jez2k

I want the biggest adventure that all the mods combined can provide. The only mod I'm uncertain about is the Secret of Bone Hill, but *only* because I already have a NWN adaption and don't necessarily want to play the same game twice, although the BG mod sounds like it doesn't quite follow the PnP original exactly, so it may just be different enough (any thoughts?)

I have trawled through the forum looking for an all-in-one "how to", rather than have to read each mod's installation procedure and try to piece them all together. I am uncertain as to whether or not I want any of the NPC mods or extra items or refinements or whatever, as there are so many of them and I think it would give me one major headache if I tried to install those in the correct order along with mods. Also, I intend to keep the gameplay as close to hard-core D&D rules as possible, so any of the smaller mods would probably take away from that (maybe I'm wrong?)

I have not installed any BG related material since I re-installed XP, so it will be a completely clean installation.

The mods I want to install are as follows:

Ascension
Baldur's Gate Trilogy
The Darkest Day
Shadows over Soubar
Never Ending Journey
Tortured Souls
The Big Picture
Dark Side of the Sword Coast for BGT & BP
Check the Bodies
Return to Windspear
Northern Tales of the Sword Coast? (Doesn't appear to have any quests)
And possibly Secret of Bone Hill

I would like to know which files I need and the exact installation order, step-by-step instructions, including official expansion CD's, mods, patches (official and mod).

Will the installation order change when newer versions of each mod get released?
I know that's what patches are for, but every PC needs a format eventually.

Which mods are absolutely final and don't require any further patches? Should I wait until all mods are final before attempting any of this?

If I decide I want the smaller mods, can they be added at any time after everything's installed?

I know I'm asking for a big tutorial here, so if it gets written might I suggest it gets put in here as a sticky for everyone else in my position and as a reference in the future, and updated every month or so.

PS. I'm aware of hlidskialf's post, but existing mods have been updated and new ones have emerged so I fear I would get stuck if I tried using that.