here.
Polish
Local retail only. Patch for digital release here.

VR support

3D modes State Notes
Nvidia 3D Vision
Disable game crosshair by turning the transparency all the way down and then enable 3DVision 3D crosshair (Ctrl+F12). Any depth adjustments must be done via KB shortcuts, as the Nvidia pyramid's scroll wheel will not work.
vorpX
G3D, DirectVR
Officially supported game, see official vorpx game list.
Devices
3RD Space Gaming Vest
Novint Falcon

Network

Multiplayer types

Type Native Notes
LAN play
Versus
Online play
Versus, Co-op
Master server is offline; use FEAR Combat Community version (mirror [2] lastremain.de). For co-op install Coop Warfare mod, co-op server with all SP levels - fearcombat-coop-server.

Connection types

Type Native Notes
Matchmaking
Peer-to-peer
Dedicated
Self-hosting
Dedicated server software available for Windows and Linux.
Direct IP
You need to create a shortcut to the game, write the command +join ip:port in the parameters. Then launch the shortcut.

Ports

Protocol Port(s) and/or port range(s)
TCP 27888
UDP 27888
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) support status is unknown.

Issues unresolved

Long save times

When playing the game, exiting and launching it again without logging out of Windows, saving can take very long. To work around that, log out and back into your Windows profile (or restart your computer) before re-launching the game.[7]

Issues fixed

TweakGuides has created a comprehensive guide for fixing issues in this game. It can be found here.

Slow loading level and aero disabling

Fix slow load level and spontaneous shutdown aero interface
  • Fix 1: Install game and addons only on Windows XP, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10.[8]
  • Fix 2:
    1. Go to the game's directory:
      • Base game: \FEAR
      • Extraction Point: \FEARXP
      • Perseus Mandate: \FEARXP2
    2. Use the 4GB Patch on FEAR.exe, FEARXP.exe, and FEARXP2.exe[9]

Notes

Occurs only on Windows Vista and Windows 7, because of the special graphic stack WDDM.
Using Windows 8.1 or 10 significantly reduces the launch time of the level, perhaps this is due to improvements in the WDDM graphics stack.[10]
The patch noticeably increases the launch speed of the level on 64-bit systems.
This patch is not compatible with the original game from Steam and F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin.

Control key settings are not assigned

Keyboard settings reset to unassigned when you restart the game
  • Run the game as Administrator

Flickering textures on modern systems

Use dgVoodoo2 wrapping
  1. Download this: Latest stable version for regular usage.
  2. Unpack on folder with game from MS/x86 folder, only d3d9.dll
(nVidia only) Enhancing the in-game AA to SGSSAA may solve this issue as well. (further testing is required)[11]

Broken shadow rendering on Nvidia graphics

Fix shadow corruption[12]
  1. Download this: registry tweak.
  2. Run ON_DisableVidMemVBs.reg before you start playing F.E.A.R. to fix shadow corruption.
  3. Run OFF_DisableVidMemVBs.reg after playing F.E.A.R. to disable the tweak. This is needed because this tweak has an extremely negative performance effect for other games. If you don't care about performance in other games, you can leave it on constantly.

Soft Shadows doesn't work combined with FSAA

Use alternative AA solution[6]
This is due to the features of the engine and the artificial limitation of the simultaneous use of anti-aliasing with soft shadows, since they can cause graphic artifacts on the shadows.

Small subtitles

Turning on large subtitles for non-4:3 resolutions has no effect.
Small subtitles[13]
  1. Download this patch.
  2. Extract FEARL_1920.Arch00 into the installation folder.
  3. Open Default.archcfg in Notepad and add FEARL_1920.Arch00 at the end of the file as a new line.
  4. For Extraction Point navigate to FEARXP sub-folder and add ../FEARL_1920.Arch00 to Default.archcfg under ; FEAR XP ARCHIVES.
Fix for 1440p and 4k (only base game) resolutions[14]
  1. Download one of the archives, for your desired resolution, and extract to the installation dir.

Black screen on ATI/AMD video cards

Black screen on ATI/AMD video cards[citation needed]
  • If 'Soft Shadows' and 'Pixel Doubling' are enabled this will result in black screen, on some ATI/AMD videocards. Disable said graphical options to fix the problem.

Can't hear any dialogue

Enable/install Windows Media Player[citation needed]
  1. Windows XP or N/KN versions: install Windows Media Player.
  2. Relaunch the game. If problems persist, ensure Windows Media Player is enabled:
    • Vista and later: open the Start screen/Start menu, type OptionalFeatures.exe and press ↵ Enter.
    • Windows XP: press ⊞ Win+R, type appwiz.cpl and press ↵ Enter, choose Add/Remove Windows Components.

No Torch Glitch

No Torch Glitch[citation needed]
  • At the beginning of Interval 03 - Escalation - Infiltration, the player must wait until they have control of the character before changing maps with the maphole command otherwise the torch will not be carried through for the rest of the game.

Can't hear any gunshots

Install Creative Alchemy[citation needed]
  1. Install Alchemy.
  2. If using a non-Creative sound card, use Alchemy Restriction Remover as well.

Black textures in certain areas

  1. Go to the game's directory:
    • Base game: \FEAR
    • Extraction Point: \FEARXP
    • Perseus Mandate: \FEARXP2
  2. Use the 4GB Patch on FEAR.exe, FEARXP.exe, and FEARXP2.exe

Low frame rate

Frame rate may drop to around 20-30 FPS after a few minutes of play.
Use DirectInput FPS Fix
  1. Download the DirectInput FPS Fix.
  2. Extract into <path-to-game> for the main campaign.
  3. For the expansion packs extract it into <path-to-game>\FEARXP and <path-to-game>\FEARXP2.
Disable Soft Shadows
  • Go into the game's Options > Performance > Advanced video card options > Graphics and disable Soft Shadows.
Soft Shadows are a taxing feature even today on some lower-end machines.
Changes the look of the game.
Compatibility mode[citation needed]

Set Windows XP SP3 compatibility mode on the executable.

Additionally, you can also install a more recent set of libraries used by the game.
Update libraries[citation needed]
  1. Install RuntimePack.

Crashes

Game won't start/maps not loading[15]
  • When hosting a LAN game as a Listen server the game may hang at the map loading screen with the progress bar stuck at 0%. This can be resolved by hosting the game as a dedicated server and then joining with the FEAR Combat client.
Startup Crash on Windows 10[citation needed]
  • Set game's compatibility mode to Windows XP (Service Pack 2). If it doesn't help try "Disable display scaling on high DPI settings" also. RMB on FEAR.exe => Properties => Compatability => Disable fullscreen optimizations
"Disconnected from server" when playing singleplayer
  • Fix 1:
    1. Go to the game's directory:
      • Base game: \FEAR
      • Extraction Point: \FEARXP
      • Perseus Mandate: \FEARXP2
    2. Use the 4GB Patch on FEAR.exe, FEARXP.exe, and FEARXP2.exe
  • Fix 2:
    • When the game crashes with this message while trying to load a level, set texture detail to medium (not maximum) and try again.

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
Direct3D 8, 9
Shader Model support 1.1, 2
Executable 32-bit 64-bit Notes
Windows

Middleware

Middleware Notes
Physics Havok
Audio EAX Unified
Cutscenes Bink Video
Multiplayer GameSpy
Anti-cheat PunkBuster [citation needed]

Official SDK

The Steam version includes the SDK with the game.[16] Make sure you read instructions

DevMode

DevMode gives the ability to use the debug keys and to load any map, including a few demo levels.

Dynamic flashlight

Makes the light cast from the flashlight dynamic[citation needed]
  1. Download the mod here.
  2. Open Default.archcfg
  3. Add the line LC_FlashlightMod_WIDE.Arch00 or LC_FlashlightMod.Arch00 to the end of the list.
  4. Check the file as read only.

Notes

Does not work on both expansions.

System requirements

Windows
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) 2000 XP
Processor (CPU) Intel Pentium 4 1.7 GHz
AMD Athlon XP 1600+		 Intel Pentium 4 3.0 GHz
AMD Athlon 64 3000+
System memory (RAM) 512 MB 1 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 17 GB
Video card (GPU) Nvidia GeForce 4 Ti 4200
ATI Radeon 8500
64 MB of VRAM
DirectX 9.0c compatible
Shader model 1.1 support		 Nvidia GeForce 6600
ATI Radeon 9800
256 MB of VRAM
Shader model 2.0 support
Sound (audio device) 16-bit DirectX compatible Sound Blaster X-Fi series

Notes

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Notes regarding Steam Play (Linux) data:

References