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Difference between revisions of "System Shock 2"

From PCGamingWiki, the wiki about fixing PC games
(→‎VR support: removed VR headsets)
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{{Infobox game/row/developer|Looking Glass Studios}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Looking Glass Studios}}
 
|publishers  =  
 
|publishers  =  
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Electronic Arts}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Electronic Arts|1999-2012}}
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Night Dive Studios}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Night Dive Studios|2012-present}}
 
|engines      =  
 
|engines      =  
 
{{Infobox game/row/engine|Dark Engine}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/engine|Dark Engine}}
 
|release dates=  
 
|release dates=  
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|August 11, 1999}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|August 11, 1999}}
{{Infobox game/row/date|OS X|June 18, 2013|ref=<ref>[https://www.gog.com/news/mac_game_update_system_shock_2_10_more_titles Mac Game Update: System Shock 2 + 10 more titles ● GOG.com]</ref>}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/date|OS X|June 18, 2013|wrapper=Wine|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.gog.com/news/mac_game_update_system_shock_2_10_more_titles|title=Mac Game Update: System Shock 2 + 10 more titles ● GOG.com|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>}}
{{Infobox game/row/date|Linux|April 1, 2014}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/date|Linux|wrapper=Wine|April 1, 2014}}
 +
|taxonomy    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | One-time game purchase }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing            | Real-time }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives      | First-person }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls          | Direct control }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres            | Immersive sim, Shooter, RPG }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles        | Realistic }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes            | Cyberpunk, Sci-fi }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series            | System Shock }}
 
|steam appid  = 238210
 
|steam appid  = 238210
|gogcom page  = system_shock_2
+
|gogcom id    = 1207659172
 +
|hltb        = 9548
 +
|lutris      = system-shock-2
 +
|mobygames    = 590
 
|strategywiki = System Shock 2
 
|strategywiki = System Shock 2
 
|wikipedia    = System Shock 2
 
|wikipedia    = System Shock 2
 
|winehq      = 1444
 
|winehq      = 1444
 +
|license      = commercial
 
}}
 
}}
{{Series|System Shock}}
 
  
'''Key points'''
+
{{Introduction
{{ii}} Install outside <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\</code> to avoid problems.<ref>http://hardforum.com/showthread.php?t=1564653</ref>
+
|introduction      =
{{ii}} Install [[#SS2Tool|SS2Tool]] to add widescreen/multi-monitor support and fix various compatibility and performance issues.
+
 
 +
|release history  =
 +
 
 +
|current state    =
 +
}}
  
 
'''General information'''
 
'''General information'''
{{ii}} [http://blog.pcgamingwiki.com/modding-guide/821/system-shock-2-steam-modding-guide Modding guide on the PCGamingWiki blog]
+
{{ii}} [https://blog.pcgamingwiki.com/modding-guide/821/system-shock-2-steam-modding-guide Modding guide on the PCGamingWiki blog]
{{mm}} [http://shodan.wikia.com/wiki/SHODANpedia_-_The_System_Shock_Wiki SHODANPEDIA] - Unofficial System Shock wiki
+
{{mm}} [https://shodan.fandom.com/wiki/SHODANpedia_-_The_System_Shock_Wiki SHODANPEDIA] - Unofficial System Shock wiki
{{mm}} [http://www.ttlg.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=78 TTLG Forums - System Shock Series]
+
{{mm}} [https://www.ttlg.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=78 TTLG Forums - System Shock Series]
{{mm}} [http://www.systemshock.org/ systemshock.org Forum]
+
{{mm}} [https://www.systemshock.org/ systemshock.org Forum]
{{mm}} [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4216.0 systemshock.org Forum - SS2 Troubleshooting Guide]
+
{{mm}} [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4216.0 systemshock.org Forum - SS2 Troubleshooting Guide]
{{GOG.com links|system_shock_2|system_shock_series|for game series}}
+
{{GOG.com links|1207659172|system_shock_series|for game series}}
{{mm}} [http://steamcommunity.com/app/238210/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
+
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/238210/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
  
 
==Availability==
 
==Availability==
 
{{Availability|
 
{{Availability|
 
{{Availability/row| Retail | | disc | {{DRM|SafeDisc}}. | | Windows }}
 
{{Availability/row| Retail | | disc | {{DRM|SafeDisc}}. | | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| GamersGate | DD-SSHOCK2 | Steam | | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
+
{{Availability/row| Publisher | https://retroism.com/system-shock-2/ | Steam | Purchase via Humble Widget. |  | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
{{Availability/row| GOG | system_shock_2 | DRM-free | | | Windows, OS X }}
+
{{Availability/row| GamersGate | system-shocktm-2 | Steam | | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
 +
{{Availability/row| GOG.com | system_shock_2 | DRM-free | | | Windows, OS X }}
 
{{Availability/row| GMG | system-shock-2 | Steam | | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
 
{{Availability/row| GMG | system-shock-2 | Steam | | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
{{Availability/row| Humble | system-shock-2 | Steam | | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
+
{{Availability/row| Humble | system-shock-2 | DRM-free | | Steam | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| Steam | 238210 | Steam | | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
+
{{Availability/row| Humble | system-shock-pack | Steam | System Shock Pack, 2 games bundle. | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
 +
{{Availability/row| Steam | 238210 | DRM-Free | DRM-free when launched directly from executable. | | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{ii}} All the digital distribution versions are pre-patched with NewDark.
 
{{ii}} All the digital distribution versions are pre-patched with NewDark.
 
{{ii}} OS X and Linux versions use [[Wine]].
 
{{ii}} OS X and Linux versions use [[Wine]].
 +
{{ii}} A faithful higher resolution icon for Windows can be [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/2259-system-shock-2-high-res-icon/ downloaded from the Files section].
 +
{{ii}} A free demo version is available from [https://archive.org/details/SystemShock2Demo Archive.org].
  
 
==Essential improvements==
 
==Essential improvements==
===[http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool]===
+
===[https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool]===
{{++}} Essential patcher which integrates the [http://www.ttlg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=145514 NewDark] patch and fixes various issues.
+
{{++}} Essential patcher which integrates the [https://www.ttlg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=146448 NewDark] patch and fixes various issues.
 
+
{{++}} Latest versions automatically disable the intro video (to re-enable it, add ''always_play_intro'' to the {{file|cam.cfg}} or {{file|cam_ext}} files).
===Recommended mods===
+
{{ii}} SS2Tool requires Vista or later due to included Rsync, however NewDark runs on 2000/XP or later. One can patch it on a Vista machine then transfer it to an older machine. Digital versions already include NewDark and compatibility fixes for modern systems, but the tool is still necessary for proper mod support.
{{ii}} [http://blog.pcgamingwiki.com/modding-guide/821/system-shock-2-steam-modding-guide Modding guide available on the PCGamingWiki blog].
 
{{ii}} [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4447.0 Alternate modding guide with updated links and mod info, from the System Shock 2 forums].
 
* [http://www.shtupmod.net/ SHTUP] - 'Shock Texture Upgrade Project' enhances object texture quality.
 
* [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=8 Rebirth Beta 03a] - enhances polygons of enemies, gore and gibs.
 
 
 
====System Shock 2 Mod Pack====
 
* [http://neutralx2.com/2013/07/14/system-shock-2-mod-pack System Shock 2 Mods] - A collection of mods to improve the graphics and audio of System Shock 2
 
  
====OS X version====
+
====[https://www.gog.com/forum/system_shock_series/legacy_olddark_patch_for_system_shock_2 OldDark Legacy Patch]====
Modding the Wineskin version can be done by firstly installing the Windows version in a virtual machine, patching it and installing all desired modifications and then replacing the System Shock 2 installation within the Wineskin version with the custom version. If you are using the Steam version it may be necessary to deactivate Steam's "Keep up to date" function for this to work.
+
{{++}} Allows the original (aka OldDark) engine to run on modern systems.
 +
{{--}} Not as stable as NewDark, but is more true to the original experience.
  
 
==Game data==
 
==Game data==
 
===Configuration file(s) location===
 
===Configuration file(s) location===
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
{{Game data/row|Windows|{{p|game}}\*.cfg}}
+
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|game}}\*.cfg}}
{{Game data/row|OS X|{{p|game}}/Contents/Resources/drive_c/Games/System Shock 2/}}
+
{{Game data/config|OS X|{{p|game}}/Contents/Resources/drive_c/Games/System Shock 2/}}
{{Game data/row|Linux|~/.systemshock2/systemshock2/drive_c/Program Files/SystemShock2/*.cfg}}
+
{{Game data/config|Linux|{{p|linuxhome}}/.systemshock2/systemshock2/drive_c/Program Files/SystemShock2/*.cfg}}
 
}}
 
}}
{{ii}} <code>cam.cfg</code> contains game settings.
+
{{ii}} {{file|cam.cfg}} contains game settings.
{{ii}} <code>cam_ext.cfg</code> is the configuration file for the game once patched using [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
+
{{ii}} {{file|cam_ext.cfg}} is the configuration file for the game once patched using [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
 
{{XDG|unknown}}
 
{{XDG|unknown}}
  
 
===Save game data location===
 
===Save game data location===
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
{{Game data/row|Windows|{{p|game}}\}}
+
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|game}}\save_*}}
{{Game data/row|OS X|}}
+
{{Game data/saves|OS X|}}
{{Game data/row|Linux|}}
+
{{Game data/saves|Linux|{{p|linuxhome}}/.systemshock2/systemshock2/drive_c/Program Files/SystemShock2/save_*}}
 
}}
 
}}
{{ii}} Save games are kept in multiple folders, e.g. <code>\save_0\</code>, <code>\save_1\</code>
+
{{ii}} Save games are kept in multiple folders, e.g. {{file|\save_0\|folder}}, {{file|\save_1\|folder}}, etc.
  
 
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 
{{Save game cloud syncing
 
{{Save game cloud syncing
|gog galaxy           = false
+
|discord                  = true
|gog galaxy notes     =  
+
|discord notes            =
|origin               =  
+
|epic games launcher      =
|origin notes         =  
+
|epic games launcher notes =
|steam cloud           = false
+
|gog galaxy               = false
|steam cloud notes     =  
+
|gog galaxy notes         =  
|uplay                =  
+
|origin                   =  
|uplay notes           =  
+
|origin notes             =  
|xbox cloud           =  
+
|steam cloud               = false
|xbox cloud notes     =  
+
|steam cloud notes         =  
 +
|ubisoft connect          =  
 +
|ubisoft connect notes     =  
 +
|xbox cloud               =  
 +
|xbox cloud notes         =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Video settings==
+
==Video==
 
{{Image|System Shock 2 settings.png|General settings.}}
 
{{Image|System Shock 2 settings.png|General settings.}}
{{Video settings
+
{{Video
|wsgf link                  = http://www.wsgf.org/dr/system-shock-2
+
|wsgf link                  = https://www.wsgf.org/dr/system-shock-2
 
|widescreen wsgf award      = gold
 
|widescreen wsgf award      = gold
 
|multimonitor wsgf award    = silver
 
|multimonitor wsgf award    = silver
Line 110: Line 129:
 
|ultrawidescreen notes      = Native for digital versions; for retail versions install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
 
|ultrawidescreen notes      = Native for digital versions; for retail versions install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
 
|4k ultra hd                = true
 
|4k ultra hd                = true
|4k ultra hd notes          = Native for digital versions;<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/pcgaming/comments/2zj0g5/does_the_steam_version_of_system_shock_2_support/ Does the steam version of System Shock 2 support 4k resolution? : pcgaming]</ref> for retail versions install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
+
|4k ultra hd notes          = Native for digital versions;<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/pcgaming/comments/2zj0g5/does_the_steam_version_of_system_shock_2_support/|title=Does the steam version of System Shock 2 support 4k resolution? : pcgaming|date=May 2023}}</ref> for retail versions install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
 
|fov                        = hackable
 
|fov                        = hackable
 
|fov notes                  = See [[#Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]].
 
|fov notes                  = See [[#Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]].
Line 121: Line 140:
 
|antialiasing              = true
 
|antialiasing              = true
 
|antialiasing notes        = Native for digital versions; for retail versions install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
 
|antialiasing notes        = Native for digital versions; for retail versions install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
|vsync                      = hackable
+
|upscaling                  = unknown
 +
|upscaling tech            =
 +
|upscaling notes            =
 +
|vsync                      = always on
 
|vsync notes                = See [[#Vertical sync (Vsync)|Vertical sync (Vsync)]].
 
|vsync notes                = See [[#Vertical sync (Vsync)|Vertical sync (Vsync)]].
 
|60 fps                    = true
 
|60 fps                    = true
Line 127: Line 149:
 
|120 fps                    = hackable
 
|120 fps                    = hackable
 
|120 fps notes              = Default framerate cap is 100 fps. See [[#High frame rate|High frame rate]].
 
|120 fps notes              = Default framerate cap is 100 fps. See [[#High frame rate|High frame rate]].
|color blind                =  
+
|hdr                        = unknown
 +
|hdr notes                  =
 +
|color blind                = unknown
 
|color blind notes          =  
 
|color blind notes          =  
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{ii}} In addition to setting video options, editing {{file|cam_ext.cfg}} allows setting the interface/HUD scale and transparency. There are also [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=29.0 custom crosshairs available] (using them with a mod manager requires changing their extension from <code>.ss2mod</code> to <code>.zip</code>).
  
 
===[[Glossary:Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]]===
 
{{Image|System Shock 2 settings FOV.png|FOV of 150.}}
 
{{Image|System Shock 2 settings FOV.png|FOV of 150.}}
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Change field of view (FOV)|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=AlphaYellow|date=2023-01-13}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Change field of view (FOV)|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
+
# For retail versions, install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
# For retail versions install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
+
# Edit {{file|{{p|game}}\cam_ext.cfg}}.
# Edit <code>{{p|game}}\cam_ext.cfg</code>.
 
 
# Change <code>;fov 90</code> to <code>fov #</code> (any number).
 
# Change <code>;fov 90</code> to <code>fov #</code> (any number).
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===[[Glossary:Windowed|Windowed]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Windowed|Windowed]]===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Change windowed mode|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=AlphaYellow|date=2023-01-13}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Change windowed mode|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
+
# For retail versions, install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
# For retail versions install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
+
# Edit {{file|{{p|game}}\cam_ext.cfg}}.
# Edit <code>{{p|game}}\cam_ext.cfg</code>.
 
 
# Change <code>;force_windowed</code> to <code>force_windowed</code>
 
# Change <code>;force_windowed</code> to <code>force_windowed</code>
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===[[Glossary:Vertical sync (Vsync)|Vertical sync (Vsync)]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Vertical sync (Vsync)|Vertical sync (Vsync)]]===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Disable vsync|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=AlphaYellow|date=2023-01-13}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Disable vsync|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
+
# For retail versions, install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
# For retail versions install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
+
# Edit {{file|{{p|game}}\cam_ext.cfg}}.
# Edit <code>{{p|game}}\cam_ext.cfg</code>.
 
 
# Change <code>;vsync_mode 0</code> to <code>vsync_mode 0</code>
 
# Change <code>;vsync_mode 0</code> to <code>vsync_mode 0</code>
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===[[Glossary:Frame rate (FPS)|High frame rate]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Frame rate (FPS)|High frame rate]]===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Change frame rate cap|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=AlphaYellow|date=2023-01-13}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Change frame rate cap|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
+
# For retail versions, install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
# For retail versions install [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
+
# Edit {{file|{{p|game}}\cam_ext.cfg}}.
# Edit <code>{{p|game}}\cam_ext.cfg</code>.
 
 
# Change <code>;vsync_mode 7</code> to <code>vsync_mode 7</code>
 
# Change <code>;vsync_mode 7</code> to <code>vsync_mode 7</code>
# Change <code>framerate_cap 100.0</code> to the FPS cap you want.
+
# Change <code>framerate_cap 100.0</code> to the desired FPS cap.
 
}}
 
}}
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Ensuring correct game speed|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=AlphaYellow|date=2023-01-13}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Ensuring correct game speed|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
 
 
# Go to the installation folder.
 
# Go to the installation folder.
# Edit <code>cam_ext.cfg</code>.
+
# Edit {{file|cam_ext.cfg}}.
 
# Change <code>;phys_freq 60</code> to <code>phys_freq 60</code>
 
# Change <code>;phys_freq 60</code> to <code>phys_freq 60</code>
 
# If you want more than 250 FPS, change <code>SlowFrame 4</code> to <code>;SlowFrame 4</code>
 
# If you want more than 250 FPS, change <code>SlowFrame 4</code> to <code>;SlowFrame 4</code>
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Input settings==
+
==Input==
{{Input settings
+
{{Input
 
|key remap                = true
 
|key remap                = true
|key remap notes          = Full remapping available, but no 'default' can be loaded.<ref>https://www.gog.com/forum/system_shock_2/suggestions_for_control_layouts/post16</ref> (although in the Steam version there is a "standard FPS" preset available)
+
|key remap notes          = Full remapping available, but no 'default' can be loaded.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.gog.com/forum/system_shock_series/suggestions_for_control_layouts/post16|title=gog.com|date=May 2023}}</ref> (although in the Steam version there is a "standard FPS" preset available)
 
|acceleration option      = false
 
|acceleration option      = false
|acceleration option notes =  
+
|acceleration option notes = No game-managed mouse acceleration. In addition, Windows mouse acceleration can be disabled in-game by adding <code>use_raw_mouse_input</code>
|mouse sensitivity        = unknown
+
|mouse sensitivity        = true
 
|mouse sensitivity notes  =  
 
|mouse sensitivity notes  =  
 
|mouse menu                = true
 
|mouse menu                = true
Line 184: Line 204:
 
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 
|invert mouse y-axis notes =  
 
|invert mouse y-axis notes =  
 +
|touchscreen              = unknown
 +
|touchscreen notes        =
 
|controller support        = false
 
|controller support        = false
|controller support notes  =  
+
|controller support notes  = Official [[Controller:Steam Controller|Steam Controller]] bindings only.
 
|full controller          = unknown
 
|full controller          = unknown
 
|full controller notes    =  
 
|full controller notes    =  
Line 194: Line 216:
 
|invert controller y-axis  = unknown
 
|invert controller y-axis  = unknown
 
|invert controller y-axis notes=  
 
|invert controller y-axis notes=  
|touchscreen               = unknown
+
|xinput controllers        = unknown
|touchscreen notes        =  
+
|xinput controllers notes  =
|button prompts           = unknown
+
|xbox prompts              = unknown
|button prompts notes     =  
+
|xbox prompts notes        =
 +
|impulse triggers          = unknown
 +
|impulse triggers notes    =
 +
|dualshock 4               = unknown
 +
|dualshock 4 notes        =
 +
|dualshock prompts        = unknown
 +
|dualshock prompts notes  =
 +
|light bar support        = unknown
 +
|light bar support notes  =
 +
|dualshock 4 modes        = unknown
 +
|dualshock 4 modes notes  =
 +
|tracked motion controllers= unknown
 +
|tracked motion controllers notes =
 +
|tracked motion prompts    = unknown
 +
|tracked motion prompts notes =
 +
|other controllers         = unknown
 +
|other controllers notes  =  
 +
|other button prompts     = unknown
 +
|other button prompts notes=  
 
|controller hotplug        = unknown
 
|controller hotplug        = unknown
 
|controller hotplug notes  =  
 
|controller hotplug notes  =  
 
|haptic feedback          = unknown
 
|haptic feedback          = unknown
 
|haptic feedback notes    =  
 
|haptic feedback notes    =  
|light bar support        = unknown
+
|simultaneous input        = false
|light bar support notes   =  
+
|simultaneous input notes  =
 +
|steam input api          = false
 +
|steam input api notes    = Official [[Controller:Steam Controller|Steam Controller]] bindings only.
 +
|steam hook input          = true
 +
|steam hook input notes    =
 +
|steam input presets      = true
 +
|steam input presets notes =
 +
|steam controller prompts  = false
 +
|steam controller prompts notes =
 +
|steam cursor detection    = unknown
 +
|steam cursor detection notes =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Audio settings==
+
==Audio==
{{Audio settings
+
{{Audio
 
|separate volume          = true
 
|separate volume          = true
 
|separate volume notes    =  
 
|separate volume notes    =  
 
|surround sound          = true
 
|surround sound          = true
|surround sound notes    = Up to 7.0 output<ref>[http://satsun.org/audio/ PC Gaming Surround Sound Round-up]</ref>
+
|surround sound notes    = Up to 7.0 output.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://satsun.org/audio/|title=PC Gaming Surround Sound Round-up|date=May 2023}}</ref> Requires [[Glossary:Surround sound#OpenAL|OpenAL Soft]].
 
|subtitles                = hackable
 
|subtitles                = hackable
 
|subtitles notes          = [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=9508.0 mod on Systemshock.org]
 
|subtitles notes          = [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=9508.0 mod on Systemshock.org]
Line 219: Line 269:
 
|mute on focus lost notes =  
 
|mute on focus lost notes =  
 
|eax support              = true
 
|eax support              = true
|eax support notes        = EAX (2{{CN|date=August 2015}}) and A3D. For further info refer to [http://www.ttlg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=117175 this thread]
+
|eax support notes        = EAX (2{{CN|date=August 2015}}) and A3D. For further info refer to [http://www.ttlg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=117175 this thread]. Effects from both APIs are remapped to OpenAL in NewDark versions.<br/>Follow [[Glossary:Surround sound#OpenAL|this guide]] for OpenAL Soft HRTF in NewDark.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=8371.0|title=SS2 Headphones Sound Upgrade|date=May 2023}}</ref>
 +
|royalty free audio      = always on
 +
|royalty free audio notes =
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 225: Line 277:
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = English
 
  |language  = English
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = yes
+
  |audio    = true
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = hackable
  |notes    =  
+
  |notes    = [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=9508 SS2 English Subtitles]
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
|fan notes =
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = German
 
  |language  = German
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = true
  |audio    = yes
+
  |audio    = true
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = hackable
  |notes    =  
+
  |notes    = [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=8395.0 SS2 Deutsche Untertitel / German Subtitles]
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
|fan notes =
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Italian
 
  |language  = Italian
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = hackable
  |audio    = no
+
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = hackable
  |notes    =  
+
|fan      = true
  |fan      = yes
+
  |notes    = Fan translation, [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=1593.msg8034#msg8034 download].
  |fan notes = See [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=1593.msg8034#msg8034 here]
+
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Brazilian Portuguese
 +
|interface = hackable
 +
|audio    = false
 +
  |subtitles = hackable
 +
  |notes     = [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=11777.0 Fan translation — GOG.com version.]
 +
|fan      = true
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Russian
 +
|interface = hackable
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = hackable
 +
|fan      = true
 +
|notes    = Fan translation, [https://github.com/BroFox86/ss2-rus/ download].
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Spanish
 
  |language  = Spanish
  |interface = yes
+
  |interface = hackable
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = yes
+
  |subtitles = hackable
  |notes    =  
+
|fan      = true
  |fan      = yes
+
  |notes    = Fan translation by ''Clan Dlan'', [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1v0UB6KcQrh8KLZAzHpxLk5pu4oyoHPxX/view?usp=drive_link download].
  |fan notes = See [http://academia.clandlan.net/?page=academia/view&id=1&title=Traduccion_de_System_Shock_2 here]
+
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Ukrainian
 +
|interface = hackable
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = hackable
 +
  |fan      = true
 +
  |notes     = Fan translation, [https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=2896345948 download].
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Network==
 
==Network==
 +
{{ii}} Multiplayer is officially unsupported in NewDark. Even so, a guide for use with NewDark is available [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=61.0 here].
 +
 
{{Network/Multiplayer
 
{{Network/Multiplayer
 
|local play          =  
 
|local play          =  
Line 309: Line 383:
 
|iz3d                        = hackable
 
|iz3d                        = hackable
 
|iz3d notes                  = See [http://www.ttlg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=138821 install/setup instructions].
 
|iz3d notes                  = See [http://www.ttlg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=138821 install/setup instructions].
 +
|vorpx                      = true
 +
|vorpx modes                = Z3D
 +
|vorpx notes                = Officially supported game, see [https://www.vorpx.com/supported-games/ official vorpx game list].
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Issues fixed==
 
==Issues fixed==
 
===Random crashing===
 
===Random crashing===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Use SS2Tool|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=AlphaYellow|date=2023-01-13}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Use SS2Tool|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
 
 
See [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
 
See [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
 +
}}
 +
 +
===Jerky/Uneven mouse movement===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Add a line to cam_ext.cfg|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=AlphaYellow|date=2023-01-13}}</ref>|fix=
 +
Install NewDark via [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
 +
 +
# Go to the installation folder.
 +
# Open {{file|cam_ext.cfg}}.
 +
# Add the line <code>use_raw_mouse_input</code>.
 +
# Save the file.
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Left-clicking or dragging does not work===
 
===Left-clicking or dragging does not work===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Use SS2Tool|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=AlphaYellow|date=2023-01-13}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Use SS2Tool|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
 
 
See [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
 
See [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool].
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Small game window or black screen===
 
===Small game window or black screen===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Edit cam_ext.cfg to disable multisampling|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=AlphaYellow|date=2023-01-13}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Edit cam_ext.cfg to disable multisampling|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
 
 
# Go to the installation folder.
 
# Go to the installation folder.
# Open <code>cam_ext.cfg</code> using Notepad.
+
# Open {{file|cam_ext.cfg}} using a text editor.
 
#Comment out and change <code>multisampletype 8</code> to <code>;multisampletype 8</code>
 
#Comment out and change <code>multisampletype 8</code> to <code>;multisampletype 8</code>
 
}}
 
}}
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Enable SS2Tool Safe Mode|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=AlphaYellow|date=2023-01-13}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Enable SS2Tool Safe Mode|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
 
 
# Download and run the [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool] installer.
 
# Download and run the [http://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4141.0 SS2Tool] installer.
 
# At the Choose Components installation step, enable Safe Mode.
 
# At the Choose Components installation step, enable Safe Mode.
Line 339: Line 422:
  
 
===UI too small on high screen resolutions===
 
===UI too small on high screen resolutions===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Edit cam_ext.cfg to enable ui scaling|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=AlphaYellow|date=2023-01-13}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Edit cam_ext.cfg to enable ui scaling|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
+
#Open {{file|cam_ext.cfg}} in a text editor.
#Open cam_ext.cfg in Notepad or any other text editor.
 
 
#Uncomment the line <code>;d3d_disp_scaled_2d_overlay 64</code> by removing the semicolon.
 
#Uncomment the line <code>;d3d_disp_scaled_2d_overlay 64</code> by removing the semicolon.
  
 
'''Notes'''
 
'''Notes'''
{{ii}} If this does not fix the issue, you may try scaling the UI to arbitrary resolutions by re-commenting out the above line (add back in the semicolon), uncommenting the line <code>;d3d_disp_scaled_2d_overlay 640 480</code> and adjusting the 640 and the 480 to your desired resolution. However, this may cause the ui to become blurry/pixelated, so try the initial fix first.
+
{{ii}} If this does not fix the issue, try scaling the UI to arbitrary resolutions by re-commenting out the above line (add back in the semicolon), uncommenting the line <code>;d3d_disp_scaled_2d_overlay 640 480</code> and adjusting the 640 and the 480 to the desired resolution. However, this may cause the UI to become blurry/pixelated, so try the initial fix first.
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Poor performance on Mac wineskin version===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Enable X11|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/238210/discussions/0/618463738398581702/|title=Steam Community|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 +
Find the ''System Shock 2.app'' and right-click on it. Click ''Show Contents'' and run ''Wineskin.app''. In the Screen Options, you should see a checkbox that says ''Use Mac Driver instead of X11''. Uncheck that box and that should fix the problem. If box is already unchecked then check it instead.
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Can't dive in Mac or Linux version===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Place [https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7quQTgSRc9KOUdvVV9LMUx0VVE/edit?usp=sharing this dml file] in the SS2 folder|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.gog.com/forum/system_shock_series/system_shock_2_mac_cant_dive/post135|title=gog.com|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=}}
  
 
==Other information==
 
==Other information==
 
===API===
 
===API===
 
{{API
 
{{API
|direct3d versions      =  
+
|direct3d versions      = 6.1, 9.0c
|direct3d notes        =  
+
|direct3d notes        = Originally released with 6.1; 9.0c support was added in digital re-releases
|directdraw versions    =  
+
|directdraw versions    = 6.1
 
|directdraw notes      =  
 
|directdraw notes      =  
 
|opengl versions        =  
 
|opengl versions        =  
Line 365: Line 455:
 
|metal support          =  
 
|metal support          =  
 
|metal support notes    =  
 
|metal support notes    =  
|vulkan support        =  
+
|vulkan versions        =  
|vulkan support notes   =  
+
|vulkan notes           =  
 
|dos modes              =  
 
|dos modes              =  
 
|dos modes notes        =  
 
|dos modes notes        =  
 
|shader model versions  =  
 
|shader model versions  =  
 
|shader model notes    =  
 
|shader model notes    =  
|64-bit executable     = unknown
+
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
|64-bit executable notes=  
+
|windows 64-bit exe    = false
 +
|windows arm app        = unknown
 +
|windows exe notes     =
 +
|mac os x powerpc app  = unknown
 +
|macos intel 32-bit app = true
 +
|macos intel 64-bit app = true
 +
|macos arm app          = unknown
 +
|macos app notes        = Was changed from using Wine (which lacks a 64-bit macOS version) to Wineskin Winery in July 2020, making it possible to run on macOS 10.15 onwards.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/238210/view/2498884002761949803|title=MacOS update for System Shock 2|date=21 November 2022}}</ref>
 +
|linux 32-bit executable= true
 +
|linux 64-bit executable= false
 +
|linux arm app          = unknown
 +
|linux executable notes =  
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Middleware===
 +
{{Middleware
 +
|physics          =
 +
|physics notes    =
 +
|audio            = DirectSound, OpenAL
 +
|audio notes      = Replaced with OpenAL in NewDark
 +
|interface        =
 +
|interface notes  =
 +
|input            =
 +
|input notes      =
 +
|cutscenes        =
 +
|cutscenes notes  =
 +
|multiplayer      =
 +
|multiplayer notes=
 +
}}
 +
 +
===Mods and fan missions===
 +
{{mm}} [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?topic=4447.0 Modding guide with links and relevant mod info, from the System Shock Forums].
 +
{{mm}} System Shock Forums boards for [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?board=2.0 mods], [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?board=3.0 fan missions], and [https://www.systemshock.org/index.php?board=38.0 editing documentation]
 +
{{ii}} Modding the Wineskin version can be done by firstly installing the Windows version in a virtual machine, patching it, installing all desired modifications, and then replacing the System Shock 2 installation within the Wineskin version with the custom version.
  
 
==System requirements==
 
==System requirements==
 +
===Original retail release===
 +
{{System requirements
 +
|OSfamily = Windows
 +
 +
|minOS    = 95
 +
|minCPU  = Intel Pentium 200 MHz / Cyrix 6x86 / AMD K6
 +
|minRAM  = 32 MB
 +
|minHD    = 200 MB
 +
|minDX    = 6.1
 +
|minVRAM  = 4 MB
 +
|minaudio = Sound card with DirectSound support
 +
 +
|recOS    = 95, 98
 +
|recCPU  = Intel Pentium 300 MHz
 +
|recRAM  = 64 MB
 +
|recHD    = 500 MB
 +
|recGPU  = 3Dfx Voodoo Graphics / Voodoo Rush / Voodoo 2 / Voodoo Banshee / ATI Rage Pro / Nvidia Riva 128 / Nvidia TNT / Rendition Vérité V2200 / Intel740 / Matrox G200
 +
}}
 +
 +
===Digital re-release===
 
{{System requirements
 
{{System requirements
 
|OSfamily = Windows
 
|OSfamily = Windows
  
|minOS    = XP, Vista, 7, 8
+
|minOS    = XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10
 
|minCPU  = 1.8 GHz
 
|minCPU  = 1.8 GHz
 
|minRAM  = 2 GB
 
|minRAM  = 2 GB
Line 391: Line 533:
  
 
|minOS    = 10.7.0
 
|minOS    = 10.7.0
|minCPU  = Intel Core 2 Duo 2 GHz
+
|minCPU  = Intel Core 2 Duo 1.8 GHz
 
|minRAM  = 2 GB
 
|minRAM  = 2 GB
 
|minHD    = 2 GB
 
|minHD    = 2 GB
Line 398: Line 540:
  
 
{{References}}
 
{{References}}
 +
{{GOG.com Enhancement Project}}

Latest revision as of 18:26, 3 December 2023

System Shock 2
System Shock 2 cover
Developers
Irrational Games
Looking Glass Studios
Publishers
1999-2012 Electronic Arts
2012-present Night Dive Studios
Engines
Dark Engine
Release dates
Windows August 11, 1999
macOS (OS X) (Wine) June 18, 2013[1]
Linux (Wine) April 1, 2014
Taxonomy
Monetization One-time game purchase
Modes Singleplayer
Pacing Real-time
Perspectives First-person
Controls Direct control
Genres Immersive sim, Shooter, RPG
Art styles Realistic
Themes Cyberpunk, Sci-fi
Series System Shock
System Shock 2 on HowLongToBeat
System Shock 2 guide on StrategyWiki
System Shock 2 on MobyGames
System Shock 2 on Wikipedia
System Shock
System Shock 1994
System Shock 2 1999
System Shock: Enhanced Edition 2015
System Shock (2023) 2023
System Shock 2 Enhanced Edition TBA
System Shock 3 TBA

System Shock 2 is a singleplayer first-person immersive sim, shooter and RPG game in the System Shock series.

General information

Modding guide on the PCGamingWiki blog
SHODANPEDIA - Unofficial System Shock wiki
TTLG Forums - System Shock Series
systemshock.org Forum
systemshock.org Forum - SS2 Troubleshooting Guide
GOG.com Community Discussions for game series
GOG.com Support Page
Steam Community Discussions

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Disc check (requires the CD/DVD in the drive to play)
SafeDisc DRM[Note 1].
Windows
Publisher website
Icon overlay.png
Purchase via Humble Widget.
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Linux
GamersGate
Icon overlay.png
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Linux
GOG.com
DRM-free
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Green Man Gaming
Icon overlay.png
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Linux
Humble Store
DRM-free
Icon overlay.png
Windows
Humble Store
Icon overlay.png
System Shock Pack, 2 games bundle.
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Linux
Steam
DRM-free after installation through Steam client (notes may include more details)
DRM-free when launched directly from executable.
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Linux
SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows Vista and later (see above for affected versions).
All the digital distribution versions are pre-patched with NewDark.
OS X and Linux versions use Wine.
A faithful higher resolution icon for Windows can be downloaded from the Files section.
A free demo version is available from Archive.org.

Essential improvements

SS2Tool

Essential patcher which integrates the NewDark patch and fixes various issues.
Latest versions automatically disable the intro video (to re-enable it, add always_play_intro to the cam.cfg or cam_ext files).
SS2Tool requires Vista or later due to included Rsync, however NewDark runs on 2000/XP or later. One can patch it on a Vista machine then transfer it to an older machine. Digital versions already include NewDark and compatibility fixes for modern systems, but the tool is still necessary for proper mod support.

OldDark Legacy Patch

Allows the original (aka OldDark) engine to run on modern systems.
Not as stable as NewDark, but is more true to the original experience.

Game data

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
Windows <path-to-game>\*.cfg[Note 2]
macOS (OS X) <path-to-game>/Contents/Resources/drive_c/Games/System Shock 2/
Linux $HOME/.systemshock2/systemshock2/drive_c/Program Files/SystemShock2/*.cfg
cam.cfg contains game settings.
cam_ext.cfg is the configuration file for the game once patched using SS2Tool.
It's unknown whether this game follows the XDG Base Directory Specification on Linux. Please fill in this information.

Save game data location

System Location
Windows <path-to-game>\save_*[Note 2]
macOS (OS X)
Linux $HOME/.systemshock2/systemshock2/drive_c/Program Files/SystemShock2/save_*
Save games are kept in multiple folders, e.g. \save_0\, \save_1\, etc.

Save game cloud syncing

System Native Notes
GOG Galaxy
Steam Cloud

Video

General settings.
General settings.

Graphics feature State WSGF Notes
Widescreen resolution
Native for digital versions; for retail versions install SS2Tool.
Multi-monitor
Native for digital versions; for retail versions install SS2Tool.
Ultra-widescreen
Native for digital versions; for retail versions install SS2Tool.
4K Ultra HD
Native for digital versions;[4] for retail versions install SS2Tool.
Field of view (FOV)
See Field of view (FOV).
Windowed
See Windowed.
Borderless fullscreen windowed
Enable Windowed mode, then use desktop resolution in-game.
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
Native for digital versions; for retail versions install SS2Tool.
Anti-aliasing (AA)
Native for digital versions; for retail versions install SS2Tool.
Vertical sync (Vsync)
See Vertical sync (Vsync).
60 FPS
120+ FPS
Default framerate cap is 100 fps. See High frame rate.
High dynamic range display (HDR)
See the glossary page for potential alternatives.
In addition to setting video options, editing cam_ext.cfg allows setting the interface/HUD scale and transparency. There are also custom crosshairs available (using them with a mod manager requires changing their extension from .ss2mod to .zip).

Field of view (FOV)

FOV of 150.
FOV of 150.
Change field of view (FOV)[5]
  1. For retail versions, install SS2Tool.
  2. Edit <path-to-game>\cam_ext.cfg.
  3. Change ;fov 90 to fov # (any number).

Windowed

Change windowed mode[6]
  1. For retail versions, install SS2Tool.
  2. Edit <path-to-game>\cam_ext.cfg.
  3. Change ;force_windowed to force_windowed

Vertical sync (Vsync)

Disable vsync[7]
  1. For retail versions, install SS2Tool.
  2. Edit <path-to-game>\cam_ext.cfg.
  3. Change ;vsync_mode 0 to vsync_mode 0

High frame rate

Change frame rate cap[8]
  1. For retail versions, install SS2Tool.
  2. Edit <path-to-game>\cam_ext.cfg.
  3. Change ;vsync_mode 7 to vsync_mode 7
  4. Change framerate_cap 100.0 to the desired FPS cap.
Ensuring correct game speed[9]
  1. Go to the installation folder.
  2. Edit cam_ext.cfg.
  3. Change ;phys_freq 60 to phys_freq 60
  4. If you want more than 250 FPS, change SlowFrame 4 to ;SlowFrame 4

Input

Keyboard and mouse State Notes
Remapping
Full remapping available, but no 'default' can be loaded.[10] (although in the Steam version there is a "standard FPS" preset available)
Mouse acceleration
No game-managed mouse acceleration. In addition, Windows mouse acceleration can be disabled in-game by adding use_raw_mouse_input
Mouse sensitivity
Mouse input in menus
Mouse Y-axis inversion
Controller
Controller support
Official Steam Controller bindings only.
Controller types
Steam Input
Steam Input API support
Official Steam Controller bindings only.
Hook input (legacy mode)
Official controller preset(s)
Steam Controller button prompts
Cursor detection

Audio

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Surround sound
Up to 7.0 output.[11] Requires OpenAL Soft.
Subtitles
mod on Systemshock.org
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
EAX support
EAX (2[citation needed]) and A3D. For further info refer to this thread. Effects from both APIs are remapped to OpenAL in NewDark versions.
Follow this guide for OpenAL Soft HRTF in NewDark.[12]
Royalty free audio

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
SS2 English Subtitles
German
SS2 Deutsche Untertitel / German Subtitles
Italian
Fan translation, download.
Brazilian Portuguese
Fan translation — GOG.com version.
Russian
Fan translation, download.
Spanish
Fan translation by Clan Dlan, download.
Ukrainian
Fan translation, download.

Network

Multiplayer is officially unsupported in NewDark. Even so, a guide for use with NewDark is available here.

Multiplayer types

Type Native Players Notes
LAN play
4 Co-op
Online play
4 Co-op

Connection types

Ports

Protocol Port(s) and/or port range(s)
TCP 2300-2400, 28800-28900
UDP 2300-2400, 28800-28900
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) support status is unknown.

VR support

3D modes State Notes
Nvidia 3D Vision
See install/setup instructions.
iZ3D
See install/setup instructions.
vorpX
Z3D
Officially supported game, see official vorpx game list.

Issues fixed

Random crashing

Use SS2Tool[13]

See SS2Tool.

Jerky/Uneven mouse movement

Add a line to cam_ext.cfg[14]

Install NewDark via SS2Tool.

  1. Go to the installation folder.
  2. Open cam_ext.cfg.
  3. Add the line use_raw_mouse_input.
  4. Save the file.

Left-clicking or dragging does not work

Use SS2Tool[15]

See SS2Tool.

Small game window or black screen

Edit cam_ext.cfg to disable multisampling[16]
  1. Go to the installation folder.
  2. Open cam_ext.cfg using a text editor.
  3. Comment out and change multisampletype 8 to ;multisampletype 8
Enable SS2Tool Safe Mode[17]
  1. Download and run the SS2Tool installer.
  2. At the Choose Components installation step, enable Safe Mode.
  3. Click Install and finish installing.

UI too small on high screen resolutions

Edit cam_ext.cfg to enable ui scaling[18]
  1. Open cam_ext.cfg in a text editor.
  2. Uncomment the line ;d3d_disp_scaled_2d_overlay 64 by removing the semicolon.

Notes

If this does not fix the issue, try scaling the UI to arbitrary resolutions by re-commenting out the above line (add back in the semicolon), uncommenting the line ;d3d_disp_scaled_2d_overlay 640 480 and adjusting the 640 and the 480 to the desired resolution. However, this may cause the UI to become blurry/pixelated, so try the initial fix first.

Poor performance on Mac wineskin version

Enable X11[19]

Find the System Shock 2.app and right-click on it. Click Show Contents and run Wineskin.app. In the Screen Options, you should see a checkbox that says Use Mac Driver instead of X11. Uncheck that box and that should fix the problem. If box is already unchecked then check it instead.

Can't dive in Mac or Linux version

Place this dml file in the SS2 folder[20]

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
Direct3D 6, 9.0c Originally released with 6.1; 9.0c support was added in digital re-releases
DirectDraw 6.1
Executable 32-bit 64-bit Notes
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Was changed from using Wine (which lacks a 64-bit macOS version) to Wineskin Winery in July 2020, making it possible to run on macOS 10.15 onwards.[21]
Linux

Middleware

Middleware Notes
Audio DirectSound, OpenAL Replaced with OpenAL in NewDark

Mods and fan missions

Modding guide with links and relevant mod info, from the System Shock Forums.
System Shock Forums boards for mods, fan missions, and editing documentation
Modding the Wineskin version can be done by firstly installing the Windows version in a virtual machine, patching it, installing all desired modifications, and then replacing the System Shock 2 installation within the Wineskin version with the custom version.

System requirements

Original retail release

Windows
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) 95
Processor (CPU) Intel Pentium 200 MHz / Cyrix 6x86 / AMD K6
System memory (RAM) 32 MB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 200 MB
Video card (GPU) 4 MB of VRAM
DirectX 6.1 compatible
Sound (audio device) Sound card with DirectSound support

Digital re-release

Windows
Minimum
Operating system (OS) XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10
Processor (CPU) 1.8 GHz
System memory (RAM) 2 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 2 GB
Video card (GPU) DirectX 9.0c compatible
macOS (OS X)
Minimum
Operating system (OS) 10.7.0
Processor (CPU) Intel Core 2 Duo 1.8 GHz
System memory (RAM) 2 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 2 GB
Video card (GPU) 256 MB of VRAM


Notes

  1. SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows 10[2] or Windows 11 and is disabled by default on Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 when the KB3086255 update is installed.[3]
  2. 2.0 2.1 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).

References

  1. Mac Game Update: System Shock 2 + 10 more titles ● GOG.com - last accessed on 9 June 2023
  2. Not Loading in Windows 10; this will break thousands of - Microsoft Community - last accessed on 2017-01-16
  3. Microsoft - MS15-097: Description of the security update for the graphics component in Windows: September 8, 2015 - last accessed on 2018-02-16
  4. Does the steam version of System Shock 2 support 4k resolution? : pcgaming - last accessed on May 2023
  5. Verified by User:AlphaYellow on 2023-01-13
  6. Verified by User:AlphaYellow on 2023-01-13
  7. Verified by User:AlphaYellow on 2023-01-13
  8. Verified by User:AlphaYellow on 2023-01-13
  9. Verified by User:AlphaYellow on 2023-01-13
  10. gog.com - last accessed on May 2023
  11. PC Gaming Surround Sound Round-up - last accessed on May 2023
  12. SS2 Headphones Sound Upgrade - last accessed on May 2023
  13. Verified by User:AlphaYellow on 2023-01-13
  14. Verified by User:AlphaYellow on 2023-01-13
  15. Verified by User:AlphaYellow on 2023-01-13
  16. Verified by User:AlphaYellow on 2023-01-13
  17. Verified by User:AlphaYellow on 2023-01-13
  18. Verified by User:AlphaYellow on 2023-01-13
  19. Steam Community - last accessed on May 2023
  20. gog.com - last accessed on May 2023
  21. MacOS update for System Shock 2 - last accessed on 21 November 2022