Fallout 4 mod gives the Institute a dark mode-style makeover

When they’re not chatting to random NPCs, decorating their settlements or laughing at a joke told by a robotic clown, Fallout 4’s Sole Survivor can often be found fending off the many dangers of The Commonwealth.

Whether it’s terrifying mutated creatures, bloodthirsty raiders or imposing Brotherhood of Steel gunships, life on the surface of the wasteland certainly isn't very safe for those not used to blasting or zapping their way out of trouble.

One of the few locations that can offer a secure haven to shield you from these horrors is the Institute, and if you’re heading down there regularly but aren’t a fan of the décor, a new mod might be worth taking a look at.

Feel like Fallout 4’s mysterious underground scientists could do with some less shiny digs?

The mod in question is fittingly titled ‘Retro Institute Overhaul’ and is the work of modder AltHenryy. One of their previous projects switched up the game’s loading screens.

This time, they’ve decided to take on the task of offering the fine folks at the Institute some interior design advice, having gotten tired of feeling like they’ve been hit by a flashbang grenade whenever they make the transition from muted post-apocalyptic tones to the faction’s labs.

So inspired by the appearances of older generation synths, they’ve swapped the white paint coating the compound’s array of walls, floors and machines for darker grey and tan shades that lean more heavily into a retro sci-fi vibe.

Naturally, much like the original, these changes won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, arguably blunting the stark contrast that’s supposed to make the Institute immediately feel like an impressive and futuristic place when the Sole Survivor first arrives there.

That said, if you don’t feel their sales pitch for The Commonwealth’s future hinges on the ability to convince you that their ability to keep their base spotlessly clean will translate well into bringing order to post-apocalyptic Boston, you might not find the new colours too immersion-breaking.

Regardless of whether your Sole Survivor can be easily swayed by people who are skilled at doing laundry and mopping floors, make sure to follow us for more updates on interesting mods like this one for Skyrim and Cyberpunk 2077. You can also check out our mods of the month for February 2023.