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Patch Settings

These settings control how Synthesis exports your final patch files.

Lower FormID Range

This setting controls whether Synthesis should allow using the "lower" FormID ranges (0x000000 - 0x000800).

Default: Auto (recommended)

What are Lower FormID Ranges?

FormIDs in the lower range (0-0x800, typically) are usually reserved by the game engine for hardcoded records. Using these FormIDs can potentially cause issues with game stability.

Available Options

  • Auto - Let Synthesis automatically detect whether lower FormID ranges should be used based on your load order and game requirements
  • Disallow - Never use lower FormID ranges (safest option)
  • Allow - Permit usage of lower FormID ranges if needed

When to Change

In most cases, the Auto setting is recommended. Only change this if you have specific knowledge about your load order requirements or are troubleshooting FormID-related issues.

Master Version Override

This setting allows you to export patches with a specific header version instead of using the latest version for your game.

Default: Empty (uses latest version)

Usage

  • Empty/Blank - Uses the latest header version for your game (recommended)
  • Specific Version - Enter a version number (e.g., 1.70) to force that header version

Important Notes

  • Not recommended to change - Modern tools and games expect current header versions
  • Only modify this setting if you have a specific compatibility requirement with older tools
  • Incorrect header versions may cause crashes or loading issues
  • This is an advanced setting for edge cases only

Master Flag

This setting controls whether your patch file is exported with the Master flag enabled.

Default: OFF (disabled)

What is the Master Flag?

The Master flag marks a plugin file as a "master" file in Bethesda games. Master files:

  • Load before regular plugin files
  • Can be referenced by other plugins as dependencies
  • Are typically used for base game files and major overhauls

When to Enable

  • Generally leave OFF - Most Synthesis patches should be regular plugins, not masters
  • Only enable if you specifically need other plugins to reference your Synthesis patch as a master dependency
  • Enabling this unnecessarily can complicate your load order

Location in Settings

These settings are found in the Profile settings under the Patch Settings section, located above the Compaction settings.