Fallout London Downgrader Duration Guide

Installing the ambitious Fallout: London mod requires downgrading Fallout 4 to version 1.10.163.0, a process that varies in time based on your method, internet speed, and hardware. Automated tools typically finish in 10-30 minutes, while manual approaches can stretch to hours.

Why Downgrade Fallout 4 for Fallout London?

Fallout: London, a massive total conversion mod, transforms the Commonwealth into a post-apocalyptic London. It demands the pre-next-gen Fallout 4 build (1.10.163.0) because later updates introduced incompatibilities with the mod’s custom assets and scripts. Steam’s automatic updates push the game to newer versions, so reverting is essential. GOG users often skip this step if their version aligns.

Key prerequisites include owning Fallout 4 GOTY Edition or all DLCs (except High Resolution Texture Pack), a clean install, and tools like a mod manager (Vortex or Mod Organizer 2).

Automated Downgrader: Fastest Option

The official Fallout London Downgrader from Nexus Mods simplifies everything into a few clicks. Download it as a mod, launch FOLON-Downgrader.exe (or bash script for Linux/Mac), and it handles depot downloads, file replacements, and backups.

• Expected time: 10-15 minutes on average broadband (50+ Mbps); up to 30 minutes on slower connections.
• Process breakdown: Initial setup (1-2 min), depot downloads (5-20 min), patching (2-5 min).
• Version note: Use v1.5 or later; v1.4 had bugs causing hangs at ‘depot 1/7’.

Users report smooth runs after a fresh Fallout 4 reinstall. Enable via mod manager post-extraction.

Table estimates based on ~15-20 GB depot data.

Manual Downgrade: For Advanced Users

If automation fails, manually revert via Steam console. This replicates the tool’s depot fetching but requires commands.

1. Open Steam console: steam://open/console.
2. Download core game: download_depot 377160 377161 7497069378349273908 (Part A), repeat for Parts B-G (7 depots total for base game).
3. Add DLC depots if owned (e.g., Automatron: download_depot 377160 435870 1691678129192680960).
4. Extract with steamcmd +workshop_download_item or GCFScape.
5. Copy files, overwriting newer versions; backup first.

Time estimate: 1-4 hours, dominated by downloads (14 depots max, excluding textures). Test base game first.

YouTube guides confirm: First four depots suffice for base FO4; DLC adds time.

Factors Affecting Downgrader Speed

Several variables influence duration:

• Internet bandwidth: Primary bottleneck; pause other downloads.
• Storage SSD vs. HDD: SSD extraction 2-3x faster.
• PC specs: Modern CPU/RAM handles patching quicker.
• Steam queue: Clear download queue; verify integrity post-process.
• Antivirus: Whitelist tools to avoid interruptions.

For Fallout London, skip HD Texture Pack depot—it’s incompatible.

Step-by-Step Installation After Downgrade

Once downgraded:

1. Run Fallout 4 once to generate files.
2. Install Fallout: London via Overwolf/GOG (automatic) or manual extract.
3. Add F4SE, FPS fixes, UI mods via Vortex.
4. Launch with mod manager; enable London ESM.

Clean start: Uninstall mods, delete Data folder leftovers.

Troubleshooting Common Delays and Errors

Stuck processes? Here’s how to fix:

• Hangs at depot 1/7: Update to v1.5; restart Steam.
• Slow downloads: VPN off, wired connection.
• Version mismatch: Check Fallout4.exe properties for 1.10.163.0.
• Mod conflicts: Disable all pre-London mods.
• Black screen: Install High FPS Physics Fix.

Forum users note Vortex integration eases management.

Benefits of Using the Downgrader Tool

Beyond speed, the Nexus tool bundles essentials: edited masters, scripts, recommended addons. It’s safer than manual, with backups and verification. Community consensus: Stick to official for reliability.

GOG vs. Steam: Platform Differences

GOG users: Often no downgrade needed; just install London. Steam mandates it due to updates. Both require GOTY/DLCs.

Post-Install Performance Tips

After setup, optimize:

• INI tweaks for London-specific tweaks.
• Update F4SE to match downgraded version.
• Enable borderless window, VSync off for FPS.
• Monitor with MSI Afterburner.

Expect 60+ FPS on mid-range PCs.

FAQ

How long does the Fallout London downgrader take exactly?
10-30 minutes typically; depends on internet.

Is manual downgrade faster?
No, slower (hours) but viable if automated fails.

Do I need all DLCs?
Yes, for full compatibility.

Can I upgrade back after?
Yes, reinstall fresh FO4.

Works on Game Pass?
No, Steam/GOG only.

Advanced Modding with London

Post-downgrade, layer patches, weapons, companions. Use LOOT for load order. Nexus hosts London-specific section.

Timeline: Prep (30 min), downgrade (20 min), install (10 min), play!