Skip vanilla?

[Shamus]

I must say that this mod looks very interesting, but I am curious about something. My copy of M2TW is in the mail (finally got a computer capable of playing it), so I have no experience with the game. Is the basic framework of the game still intact in the mod? That is to say, will I be able to read the manual for the vanilla version, and apply what I read to the modded version? I’m guessing that the SS mod is to M2TW, what RTR was to RTW. Yes?

[Caesar Clivus]

You can skip vanilla if you so wish. Just make sure you dont install any submods until you get a hang of the main game.

[Henry X]

Still rocking the cat avatar Clivus? I haven't been in this part of the forums in a long time...

I was able to pick up and play right from the start when I got SS, so you shouldn't have any problems.

[Ichon]

Speaking as one who just got MTW2 as well and had mostly played Shogun and RTW with RTR prior I had no trouble skipping vanilla. Playing RTW you should already be familiar with the basic mechanics and only thing different really is the diplomatic system and cavalry plays a bit different with heavy armored cav being even more devastating if used correctly than in RTW vs most infantry. I am not sure what use the manual would be honestly...

If you are adventurous jump right into the SS/BYG compilation 6.2- although 6.1 SS is worth playing for the larger map and extra factions compared to vanilla alone not to mention the other additions.

[HighLord z0b]

I would skip vanilla (or play a short campaign) but play 6.1 without BGR RR/RC or supply traits. Then go to the compliation.