I have two different mod setups, courtesy of mTES4: one using Oblivion XP and the other using nGCD + Progress. Since my playing time is quite limited, I've stacked the Oblivion XP setup with FCOM, several of TheNiceOne's mods, and a whole boatload of quest mods. When Darkrder's Sancre Tor mod comes out, I'll be in a position to play through that, which I've looked forward to for a long time. In a nutshell, this setup plays a bit faster.
The second setup has nGCD + Progress, several of Phitt's mods, and several of Tejon's other ones. This is for a challenging game. Tactical, slow, thinking, planning... Combat is something to avoid until ready. And being ready means planning ahead. Only a few potions available, can't carry much, have to watch my fatigue levels, protect against disease, Cava Obscura makes things really dark, so plan for torches... This game moves very slowly, but is quite fun. It just takes longer, and I have little time at the moment. However, getting through a cave is a monumentally satisfying accomplishment!
The second setup has nGCD + Progress, several of Phitt's mods, and several of Tejon's other ones. This is for a challenging game. Tactical, slow, thinking, planning... Combat is something to avoid until ready. And being ready means planning ahead. Only a few potions available, can't carry much, have to watch my fatigue levels, protect against disease, Cava Obscura makes things really dark, so plan for torches... This game moves very slowly, but is quite fun. It just takes longer, and I have little time at the moment. However, getting through a cave is a monumentally satisfying accomplishment!
Your two descriptions really intrigue me! I really like the sound of the second method. What makes the first one so much more quickly paced than the second? Why is the second more steady and strategic?