I have a downloaded Steam copy of SH3 (in addition to a Ubisoft), and on my desktop computer, I have issues with getting any of the widescreen add-ins to work with a modded SH3. I also have issues getting h.sie's "realism" utility to properly activate in the Steam version of the game. Other folks will report "no issues", so my guess is it might be hardware / OS / configuration related. Just be aware. I generally use "plain" GWX in a 4:3 on that computer. As for my Ubisoft download on another computer, no such issues, and I have used all 3 'major' widescreen GUIs with no problems, and have used h.sie's and well as Stiebler's utilities without problem.
The main thing, no matter the source of the game, is to NOT install it in the default folder, which with Steam would be "C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam \SteamApps \common \Silent Hunter III..." Windows will interfere with any attempts to mod the game, if installed there. Instead, create a folder outside of the Program Files folders and put it there. If you have no other Steam Games, just point it to something like "C:\Games \Steam..." and you'll be good to go. If you have other Steam games already on the computer, then you would need to create a 2nd Steam Library folder, which would have to be on a 2nd viable hard drive, which with a laptop, can be problematic. See "
Moving a Steam Installation and Games for more.
Also, be sure and read ALL instructions pertaining to the mod you choose, and pay close attention to folder names and character limits, etc. for some of the utility applets... The main thing: Have fun and go sink some ships!
