Tips for SH3 - and multiplayer?

Hi all,

New member here, first post. Im reasonably new to SH3. Played SH5 a while ago, but recently downloaded 3 as was looking for a sub game and lots of recommendations suggested SH3 as the best one (debate).

Im playing SH3 on vanilla and just wondered if there are some obvious mods I should add in? Maybe grey wolves 3 gold? I tend to play games quite hard for a 2 weeks or so, then move on, so want to make sure Im getting the best experience.

Or would anyone recommend playing the game in a particular way, e.g do the missions, do career, start at this base etc?

Also, does anyone play multiplayer anymore? Is it supported still?