Do I need to unpack files?

[ahedgpe]

If I am not going to modify M2TW files, but install SS + SSTC + RR/RC is it advisable to unpack M2TW and Kingdoms files?

[Calamarain]

I don't think so. The installation instructions say nothing about it. SS works fine without extracting anyway.

[Sonny WiFiHr]

If I am not going to modify M2TW files, but install SS + SSTC + RR/RC is it advisable to unpack M2TW and Kingdoms files?

No.

[Caesar Clivus]

I wouldn't unpack them as this can lead to problems with your game, or so I have heard.

[Gorrrrrn]

I have them all unpacked and not had problems.

There may be issues (depending on the state of your hard drive / speed of processor etc) with retrieving files from the packed files - may the cause of CTDs with byzantine walls etc. Unpacking the m2TW and kingdoms files and moving relevant files into the SS folder may help prevent some CTDs.

(There's no hard and fast rule here - if the game works fine without unpacking then you don't need to unpack, if it works better with them unpacked then unpack.)