In short: we recommend using the Steam version or the original Crytek CD Retail build only. Version 1.4. Anything else is at your own risk.

We often notice that people stumble upon all kinds of shitty game builds that run unstable with the project. Somewhere, some GOG version with weird stuff, packed with custom scripts or textures (allegedly “improvements” without any real understanding of the consequences of such modifications), somewhere custom shaders are inserted that are incompatible with the latest 1.4 version, somewhere there are weird objects or .pak files coming from who knows where, somewhere localizations are placed outside the proper directories, adapted for single use by some half-baked author’s build.

We’ve had enough of this, and we’re stating it openly: the internet is genuinely full of trashy, utterly broken builds not compatible with mods adapted for the LATEST game version. Our recommendation: rely on the Retail 1.4 clear CD version or the Steam version. That’s it. No GOG builds, no basement-made custom builds with rats running around. Stick to the clean original as it is.

Also, if you notice compatibility issues, make sure you carefully read the corresponding sections on the project page on itch.io/fcav. We are not responsible for random builds altered to someone’s personal taste by some unknown author who apparently thinks he’s smarter than the entire universe. Rely on a clean build, preferably from Crytek themselves. Version 1.4 is recommended. A clean 1.1 build will also work, but it contains shaders compiled under the old standard, whereas our project relies on the latest shaders from 1.4. If you will have some troubles with shaders, again - all that kind of info is on the site.

The problem isn’t with the people who encounter these builds. The problem is that hardly anyone raises this issue, causing a mess online.

So, we are taking the step to clarify it.
UPD: Even Ubisoft version isn't clear! Be aware. Use retail CD official version from Crytek or Steam version - it's our recommendation for now.