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Artificial Academy 2/Technical Help

2017-11-08T16:17:59Z

Cblangs: /* Performance */

{{hgame|game=Artificial Academy 2|company=IllusionGames|category=IllusionGames}}
''If you have problems installing or running the game you will almost certainly find an answer or solution below. ''
= FAQ =
==Running the Game==
*'''Q: I keep getting 0% on all interactions. Please help!?''' A: You must run the game (<tt>AA2Play.exe</tt>/<tt>AA2Play English.exe</tt>) with Japanese locale ''and'' Formats set to Japanese. Better yet, set your locale to your native locale and use AppLocale (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc])). '''NOTE: You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc on Windows 10'''. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more]. If the subtitles mod still doesn't work, use SBAppLocale (follow the instructions from a question below).

*'''Q: My game freezes (or they just stand there and I can't do anything) on all/some conversations. Help!?''' A: You must run the game (<tt>AA2Play.exe</tt>/<tt>AA2Play English.exe</tt>) with Japanese locale ''and'' Formats set to Japanese. Better yet, set your locale to your native locale and use AppLocale (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc])). '''NOTE: You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc on Windows 10'''. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more]. If the subtitles mod still doesn't work, use SBAppLocale (follow the instructions from a question below).

*'''Q: I am trying to run the Subtitles mod on Windows 10 using ''Local Emulator'' and nothing happens when I click ''Run with Subs'' or the game starts but in game I can't see any 3D model?''' A: It's a random issue, on some environments ''Local Emulator'' works propertly with the subtitles mod, sometimes not. A working alternative is ''SBAppLocale''. Download [http://www.steelbytes.com/?mid=45 SBAppLocale]. Extract the archive in the ''AA2Play'' folder (where the main game executable is located). Then create a ''.bat'' file calling it whatever you want (a ''.bat'' file is a simple text file with the extension changed, follow the step 1 from [http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/write-simple-batch-bat-file/ this tutorial] if you feel in trouble), and paste this line into it: <pre>SBApplocale.exe 1041 AA2PlayJSF.exe</pre> Then double click the ''.bat'' file to start playing.

*'''Q: How do I zoom in, mouse wheel is getting me nothing?''' A: Right click and move the mouse.

*'''Q: The Maker/game stops working (or just quit silently) when I click Play/Game Start/Run with Subs?''' A: This is known to happen (rare) and can be caused by your browser (Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer) running in the background. Try closing any open applications (browser etc.) and then try again. If that doesn't help, try restarting Windows and then run the game as the first/only thing after logging on.

[[File:AA2_geforce_error.png|thumb|GeForce error]]
*'''Q: I get this error about Direct3DCreate9x in d3d9.dll when I run the game? (see GeForce error on the right)''' A: This is caused by the latest GeForce Experience update 2.1.2. You can either ignore the errors (just click OK to them all) and the game will work just fine and wait for NVIDIA to release an update that fixes it, or you can uninstall GeForce Experience and install the [http://us.download.nvidia.com/GFE/GFEClient/2.1.1.1/GeForce_Experience_v2.1.1.1.exe previous version].

[[File:AA2_Insert_disk.png|thumb|Insert disk 1]]
*'''Q: When I run the game I get an error? (see Insert disk 1 on the right)''' A: Make sure that you mounted DISK1.mdf (i.e. ジンコウガクエン2.mdf renamed to DISK1.mdf) or use a nodvd launcher.

[[File:AA2_Text_issue.jpg|thumb|Text issue - caused by not using Japanese locale properly]]
*'''Q: The text is not displayed correctly (I see only ??? or 'u' and 'v' characters like on the Text issue picture on the right) and I already set my system locale to Japanese?''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game).

*'''Q: I have a trait/personality/etc in my game that doesn't seem to be mentioned anywhere?''' A: The translation of personalities, traits, sexual prefs, items etc. are subject to change until after the game has been launched. To ensure that you have the latest official translations go [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3539158 here].

*'''Q: My game just randomly crashes and I've tried reinstalling so many times, my system locale is japanese.''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game). A3: It might be because you load hacked characters or that use mods that you don't have installed. Easiest way to make sure is to load all characters you want to play with in AA2Edit one by one, review the hair/traits/sex prefs etc. and then save the character as a new file (System tab). Then you can start the game and safely load the characters you just saved.

*'''Q: When I click the "save" button in my room nothing happens, neither the "Game Saved!" message appears. Help?''' A: Create a "class" folder in the <AA2Play>\data\save folder. This error is probably because you downloaded one of the "pre-installed" games available and you didn't read/follow the readme.

[[File:AA2_Bad_installation.jpg|thumb|Bad installation]]
*'''Q: Does anyone know what this error means (see Bad installation picture on the right)? It keeps showing up every time I talk to someone or they talk to me in game. All I have to do is click it to make it go away but its very annoying! Anyone know what it says?''' A: You installed the maker and game in the same folder (instead of following the Quick step-by-step guide [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]]). Playing full screen may suppress the error, but otherwise install the game like suggested [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]] to fix it.

*'''Q: When I run the game I see only a black screen? btw, I run the game in full screen and I installed the Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod.''' A: The Windowed Fullscreen mod is intended for running the game ''windowed'' in your desktop resolution (set the game resolution to match your desktop in Options on the AA2Play launcher). The purpose of the mod is that the game will seem to be in fullscreen, but you will be able to Alt-Tab etc. without it crashing/just showing a black screen. If you wish to run the game in full screen you should just delete the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q: I have no voice audio and I tried everything?''' A: If you have 5/7.1 make sure that the middle jack is connected, because that's where the voices are.

*'''Q: I'm getting an error: "Could not find the resource DLL file: alres409.dll"''' A1: Your computer is probably already in Japanese Locale Regional Settings. You do not need to use the HFAppLoc's ''Run with Japanese locale''. Run the program directly or ''Run as administrator'' depending on the exe file you are attempting to open. A2: Uninstall AppLocale and HF pAppLoc from the control panel, restart and then install [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc].

*'''Q: I'm getting an error: "The program can't start because d3dx9_43.dll is missing from your computer."''' A1: If you get this error it means you have to install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. Even if you already have a newer version you may still have to download this if you did not install it when you installed the game.

*'''Q: When I click Run with Subs the game crashes, but it runs fine if I just click Play. Is there any way I can get the game to work with subtitles?''' A: Turn off any graphics card control application you may have running (like EVGA Precision, Asus GPU Tweak etc.). Anything that has an overlay that gives you temp, proc usage and other data may interfere with the subtitle mod. Read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430813?p=3572956#post3572956 more].

*'''Q: Anyone know what happened to the Windowed Fullscreen mod?''' A: It's included in the subtitle mod. Run the AA2Play launcher, click ''Config Subs'' and then check ''Windowed Fullscreen''.

[[File:AA2_Maker_translation_issue.png|thumb|Maker personality translation issue]]
*'''Q: I have an issue with the Maker personality translation not working (see Maker personality translation issue on the right) and I set my locale to Japanese.''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game). A3: If none of the above solutions work for you you can try [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/index2.html#post1664615 this mod] (apply it with [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1536394 Illusion Wizzard]). Note that you will also need to fix your karaoke folder names, which can be done with [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/index2.html#post1666566 this]. '''Warning:''' The consequences of using the mod are not completely known and you should only use it if the two first solutions didn't work!

*'''Q:My game keep on crash whenever I star with sub or without.

==Graphical Issues==
*'''Q: The girl has a discolored texture in the uncensored region?''' A: Some uncensors (like the MKII uncensor included in the HF Patch) requires a special launcher, so make sure that you use the launcher that is designed for the uncensor you have installed. If you installed the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] you should use the desktop shortcuts.

*'''Q: The girl has an issue with the legs not looking right?''' A1: This can be caused by an issue with the latest English launcher - make sure that you use the latest launcher or [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. If you installed the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] you should use the desktop shortcuts. A2: If you installed the HEXA Clothing Packs, note that the Cosplay Club only fits thin or normal figure types and the High-Cut Swimsuit only fits thin or normal figure types.

*'''Q: Something is not looking right?''' A1: It may be a known issue/limitation with the mod(s) you have installed. Read the release post and/or readme file that came with the mod(s)! A2: Make sure that you're using the latest version of the mod(s) or [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] (if you previously used it). All mods are made by people in their free time and they may have issues which could be fixed in a later version.

==Performance==
*'''Q: On Windows 10 after the Anniversary Update (version 1607), performance is now slow and jerky during any interactive 3D action.''' A: This is a result of an update to the '''DirectX9''' 3D DLL. The workaround is to replace <tt>d3d9.dll</tt> in the game installation directory with the previous working version in <tt>C:\windows\syswow64\d3d9.dll</tt> (provided you have not deleted it, <tt>system32</tt> on 32-bit machines). If you use a subtitle mod (which also requires its own d3d9.dll in the game directory), put your previous d3d9.dll next to it under the name "d3d9_alt.dll". The subtitle mod will detect it and use it in place of the one in the system folder. For more information, go [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/forum/hentai-lair/hentai-game-discussion/5699235-illusion-games-problems-with-windows-10-anniversary-update here].

*'''Q: After the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, the AA2Edit still lags, even after fixing the main game with the d3d9.dll patch?''' A: Copy your d3d9_alt.dll and d3d9.dll (or d3d9.dll if you have replaced your original) and place it inside your AA2Edit installation folder. If you have the unlocked version, place a copy inside that folder as well.

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene, but my AMD graphics should be more than enough for this game?''' A: Some people have reported subpar performance using AMD graphics. It may be related to the driver version, so make sure you're up to date. Alternatively you could try older driver versions. Please edit if you find a particular version runs better!

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene?''' A: This may because you have an average cpu and the character(s) on screen has very long hair, big dresses, accessories, large breasts and/or other physics enabled things. Try designing characters with short hair, no accessories and dress them in swimsuits and see if it helps.

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene, but my AMD graphics should be more than enough for this game?''' A: If you installed the Subtitles mod (or the Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod) it can because of that and you could try to remove the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q: I experience freezing and/or several seconds loading each time a conversation starts. Sometimes the mouse cursor is even spinning indicating not responding application, please help!?''' A1: If you have installed the hires skins you should uninstall them because your PC is not powerful enough (>3GHz i7, SSD recommended). You might experience tolerable performance if you install the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430353-Mod-Release-Thread-%28Illusion%29-Artificial-Academy-2?p=3549163#post3549163 lowres version]. A2: Other things to consider: Mods like the 3D uncensor also introduces slightly longer load times because of more complex mesh/more to load, though the impact is only a small fraction of the hires skins. The [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] includes the SVII uncensor, which is very light on performance, so you could try that (remember to check all the launchers when you change the uncensor because otherwise you will have incompatible launchers installed).

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene. My laptop has two graphics adapters, but for some reason the game defaults to the slow one?''' A: If you installed the Subtitles mod (or Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod) it can because of that and you should just remove the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q:Game crash when enter sex scene. In window 10.

==Installation==
*'''Q: Will the game run on Windows 10?''' A: Not without issues unless you switch system locale to Japanese, which you really shouldn't because you will experience [[Illusion Games How to install#Why not change regional settings?|issues with other stuff]]. You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more].

*'''Q: It's telling me to insert the "commercial version disk" even though I already have it mounted AND renamed it DISK1.mdf. I'm already in Japanese locale, and I still tried running it with applocale?''' A: Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.iso</tt> with [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite! - it's completely free)

*'''Q: I can't get PowerISO to mount disk 2 and 3. Any help?''' A: Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.iso</tt> with [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite! - it's completely free)

*'''Q: While installing, the game complains about Data1.cab from disk1. Help!?''' A: Make sure that you mounted DISK1.mdf (i.e. ジンコウガクエン2.mdf renamed to DISK1.mdf). If that doesn't help, try extracting ジンコウガクエン2.mdf again, rename it to DISK1.mdf, and follow the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] below.

*'''Q: While setting up the DLC HF patch, the setup can't detect AA2 in my Artificial Academy 2 folder. Any help?''' A: You're pointing the HF Patch to a folder which doesn't contain the correct files (the patch will look for some files needed during patching to verify the location). Possible causes are that you renamed the folder after installing the game or you changed the folder suggested by the HF patch. Make sure that you point the patch to the actual folder with the installed game files and then use the Fix registry feature of the HF patch or reinstall the game as suggested in the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] below.

==Misc==
*'''Q: My AA2Edit (On Windows 10) only runs in Japanese. How do I run it in english?'''

*'''Q: Where do I put custom eye textures?''' A: If you installed AA2 Edit to the location suggested [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]]: C:\illusion\AA2Edit\data\texture\eye\

*'''Q: I'm missing some hair in AA2Edit/Maker and some of the buttons are greyed out/disabled! Help?''' A: Make sure that you have installed all the DLC (read more below) and Append Set I+II.

*'''Q: How do I get downloaded characters to work? They just show up blank in the maker??''' A: Some browsers have problems saving the image file properly when using "Save image" option... try using "Save link as". If that doesn't work, click on the picture first so it opens with the picture viewer of the website or browser and THEN save it.

*'''Q: Does anyone know how to use SweetFX (need SMAA + Sharpening) alongside with Subtitle Overlay? They both use d3d9.dll?''' A: You can rename the SweetFX d3d9.dll to d3d9_alt.dll and then the Subtitle mod will use it.

*'''Q: I downloaded a character, but the hair and/or accessories in the game doesn't look like on the card. I checked my Maker and the hair and/or accessory seems to be missing! What's going on?''' A: The character has been created using one or more hair/accessory mods. Most hair/accessories are in the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432840 BigPack HEXA] mod compilation, so you should try installing that as the first thing. If that doesn't include the mod(s) you may have luck investigating the character description or maybe find information about where to get the mods where you downloaded the character.

*'''Q: How can I listen to singing at karaoke?''' A: Choose or download .wav or .ogg files for the songs you want to hear, and place them in data/sound subfolders corresponding to the kanji of the personality types to sing them. If you still cannot hear them on Windows 7 or 8, download the DirectShow codecs from [http://www.vorbis.com/setup_windows/ Vorbis.com Windows Setup] page.

*'''Q: How can I run the game in a higher resolution than 1920x1200, e.g. 2560x1440?''' A: The only known workaround is by hex [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430813?p=3622888#post3622888 editing] <AA2Play folder>\data\gsd.cfg. Note that it is highly recommended to set anti aliasing via your graphics adapter's control panel instead of using the built-in anti aliasing in the game (read more at the bottom of this page).

=Installing the Game=
While you can download pre-installed versions of the game, it is recommended that you get a download which contains the DVD images and install the game yourself.
==Quick step-by-step guide==
Note that this covers installing the game from scratch. If you already installed the Maker (aka. AA2 Edit) you can skip the AA2 Edit steps (i.e. step 6-9).
[[File:AA2_Startup.png|thumb|Startup.exe: Click the fourth button to install AA2, fifth button to install AA2 Edit]]
[[File:AA2_Change_destination.png|thumb|Click highlighted button to change the destination]]
[[File:AA2_Destination_changed.png|thumb|It should look like this before you click (N)]]
[[File:AA2_Insert_disk2.png|thumb|Insert disk 2]]
#Extract ジンコウガクエン2.mdf, DISK2.mdf and DISK3.mdf (DO NOT extract the .mds files!) to e.g. C:\Downloads\AA2
#Rename ジンコウガクエン2.mdf to DISK1.mdf
#Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.mdf</tt>. If you're using Windows 8 you can mount it without other programs, otherwise you'll need [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite - it's completely free)
#DO NOT autorun, but explore the mounted dvd and right-click <tt>Startup.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale as administrator'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Refer to Startup.exe picture on the right: If you can click the second button it means you have to install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. The game will not work if you ignore it!
#Click the third button from the top (ref. Startup.exe picture) to start the AA2 Edit (aka. Maker) setup.
#Click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Change the destination to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Edit</tt> if you want to be able to play the game! (see picture on the right)
#Click (N) again a few times and wait while AA2 Edit installs (will only take a few seconds).
#When the AA2 Edit setup is complete: Click the fourth button from the top (ref. Startup.exe picture) to start the game (AA2 Play) setup.
#Click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Change the destination to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2</tt> if you want to be able to play the game! (see picture on the right)
#Click N again a few times, and lastly (I), and wait while the game installs.
#About a third through the setup will ask for DISK2 (ref. Insert disk 2 picture on the right): Mount <tt>DISK2.iso</tt> with Daemontools Lite, wait a few seconds and then click OK.
#About two thirds through the setup will ask for DISK3: Mount <tt>DISK3.iso</tt> with Daemontools Lite, wait a few seconds and then click OK.
#Wait while the game finishes the installation.
#To run the game you need to mount <tt>DISK1.mdf</tt> again and right-click <tt>C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.

==Next step==
When you have successfully installed and tested the game you probably want to install official patches, DLC and essential mods like English translations and uncensor.

The (by far) easiest way is to use the HF Patch (if you don't know it, "HF" is a well-known acronym for "'''H'''ave '''F'''un").

===The HF Patch===
The latest version of the HF Patch includes all the official patches, so you don't have to worry about installing any of those. It also includes the no-dvd fix, English translations and UI as well as uncensors.

If you had just installed the game then you have to install the official DLCs before the HF Patch. The easiest way to install them is through the [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1572128 DLC HF Patch], which contains every official DLC.
=====Regfixer=====
If you downloaded a pre-installed version of the game or installed the game to a bad location (i.e. one with Unicode/unreadable characters) then both the HF patch and the DLC HF patch can fix the game's registry entries. To fix the registry, just do these simple steps:
#Rename the game folder(s) before running either patch.
#When the patch shows the suggested location, correct it to the renamed folder(s), e.g. C:\illusion\AA2.
#Check the fix registry component(s) (at the bottom of the component list) when running the patch.
#Wait for the patch to do its job.
#Play the game!
Please note that fixing the registry is not recommended because it will break uninstalling. Fixing the registry will make the game work, but you should not expect to be able to uninstall it without manual work.

====HF Patching for Dummies====
This section describes how to use the HF Patch.
#Install the game as outlined [[#Installing the Game|above]].
#Download [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 the Artificial Academy 2 HF Patch].
#Read the [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 patch release post] while downloading, so you know what is required (and what to expect).
#Run the patch by double-clicking on the file you just downloaded.
#Read the information in the beginning and make sure that you have enough free disk space to run the patch before you click ''Next''.
#Click ''Next'' and review the components. The ''Recommended installation'' is all you need to get the game updated, translated and uncensored, but you might want to check out the options anyway.
#Click ''Next'' and consider installing an icon on your desktop (TIP: The shortcut using AppLocale is highly recommended, because you still have to run the translated game with Japanese locale. Using the shortcut will make it completely transparent that you actually run the game with Japanese locale).
#Click ''Next'' to start patching your game. Beware that patching your game will change installed files and it cannot be reversed or uninstalled. Therefore you should keep the original files, so you can restore the game to it's original state later on if needed. Having the original files might be required if you plan to install additional or different mods later on.
#Let the patch work (you can do other stuff while it's working, just don't start/mess with the game). Patching may take several minutes and the progress bar may not move. Just be patient. It is guaranteed to work if you installed the game as outlined above.
#Play the updated, translated and uncensored game by double-clicking the "Artificial Academy 2" desktop icon. :)

TIP: You can move the desktop shortcut to anywhere you prefer (some prefer to have it in the game folder) and it will still work.

'''Note:''' It is safe to run the patch again if you want to install additional components and/or change options. Just deselect the components you previously installed and patching will be relatively quick.

=Install Order=
The easy/correct order of installing stuff is as follows:
#Install the game as outlined [[#Quick step-by-step guide|above]].
#Install [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1572128 the Artificial Academy 2 DLC HF Patch].
#Install the [[#Append Set Add-ons|Append Set I add-on]].
#Install the [[#Append Set Add-ons|Append Set II add-on]].
#Install the latest [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 Artificial Academy 2 HF Patch] (the latest version includes all official patches, so you don't have to worry about your game not being up to date).
#Have fun playing the game fully updated and with the essential mods!

'''Note:''' If you later want to update your game with the latest official patches and/or essential mods, you should just get the latest [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 AA2 HF Patch].

=Installing the DLC=
This section explains how to install the all preorder bonus and DLC that has been released since the game has been launched. Currently this is available:
*DLC1 & DLC2 (hairstyle/sidehair)
*Preorder Hairstyles (long length)
*Preorder Personality (Cadet personality)
*Illusion Special Member Bonus (hairstyles)

Check out the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430353?p=3551838#post3551838 Artificial Academy 2 DLC HF Patch] release post for screens of the DLCs. The easiest way to install them is through it.

==Manual Install==
Below are a some examples of how to the DLC should be installed manually. You need to download all the DLC and not only the examples below.

Consider using the AA2 DLC HF Patch (all it does is copy official files to your game folder).

===jg2_sou.exe===
#Right-click <tt>jg2_sou.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Click the highlighted button (the left one) and wait while the archive extracts.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２予約特典" folder.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２曹" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2).
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit).
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２予約特典髪型" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2).
#Copy all files from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit).
#Done.

===jg2_03_plus.exe===
#Right-click <tt>jg2_03_plus.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Click the highlighted button (the left one) and wait while the archive extracts.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２追加髪型アップデートプログラム" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2) - Yes to overwrite.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit) - Yes to overwrite.
#Done.

=Append Set Add-ons=
[[Artificial Academy 2/Append Set|The Append Set add-ons]] adds new personalities, hairs and costumes. The Append Sets are not free and therefore they will ''never'' be included in a [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. To get it you have to [http://www.dmm.co.jp/en/dc/pcgame/-/detail/=/cid=digib_0068/ buy Append Set I], [http://www.dmm.co.jp/dc/pcgame/-/detail/=/cid=digib_0070/ buy Append Set II] or get it [http://www.google.com/search?q=%E3%82%B8%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B3%E3%82%A6%E3%82%AC%E3%82%AF%E3%82%A8%E3%83%B32%E3%82%A2%E3%83%9A%E3%83%B3%E3%83%89%E3%82%BB%E3%83%83%E3%83%88 some other way]. The [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] includes official patches and mods that will patch, translate and uncensor the Append Set I+II if you have them installed when running the patch.

Tips for buying the Append Sets: You have to do it in Japanese to be able to proceed at DMM, so do not choose English language! Instead you should use a browser that can translate the page for you on the fly. Once translated it's pretty straightforward to create an account, enter credit card info, buy a product and download it.

==Installing the Append Set I Add-on==
[[File:AA2_FileCopy.png|thumb|FileCopy.exe: Click the left button to copy the files]]
Follow these easy steps to get the Append Set I correctly installed:
#'''IMPORTANT:''' Right-click 7-zip (or WinRAR or your preferred extractor) and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Use 7-zip (or you preferred extractor) to browse to where you downloaded <tt>VJ008700.zip</tt> and open it.
#Extract it to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt> with and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.
#Click the left button and wait while it is working.
#Click the right button to exit <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt>.

===Alternative===
If you can't get <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt> to work (very unlikely if you followed the above guide to the point), you can hack your way with the following:
#'''IMPORTANT:''' Right-click 7-zip (or WinRAR or your preferred extractor) and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Use 7-zip to browse to where you downloaded VJ008700.zip and open it.
#Extract it to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット</tt> folder.
#Copy all files/folders from <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット\setup\main\</tt> to <your AA2Play folder>.
#Copy all files/folders from <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット\setup\edit\</tt> to <your AA2Edit folder>.

==Installing the Append Set II Add-on==
It is essentially the same procedure as for Append Set I above, just with slightly different folder names.

==Installing the Append Set I Support Patch==
[[File:AA2_PackUpdater.png|thumb|PackUpdater.exe: Click the left button to patch the files]]
The [[Artificial Academy 2/Change Log#Append Set I Support|Append Set support patch]] was released on {{#dateformat:2014-09-05|mdy}} and is included in the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. Follow these steps if you prefer to install it manually:
#Download <tt>jg2append_support.exe</tt> to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Run <tt>C:\Downloads\append\jg2append_support.exe</tt>.
#Press Enter when the window with the destination is shown and wait while it copies the files.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン２アペンドセット修正パッチ</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>PackUpdater.exe</tt> with and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.
#Click the left button and wait while it is working.
#Click the right button to exit <tt>PackUpdater.exe</tt>.

=Installing the Maker=
Note that this covers installing the Maker ONLY (for those without the full game). '''IMPORTANT:''' If you have the full game you should follow the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] above!
[[File:Maker_Startup.png|thumb|Maker Startup]]
[[File:ArtificialAcademy_destinationchanged.jpg|thumb|It should look like this before you click (N)]]
#Run <tt>jg2_02_make.exe</tt>.
#Enter a location to install it, e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker</tt> (you can just paste this to the extractor and it will create the folders).
#Press Enter and wait for the extraction to complete.
#Go to <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker</tt>.
#Rename the "ジンコウガクエン２きゃらめいく製品版" folder to e.g. "Maker", so that you have <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker\Maker</tt>.
#Go to <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker\Maker</tt>.
#Right-click <tt>Startup.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale as administrator'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Refer to Maker Startup screenshot on the right: If the second button is not grayed out you must install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. Your game will not work if you ignore this!
#Click the third button from the top (ref. Maker Startup screenshot on the right) to start the AA2 Edit (aka. Maker) setup.
#Wait while the setup starts up and then click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Click the top-right button and ''change the destination'' to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Maker</tt>!! (ref. 'It should look like this before you click (N)' screenshot on the right)
#Click (N) again a few times and wait while AA2 Edit installs (will only take a few seconds).
#Click (F) and you're done installing the AA2 Maker. :)

==Running the Maker==
#Go to the <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Maker\</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>AA2Edit.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).

=Improving the Visuals=
Some people may not know it, but it's possible to significantly improve how the game looks just by setting a few settings in your graphics adapter control panel. These settings shouldn't impact performance noticeably unless you have an older graphics adapter or if you are running the game at a very high resolution.

==NVIDIA 3D Settings==
For NVIDIA graphics do the following:
#Make sure that ''Options->Effects->Anti-Aliasing'' is set to ''None''.
#Open NVIDIA Control Panel
#Click ''Manage 3D settings''
#Click the tab ''Program Settings''
#Click Add and select or browse to <tt>C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play English.exe</tt> (for the Maker you should use <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Edit\AA2Edit.exe</tt>)
#Recommended settings for maximum visual effect:
##Anisotropic filtering: 16x
##Antialiasing - Gamma correction: On
##Antialiasing - Mode: Override any application setting
##Antialiasing - Setting: 32x
##Antialiasing - Transparency: 8x (Supersample)
##Texture filtering - Anisotropic sample optimization: Off
##Texture filtering - Negative LOD bias: Clamp
##Texture filtering - Quality: High quality
#Click Apply
#Experiment with lower settings if you don't have a recent graphics card or to tweak performance vs. visuals.

==ATi/AMD 3D Settings==
For ATi/AMD graphics do the following:
#Open AMD Catalyst Control Center
#Click Gaming
#Click the tab 3D Application Settings
#Under Application Settings click Add
#Select or browse to C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play English.exe (for the Maker you should use C:\illusion\AA2Edit\AA2Edit.exe)
#Recommended settings for maximum visual effect:
#*Anti-Aliasing Mode: Override application settings
#*Anti-Aliasing Samples: 12xEQ
#*Filter: Edge-detect
#*Anti-Aliasing Method: Read ''Note''
#*Anisotropic Filtering Mode: Override application settings
#*Anisotropic Filtering Level: 8x
#*Texture Filtering Quality: High Quality
#*Surface Format Optimization: On
#*''Note:'' Supersample AA can bring even the most powerful computers to sub 30 FPS in this game during H-scenes and conversations. If you find the FPS drop to be unbearable, Adaptive Multi-Sampling AA is close to the same quality with drastically less of an impact on FPS.
#Click Save

Artificial Academy 2/Technical Help

2017-11-08T16:17:38Z

Cblangs: /* Performance */

{{hgame|game=Artificial Academy 2|company=IllusionGames|category=IllusionGames}}
''If you have problems installing or running the game you will almost certainly find an answer or solution below. ''
= FAQ =
==Running the Game==
*'''Q: I keep getting 0% on all interactions. Please help!?''' A: You must run the game (<tt>AA2Play.exe</tt>/<tt>AA2Play English.exe</tt>) with Japanese locale ''and'' Formats set to Japanese. Better yet, set your locale to your native locale and use AppLocale (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc])). '''NOTE: You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc on Windows 10'''. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more]. If the subtitles mod still doesn't work, use SBAppLocale (follow the instructions from a question below).

*'''Q: My game freezes (or they just stand there and I can't do anything) on all/some conversations. Help!?''' A: You must run the game (<tt>AA2Play.exe</tt>/<tt>AA2Play English.exe</tt>) with Japanese locale ''and'' Formats set to Japanese. Better yet, set your locale to your native locale and use AppLocale (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc])). '''NOTE: You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc on Windows 10'''. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more]. If the subtitles mod still doesn't work, use SBAppLocale (follow the instructions from a question below).

*'''Q: I am trying to run the Subtitles mod on Windows 10 using ''Local Emulator'' and nothing happens when I click ''Run with Subs'' or the game starts but in game I can't see any 3D model?''' A: It's a random issue, on some environments ''Local Emulator'' works propertly with the subtitles mod, sometimes not. A working alternative is ''SBAppLocale''. Download [http://www.steelbytes.com/?mid=45 SBAppLocale]. Extract the archive in the ''AA2Play'' folder (where the main game executable is located). Then create a ''.bat'' file calling it whatever you want (a ''.bat'' file is a simple text file with the extension changed, follow the step 1 from [http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/write-simple-batch-bat-file/ this tutorial] if you feel in trouble), and paste this line into it: <pre>SBApplocale.exe 1041 AA2PlayJSF.exe</pre> Then double click the ''.bat'' file to start playing.

*'''Q: How do I zoom in, mouse wheel is getting me nothing?''' A: Right click and move the mouse.

*'''Q: The Maker/game stops working (or just quit silently) when I click Play/Game Start/Run with Subs?''' A: This is known to happen (rare) and can be caused by your browser (Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer) running in the background. Try closing any open applications (browser etc.) and then try again. If that doesn't help, try restarting Windows and then run the game as the first/only thing after logging on.

[[File:AA2_geforce_error.png|thumb|GeForce error]]
*'''Q: I get this error about Direct3DCreate9x in d3d9.dll when I run the game? (see GeForce error on the right)''' A: This is caused by the latest GeForce Experience update 2.1.2. You can either ignore the errors (just click OK to them all) and the game will work just fine and wait for NVIDIA to release an update that fixes it, or you can uninstall GeForce Experience and install the [http://us.download.nvidia.com/GFE/GFEClient/2.1.1.1/GeForce_Experience_v2.1.1.1.exe previous version].

[[File:AA2_Insert_disk.png|thumb|Insert disk 1]]
*'''Q: When I run the game I get an error? (see Insert disk 1 on the right)''' A: Make sure that you mounted DISK1.mdf (i.e. ジンコウガクエン2.mdf renamed to DISK1.mdf) or use a nodvd launcher.

[[File:AA2_Text_issue.jpg|thumb|Text issue - caused by not using Japanese locale properly]]
*'''Q: The text is not displayed correctly (I see only ??? or 'u' and 'v' characters like on the Text issue picture on the right) and I already set my system locale to Japanese?''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game).

*'''Q: I have a trait/personality/etc in my game that doesn't seem to be mentioned anywhere?''' A: The translation of personalities, traits, sexual prefs, items etc. are subject to change until after the game has been launched. To ensure that you have the latest official translations go [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3539158 here].

*'''Q: My game just randomly crashes and I've tried reinstalling so many times, my system locale is japanese.''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game). A3: It might be because you load hacked characters or that use mods that you don't have installed. Easiest way to make sure is to load all characters you want to play with in AA2Edit one by one, review the hair/traits/sex prefs etc. and then save the character as a new file (System tab). Then you can start the game and safely load the characters you just saved.

*'''Q: When I click the "save" button in my room nothing happens, neither the "Game Saved!" message appears. Help?''' A: Create a "class" folder in the <AA2Play>\data\save folder. This error is probably because you downloaded one of the "pre-installed" games available and you didn't read/follow the readme.

[[File:AA2_Bad_installation.jpg|thumb|Bad installation]]
*'''Q: Does anyone know what this error means (see Bad installation picture on the right)? It keeps showing up every time I talk to someone or they talk to me in game. All I have to do is click it to make it go away but its very annoying! Anyone know what it says?''' A: You installed the maker and game in the same folder (instead of following the Quick step-by-step guide [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]]). Playing full screen may suppress the error, but otherwise install the game like suggested [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]] to fix it.

*'''Q: When I run the game I see only a black screen? btw, I run the game in full screen and I installed the Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod.''' A: The Windowed Fullscreen mod is intended for running the game ''windowed'' in your desktop resolution (set the game resolution to match your desktop in Options on the AA2Play launcher). The purpose of the mod is that the game will seem to be in fullscreen, but you will be able to Alt-Tab etc. without it crashing/just showing a black screen. If you wish to run the game in full screen you should just delete the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q: I have no voice audio and I tried everything?''' A: If you have 5/7.1 make sure that the middle jack is connected, because that's where the voices are.

*'''Q: I'm getting an error: "Could not find the resource DLL file: alres409.dll"''' A1: Your computer is probably already in Japanese Locale Regional Settings. You do not need to use the HFAppLoc's ''Run with Japanese locale''. Run the program directly or ''Run as administrator'' depending on the exe file you are attempting to open. A2: Uninstall AppLocale and HF pAppLoc from the control panel, restart and then install [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc].

*'''Q: I'm getting an error: "The program can't start because d3dx9_43.dll is missing from your computer."''' A1: If you get this error it means you have to install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. Even if you already have a newer version you may still have to download this if you did not install it when you installed the game.

*'''Q: When I click Run with Subs the game crashes, but it runs fine if I just click Play. Is there any way I can get the game to work with subtitles?''' A: Turn off any graphics card control application you may have running (like EVGA Precision, Asus GPU Tweak etc.). Anything that has an overlay that gives you temp, proc usage and other data may interfere with the subtitle mod. Read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430813?p=3572956#post3572956 more].

*'''Q: Anyone know what happened to the Windowed Fullscreen mod?''' A: It's included in the subtitle mod. Run the AA2Play launcher, click ''Config Subs'' and then check ''Windowed Fullscreen''.

[[File:AA2_Maker_translation_issue.png|thumb|Maker personality translation issue]]
*'''Q: I have an issue with the Maker personality translation not working (see Maker personality translation issue on the right) and I set my locale to Japanese.''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game). A3: If none of the above solutions work for you you can try [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/index2.html#post1664615 this mod] (apply it with [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1536394 Illusion Wizzard]). Note that you will also need to fix your karaoke folder names, which can be done with [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/index2.html#post1666566 this]. '''Warning:''' The consequences of using the mod are not completely known and you should only use it if the two first solutions didn't work!

*'''Q:My game keep on crash whenever I star with sub or without.

==Graphical Issues==
*'''Q: The girl has a discolored texture in the uncensored region?''' A: Some uncensors (like the MKII uncensor included in the HF Patch) requires a special launcher, so make sure that you use the launcher that is designed for the uncensor you have installed. If you installed the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] you should use the desktop shortcuts.

*'''Q: The girl has an issue with the legs not looking right?''' A1: This can be caused by an issue with the latest English launcher - make sure that you use the latest launcher or [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. If you installed the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] you should use the desktop shortcuts. A2: If you installed the HEXA Clothing Packs, note that the Cosplay Club only fits thin or normal figure types and the High-Cut Swimsuit only fits thin or normal figure types.

*'''Q: Something is not looking right?''' A1: It may be a known issue/limitation with the mod(s) you have installed. Read the release post and/or readme file that came with the mod(s)! A2: Make sure that you're using the latest version of the mod(s) or [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] (if you previously used it). All mods are made by people in their free time and they may have issues which could be fixed in a later version.

==Performance==
*'''Q: On Windows 10 after the Anniversary Update (version 1607), performance is now slow and jerky during any interactive 3D action.''' A: This is a result of an update to the '''DirectX9''' 3D DLL. The workaround is to replace <tt>d3d9.dll</tt> in the game installation directory with the previous working version in <tt>C:\windows\syswow64\d3d9.dll</tt> (provided you have not deleted it, <tt>system32</tt> on 32-bit machines). If you use a subtitle mod (which also requires its own d3d9.dll in the game directory), put your previous d3d9.dll next to it under the name "d3d9_alt.dll". The subtitle mod will detect it and use it in place of the one in the system folder. For more information, go [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/forum/hentai-lair/hentai-game-discussion/5699235-illusion-games-problems-with-windows-10-anniversary-update here].

*'''Q: After the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, the AA2Edit still lags, even after fixing the main game with the d3d9.dll patch?''' A: Copy your d3d9_alt.dll and d3d9.dll (or d3d9.dll if you have replaced your original) and place it inside your AA2Edit installation folder. If you have the unlocked version, place a copy inside that folder as well.

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene, but my AMD graphics should be more than enough for this game?''' A: Some people have reported subpar performance using AMD graphics. It may be related to the driver version, so make sure you're up to date. Alternatively you could try older driver versions. Please edit if you find a particular version runs better!

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene?''' A: This may because you have an average cpu and the character(s) on screen has very long hair, big dresses, accessories, large breasts and/or other physics enabled things. Try designing characters with short hair, no accessories and dress them in swimsuits and see if it helps.

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene, but my AMD graphics should be more than enough for this game?''' A: If you installed the Subtitles mod (or the Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod) it can because of that and you could try to remove the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q: I experience freezing and/or several seconds loading each time a conversation starts. Sometimes the mouse cursor is even spinning indicating not responding application, please help!?''' A1: If you have installed the hires skins you should uninstall them because your PC is not powerful enough (>3GHz i7, SSD recommended). You might experience tolerable performance if you install the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430353-Mod-Release-Thread-%28Illusion%29-Artificial-Academy-2?p=3549163#post3549163 lowres version]. A2: Other things to consider: Mods like the 3D uncensor also introduces slightly longer load times because of more complex mesh/more to load, though the impact is only a small fraction of the hires skins. The [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] includes the SVII uncensor, which is very light on performance, so you could try that (remember to check all the launchers when you change the uncensor because otherwise you will have incompatible launchers installed).

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene. My laptop has two graphics adapters, but for some reason the game defaults to the slow one?''' A: If you installed the Subtitles mod (or Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod) it can because of that and you should just remove the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q:Game crash when enter sex sence. In window 10.

==Installation==
*'''Q: Will the game run on Windows 10?''' A: Not without issues unless you switch system locale to Japanese, which you really shouldn't because you will experience [[Illusion Games How to install#Why not change regional settings?|issues with other stuff]]. You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more].

*'''Q: It's telling me to insert the "commercial version disk" even though I already have it mounted AND renamed it DISK1.mdf. I'm already in Japanese locale, and I still tried running it with applocale?''' A: Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.iso</tt> with [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite! - it's completely free)

*'''Q: I can't get PowerISO to mount disk 2 and 3. Any help?''' A: Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.iso</tt> with [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite! - it's completely free)

*'''Q: While installing, the game complains about Data1.cab from disk1. Help!?''' A: Make sure that you mounted DISK1.mdf (i.e. ジンコウガクエン2.mdf renamed to DISK1.mdf). If that doesn't help, try extracting ジンコウガクエン2.mdf again, rename it to DISK1.mdf, and follow the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] below.

*'''Q: While setting up the DLC HF patch, the setup can't detect AA2 in my Artificial Academy 2 folder. Any help?''' A: You're pointing the HF Patch to a folder which doesn't contain the correct files (the patch will look for some files needed during patching to verify the location). Possible causes are that you renamed the folder after installing the game or you changed the folder suggested by the HF patch. Make sure that you point the patch to the actual folder with the installed game files and then use the Fix registry feature of the HF patch or reinstall the game as suggested in the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] below.

==Misc==
*'''Q: My AA2Edit (On Windows 10) only runs in Japanese. How do I run it in english?'''

*'''Q: Where do I put custom eye textures?''' A: If you installed AA2 Edit to the location suggested [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]]: C:\illusion\AA2Edit\data\texture\eye\

*'''Q: I'm missing some hair in AA2Edit/Maker and some of the buttons are greyed out/disabled! Help?''' A: Make sure that you have installed all the DLC (read more below) and Append Set I+II.

*'''Q: How do I get downloaded characters to work? They just show up blank in the maker??''' A: Some browsers have problems saving the image file properly when using "Save image" option... try using "Save link as". If that doesn't work, click on the picture first so it opens with the picture viewer of the website or browser and THEN save it.

*'''Q: Does anyone know how to use SweetFX (need SMAA + Sharpening) alongside with Subtitle Overlay? They both use d3d9.dll?''' A: You can rename the SweetFX d3d9.dll to d3d9_alt.dll and then the Subtitle mod will use it.

*'''Q: I downloaded a character, but the hair and/or accessories in the game doesn't look like on the card. I checked my Maker and the hair and/or accessory seems to be missing! What's going on?''' A: The character has been created using one or more hair/accessory mods. Most hair/accessories are in the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432840 BigPack HEXA] mod compilation, so you should try installing that as the first thing. If that doesn't include the mod(s) you may have luck investigating the character description or maybe find information about where to get the mods where you downloaded the character.

*'''Q: How can I listen to singing at karaoke?''' A: Choose or download .wav or .ogg files for the songs you want to hear, and place them in data/sound subfolders corresponding to the kanji of the personality types to sing them. If you still cannot hear them on Windows 7 or 8, download the DirectShow codecs from [http://www.vorbis.com/setup_windows/ Vorbis.com Windows Setup] page.

*'''Q: How can I run the game in a higher resolution than 1920x1200, e.g. 2560x1440?''' A: The only known workaround is by hex [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430813?p=3622888#post3622888 editing] <AA2Play folder>\data\gsd.cfg. Note that it is highly recommended to set anti aliasing via your graphics adapter's control panel instead of using the built-in anti aliasing in the game (read more at the bottom of this page).

=Installing the Game=
While you can download pre-installed versions of the game, it is recommended that you get a download which contains the DVD images and install the game yourself.
==Quick step-by-step guide==
Note that this covers installing the game from scratch. If you already installed the Maker (aka. AA2 Edit) you can skip the AA2 Edit steps (i.e. step 6-9).
[[File:AA2_Startup.png|thumb|Startup.exe: Click the fourth button to install AA2, fifth button to install AA2 Edit]]
[[File:AA2_Change_destination.png|thumb|Click highlighted button to change the destination]]
[[File:AA2_Destination_changed.png|thumb|It should look like this before you click (N)]]
[[File:AA2_Insert_disk2.png|thumb|Insert disk 2]]
#Extract ジンコウガクエン2.mdf, DISK2.mdf and DISK3.mdf (DO NOT extract the .mds files!) to e.g. C:\Downloads\AA2
#Rename ジンコウガクエン2.mdf to DISK1.mdf
#Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.mdf</tt>. If you're using Windows 8 you can mount it without other programs, otherwise you'll need [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite - it's completely free)
#DO NOT autorun, but explore the mounted dvd and right-click <tt>Startup.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale as administrator'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Refer to Startup.exe picture on the right: If you can click the second button it means you have to install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. The game will not work if you ignore it!
#Click the third button from the top (ref. Startup.exe picture) to start the AA2 Edit (aka. Maker) setup.
#Click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Change the destination to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Edit</tt> if you want to be able to play the game! (see picture on the right)
#Click (N) again a few times and wait while AA2 Edit installs (will only take a few seconds).
#When the AA2 Edit setup is complete: Click the fourth button from the top (ref. Startup.exe picture) to start the game (AA2 Play) setup.
#Click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Change the destination to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2</tt> if you want to be able to play the game! (see picture on the right)
#Click N again a few times, and lastly (I), and wait while the game installs.
#About a third through the setup will ask for DISK2 (ref. Insert disk 2 picture on the right): Mount <tt>DISK2.iso</tt> with Daemontools Lite, wait a few seconds and then click OK.
#About two thirds through the setup will ask for DISK3: Mount <tt>DISK3.iso</tt> with Daemontools Lite, wait a few seconds and then click OK.
#Wait while the game finishes the installation.
#To run the game you need to mount <tt>DISK1.mdf</tt> again and right-click <tt>C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.

==Next step==
When you have successfully installed and tested the game you probably want to install official patches, DLC and essential mods like English translations and uncensor.

The (by far) easiest way is to use the HF Patch (if you don't know it, "HF" is a well-known acronym for "'''H'''ave '''F'''un").

===The HF Patch===
The latest version of the HF Patch includes all the official patches, so you don't have to worry about installing any of those. It also includes the no-dvd fix, English translations and UI as well as uncensors.

If you had just installed the game then you have to install the official DLCs before the HF Patch. The easiest way to install them is through the [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1572128 DLC HF Patch], which contains every official DLC.
=====Regfixer=====
If you downloaded a pre-installed version of the game or installed the game to a bad location (i.e. one with Unicode/unreadable characters) then both the HF patch and the DLC HF patch can fix the game's registry entries. To fix the registry, just do these simple steps:
#Rename the game folder(s) before running either patch.
#When the patch shows the suggested location, correct it to the renamed folder(s), e.g. C:\illusion\AA2.
#Check the fix registry component(s) (at the bottom of the component list) when running the patch.
#Wait for the patch to do its job.
#Play the game!
Please note that fixing the registry is not recommended because it will break uninstalling. Fixing the registry will make the game work, but you should not expect to be able to uninstall it without manual work.

====HF Patching for Dummies====
This section describes how to use the HF Patch.
#Install the game as outlined [[#Installing the Game|above]].
#Download [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 the Artificial Academy 2 HF Patch].
#Read the [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 patch release post] while downloading, so you know what is required (and what to expect).
#Run the patch by double-clicking on the file you just downloaded.
#Read the information in the beginning and make sure that you have enough free disk space to run the patch before you click ''Next''.
#Click ''Next'' and review the components. The ''Recommended installation'' is all you need to get the game updated, translated and uncensored, but you might want to check out the options anyway.
#Click ''Next'' and consider installing an icon on your desktop (TIP: The shortcut using AppLocale is highly recommended, because you still have to run the translated game with Japanese locale. Using the shortcut will make it completely transparent that you actually run the game with Japanese locale).
#Click ''Next'' to start patching your game. Beware that patching your game will change installed files and it cannot be reversed or uninstalled. Therefore you should keep the original files, so you can restore the game to it's original state later on if needed. Having the original files might be required if you plan to install additional or different mods later on.
#Let the patch work (you can do other stuff while it's working, just don't start/mess with the game). Patching may take several minutes and the progress bar may not move. Just be patient. It is guaranteed to work if you installed the game as outlined above.
#Play the updated, translated and uncensored game by double-clicking the "Artificial Academy 2" desktop icon. :)

TIP: You can move the desktop shortcut to anywhere you prefer (some prefer to have it in the game folder) and it will still work.

'''Note:''' It is safe to run the patch again if you want to install additional components and/or change options. Just deselect the components you previously installed and patching will be relatively quick.

=Install Order=
The easy/correct order of installing stuff is as follows:
#Install the game as outlined [[#Quick step-by-step guide|above]].
#Install [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1572128 the Artificial Academy 2 DLC HF Patch].
#Install the [[#Append Set Add-ons|Append Set I add-on]].
#Install the [[#Append Set Add-ons|Append Set II add-on]].
#Install the latest [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 Artificial Academy 2 HF Patch] (the latest version includes all official patches, so you don't have to worry about your game not being up to date).
#Have fun playing the game fully updated and with the essential mods!

'''Note:''' If you later want to update your game with the latest official patches and/or essential mods, you should just get the latest [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 AA2 HF Patch].

=Installing the DLC=
This section explains how to install the all preorder bonus and DLC that has been released since the game has been launched. Currently this is available:
*DLC1 & DLC2 (hairstyle/sidehair)
*Preorder Hairstyles (long length)
*Preorder Personality (Cadet personality)
*Illusion Special Member Bonus (hairstyles)

Check out the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430353?p=3551838#post3551838 Artificial Academy 2 DLC HF Patch] release post for screens of the DLCs. The easiest way to install them is through it.

==Manual Install==
Below are a some examples of how to the DLC should be installed manually. You need to download all the DLC and not only the examples below.

Consider using the AA2 DLC HF Patch (all it does is copy official files to your game folder).

===jg2_sou.exe===
#Right-click <tt>jg2_sou.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Click the highlighted button (the left one) and wait while the archive extracts.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２予約特典" folder.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２曹" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2).
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit).
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２予約特典髪型" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2).
#Copy all files from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit).
#Done.

===jg2_03_plus.exe===
#Right-click <tt>jg2_03_plus.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Click the highlighted button (the left one) and wait while the archive extracts.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２追加髪型アップデートプログラム" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2) - Yes to overwrite.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit) - Yes to overwrite.
#Done.

=Append Set Add-ons=
[[Artificial Academy 2/Append Set|The Append Set add-ons]] adds new personalities, hairs and costumes. The Append Sets are not free and therefore they will ''never'' be included in a [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. To get it you have to [http://www.dmm.co.jp/en/dc/pcgame/-/detail/=/cid=digib_0068/ buy Append Set I], [http://www.dmm.co.jp/dc/pcgame/-/detail/=/cid=digib_0070/ buy Append Set II] or get it [http://www.google.com/search?q=%E3%82%B8%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B3%E3%82%A6%E3%82%AC%E3%82%AF%E3%82%A8%E3%83%B32%E3%82%A2%E3%83%9A%E3%83%B3%E3%83%89%E3%82%BB%E3%83%83%E3%83%88 some other way]. The [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] includes official patches and mods that will patch, translate and uncensor the Append Set I+II if you have them installed when running the patch.

Tips for buying the Append Sets: You have to do it in Japanese to be able to proceed at DMM, so do not choose English language! Instead you should use a browser that can translate the page for you on the fly. Once translated it's pretty straightforward to create an account, enter credit card info, buy a product and download it.

==Installing the Append Set I Add-on==
[[File:AA2_FileCopy.png|thumb|FileCopy.exe: Click the left button to copy the files]]
Follow these easy steps to get the Append Set I correctly installed:
#'''IMPORTANT:''' Right-click 7-zip (or WinRAR or your preferred extractor) and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Use 7-zip (or you preferred extractor) to browse to where you downloaded <tt>VJ008700.zip</tt> and open it.
#Extract it to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt> with and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.
#Click the left button and wait while it is working.
#Click the right button to exit <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt>.

===Alternative===
If you can't get <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt> to work (very unlikely if you followed the above guide to the point), you can hack your way with the following:
#'''IMPORTANT:''' Right-click 7-zip (or WinRAR or your preferred extractor) and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Use 7-zip to browse to where you downloaded VJ008700.zip and open it.
#Extract it to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット</tt> folder.
#Copy all files/folders from <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット\setup\main\</tt> to <your AA2Play folder>.
#Copy all files/folders from <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット\setup\edit\</tt> to <your AA2Edit folder>.

==Installing the Append Set II Add-on==
It is essentially the same procedure as for Append Set I above, just with slightly different folder names.

==Installing the Append Set I Support Patch==
[[File:AA2_PackUpdater.png|thumb|PackUpdater.exe: Click the left button to patch the files]]
The [[Artificial Academy 2/Change Log#Append Set I Support|Append Set support patch]] was released on {{#dateformat:2014-09-05|mdy}} and is included in the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. Follow these steps if you prefer to install it manually:
#Download <tt>jg2append_support.exe</tt> to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Run <tt>C:\Downloads\append\jg2append_support.exe</tt>.
#Press Enter when the window with the destination is shown and wait while it copies the files.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン２アペンドセット修正パッチ</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>PackUpdater.exe</tt> with and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.
#Click the left button and wait while it is working.
#Click the right button to exit <tt>PackUpdater.exe</tt>.

=Installing the Maker=
Note that this covers installing the Maker ONLY (for those without the full game). '''IMPORTANT:''' If you have the full game you should follow the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] above!
[[File:Maker_Startup.png|thumb|Maker Startup]]
[[File:ArtificialAcademy_destinationchanged.jpg|thumb|It should look like this before you click (N)]]
#Run <tt>jg2_02_make.exe</tt>.
#Enter a location to install it, e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker</tt> (you can just paste this to the extractor and it will create the folders).
#Press Enter and wait for the extraction to complete.
#Go to <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker</tt>.
#Rename the "ジンコウガクエン２きゃらめいく製品版" folder to e.g. "Maker", so that you have <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker\Maker</tt>.
#Go to <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker\Maker</tt>.
#Right-click <tt>Startup.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale as administrator'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Refer to Maker Startup screenshot on the right: If the second button is not grayed out you must install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. Your game will not work if you ignore this!
#Click the third button from the top (ref. Maker Startup screenshot on the right) to start the AA2 Edit (aka. Maker) setup.
#Wait while the setup starts up and then click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Click the top-right button and ''change the destination'' to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Maker</tt>!! (ref. 'It should look like this before you click (N)' screenshot on the right)
#Click (N) again a few times and wait while AA2 Edit installs (will only take a few seconds).
#Click (F) and you're done installing the AA2 Maker. :)

==Running the Maker==
#Go to the <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Maker\</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>AA2Edit.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).

=Improving the Visuals=
Some people may not know it, but it's possible to significantly improve how the game looks just by setting a few settings in your graphics adapter control panel. These settings shouldn't impact performance noticeably unless you have an older graphics adapter or if you are running the game at a very high resolution.

==NVIDIA 3D Settings==
For NVIDIA graphics do the following:
#Make sure that ''Options->Effects->Anti-Aliasing'' is set to ''None''.
#Open NVIDIA Control Panel
#Click ''Manage 3D settings''
#Click the tab ''Program Settings''
#Click Add and select or browse to <tt>C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play English.exe</tt> (for the Maker you should use <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Edit\AA2Edit.exe</tt>)
#Recommended settings for maximum visual effect:
##Anisotropic filtering: 16x
##Antialiasing - Gamma correction: On
##Antialiasing - Mode: Override any application setting
##Antialiasing - Setting: 32x
##Antialiasing - Transparency: 8x (Supersample)
##Texture filtering - Anisotropic sample optimization: Off
##Texture filtering - Negative LOD bias: Clamp
##Texture filtering - Quality: High quality
#Click Apply
#Experiment with lower settings if you don't have a recent graphics card or to tweak performance vs. visuals.

==ATi/AMD 3D Settings==
For ATi/AMD graphics do the following:
#Open AMD Catalyst Control Center
#Click Gaming
#Click the tab 3D Application Settings
#Under Application Settings click Add
#Select or browse to C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play English.exe (for the Maker you should use C:\illusion\AA2Edit\AA2Edit.exe)
#Recommended settings for maximum visual effect:
#*Anti-Aliasing Mode: Override application settings
#*Anti-Aliasing Samples: 12xEQ
#*Filter: Edge-detect
#*Anti-Aliasing Method: Read ''Note''
#*Anisotropic Filtering Mode: Override application settings
#*Anisotropic Filtering Level: 8x
#*Texture Filtering Quality: High Quality
#*Surface Format Optimization: On
#*''Note:'' Supersample AA can bring even the most powerful computers to sub 30 FPS in this game during H-scenes and conversations. If you find the FPS drop to be unbearable, Adaptive Multi-Sampling AA is close to the same quality with drastically less of an impact on FPS.
#Click Save

Artificial Academy 2/Technical Help

2017-11-08T15:16:51Z

Cblangs: /* Running the Game */

{{hgame|game=Artificial Academy 2|company=IllusionGames|category=IllusionGames}}
''If you have problems installing or running the game you will almost certainly find an answer or solution below. ''
= FAQ =
==Running the Game==
*'''Q: I keep getting 0% on all interactions. Please help!?''' A: You must run the game (<tt>AA2Play.exe</tt>/<tt>AA2Play English.exe</tt>) with Japanese locale ''and'' Formats set to Japanese. Better yet, set your locale to your native locale and use AppLocale (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc])). '''NOTE: You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc on Windows 10'''. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more]. If the subtitles mod still doesn't work, use SBAppLocale (follow the instructions from a question below).

*'''Q: My game freezes (or they just stand there and I can't do anything) on all/some conversations. Help!?''' A: You must run the game (<tt>AA2Play.exe</tt>/<tt>AA2Play English.exe</tt>) with Japanese locale ''and'' Formats set to Japanese. Better yet, set your locale to your native locale and use AppLocale (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc])). '''NOTE: You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc on Windows 10'''. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more]. If the subtitles mod still doesn't work, use SBAppLocale (follow the instructions from a question below).

*'''Q: I am trying to run the Subtitles mod on Windows 10 using ''Local Emulator'' and nothing happens when I click ''Run with Subs'' or the game starts but in game I can't see any 3D model?''' A: It's a random issue, on some environments ''Local Emulator'' works propertly with the subtitles mod, sometimes not. A working alternative is ''SBAppLocale''. Download [http://www.steelbytes.com/?mid=45 SBAppLocale]. Extract the archive in the ''AA2Play'' folder (where the main game executable is located). Then create a ''.bat'' file calling it whatever you want (a ''.bat'' file is a simple text file with the extension changed, follow the step 1 from [http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/write-simple-batch-bat-file/ this tutorial] if you feel in trouble), and paste this line into it: <pre>SBApplocale.exe 1041 AA2PlayJSF.exe</pre> Then double click the ''.bat'' file to start playing.

*'''Q: How do I zoom in, mouse wheel is getting me nothing?''' A: Right click and move the mouse.

*'''Q: The Maker/game stops working (or just quit silently) when I click Play/Game Start/Run with Subs?''' A: This is known to happen (rare) and can be caused by your browser (Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer) running in the background. Try closing any open applications (browser etc.) and then try again. If that doesn't help, try restarting Windows and then run the game as the first/only thing after logging on.

[[File:AA2_geforce_error.png|thumb|GeForce error]]
*'''Q: I get this error about Direct3DCreate9x in d3d9.dll when I run the game? (see GeForce error on the right)''' A: This is caused by the latest GeForce Experience update 2.1.2. You can either ignore the errors (just click OK to them all) and the game will work just fine and wait for NVIDIA to release an update that fixes it, or you can uninstall GeForce Experience and install the [http://us.download.nvidia.com/GFE/GFEClient/2.1.1.1/GeForce_Experience_v2.1.1.1.exe previous version].

[[File:AA2_Insert_disk.png|thumb|Insert disk 1]]
*'''Q: When I run the game I get an error? (see Insert disk 1 on the right)''' A: Make sure that you mounted DISK1.mdf (i.e. ジンコウガクエン2.mdf renamed to DISK1.mdf) or use a nodvd launcher.

[[File:AA2_Text_issue.jpg|thumb|Text issue - caused by not using Japanese locale properly]]
*'''Q: The text is not displayed correctly (I see only ??? or 'u' and 'v' characters like on the Text issue picture on the right) and I already set my system locale to Japanese?''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game).

*'''Q: I have a trait/personality/etc in my game that doesn't seem to be mentioned anywhere?''' A: The translation of personalities, traits, sexual prefs, items etc. are subject to change until after the game has been launched. To ensure that you have the latest official translations go [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3539158 here].

*'''Q: My game just randomly crashes and I've tried reinstalling so many times, my system locale is japanese.''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game). A3: It might be because you load hacked characters or that use mods that you don't have installed. Easiest way to make sure is to load all characters you want to play with in AA2Edit one by one, review the hair/traits/sex prefs etc. and then save the character as a new file (System tab). Then you can start the game and safely load the characters you just saved.

*'''Q: When I click the "save" button in my room nothing happens, neither the "Game Saved!" message appears. Help?''' A: Create a "class" folder in the <AA2Play>\data\save folder. This error is probably because you downloaded one of the "pre-installed" games available and you didn't read/follow the readme.

[[File:AA2_Bad_installation.jpg|thumb|Bad installation]]
*'''Q: Does anyone know what this error means (see Bad installation picture on the right)? It keeps showing up every time I talk to someone or they talk to me in game. All I have to do is click it to make it go away but its very annoying! Anyone know what it says?''' A: You installed the maker and game in the same folder (instead of following the Quick step-by-step guide [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]]). Playing full screen may suppress the error, but otherwise install the game like suggested [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]] to fix it.

*'''Q: When I run the game I see only a black screen? btw, I run the game in full screen and I installed the Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod.''' A: The Windowed Fullscreen mod is intended for running the game ''windowed'' in your desktop resolution (set the game resolution to match your desktop in Options on the AA2Play launcher). The purpose of the mod is that the game will seem to be in fullscreen, but you will be able to Alt-Tab etc. without it crashing/just showing a black screen. If you wish to run the game in full screen you should just delete the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q: I have no voice audio and I tried everything?''' A: If you have 5/7.1 make sure that the middle jack is connected, because that's where the voices are.

*'''Q: I'm getting an error: "Could not find the resource DLL file: alres409.dll"''' A1: Your computer is probably already in Japanese Locale Regional Settings. You do not need to use the HFAppLoc's ''Run with Japanese locale''. Run the program directly or ''Run as administrator'' depending on the exe file you are attempting to open. A2: Uninstall AppLocale and HF pAppLoc from the control panel, restart and then install [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc].

*'''Q: I'm getting an error: "The program can't start because d3dx9_43.dll is missing from your computer."''' A1: If you get this error it means you have to install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. Even if you already have a newer version you may still have to download this if you did not install it when you installed the game.

*'''Q: When I click Run with Subs the game crashes, but it runs fine if I just click Play. Is there any way I can get the game to work with subtitles?''' A: Turn off any graphics card control application you may have running (like EVGA Precision, Asus GPU Tweak etc.). Anything that has an overlay that gives you temp, proc usage and other data may interfere with the subtitle mod. Read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430813?p=3572956#post3572956 more].

*'''Q: Anyone know what happened to the Windowed Fullscreen mod?''' A: It's included in the subtitle mod. Run the AA2Play launcher, click ''Config Subs'' and then check ''Windowed Fullscreen''.

[[File:AA2_Maker_translation_issue.png|thumb|Maker personality translation issue]]
*'''Q: I have an issue with the Maker personality translation not working (see Maker personality translation issue on the right) and I set my locale to Japanese.''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game). A3: If none of the above solutions work for you you can try [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/index2.html#post1664615 this mod] (apply it with [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1536394 Illusion Wizzard]). Note that you will also need to fix your karaoke folder names, which can be done with [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/index2.html#post1666566 this]. '''Warning:''' The consequences of using the mod are not completely known and you should only use it if the two first solutions didn't work!

*'''Q:My game keep on crash whenever I star with sub or without.

==Graphical Issues==
*'''Q: The girl has a discolored texture in the uncensored region?''' A: Some uncensors (like the MKII uncensor included in the HF Patch) requires a special launcher, so make sure that you use the launcher that is designed for the uncensor you have installed. If you installed the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] you should use the desktop shortcuts.

*'''Q: The girl has an issue with the legs not looking right?''' A1: This can be caused by an issue with the latest English launcher - make sure that you use the latest launcher or [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. If you installed the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] you should use the desktop shortcuts. A2: If you installed the HEXA Clothing Packs, note that the Cosplay Club only fits thin or normal figure types and the High-Cut Swimsuit only fits thin or normal figure types.

*'''Q: Something is not looking right?''' A1: It may be a known issue/limitation with the mod(s) you have installed. Read the release post and/or readme file that came with the mod(s)! A2: Make sure that you're using the latest version of the mod(s) or [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] (if you previously used it). All mods are made by people in their free time and they may have issues which could be fixed in a later version.

==Performance==
*'''Q: On Windows 10 after the Anniversary Update (version 1607), performance is now slow and jerky during any interactive 3D action.''' A: This is a result of an update to the '''DirectX9''' 3D DLL. The workaround is to replace <tt>d3d9.dll</tt> in the game installation directory with the previous working version in <tt>C:\windows\syswow64\d3d9.dll</tt> (provided you have not deleted it, <tt>system32</tt> on 32-bit machines). If you use a subtitle mod (which also requires its own d3d9.dll in the game directory), put your previous d3d9.dll next to it under the name "d3d9_alt.dll". The subtitle mod will detect it and use it in place of the one in the system folder. For more information, go [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/forum/hentai-lair/hentai-game-discussion/5699235-illusion-games-problems-with-windows-10-anniversary-update here].

*'''Q: After the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, the AA2Edit still lags, even after fixing the main game with the d3d9.dll patch?''' A: Copy your d3d9_alt.dll and d3d9.dll (or d3d9.dll if you have replaced your original) and place it inside your AA2Edit installation folder. If you have the unlocked version, place a copy inside that folder as well.

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene, but my AMD graphics should be more than enough for this game?''' A: Some people have reported subpar performance using AMD graphics. It may be related to the driver version, so make sure you're up to date. Alternatively you could try older driver versions. Please edit if you find a particular version runs better!

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene?''' A: This may because you have an average cpu and the character(s) on screen has very long hair, big dresses, accessories, large breasts and/or other physics enabled things. Try designing characters with short hair, no accessories and dress them in swimsuits and see if it helps.

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene, but my AMD graphics should be more than enough for this game?''' A: If you installed the Subtitles mod (or the Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod) it can because of that and you could try to remove the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q: I experience freezing and/or several seconds loading each time a conversation starts. Sometimes the mouse cursor is even spinning indicating not responding application, please help!?''' A1: If you have installed the hires skins you should uninstall them because your PC is not powerful enough (>3GHz i7, SSD recommended). You might experience tolerable performance if you install the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430353-Mod-Release-Thread-%28Illusion%29-Artificial-Academy-2?p=3549163#post3549163 lowres version]. A2: Other things to consider: Mods like the 3D uncensor also introduces slightly longer load times because of more complex mesh/more to load, though the impact is only a small fraction of the hires skins. The [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] includes the SVII uncensor, which is very light on performance, so you could try that (remember to check all the launchers when you change the uncensor because otherwise you will have incompatible launchers installed).

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene. My laptop has two graphics adapters, but for some reason the game defaults to the slow one?''' A: If you installed the Subtitles mod (or Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod) it can because of that and you should just remove the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

==Installation==
*'''Q: Will the game run on Windows 10?''' A: Not without issues unless you switch system locale to Japanese, which you really shouldn't because you will experience [[Illusion Games How to install#Why not change regional settings?|issues with other stuff]]. You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more].

*'''Q: It's telling me to insert the "commercial version disk" even though I already have it mounted AND renamed it DISK1.mdf. I'm already in Japanese locale, and I still tried running it with applocale?''' A: Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.iso</tt> with [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite! - it's completely free)

*'''Q: I can't get PowerISO to mount disk 2 and 3. Any help?''' A: Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.iso</tt> with [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite! - it's completely free)

*'''Q: While installing, the game complains about Data1.cab from disk1. Help!?''' A: Make sure that you mounted DISK1.mdf (i.e. ジンコウガクエン2.mdf renamed to DISK1.mdf). If that doesn't help, try extracting ジンコウガクエン2.mdf again, rename it to DISK1.mdf, and follow the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] below.

*'''Q: While setting up the DLC HF patch, the setup can't detect AA2 in my Artificial Academy 2 folder. Any help?''' A: You're pointing the HF Patch to a folder which doesn't contain the correct files (the patch will look for some files needed during patching to verify the location). Possible causes are that you renamed the folder after installing the game or you changed the folder suggested by the HF patch. Make sure that you point the patch to the actual folder with the installed game files and then use the Fix registry feature of the HF patch or reinstall the game as suggested in the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] below.

==Misc==
*'''Q: My AA2Edit (On Windows 10) only runs in Japanese. How do I run it in english?'''

*'''Q: Where do I put custom eye textures?''' A: If you installed AA2 Edit to the location suggested [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]]: C:\illusion\AA2Edit\data\texture\eye\

*'''Q: I'm missing some hair in AA2Edit/Maker and some of the buttons are greyed out/disabled! Help?''' A: Make sure that you have installed all the DLC (read more below) and Append Set I+II.

*'''Q: How do I get downloaded characters to work? They just show up blank in the maker??''' A: Some browsers have problems saving the image file properly when using "Save image" option... try using "Save link as". If that doesn't work, click on the picture first so it opens with the picture viewer of the website or browser and THEN save it.

*'''Q: Does anyone know how to use SweetFX (need SMAA + Sharpening) alongside with Subtitle Overlay? They both use d3d9.dll?''' A: You can rename the SweetFX d3d9.dll to d3d9_alt.dll and then the Subtitle mod will use it.

*'''Q: I downloaded a character, but the hair and/or accessories in the game doesn't look like on the card. I checked my Maker and the hair and/or accessory seems to be missing! What's going on?''' A: The character has been created using one or more hair/accessory mods. Most hair/accessories are in the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432840 BigPack HEXA] mod compilation, so you should try installing that as the first thing. If that doesn't include the mod(s) you may have luck investigating the character description or maybe find information about where to get the mods where you downloaded the character.

*'''Q: How can I listen to singing at karaoke?''' A: Choose or download .wav or .ogg files for the songs you want to hear, and place them in data/sound subfolders corresponding to the kanji of the personality types to sing them. If you still cannot hear them on Windows 7 or 8, download the DirectShow codecs from [http://www.vorbis.com/setup_windows/ Vorbis.com Windows Setup] page.

*'''Q: How can I run the game in a higher resolution than 1920x1200, e.g. 2560x1440?''' A: The only known workaround is by hex [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430813?p=3622888#post3622888 editing] <AA2Play folder>\data\gsd.cfg. Note that it is highly recommended to set anti aliasing via your graphics adapter's control panel instead of using the built-in anti aliasing in the game (read more at the bottom of this page).

=Installing the Game=
While you can download pre-installed versions of the game, it is recommended that you get a download which contains the DVD images and install the game yourself.
==Quick step-by-step guide==
Note that this covers installing the game from scratch. If you already installed the Maker (aka. AA2 Edit) you can skip the AA2 Edit steps (i.e. step 6-9).
[[File:AA2_Startup.png|thumb|Startup.exe: Click the fourth button to install AA2, fifth button to install AA2 Edit]]
[[File:AA2_Change_destination.png|thumb|Click highlighted button to change the destination]]
[[File:AA2_Destination_changed.png|thumb|It should look like this before you click (N)]]
[[File:AA2_Insert_disk2.png|thumb|Insert disk 2]]
#Extract ジンコウガクエン2.mdf, DISK2.mdf and DISK3.mdf (DO NOT extract the .mds files!) to e.g. C:\Downloads\AA2
#Rename ジンコウガクエン2.mdf to DISK1.mdf
#Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.mdf</tt>. If you're using Windows 8 you can mount it without other programs, otherwise you'll need [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite - it's completely free)
#DO NOT autorun, but explore the mounted dvd and right-click <tt>Startup.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale as administrator'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Refer to Startup.exe picture on the right: If you can click the second button it means you have to install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. The game will not work if you ignore it!
#Click the third button from the top (ref. Startup.exe picture) to start the AA2 Edit (aka. Maker) setup.
#Click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Change the destination to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Edit</tt> if you want to be able to play the game! (see picture on the right)
#Click (N) again a few times and wait while AA2 Edit installs (will only take a few seconds).
#When the AA2 Edit setup is complete: Click the fourth button from the top (ref. Startup.exe picture) to start the game (AA2 Play) setup.
#Click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Change the destination to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2</tt> if you want to be able to play the game! (see picture on the right)
#Click N again a few times, and lastly (I), and wait while the game installs.
#About a third through the setup will ask for DISK2 (ref. Insert disk 2 picture on the right): Mount <tt>DISK2.iso</tt> with Daemontools Lite, wait a few seconds and then click OK.
#About two thirds through the setup will ask for DISK3: Mount <tt>DISK3.iso</tt> with Daemontools Lite, wait a few seconds and then click OK.
#Wait while the game finishes the installation.
#To run the game you need to mount <tt>DISK1.mdf</tt> again and right-click <tt>C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.

==Next step==
When you have successfully installed and tested the game you probably want to install official patches, DLC and essential mods like English translations and uncensor.

The (by far) easiest way is to use the HF Patch (if you don't know it, "HF" is a well-known acronym for "'''H'''ave '''F'''un").

===The HF Patch===
The latest version of the HF Patch includes all the official patches, so you don't have to worry about installing any of those. It also includes the no-dvd fix, English translations and UI as well as uncensors.

If you had just installed the game then you have to install the official DLCs before the HF Patch. The easiest way to install them is through the [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1572128 DLC HF Patch], which contains every official DLC.
=====Regfixer=====
If you downloaded a pre-installed version of the game or installed the game to a bad location (i.e. one with Unicode/unreadable characters) then both the HF patch and the DLC HF patch can fix the game's registry entries. To fix the registry, just do these simple steps:
#Rename the game folder(s) before running either patch.
#When the patch shows the suggested location, correct it to the renamed folder(s), e.g. C:\illusion\AA2.
#Check the fix registry component(s) (at the bottom of the component list) when running the patch.
#Wait for the patch to do its job.
#Play the game!
Please note that fixing the registry is not recommended because it will break uninstalling. Fixing the registry will make the game work, but you should not expect to be able to uninstall it without manual work.

====HF Patching for Dummies====
This section describes how to use the HF Patch.
#Install the game as outlined [[#Installing the Game|above]].
#Download [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 the Artificial Academy 2 HF Patch].
#Read the [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 patch release post] while downloading, so you know what is required (and what to expect).
#Run the patch by double-clicking on the file you just downloaded.
#Read the information in the beginning and make sure that you have enough free disk space to run the patch before you click ''Next''.
#Click ''Next'' and review the components. The ''Recommended installation'' is all you need to get the game updated, translated and uncensored, but you might want to check out the options anyway.
#Click ''Next'' and consider installing an icon on your desktop (TIP: The shortcut using AppLocale is highly recommended, because you still have to run the translated game with Japanese locale. Using the shortcut will make it completely transparent that you actually run the game with Japanese locale).
#Click ''Next'' to start patching your game. Beware that patching your game will change installed files and it cannot be reversed or uninstalled. Therefore you should keep the original files, so you can restore the game to it's original state later on if needed. Having the original files might be required if you plan to install additional or different mods later on.
#Let the patch work (you can do other stuff while it's working, just don't start/mess with the game). Patching may take several minutes and the progress bar may not move. Just be patient. It is guaranteed to work if you installed the game as outlined above.
#Play the updated, translated and uncensored game by double-clicking the "Artificial Academy 2" desktop icon. :)

TIP: You can move the desktop shortcut to anywhere you prefer (some prefer to have it in the game folder) and it will still work.

'''Note:''' It is safe to run the patch again if you want to install additional components and/or change options. Just deselect the components you previously installed and patching will be relatively quick.

=Install Order=
The easy/correct order of installing stuff is as follows:
#Install the game as outlined [[#Quick step-by-step guide|above]].
#Install [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1572128 the Artificial Academy 2 DLC HF Patch].
#Install the [[#Append Set Add-ons|Append Set I add-on]].
#Install the [[#Append Set Add-ons|Append Set II add-on]].
#Install the latest [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 Artificial Academy 2 HF Patch] (the latest version includes all official patches, so you don't have to worry about your game not being up to date).
#Have fun playing the game fully updated and with the essential mods!

'''Note:''' If you later want to update your game with the latest official patches and/or essential mods, you should just get the latest [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 AA2 HF Patch].

=Installing the DLC=
This section explains how to install the all preorder bonus and DLC that has been released since the game has been launched. Currently this is available:
*DLC1 & DLC2 (hairstyle/sidehair)
*Preorder Hairstyles (long length)
*Preorder Personality (Cadet personality)
*Illusion Special Member Bonus (hairstyles)

Check out the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430353?p=3551838#post3551838 Artificial Academy 2 DLC HF Patch] release post for screens of the DLCs. The easiest way to install them is through it.

==Manual Install==
Below are a some examples of how to the DLC should be installed manually. You need to download all the DLC and not only the examples below.

Consider using the AA2 DLC HF Patch (all it does is copy official files to your game folder).

===jg2_sou.exe===
#Right-click <tt>jg2_sou.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Click the highlighted button (the left one) and wait while the archive extracts.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２予約特典" folder.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２曹" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2).
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit).
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２予約特典髪型" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2).
#Copy all files from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit).
#Done.

===jg2_03_plus.exe===
#Right-click <tt>jg2_03_plus.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Click the highlighted button (the left one) and wait while the archive extracts.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２追加髪型アップデートプログラム" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2) - Yes to overwrite.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit) - Yes to overwrite.
#Done.

=Append Set Add-ons=
[[Artificial Academy 2/Append Set|The Append Set add-ons]] adds new personalities, hairs and costumes. The Append Sets are not free and therefore they will ''never'' be included in a [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. To get it you have to [http://www.dmm.co.jp/en/dc/pcgame/-/detail/=/cid=digib_0068/ buy Append Set I], [http://www.dmm.co.jp/dc/pcgame/-/detail/=/cid=digib_0070/ buy Append Set II] or get it [http://www.google.com/search?q=%E3%82%B8%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B3%E3%82%A6%E3%82%AC%E3%82%AF%E3%82%A8%E3%83%B32%E3%82%A2%E3%83%9A%E3%83%B3%E3%83%89%E3%82%BB%E3%83%83%E3%83%88 some other way]. The [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] includes official patches and mods that will patch, translate and uncensor the Append Set I+II if you have them installed when running the patch.

Tips for buying the Append Sets: You have to do it in Japanese to be able to proceed at DMM, so do not choose English language! Instead you should use a browser that can translate the page for you on the fly. Once translated it's pretty straightforward to create an account, enter credit card info, buy a product and download it.

==Installing the Append Set I Add-on==
[[File:AA2_FileCopy.png|thumb|FileCopy.exe: Click the left button to copy the files]]
Follow these easy steps to get the Append Set I correctly installed:
#'''IMPORTANT:''' Right-click 7-zip (or WinRAR or your preferred extractor) and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Use 7-zip (or you preferred extractor) to browse to where you downloaded <tt>VJ008700.zip</tt> and open it.
#Extract it to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt> with and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.
#Click the left button and wait while it is working.
#Click the right button to exit <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt>.

===Alternative===
If you can't get <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt> to work (very unlikely if you followed the above guide to the point), you can hack your way with the following:
#'''IMPORTANT:''' Right-click 7-zip (or WinRAR or your preferred extractor) and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Use 7-zip to browse to where you downloaded VJ008700.zip and open it.
#Extract it to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット</tt> folder.
#Copy all files/folders from <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット\setup\main\</tt> to <your AA2Play folder>.
#Copy all files/folders from <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット\setup\edit\</tt> to <your AA2Edit folder>.

==Installing the Append Set II Add-on==
It is essentially the same procedure as for Append Set I above, just with slightly different folder names.

==Installing the Append Set I Support Patch==
[[File:AA2_PackUpdater.png|thumb|PackUpdater.exe: Click the left button to patch the files]]
The [[Artificial Academy 2/Change Log#Append Set I Support|Append Set support patch]] was released on {{#dateformat:2014-09-05|mdy}} and is included in the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. Follow these steps if you prefer to install it manually:
#Download <tt>jg2append_support.exe</tt> to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Run <tt>C:\Downloads\append\jg2append_support.exe</tt>.
#Press Enter when the window with the destination is shown and wait while it copies the files.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン２アペンドセット修正パッチ</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>PackUpdater.exe</tt> with and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.
#Click the left button and wait while it is working.
#Click the right button to exit <tt>PackUpdater.exe</tt>.

=Installing the Maker=
Note that this covers installing the Maker ONLY (for those without the full game). '''IMPORTANT:''' If you have the full game you should follow the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] above!
[[File:Maker_Startup.png|thumb|Maker Startup]]
[[File:ArtificialAcademy_destinationchanged.jpg|thumb|It should look like this before you click (N)]]
#Run <tt>jg2_02_make.exe</tt>.
#Enter a location to install it, e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker</tt> (you can just paste this to the extractor and it will create the folders).
#Press Enter and wait for the extraction to complete.
#Go to <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker</tt>.
#Rename the "ジンコウガクエン２きゃらめいく製品版" folder to e.g. "Maker", so that you have <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker\Maker</tt>.
#Go to <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker\Maker</tt>.
#Right-click <tt>Startup.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale as administrator'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Refer to Maker Startup screenshot on the right: If the second button is not grayed out you must install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. Your game will not work if you ignore this!
#Click the third button from the top (ref. Maker Startup screenshot on the right) to start the AA2 Edit (aka. Maker) setup.
#Wait while the setup starts up and then click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Click the top-right button and ''change the destination'' to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Maker</tt>!! (ref. 'It should look like this before you click (N)' screenshot on the right)
#Click (N) again a few times and wait while AA2 Edit installs (will only take a few seconds).
#Click (F) and you're done installing the AA2 Maker. :)

==Running the Maker==
#Go to the <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Maker\</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>AA2Edit.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).

=Improving the Visuals=
Some people may not know it, but it's possible to significantly improve how the game looks just by setting a few settings in your graphics adapter control panel. These settings shouldn't impact performance noticeably unless you have an older graphics adapter or if you are running the game at a very high resolution.

==NVIDIA 3D Settings==
For NVIDIA graphics do the following:
#Make sure that ''Options->Effects->Anti-Aliasing'' is set to ''None''.
#Open NVIDIA Control Panel
#Click ''Manage 3D settings''
#Click the tab ''Program Settings''
#Click Add and select or browse to <tt>C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play English.exe</tt> (for the Maker you should use <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Edit\AA2Edit.exe</tt>)
#Recommended settings for maximum visual effect:
##Anisotropic filtering: 16x
##Antialiasing - Gamma correction: On
##Antialiasing - Mode: Override any application setting
##Antialiasing - Setting: 32x
##Antialiasing - Transparency: 8x (Supersample)
##Texture filtering - Anisotropic sample optimization: Off
##Texture filtering - Negative LOD bias: Clamp
##Texture filtering - Quality: High quality
#Click Apply
#Experiment with lower settings if you don't have a recent graphics card or to tweak performance vs. visuals.

==ATi/AMD 3D Settings==
For ATi/AMD graphics do the following:
#Open AMD Catalyst Control Center
#Click Gaming
#Click the tab 3D Application Settings
#Under Application Settings click Add
#Select or browse to C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play English.exe (for the Maker you should use C:\illusion\AA2Edit\AA2Edit.exe)
#Recommended settings for maximum visual effect:
#*Anti-Aliasing Mode: Override application settings
#*Anti-Aliasing Samples: 12xEQ
#*Filter: Edge-detect
#*Anti-Aliasing Method: Read ''Note''
#*Anisotropic Filtering Mode: Override application settings
#*Anisotropic Filtering Level: 8x
#*Texture Filtering Quality: High Quality
#*Surface Format Optimization: On
#*''Note:'' Supersample AA can bring even the most powerful computers to sub 30 FPS in this game during H-scenes and conversations. If you find the FPS drop to be unbearable, Adaptive Multi-Sampling AA is close to the same quality with drastically less of an impact on FPS.
#Click Save

School Mate 2/Technical Help

2017-10-21T13:42:46Z

Cblangs: /* Running the game */

{{School_Mate_2}}

''If you have problems installing or running the game, this is what you should read. ''
= FAQ =

=== Installation ===
*'''Q: Will the game run on Windows 10?''' A: Not without issues unless you switch system locale to Japanese, which you really shouldn't because you will experience [[Illusion Games How to install#Why not change regional settings?|issues with other stuff]]. You can't use AppLocale, but you can use NTLEA and Locale Emulator, but the subtitle mod will not work (i.e. no subtitles).

[[File:1155.jpg|thumb|1155 Error]]
*'''Q: WinRAR can't extract "???.rar". Help?''' A: Rename the "???" to another filename.

*'''Q: I can't mount the "???.iso" (or "???.mdf") in Daemon Tools, Alcohol 120%, Nero etc.? What can I do?''' A: Rename "???.iso" to e.g. "game.iso" and you can mount it.

*'''Q: When I run the setup I get an error with unreadable text preceded by '1155:' (see screenshot on the right). Anyone know how to fix this?''' A: This is a Japanese game and you have to run the setup with Japanese regional settings to install it. Learn how to [[#Installing the game|install the game]].

*'''Q: There is a CRC error while extracting the file! Help?''' A: This is most probably an error in the torrent/Share file you downloaded, that unfortunately can't be repaired. You have to download another torrent/Share file without the error to be sure to run the game without problems!

=== Running the game ===
*'''Q: Scrolling the mouse doesn't do anything! I scroll it over the [[School Mate 2 H Guide#The H pad|H pad]] but nothing happens and she just stands there! How do I fix this!?!!''' A: The reason for this behavior is unknown, but may be caused by using non-standard scroll wheel features or mouse driver software. You can maybe [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183293&p=2764037#post2764037 fix it by using the keyboard] instead.

*'''Q: The icons on the game don't show! Where the icons and the points should be are just white boxes, how do i fix this!?!!''' A: This seems to happen if you install "Supplemental English interface 1.2 by DCB". Simply uncheck this when applying the HF Mod. -muza

*'''Q: It wont let me play, says i need to install the disk. But I already installed the HF Patch and/or TheShadow's launcher??''' A: Unmount the image to fix it.

*'''Q: Lord help me, ENGLISH!?!''' A: http://www.hongfire.com/forum/downloads.php?do=file&id=190 (The HF Mod)

*'''Q: The girl has NO HAIR? See [http://img715.imageshack.us/img715/904/14925611.png this picture]. What can I do?''' A: This is caused by you not installing the correct official patch required by the launcher you are using. Install the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183290&p=2394312#post2394312 HF Patch] to fix it.

*'''Q: The characters have black skin. I have installed the game to an English location and used the HF Patch. How can I fix this?''' A: This is probably caused by you not having adequate hardware to run the game or by incompatible graphics drivers. Update your graphics drivers and/or reduce the game settings and disable the H/W Processing (run <tt>School Mate 2.exe</tt> and go to Options->Custom). If that doesn't help you have to upgrade your graphics card!

*'''Q: When I press Continue, the screen is mostly white after I installed the UI translation! See [http://img208.imageshack.us/i/freemode.png/ this picture]. Please help?''' A: Install [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183381&p=2392394#post2392394 School Mate 2 Plus patch] and then the UI translation. ('''note:''' the Plus patch is already included in the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183290&p=2394312#post2394312 HF Patch]).

*'''Q: After launching the game I just see a white screen! (the game may return to the desktop after showing the white screen). Note that this is a different error than above! What can I do?''' A: Don't use the Performance graphics setting... (or at least keep the ''Options->Custom->Smooth Textures'' option checked).

*'''Q: After launching the game I just see a black screen with some text for about a few seconds and then the game closes! What can I do?''' A: A user [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183690&p=2405666#post2405666 reported] that [http://www.pcauthorities.com/windows-xp/disable-themes-in-windows-xp disabling Themes] on Windows XP fixed this.

*'''Q: I get an error when running the game: "Error Incorrupt", "Unable to find Configration file, wrong registry". What can I do?''' A: You have this problem because you installed the game to the default or an invalid location. Read how to install the game properly under [[#Installing the game| Installing the game]] below. Alternatively you can use the Registry Fixer to fix the install location and registry. Read more about how to use it and where to get it [[#Registry Fixer| below]].

*'''Q: I get an error that the game cannot start because d3dx9_42.dll was not found. Help?''' A: DirectX 9.c is required if you have installed subtitles (these are part of the HF Patch). Install the latest DirectX 9.c [http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=2da43d38-db71-4c1b-bc6a-9b6652cd92a3&displaylang=en from here]. Alternatively, you can just remove d3d9.dll from your School Mate 2 game folder (and play without subtitles). If you have trouble running the web installer (cabinet cannot be trusted error, etc), try the "redistributable" (aka end-user runtime) package [http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?displaylang=en&FamilyID=3b170b25-abab-4bc3-ae91-50ceb6d8fa8d from here] .

*'''Q: Can I disable the eye contact of the Male? I mean, he will look around when the screen is moving... (Follow my mouse)?''' A: That is because you are using an old version of the NoDVD. Instead you should use the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183290&p=2392153#post2392153 English launcher] by '''TheShadow''' (requires that the Plus addon is installed!!) or (perhaps best for you) just install the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183290&p=2394312#post2394312 HF Patch]!

*'''Q: The game lags and/or feels very slow. What can i do to improve performance (besides buying a new PC)?''' A: Try the following suggestions: Try turning off Bloom (launcher). Try setting Rendering/Physics level to the lowest, i.e. leftmost setting (launcher). Try disabling outlines (in-game Configuration). Read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183381&p=2805642#post2805642 this] excellent post about what impacts performance.

*'''Q: Am I missing some controls? There were more in the Trial? See [http://i332.photobucket.com/albums/m354/javier95351/Untitled-14.png this picture]. Help?''' A: That picture looks like it should for [[School Mate 2 General Gameplay#Story Mode| Story Mode]].
*'''Q: When I play, the girls have no hair, and just a hole in skull. How do I fix it?'''

*'''Q: My game crash when I start the game? Please help, I try reinstall, use register fix still crash the game.

=== School Mate 2 Plus ===

*'''Q: What is School Mate 2 Plus?''' A: It is a patch released by Illusion when they released the game. It adds extra content and a small increase in FPS. It was initially meant for members only, but it has been released to the public. '''Important:''' It is required by most mods and must be installed before you attempt to install any mods. '''Note:''' It is included in the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183290&p=2394312#post2394312 HF Patch], so you don't have to worry about it.

*'''Q: What does School Mate 2 Plus add to the game besides the FPS increase?''' A: It adds the following to [[School Mate 2 General Gameplay#Free Mode (Endless Mode)|Endless mode]]: Two extra positions, glasses (press '7' to toggle on/off), four different hairstyles (press '8' to change).

*'''Q: What is the difference between School Mate 2 Plus and Special 3P?''' A: School Mate 2 Plus is a patch (replaces the standard School Mate 2 exe file), School Mate 2 Special is a separate "game" that must be installed to a different folder than the main game.

*'''Q: What is the deal with Vol.2 to Vol.5?''' A: These are updates to School Mate 2 Plus that fixes various minor issues. The latest version is Vol.5. You only need the latest version (no need to get the previous versions). '''Note:''' The latest version is already included in the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183290&p=2394312#post2394312 HF Patch], so you don't have to worry about it.

=== School Mate 2 Special ===

*'''Q: What is School Mate 2 Special?''' A: It is extra fan content released by Illusion when they released the game. It is a separate 'game' that has a few 3P positions with the guy and two of the girls.

*'''Q: How should I install School Mate 2 Special?''' A: It '''must''' be installed to a separate folder than the main game. If you install it to the same folder as the main game you will corrupt both games and you will have to reinstall both.

*'''Q: Why is School Mate 2 Special called Plus sometimes?''' A: This is an unfortunate name mixup that was caused by Illusion's naming of the two. They call it Special in the Registry, but they call the game "すくぅ～るメイト2 ぷらす!" which means School Mate 2 Plus. The [[School Mate 2 Technical Help#School Mate 2 Plus|Plus patch]] is called Plus because it is called school2_03_plus. It is unfortunate, but now you know the reason and should be able to distinguish between the two.

=== DigiMate ===

*'''Q: What is School Mate 2 DigiMate?''' A: It is an 'expansion' released by Illusion as a separate 'game', purchased separately. It is a poser with many items, similar to the one in Yuusha Digital.

=== Uninstalling the game ===
*'''Q: I can't uninstall, please help!!''' A: If you can't uninstall the game through the control panel, you could try [http://www.softpedia.com/get/Security/Secure-cleaning/Windows-Installer-CleanUp-Utility.shtml Microsoft Windows Installer CleanUp Utility] to clear installation info about the game. Note that you may not be able to see the proper name of the application in the list, you will only see something like: "ILLUSION ?????? [1.00.0000]", which could be a problem if you have several Illusion games installed... Using the utility will only remove Windows Installer info - it will not remove the game itself and you have to delete the folder manually. After you removed the game with this utility you will be able to reinstall the game. WARNING: Use this utility '''entirely on your own risk'''. You could potentially destroy other installed applications and you are completely on your own from here.

=== Modding the game ===

*'''Q: How should I apply mods to this game?''' A: If you already installed the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183290&p=2394312#post2394312 School Mate 2 HF Patch] and want to try out some different mods, you should follow [[School Mate 2 Modding Guide#Illusion Wizzard|this guide]] and learn how to use Illusion Wizzard to apply other mods.

=Installing the game=
This is a Japanese game and is not meant to run on non-Japanese Windows. To get it to work you have to do some tricks. Read on to learn them.
==Essential knowledge==
The following are the bare minimal knowledge you need to have to be able to run this game. Skip reading these and you will probably run into trouble later on!

# You have to install the game with Japanese regional settings (use AppLocale).
# You must never-ever install a Japanese game to the default location! You '''have''' to change the location to something like <tt>C:\illusion\SM2</tt> during the setup. If you don't, you will not be able to run and/or patch the game! '''Note:''' Avoid using non-English characters in the game location! You should only use a-z, A-Z, 0-9, ' ', '-' and '_'. For example, a guy installed the game to a folder with the letter 'Ä', but the game interprets this as 'A', and it will not run.
# Avoid installing the game to <tt>C:\Program Files</tt> or <tt>C:\Program Files (x86)</tt>. The reason for this is that Windows protects the <tt>C:\Program Files</tt> location and you may have trouble saving the game and/or game settings.

Additional useful information:
* To view all files in a folder, CD or DVD you may have to enable view of known file types and system files (Google this if you are in doubt how).
* Some actions may require you to right-click and click 'run as administrator' to be successful.

==Installing using Japanese regional settings==
You can either [[#Regional Settings|set Windows to Japanese]] or you can [[#Microsoft AppLocale|use Microsoft AppLocale]] instead (preferred and recommended).

Read this section to learn how to install and run the game.

To install the game do the following steps:[[File:Changefolder.jpg|thumb|Change install location]]
# If your Windows is not set to Japanese, you should install Microsoft AppLocale<ref name="AppLoc" /> (as described below) and then right-click <tt>StartUp.exe</tt> on the (virtual) dvd and select ''Locale Japanese'' to start the setup (just answer OK to the warning about AppLocale<ref name="AppLoc" /> being a temporary solution).
# '''IMPORTANT: '''Change the install location during the setup of the game (second screen in the setup, see screenshot) to something like C:\illusion\SM2. Remembering to avoid using non-English Characters.
# Click the (N) button a few times and let the setup finish.
When the game setup is complete you can play the game with Japanese regional settings. Or, if you use AppLocale, by right-clicking and selecting ''Locale Japanese''.

===Microsoft AppLocale===
AppLocale allows you to run an application with Japanese regional settings without having to reboot. It is preferable to to switching Windows regional settings to Japanese for many reasons.
====Installing AppLocale====

<blockquote>'''Note:''' Instead of installing the standard Microsoft AppLocale as outlined below, you can follow [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=82164&p=1485430#post1485430 this guide] and install ''pApploc'', which is easier to use. The guide also describes how to install the right-click feature.</blockquote>
----

Download AppLocale<ref name="AppLoc">You can download Microsoft AppLocale here: http://www.microsoft.com/globaldev/tools/apploc.mspx</ref> from Microsoft and install it.
You have to install it with administrative rights on Vista/7: Run a command prompt as an administrator and drag <tt>apploc.msi</tt> to the command window and press Enter to run the setup.

Make sure you have Asian language support installed (in Control Panel->Regional Settings), or it will not work.

=====AppLocale right-click feature=====
When you have installed AppLocale, you should download [http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?1nyhjtyny4w this archive]. The archive includes two <tt>.reg</tt> files. One will ''add ''a right-click context menu option (works on Vista as well), that will launch any application with Japanese regional settings with AppLocale. The other will ''remove ''the context menu again. So, after you have run the add <tt>.reg</tt> file, you just right-click an application (or shortcut) and select '''Locale Japanese''', and the application will run with Japanese regional settings. Very useful!

====AppLocale problems on Vista/7====
Some people have problems with using AppLocale/pApploc on Vista or Windows 7. This is because of UAC. It seems like the dynamic elevation of rights somehow interferes with the way AppLocale works. To solve it you have to run with administrator privileges from the start or disable UAC.

There are several ways to do this:
*Use a third party file manager like Total Commander and run it as administrator. You can then use AppLocale with right-click as normal from within the file manager.
*Run a command prompt as an administrator and write: <tt>%WINDIR%\AppPatch\AppLoc.exe <your dvd drive>:\Startup.exe /L0411</tt>, then press Enter and you will run StartUp.exe with Japanese regional settings.
*You could probably also run AppLocale as an administrator and then browse to the game and run it with Japanese regional settings.
*You could probably also run AppLocale in XP SP3 compability mode and then browse to the game and run it with Japanese regional settings.

===Changing regional settings===
If you don't want to use AppLocale and instead want to change your regional settings to Japanese, you can follow this excellent detailed guide<ref name="Robbi-Tutorial">An external tutorial: http://robbi-985.homeip.net:8000/sukuurumeito_translate/install/intro.html</ref> for Schoolmate (but most of it applies to any Japanese game).

====Why not change regional settings?====
There are several downsides to using Japanese regional settings on your non-Japanese Windows, so please try the [[#Microsoft AppLocale|AppLocale]] solution. Some of the downsides are just a nuisance and others are much more serious.

Below is an (incomplete) list of known side-effects:

=====Minor issues=====
* Backslash ('\') changes to a Yen ('¥') symbol, so <tt>C:\Windows</tt> becomes <tt>C:¥Windows</tt>.

=====Medium issues=====
* Updates may show up in Japanese (nVidia being an example).
* Applications may install in Japanese (Nero, iTunes, Chrome, nVidia being examples).
* Some mainstream games, including but not limited to Harry Potter 6, will not work (gives you a black screen when you start the exe and that's it).

=====Serious issues=====
* Characters outside a-z and A-Z (for instance é, á, ñ, ä, æ, ø, Ɵ, ӗ etc.) may be shown as Japanese or garbled characters. This can be a big problem if you for instance rip a cd with French music or update a German database. All the data will potentially have corrupted characters (the corruptions remain even after switching back to your native regional settings). '''Important:''' If you're from a country that uses characters other than a-z you should be extra careful when creating folders and files!!

==Alternative ways to install the game==
The following alternatives are not recommended. They may sound simpler, but they essentially involve extra work (instead of just doing it right once and for all) and installing this way can cause problems (like not being able to save) later on.

===Running the .msi file===
Not recommended. Run <tt><your dvd drive>:\setup\ILLUSION すくぅ～るメイト2.msi</tt> file from the dvd. Make sure you change the install location as described above!!

'''Warning:''' Using the .msi file may lead to files with the wrong name, missing altogether or folders not being created during the setup. This simple alternative is not recommended unless you can't install the game the recommended way (which is described above).

===Manual copy===
This is another (not recommended) way of installing the game:
#Open the Game Iso. You should see some files and 3 folders: DirectX, Setup and intro.
#Open the folder setup.
#Now, open the folder WinRoot. Do the same with the following illusion folder.
#Now you can see a single folder with a japanese name (or a lot of question marks, if you have no japanese language support). This is the complete, ready-to-go game.
#Extract this folder to your desired direction.
#Rename the folder to a normal name, like School Mate 2
#Copy the modified launcher into the renamed folder.
#Use the [[#Registry Fixer|Registry Fixer]] to setup game registration to match the location you copied the game to.
#More steps may be needed to get full functionality (like saving the game)...

==Registry Fixer==
If you installed the game to the default or an invalid location by mistake, you can fix it by using '''TheShadow''''s [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183290&p=2392153#post2392153 Registry Fixer].

The Registry Fixer will save you the trouble of uninstalling and installing again to a proper location (or alternatively manually renaming the folder and using Regedit and change <tt>HKCU\Software\illusion\SchoolMate2\INSTALLDIR</tt> accordingly).

===When not to use it===
There is no magic to the Registry Fixer and it doesn't magically fix things. If you installed the game [[School Mate 2 Technical Help#Installing the game| correctly]] and the game doesn't work, using the Registry Fixer won't help. Instead you should update your video drivers and check the FAQ if it still doesn't work.

===How to use it===
# Download the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=183290&p=2392153#post2392153 Registry Fixer] and extract it somewhere.
# Read the readme.txt.
# Run it and select the game in the dropdown list.
# Click on the English button.
# Choose the game path.
# You will be asked if you want to launch the launcher - click No.

===Consequences===
If you use the Registry Fixer you will no longer be able to uninstall the game normally. If you try to remove it via ''Add/Remove Programs'' (''Uninstall a program'' on win7) you will get an error.

===Registry Fixer FAQ===
*Q: I get an error when I run the Registry Fixer: ''"Application failed to initialize properly (0xc0000135)"''. What can I do? A: You must install Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 to use the Registry Fixer.

= References =

<references />
[[Category:School Mate 2]]

Artificial Academy 2/Technical Help

2016-09-30T16:12:49Z

Cblangs:

{{hgame|game=Artificial Academy 2|company=IllusionGames|category=IllusionGames}}
''If you have problems installing or running the game you will almost certainly find an answer or solution below. ''
= FAQ =
==Running the Game==
*'''Q: I keep getting 0% on all interactions. Please help!?''' A: You must run the game (<tt>AA2Play.exe</tt>/<tt>AA2Play English.exe</tt>) with Japanese locale ''and'' Formats set to Japanese. Better yet, set your locale to your native locale and use AppLocale (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc])). '''NOTE: You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc on Windows 10'''. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more]. If the subtitles mod still doesn't work, use SBAppLocale (follow the instructions from a question below).

*'''Q: My game freezes (or they just stand there and I can't do anything) on all/some conversations. Help!?''' A: You must run the game (<tt>AA2Play.exe</tt>/<tt>AA2Play English.exe</tt>) with Japanese locale ''and'' Formats set to Japanese. Better yet, set your locale to your native locale and use AppLocale (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc])). '''NOTE: You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc on Windows 10'''. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more]. If the subtitles mod still doesn't work, use SBAppLocale (follow the instructions from a question below).

*'''Q: I am trying to run the Subtitles mod on Windows 10 using ''Local Emulator'' and nothing happens when I click ''Run with Subs'' or the game starts but in game I can't see any 3D model?''' A: It's a random issue, on some environments ''Local Emulator'' works propertly with the subtitles mod, sometimes not. A working alternative is ''SBAppLocale''. Download [http://www.steelbytes.com/?mid=45 SBAppLocale]. Extract the archive in the ''AA2Play'' folder (where the main game executable is located). Then create a ''.bat'' file calling it whatever you want (a ''.bat'' file is a simple text file with the extension changed, follow the step 1 from [http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/write-simple-batch-bat-file/ this tutorial] if you feel in trouble), and paste this line into it: <pre>SBApplocale.exe 1041 AA2PlayJSF.exe</pre> Then double click the ''.bat'' file to start playing.

*'''Q: How do I zoom in, mouse wheel is getting me nothing?''' A: Right click and move the mouse.

*'''Q: The Maker/game stops working (or just quit silently) when I click Play/Game Start/Run with Subs?''' A: This is known to happen (rare) and can be caused by your browser (Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer) running in the background. Try closing any open applications (browser etc.) and then try again. If that doesn't help, try restarting Windows and then run the game as the first/only thing after logging on.

[[File:AA2_geforce_error.png|thumb|GeForce error]]
*'''Q: I get this error about Direct3DCreate9x in d3d9.dll when I run the game? (see GeForce error on the right)''' A: This is caused by the latest GeForce Experience update 2.1.2. You can either ignore the errors (just click OK to them all) and the game will work just fine and wait for NVIDIA to release an update that fixes it, or you can uninstall GeForce Experience and install the [http://us.download.nvidia.com/GFE/GFEClient/2.1.1.1/GeForce_Experience_v2.1.1.1.exe previous version].

[[File:AA2_Insert_disk.png|thumb|Insert disk 1]]
*'''Q: When I run the game I get an error? (see Insert disk 1 on the right)''' A: Make sure that you mounted DISK1.mdf (i.e. ジンコウガクエン2.mdf renamed to DISK1.mdf) or use a nodvd launcher.

[[File:AA2_Text_issue.jpg|thumb|Text issue - caused by not using Japanese locale properly]]
*'''Q: The text is not displayed correctly (I see only ??? or 'u' and 'v' characters like on the Text issue picture on the right) and I already set my system locale to Japanese?''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game).

*'''Q: I have a trait/personality/etc in my game that doesn't seem to be mentioned anywhere?''' A: The translation of personalities, traits, sexual prefs, items etc. are subject to change until after the game has been launched. To ensure that you have the latest official translations go [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3539158 here].

*'''Q: My game just randomly crashes and I've tried reinstalling so many times, my system locale is japanese.''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game). A3: It might be because you load hacked characters or that use mods that you don't have installed. Easiest way to make sure is to load all characters you want to play with in AA2Edit one by one, review the hair/traits/sex prefs etc. and then save the character as a new file (System tab). Then you can start the game and safely load the characters you just saved.

*'''Q: When I click the "save" button in my room nothing happens, neither the "Game Saved!" message appears. Help?''' A: Create a "class" folder in the <AA2Play>\data\save folder. This error is probably because you downloaded one of the "pre-installed" games available and you didn't read/follow the readme.

[[File:AA2_Bad_installation.jpg|thumb|Bad installation]]
*'''Q: Does anyone know what this error means (see Bad installation picture on the right)? It keeps showing up every time I talk to someone or they talk to me in game. All I have to do is click it to make it go away but its very annoying! Anyone know what it says?''' A: You installed the maker and game in the same folder (instead of following the Quick step-by-step guide [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]]). Playing full screen may suppress the error, but otherwise install the game like suggested [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]] to fix it.

*'''Q: When I run the game I see only a black screen? btw, I run the game in full screen and I installed the Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod.''' A: The Windowed Fullscreen mod is intended for running the game ''windowed'' in your desktop resolution (set the game resolution to match your desktop in Options on the AA2Play launcher). The purpose of the mod is that the game will seem to be in fullscreen, but you will be able to Alt-Tab etc. without it crashing/just showing a black screen. If you wish to run the game in full screen you should just delete the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q: I have no voice audio and I tried everything?''' A: If you have 5/7.1 make sure that the middle jack is connected, because that's where the voices are.

*'''Q: I'm getting an error: "Could not find the resource DLL file: alres409.dll"''' A1: Your computer is probably already in Japanese Locale Regional Settings. You do not need to use the HFAppLoc's ''Run with Japanese locale''. Run the program directly or ''Run as administrator'' depending on the exe file you are attempting to open. A2: Uninstall AppLocale and HF pAppLoc from the control panel, restart and then install [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc].

*'''Q: I'm getting an error: "The program can't start because d3dx9_43.dll is missing from your computer."''' A1: If you get this error it means you have to install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. Even if you already have a newer version you may still have to download this if you did not install it when you installed the game.

*'''Q: When I click Run with Subs the game crashes, but it runs fine if I just click Play. Is there any way I can get the game to work with subtitles?''' A: Turn off any graphics card control application you may have running (like EVGA Precision, Asus GPU Tweak etc.). Anything that has an overlay that gives you temp, proc usage and other data may interfere with the subtitle mod. Read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430813?p=3572956#post3572956 more].

*'''Q: Anyone know what happened to the Windowed Fullscreen mod?''' A: It's included in the subtitle mod. Run the AA2Play launcher, click ''Config Subs'' and then check ''Windowed Fullscreen''.

[[File:AA2_Maker_translation_issue.png|thumb|Maker personality translation issue]]
*'''Q: I have an issue with the Maker personality translation not working (see Maker personality translation issue on the right) and I set my locale to Japanese.''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game). A3: If none of the above solutions work for you you can try [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/index2.html#post1664615 this mod] (apply it with [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1536394 Illusion Wizzard]). Note that you will also need to fix your karaoke folder names, which can be done with [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/index2.html#post1666566 this]. '''Warning:''' The consequences of using the mod are not completely known and you should only use it if the two first solutions didn't work!

*'''Q:I have missing configuration file.

==Graphical Issues==
*'''Q: The girl has a discolored texture in the uncensored region?''' A: Some uncensors (like the MKII uncensor included in the HF Patch) requires a special launcher, so make sure that you use the launcher that is designed for the uncensor you have installed. If you installed the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] you should use the desktop shortcuts.

*'''Q: The girl has an issue with the legs not looking right?''' A1: This can be caused by an issue with the latest English launcher - make sure that you use the latest launcher or [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. If you installed the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] you should use the desktop shortcuts. A2: If you installed the HEXA Clothing Packs, note that the Cosplay Club only fits thin or normal figure types and the High-Cut Swimsuit only fits thin or normal figure types.

*'''Q: Something is not looking right?''' A1: It may be a known issue/limitation with the mod(s) you have installed. Read the release post and/or readme file that came with the mod(s)! A2: Make sure that you're using the latest version of the mod(s) or [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] (if you previously used it). All mods are made by people in their free time and they may have issues which could be fixed in a later version.

==Performance==
*'''Q: On Windows 10 after the Anniversary Update (version 1607), performance is now slow and jerky during any interactive 3D action.''' A: This is a result of an update to the '''DirectX9''' 3D DLL. The workaround is to replace <tt>d3d9.dll</tt> in the game installation directory with the previous working version in <tt>C:\windows\syswow64\d3d9.dll</tt> (provided you have not deleted it, <tt>system32</tt> on 32-bit machines). If you use a subtitle mod (which also requires its own d3d9.dll in the game directory), put your previous d3d9.dll next to it under the name "d3d9_alt.dll". The subtitle mod will detect it and use it in place of the one in the system folder.

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene, but my AMD graphics should be more than enough for this game?''' A: Some people have reported subpar performance using AMD graphics. It may be related to the driver version, so make sure you're up to date. Alternatively you could try older driver versions. Please edit if you find a particular version runs better!

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene?''' A: This may because you have an average cpu and the character(s) on screen has very long hair, big dresses, accessories, large breasts and/or other physics enabled things. Try designing characters with short hair, no accessories and dress them in swimsuits and see if it helps.

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene, but my AMD graphics should be more than enough for this game?''' A: If you installed the Subtitles mod (or the Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod) it can because of that and you could try to remove the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q: I experience freezing and/or several seconds loading each time a conversation starts. Sometimes the mouse cursor is even spinning indicating not responding application, please help!?''' A1: If you have installed the hires skins you should uninstall them because your PC is not powerful enough (>3GHz i7, SSD recommended). You might experience tolerable performance if you install the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430353-Mod-Release-Thread-%28Illusion%29-Artificial-Academy-2?p=3549163#post3549163 lowres version]. A2: Other things to consider: Mods like the 3D uncensor also introduces slightly longer load times because of more complex mesh/more to load, though the impact is only a small fraction of the hires skins. The [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] includes the SVII uncensor, which is very light on performance, so you could try that (remember to check all the launchers when you change the uncensor because otherwise you will have incompatible launchers installed).

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene. My laptop has two graphics adapters, but for some reason the game defaults to the slow one?''' A: If you installed the Subtitles mod (or Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod) it can because of that and you should just remove the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

==Installation==
*'''Q: Will the game run on Windows 10?''' A: Not without issues unless you switch system locale to Japanese, which you really shouldn't because you will experience [[Illusion Games How to install#Why not change regional settings?|issues with other stuff]]. You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more].

*'''Q: It's telling me to insert the "commercial version disk" even though I already have it mounted AND renamed it DISK1.mdf. I'm already in Japanese locale, and I still tried running it with applocale?''' A: Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.iso</tt> with [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite! - it's completely free)

*'''Q: I can't get PowerISO to mount disk 2 and 3. Any help?''' A: Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.iso</tt> with [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite! - it's completely free)

*'''Q: While installing, the game complains about Data1.cab from disk1. Help!?''' A: Make sure that you mounted DISK1.mdf (i.e. ジンコウガクエン2.mdf renamed to DISK1.mdf). If that doesn't help, try extracting ジンコウガクエン2.mdf again, rename it to DISK1.mdf, and follow the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] below.

*'''Q: While setting up the DLC HF patch, the setup can't detect AA2 in my Artificial Academy 2 folder. Any help?''' A: You're pointing the HF Patch to a folder which doesn't contain the correct files (the patch will look for some files needed during patching to verify the location). Possible causes are that you renamed the folder after installing the game or you changed the folder suggested by the HF patch. Make sure that you point the patch to the actual folder with the installed game files and then use the Fix registry feature of the HF patch or reinstall the game as suggested in the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] below.

==Misc==
*'''Q: Where do I put custom eye textures?''' A: If you installed AA2 Edit to the location suggested [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]]: C:\illusion\AA2Edit\data\texture\eye\

*'''Q: I'm missing some hair in AA2Edit/Maker and some of the buttons are greyed out/disabled! Help?''' A: Make sure that you have installed all the DLC (read more below) and Append Set I+II.

*'''Q: How do I get downloaded characters to work? They just show up blank in the maker??''' A: Some browsers have problems saving the image file properly when using "Save image" option... try using "Save link as". If that doesn't work, click on the picture first so it opens with the picture viewer of the website or browser and THEN save it.

*'''Q: Does anyone know how to use SweetFX (need SMAA + Sharpening) alongside with Subtitle Overlay? They both use d3d9.dll?''' A: You can rename the SweetFX d3d9.dll to d3d9_alt.dll and then the Subtitle mod will use it.

*'''Q: I downloaded a character, but the hair and/or accessories in the game doesn't look like on the card. I checked my Maker and the hair and/or accessory seems to be missing! What's going on?''' A: The character has been created using one or more hair/accessory mods. Most hair/accessories are in the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432840 BigPack HEXA] mod compilation, so you should try installing that as the first thing. If that doesn't include the mod(s) you may have luck investigating the character description or maybe find information about where to get the mods where you downloaded the character.

*'''Q: How can I listen to singing at karaoke?''' A: Choose or download .wav or .ogg files for the songs you want to hear, and place them in data/sound subfolders corresponding to the kanji of the personality types to sing them. If you still cannot hear them on Windows 7 or 8, download the DirectShow codecs from [http://www.vorbis.com/setup_windows/ Vorbis.com Windows Setup] page.

*'''Q: How can I run the game in a higher resolution than 1920x1200, e.g. 2560x1440?''' A: The only known workaround is by hex [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430813?p=3622888#post3622888 editing] <AA2Play folder>\data\gsd.cfg. Note that it is highly recommended to set anti aliasing via your graphics adapter's control panel instead of using the built-in anti aliasing in the game (read more at the bottom of this page).

=Installing the Game=
While you can download pre-installed versions of the game, it is recommended that you get a download which contains the DVD images and install the game yourself.
==Quick step-by-step guide==
Note that this covers installing the game from scratch. If you already installed the Maker (aka. AA2 Edit) you can skip the AA2 Edit steps (i.e. step 6-9).
[[File:AA2_Startup.png|thumb|Startup.exe: Click the fourth button to install AA2, fifth button to install AA2 Edit]]
[[File:AA2_Change_destination.png|thumb|Click highlighted button to change the destination]]
[[File:AA2_Destination_changed.png|thumb|It should look like this before you click (N)]]
[[File:AA2_Insert_disk2.png|thumb|Insert disk 2]]
#Extract ジンコウガクエン2.mdf, DISK2.mdf and DISK3.mdf (DO NOT extract the .mds files!) to e.g. C:\Downloads\AA2
#Rename ジンコウガクエン2.mdf to DISK1.mdf
#Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.mdf</tt>. If you're using Windows 8 you can mount it without other programs, otherwise you'll need [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite - it's completely free)
#DO NOT autorun, but explore the mounted dvd and right-click <tt>Startup.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale as administrator'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Refer to Startup.exe picture on the right: If you can click the second button it means you have to install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. The game will not work if you ignore it!
#Click the third button from the top (ref. Startup.exe picture) to start the AA2 Edit (aka. Maker) setup.
#Click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Change the destination to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Edit</tt> if you want to be able to play the game! (see picture on the right)
#Click (N) again a few times and wait while AA2 Edit installs (will only take a few seconds).
#When the AA2 Edit setup is complete: Click the fourth button from the top (ref. Startup.exe picture) to start the game (AA2 Play) setup.
#Click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Change the destination to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2</tt> if you want to be able to play the game! (see picture on the right)
#Click N again a few times, and lastly (I), and wait while the game installs.
#About a third through the setup will ask for DISK2 (ref. Insert disk 2 picture on the right): Mount <tt>DISK2.iso</tt> with Daemontools Lite, wait a few seconds and then click OK.
#About two thirds through the setup will ask for DISK3: Mount <tt>DISK3.iso</tt> with Daemontools Lite, wait a few seconds and then click OK.
#Wait while the game finishes the installation.
#To run the game you need to mount <tt>DISK1.mdf</tt> again and right-click <tt>C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.

==Next step==
When you have successfully installed and tested the game you probably want to install official patches, DLC and essential mods like English translations and uncensor.

The (by far) easiest way is to use the HF Patch (if you don't know it, "HF" is a well-known acronym for "'''H'''ave '''F'''un").

===The HF Patch===
The latest version of the HF Patch includes all the official patches, so you don't have to worry about installing any of those. It also includes the no-dvd fix, English translations and UI as well as uncensors.

If you had just installed the game then you have to install the official DLCs before the HF Patch. The easiest way to install them is through the [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1572128 DLC HF Patch], which contains every official DLC.
=====Regfixer=====
If you downloaded a pre-installed version of the game or installed the game to a bad location (i.e. one with Unicode/unreadable characters) then both the HF patch and the DLC HF patch can fix the game's registry entries. To fix the registry, just do these simple steps:
#Rename the game folder(s) before running either patch.
#When the patch shows the suggested location, correct it to the renamed folder(s), e.g. C:\illusion\AA2.
#Check the fix registry component(s) (at the bottom of the component list) when running the patch.
#Wait for the patch to do its job.
#Play the game!
Please note that fixing the registry is not recommended because it will break uninstalling. Fixing the registry will make the game work, but you should not expect to be able to uninstall it without manual work.

====HF Patching for Dummies====
This section describes how to use the HF Patch.
#Install the game as outlined [[#Installing the Game|above]].
#Download [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 the Artificial Academy 2 HF Patch].
#Read the [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 patch release post] while downloading, so you know what is required (and what to expect).
#Run the patch by double-clicking on the file you just downloaded.
#Read the information in the beginning and make sure that you have enough free disk space to run the patch before you click ''Next''.
#Click ''Next'' and review the components. The ''Recommended installation'' is all you need to get the game updated, translated and uncensored, but you might want to check out the options anyway.
#Click ''Next'' and consider installing an icon on your desktop (TIP: The shortcut using AppLocale is highly recommended, because you still have to run the translated game with Japanese locale. Using the shortcut will make it completely transparent that you actually run the game with Japanese locale).
#Click ''Next'' to start patching your game. Beware that patching your game will change installed files and it cannot be reversed or uninstalled. Therefore you should keep the original files, so you can restore the game to it's original state later on if needed. Having the original files might be required if you plan to install additional or different mods later on.
#Let the patch work (you can do other stuff while it's working, just don't start/mess with the game). Patching may take several minutes and the progress bar may not move. Just be patient. It is guaranteed to work if you installed the game as outlined above.
#Play the updated, translated and uncensored game by double-clicking the "Artificial Academy 2" desktop icon. :)

TIP: You can move the desktop shortcut to anywhere you prefer (some prefer to have it in the game folder) and it will still work.

'''Note:''' It is safe to run the patch again if you want to install additional components and/or change options. Just deselect the components you previously installed and patching will be relatively quick.

=Install Order=
The easy/correct order of installing stuff is as follows:
#Install the game as outlined [[#Quick step-by-step guide|above]].
#Install [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1572128 the Artificial Academy 2 DLC HF Patch].
#Install the [[#Append Set Add-ons|Append Set I add-on]].
#Install the [[#Append Set Add-ons|Append Set II add-on]].
#Install the latest [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 Artificial Academy 2 HF Patch] (the latest version includes all official patches, so you don't have to worry about your game not being up to date).
#Have fun playing the game fully updated and with the essential mods!

'''Note:''' If you later want to update your game with the latest official patches and/or essential mods, you should just get the latest [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 AA2 HF Patch].

=Installing the DLC=
This section explains how to install the all preorder bonus and DLC that has been released since the game has been launched. Currently this is available:
*DLC1 & DLC2 (hairstyle/sidehair)
*Preorder Hairstyles (long length)
*Preorder Personality (Cadet personality)
*Illusion Special Member Bonus (hairstyles)

Check out the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430353?p=3551838#post3551838 Artificial Academy 2 DLC HF Patch] release post for screens of the DLCs. The easiest way to install them is through it.

==Manual Install==
Below are a some examples of how to the DLC should be installed manually. You need to download all the DLC and not only the examples below.

Consider using the AA2 DLC HF Patch (all it does is copy official files to your game folder).

===jg2_sou.exe===
#Right-click <tt>jg2_sou.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Click the highlighted button (the left one) and wait while the archive extracts.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２予約特典" folder.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２曹" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2).
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit).
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２予約特典髪型" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2).
#Copy all files from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit).
#Done.

===jg2_03_plus.exe===
#Right-click <tt>jg2_03_plus.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Click the highlighted button (the left one) and wait while the archive extracts.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２追加髪型アップデートプログラム" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2) - Yes to overwrite.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit) - Yes to overwrite.
#Done.

=Append Set Add-ons=
[[Artificial Academy 2/Append Set|The Append Set add-ons]] adds new personalities, hairs and costumes. The Append Sets are not free and therefore they will ''never'' be included in a [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. To get it you have to [http://www.dmm.co.jp/en/dc/pcgame/-/detail/=/cid=digib_0068/ buy Append Set I], [http://www.dmm.co.jp/dc/pcgame/-/detail/=/cid=digib_0070/ buy Append Set II] or get it [http://www.google.com/search?q=%E3%82%B8%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B3%E3%82%A6%E3%82%AC%E3%82%AF%E3%82%A8%E3%83%B32%E3%82%A2%E3%83%9A%E3%83%B3%E3%83%89%E3%82%BB%E3%83%83%E3%83%88 some other way]. The [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] includes official patches and mods that will patch, translate and uncensor the Append Set I+II if you have them installed when running the patch.

Tips for buying the Append Sets: You have to do it in Japanese to be able to proceed at DMM, so do not choose English language! Instead you should use a browser that can translate the page for you on the fly. Once translated it's pretty straightforward to create an account, enter credit card info, buy a product and download it.

==Installing the Append Set I Add-on==
[[File:AA2_FileCopy.png|thumb|FileCopy.exe: Click the left button to copy the files]]
Follow these easy steps to get the Append Set I correctly installed:
#'''IMPORTANT:''' Right-click 7-zip (or WinRAR or your preferred extractor) and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Use 7-zip (or you preferred extractor) to browse to where you downloaded <tt>VJ008700.zip</tt> and open it.
#Extract it to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt> with and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.
#Click the left button and wait while it is working.
#Click the right button to exit <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt>.

===Alternative===
If you can't get <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt> to work (very unlikely if you followed the above guide to the point), you can hack your way with the following:
#'''IMPORTANT:''' Right-click 7-zip (or WinRAR or your preferred extractor) and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Use 7-zip to browse to where you downloaded VJ008700.zip and open it.
#Extract it to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット</tt> folder.
#Copy all files/folders from <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット\setup\main\</tt> to <your AA2Play folder>.
#Copy all files/folders from <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット\setup\edit\</tt> to <your AA2Edit folder>.

==Installing the Append Set II Add-on==
It is essentially the same procedure as for Append Set I above, just with slightly different folder names.

==Installing the Append Set I Support Patch==
[[File:AA2_PackUpdater.png|thumb|PackUpdater.exe: Click the left button to patch the files]]
The [[Artificial Academy 2/Change Log#Append Set I Support|Append Set support patch]] was released on {{#dateformat:2014-09-05|mdy}} and is included in the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. Follow these steps if you prefer to install it manually:
#Download <tt>jg2append_support.exe</tt> to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Run <tt>C:\Downloads\append\jg2append_support.exe</tt>.
#Press Enter when the window with the destination is shown and wait while it copies the files.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン２アペンドセット修正パッチ</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>PackUpdater.exe</tt> with and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.
#Click the left button and wait while it is working.
#Click the right button to exit <tt>PackUpdater.exe</tt>.

=Installing the Maker=
Note that this covers installing the Maker ONLY (for those without the full game). '''IMPORTANT:''' If you have the full game you should follow the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] above!
[[File:Maker_Startup.png|thumb|Maker Startup]]
[[File:ArtificialAcademy_destinationchanged.jpg|thumb|It should look like this before you click (N)]]
#Run <tt>jg2_02_make.exe</tt>.
#Enter a location to install it, e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker</tt> (you can just paste this to the extractor and it will create the folders).
#Press Enter and wait for the extraction to complete.
#Go to <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker</tt>.
#Rename the "ジンコウガクエン２きゃらめいく製品版" folder to e.g. "Maker", so that you have <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker\Maker</tt>.
#Go to <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker\Maker</tt>.
#Right-click <tt>Startup.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale as administrator'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Refer to Maker Startup screenshot on the right: If the second button is not grayed out you must install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. Your game will not work if you ignore this!
#Click the third button from the top (ref. Maker Startup screenshot on the right) to start the AA2 Edit (aka. Maker) setup.
#Wait while the setup starts up and then click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Click the top-right button and ''change the destination'' to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Maker</tt>!! (ref. 'It should look like this before you click (N)' screenshot on the right)
#Click (N) again a few times and wait while AA2 Edit installs (will only take a few seconds).
#Click (F) and you're done installing the AA2 Maker. :)

==Running the Maker==
#Go to the <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Maker\</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>AA2Edit.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).

=Improving the Visuals=
Some people may not know it, but it's possible to significantly improve how the game looks just by setting a few settings in your graphics adapter control panel. These settings shouldn't impact performance noticeably unless you have an older graphics adapter or if you are running the game at a very high resolution.

==NVIDIA 3D Settings==
For NVIDIA graphics do the following:
#Make sure that ''Options->Effects->Anti-Aliasing'' is set to ''None''.
#Open NVIDIA Control Panel
#Click ''Manage 3D settings''
#Click the tab ''Program Settings''
#Click Add and select or browse to <tt>C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play English.exe</tt> (for the Maker you should use <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Edit\AA2Edit.exe</tt>)
#Recommended settings for maximum visual effect:
##Anisotropic filtering: 16x
##Antialiasing - Gamma correction: On
##Antialiasing - Mode: Override any application setting
##Antialiasing - Setting: 32x
##Antialiasing - Transparency: 8x (Supersample)
##Texture filtering - Anisotropic sample optimization: Off
##Texture filtering - Negative LOD bias: Clamp
##Texture filtering - Quality: High quality
#Click Apply
#Experiment with lower settings if you don't have a recent graphics card or to tweak performance vs. visuals.

==ATi/AMD 3D Settings==
For ATi/AMD graphics do the following:
#Open AMD Catalyst Control Center
#Click Gaming
#Click the tab 3D Application Settings
#Under Application Settings click Add
#Select or browse to C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play English.exe (for the Maker you should use C:\illusion\AA2Edit\AA2Edit.exe)
#Recommended settings for maximum visual effect:
#*Anti-Aliasing Mode: Override application settings
#*Anti-Aliasing Samples: 12xEQ
#*Filter: Edge-detect
#*Anti-Aliasing Method: Read ''Note''
#*Anisotropic Filtering Mode: Override application settings
#*Anisotropic Filtering Level: 8x
#*Texture Filtering Quality: High Quality
#*Surface Format Optimization: On
#*''Note:'' Supersample AA can bring even the most powerful computers to sub 30 FPS in this game during H-scenes and conversations. If you find the FPS drop to be unbearable, Adaptive Multi-Sampling AA is close to the same quality with drastically less of an impact on FPS.
#Click Save

Artificial Academy 2/Technical Help

2016-09-30T16:08:30Z

Cblangs:

{{hgame|game=Artificial Academy 2|company=IllusionGames|category=IllusionGames}}
''If you have problems installing or running the game you will almost certainly find an answer or solution below. ''
= FAQ =
==Running the Game==
*'''Q: I keep getting 0% on all interactions. Please help!?''' A: You must run the game (<tt>AA2Play.exe</tt>/<tt>AA2Play English.exe</tt>) with Japanese locale ''and'' Formats set to Japanese. Better yet, set your locale to your native locale and use AppLocale (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc])). '''NOTE: You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc on Windows 10'''. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more]. If the subtitles mod still doesn't work, use SBAppLocale (follow the instructions from a question below).

*'''Q: My game freezes (or they just stand there and I can't do anything) on all/some conversations. Help!?''' A: You must run the game (<tt>AA2Play.exe</tt>/<tt>AA2Play English.exe</tt>) with Japanese locale ''and'' Formats set to Japanese. Better yet, set your locale to your native locale and use AppLocale (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc])). '''NOTE: You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc on Windows 10'''. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more]. If the subtitles mod still doesn't work, use SBAppLocale (follow the instructions from a question below).

*'''Q: I am trying to run the Subtitles mod on Windows 10 using ''Local Emulator'' and nothing happens when I click ''Run with Subs'' or the game starts but in game I can't see any 3D model?''' A: It's a random issue, on some environments ''Local Emulator'' works propertly with the subtitles mod, sometimes not. A working alternative is ''SBAppLocale''. Download [http://www.steelbytes.com/?mid=45 SBAppLocale]. Extract the archive in the ''AA2Play'' folder (where the main game executable is located). Then create a ''.bat'' file calling it whatever you want (a ''.bat'' file is a simple text file with the extension changed, follow the step 1 from [http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/write-simple-batch-bat-file/ this tutorial] if you feel in trouble), and paste this line into it: <pre>SBApplocale.exe 1041 AA2PlayJSF.exe</pre> Then double click the ''.bat'' file to start playing.

*'''Q: How do I zoom in, mouse wheel is getting me nothing?''' A: Right click and move the mouse.

*'''Q: The Maker/game stops working (or just quit silently) when I click Play/Game Start/Run with Subs?''' A: This is known to happen (rare) and can be caused by your browser (Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer) running in the background. Try closing any open applications (browser etc.) and then try again. If that doesn't help, try restarting Windows and then run the game as the first/only thing after logging on.

[[File:AA2_geforce_error.png|thumb|GeForce error]]
*'''Q: I get this error about Direct3DCreate9x in d3d9.dll when I run the game? (see GeForce error on the right)''' A: This is caused by the latest GeForce Experience update 2.1.2. You can either ignore the errors (just click OK to them all) and the game will work just fine and wait for NVIDIA to release an update that fixes it, or you can uninstall GeForce Experience and install the [http://us.download.nvidia.com/GFE/GFEClient/2.1.1.1/GeForce_Experience_v2.1.1.1.exe previous version].

[[File:AA2_Insert_disk.png|thumb|Insert disk 1]]
*'''Q: When I run the game I get an error? (see Insert disk 1 on the right)''' A: Make sure that you mounted DISK1.mdf (i.e. ジンコウガクエン2.mdf renamed to DISK1.mdf) or use a nodvd launcher.

[[File:AA2_Text_issue.jpg|thumb|Text issue - caused by not using Japanese locale properly]]
*'''Q: The text is not displayed correctly (I see only ??? or 'u' and 'v' characters like on the Text issue picture on the right) and I already set my system locale to Japanese?''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game).

*'''Q: I have a trait/personality/etc in my game that doesn't seem to be mentioned anywhere?''' A: The translation of personalities, traits, sexual prefs, items etc. are subject to change until after the game has been launched. To ensure that you have the latest official translations go [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3539158 here].

*'''Q: My game just randomly crashes and I've tried reinstalling so many times, my system locale is japanese.''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game). A3: It might be because you load hacked characters or that use mods that you don't have installed. Easiest way to make sure is to load all characters you want to play with in AA2Edit one by one, review the hair/traits/sex prefs etc. and then save the character as a new file (System tab). Then you can start the game and safely load the characters you just saved.

*'''Q: When I click the "save" button in my room nothing happens, neither the "Game Saved!" message appears. Help?''' A: Create a "class" folder in the <AA2Play>\data\save folder. This error is probably because you downloaded one of the "pre-installed" games available and you didn't read/follow the readme.

[[File:AA2_Bad_installation.jpg|thumb|Bad installation]]
*'''Q: Does anyone know what this error means (see Bad installation picture on the right)? It keeps showing up every time I talk to someone or they talk to me in game. All I have to do is click it to make it go away but its very annoying! Anyone know what it says?''' A: You installed the maker and game in the same folder (instead of following the Quick step-by-step guide [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]]). Playing full screen may suppress the error, but otherwise install the game like suggested [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]] to fix it.

*'''Q: When I run the game I see only a black screen? btw, I run the game in full screen and I installed the Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod.''' A: The Windowed Fullscreen mod is intended for running the game ''windowed'' in your desktop resolution (set the game resolution to match your desktop in Options on the AA2Play launcher). The purpose of the mod is that the game will seem to be in fullscreen, but you will be able to Alt-Tab etc. without it crashing/just showing a black screen. If you wish to run the game in full screen you should just delete the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q: I have no voice audio and I tried everything?''' A: If you have 5/7.1 make sure that the middle jack is connected, because that's where the voices are.

*'''Q: I'm getting an error: "Could not find the resource DLL file: alres409.dll"''' A1: Your computer is probably already in Japanese Locale Regional Settings. You do not need to use the HFAppLoc's ''Run with Japanese locale''. Run the program directly or ''Run as administrator'' depending on the exe file you are attempting to open. A2: Uninstall AppLocale and HF pAppLoc from the control panel, restart and then install [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc].

*'''Q: I'm getting an error: "The program can't start because d3dx9_43.dll is missing from your computer."''' A1: If you get this error it means you have to install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. Even if you already have a newer version you may still have to download this if you did not install it when you installed the game.

*'''Q: When I click Run with Subs the game crashes, but it runs fine if I just click Play. Is there any way I can get the game to work with subtitles?''' A: Turn off any graphics card control application you may have running (like EVGA Precision, Asus GPU Tweak etc.). Anything that has an overlay that gives you temp, proc usage and other data may interfere with the subtitle mod. Read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430813?p=3572956#post3572956 more].

*'''Q: Anyone know what happened to the Windowed Fullscreen mod?''' A: It's included in the subtitle mod. Run the AA2Play launcher, click ''Config Subs'' and then check ''Windowed Fullscreen''.

[[File:AA2_Maker_translation_issue.png|thumb|Maker personality translation issue]]
*'''Q: I have an issue with the Maker personality translation not working (see Maker personality translation issue on the right) and I set my locale to Japanese.''' A1: Use AppLocale instead (or [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc]), but make sure your "Region and Language" settings are in your native language; AppLocale will not work properly if it already thinks you're running in Japanese. A2: You need to set Formats and non-unicode programs (under Administrative) under "Region and Language" to Japanese (setting only non-unicode to Japanese is not enough with this game). A3: If none of the above solutions work for you you can try [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/index2.html#post1664615 this mod] (apply it with [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1536394 Illusion Wizzard]). Note that you will also need to fix your karaoke folder names, which can be done with [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/index2.html#post1666566 this]. '''Warning:''' The consequences of using the mod are not completely known and you should only use it if the two first solutions didn't work!

*'''Q:Launcher say missing configuration file

==Graphical Issues==
*'''Q: The girl has a discolored texture in the uncensored region?''' A: Some uncensors (like the MKII uncensor included in the HF Patch) requires a special launcher, so make sure that you use the launcher that is designed for the uncensor you have installed. If you installed the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] you should use the desktop shortcuts.

*'''Q: The girl has an issue with the legs not looking right?''' A1: This can be caused by an issue with the latest English launcher - make sure that you use the latest launcher or [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. If you installed the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] you should use the desktop shortcuts. A2: If you installed the HEXA Clothing Packs, note that the Cosplay Club only fits thin or normal figure types and the High-Cut Swimsuit only fits thin or normal figure types.

*'''Q: Something is not looking right?''' A1: It may be a known issue/limitation with the mod(s) you have installed. Read the release post and/or readme file that came with the mod(s)! A2: Make sure that you're using the latest version of the mod(s) or [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] (if you previously used it). All mods are made by people in their free time and they may have issues which could be fixed in a later version.

==Performance==
*'''Q: On Windows 10 after the Anniversary Update (version 1607), performance is now slow and jerky during any interactive 3D action.''' A: This is a result of an update to the '''DirectX9''' 3D DLL. The workaround is to replace <tt>d3d9.dll</tt> in the game installation directory with the previous working version in <tt>C:\windows\syswow64\d3d9.dll</tt> (provided you have not deleted it, <tt>system32</tt> on 32-bit machines). If you use a subtitle mod (which also requires its own d3d9.dll in the game directory), put your previous d3d9.dll next to it under the name "d3d9_alt.dll". The subtitle mod will detect it and use it in place of the one in the system folder.

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene, but my AMD graphics should be more than enough for this game?''' A: Some people have reported subpar performance using AMD graphics. It may be related to the driver version, so make sure you're up to date. Alternatively you could try older driver versions. Please edit if you find a particular version runs better!

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene?''' A: This may because you have an average cpu and the character(s) on screen has very long hair, big dresses, accessories, large breasts and/or other physics enabled things. Try designing characters with short hair, no accessories and dress them in swimsuits and see if it helps.

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene, but my AMD graphics should be more than enough for this game?''' A: If you installed the Subtitles mod (or the Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod) it can because of that and you could try to remove the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

*'''Q: I experience freezing and/or several seconds loading each time a conversation starts. Sometimes the mouse cursor is even spinning indicating not responding application, please help!?''' A1: If you have installed the hires skins you should uninstall them because your PC is not powerful enough (>3GHz i7, SSD recommended). You might experience tolerable performance if you install the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430353-Mod-Release-Thread-%28Illusion%29-Artificial-Academy-2?p=3549163#post3549163 lowres version]. A2: Other things to consider: Mods like the 3D uncensor also introduces slightly longer load times because of more complex mesh/more to load, though the impact is only a small fraction of the hires skins. The [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] includes the SVII uncensor, which is very light on performance, so you could try that (remember to check all the launchers when you change the uncensor because otherwise you will have incompatible launchers installed).

*'''Q: The game lags when in conversation/H scene. My laptop has two graphics adapters, but for some reason the game defaults to the slow one?''' A: If you installed the Subtitles mod (or Windowed Fullscreen 2.0 mod) it can because of that and you should just remove the mod, i.e. delete <your AA2Play folder>\d3d9.dll.

==Installation==
*'''Q: Will the game run on Windows 10?''' A: Not without issues unless you switch system locale to Japanese, which you really shouldn't because you will experience [[Illusion Games How to install#Why not change regional settings?|issues with other stuff]]. You can't use AppLocale or HF pAppLoc. You can use NTLEA, but the subtitle mod will not work. The best alternative seems to be Locale Emulator, read [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432886-AA2-Subtutle-Overlay-v1-0-1?p=3709067#post3709067 more].

*'''Q: It's telling me to insert the "commercial version disk" even though I already have it mounted AND renamed it DISK1.mdf. I'm already in Japanese locale, and I still tried running it with applocale?''' A: Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.iso</tt> with [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite! - it's completely free)

*'''Q: I can't get PowerISO to mount disk 2 and 3. Any help?''' A: Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.iso</tt> with [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite! - it's completely free)

*'''Q: While installing, the game complains about Data1.cab from disk1. Help!?''' A: Make sure that you mounted DISK1.mdf (i.e. ジンコウガクエン2.mdf renamed to DISK1.mdf). If that doesn't help, try extracting ジンコウガクエン2.mdf again, rename it to DISK1.mdf, and follow the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] below.

*'''Q: While setting up the DLC HF patch, the setup can't detect AA2 in my Artificial Academy 2 folder. Any help?''' A: You're pointing the HF Patch to a folder which doesn't contain the correct files (the patch will look for some files needed during patching to verify the location). Possible causes are that you renamed the folder after installing the game or you changed the folder suggested by the HF patch. Make sure that you point the patch to the actual folder with the installed game files and then use the Fix registry feature of the HF patch or reinstall the game as suggested in the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] below.

==Misc==
*'''Q: Where do I put custom eye textures?''' A: If you installed AA2 Edit to the location suggested [[#Quick step-by-step guide|below]]: C:\illusion\AA2Edit\data\texture\eye\

*'''Q: I'm missing some hair in AA2Edit/Maker and some of the buttons are greyed out/disabled! Help?''' A: Make sure that you have installed all the DLC (read more below) and Append Set I+II.

*'''Q: How do I get downloaded characters to work? They just show up blank in the maker??''' A: Some browsers have problems saving the image file properly when using "Save image" option... try using "Save link as". If that doesn't work, click on the picture first so it opens with the picture viewer of the website or browser and THEN save it.

*'''Q: Does anyone know how to use SweetFX (need SMAA + Sharpening) alongside with Subtitle Overlay? They both use d3d9.dll?''' A: You can rename the SweetFX d3d9.dll to d3d9_alt.dll and then the Subtitle mod will use it.

*'''Q: I downloaded a character, but the hair and/or accessories in the game doesn't look like on the card. I checked my Maker and the hair and/or accessory seems to be missing! What's going on?''' A: The character has been created using one or more hair/accessory mods. Most hair/accessories are in the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/432840 BigPack HEXA] mod compilation, so you should try installing that as the first thing. If that doesn't include the mod(s) you may have luck investigating the character description or maybe find information about where to get the mods where you downloaded the character.

*'''Q: How can I listen to singing at karaoke?''' A: Choose or download .wav or .ogg files for the songs you want to hear, and place them in data/sound subfolders corresponding to the kanji of the personality types to sing them. If you still cannot hear them on Windows 7 or 8, download the DirectShow codecs from [http://www.vorbis.com/setup_windows/ Vorbis.com Windows Setup] page.

*'''Q: How can I run the game in a higher resolution than 1920x1200, e.g. 2560x1440?''' A: The only known workaround is by hex [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430813?p=3622888#post3622888 editing] <AA2Play folder>\data\gsd.cfg. Note that it is highly recommended to set anti aliasing via your graphics adapter's control panel instead of using the built-in anti aliasing in the game (read more at the bottom of this page).

=Installing the Game=
While you can download pre-installed versions of the game, it is recommended that you get a download which contains the DVD images and install the game yourself.
==Quick step-by-step guide==
Note that this covers installing the game from scratch. If you already installed the Maker (aka. AA2 Edit) you can skip the AA2 Edit steps (i.e. step 6-9).
[[File:AA2_Startup.png|thumb|Startup.exe: Click the fourth button to install AA2, fifth button to install AA2 Edit]]
[[File:AA2_Change_destination.png|thumb|Click highlighted button to change the destination]]
[[File:AA2_Destination_changed.png|thumb|It should look like this before you click (N)]]
[[File:AA2_Insert_disk2.png|thumb|Insert disk 2]]
#Extract ジンコウガクエン2.mdf, DISK2.mdf and DISK3.mdf (DO NOT extract the .mds files!) to e.g. C:\Downloads\AA2
#Rename ジンコウガクエン2.mdf to DISK1.mdf
#Mount <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2\DISK1.mdf</tt>. If you're using Windows 8 you can mount it without other programs, otherwise you'll need [http://www.disk-tools.com/download/daemon Daemontools Lite] (other mounting software has been known to fail with Japanese games, so please use Daemontools Lite - it's completely free)
#DO NOT autorun, but explore the mounted dvd and right-click <tt>Startup.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale as administrator'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Refer to Startup.exe picture on the right: If you can click the second button it means you have to install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. The game will not work if you ignore it!
#Click the third button from the top (ref. Startup.exe picture) to start the AA2 Edit (aka. Maker) setup.
#Click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Change the destination to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Edit</tt> if you want to be able to play the game! (see picture on the right)
#Click (N) again a few times and wait while AA2 Edit installs (will only take a few seconds).
#When the AA2 Edit setup is complete: Click the fourth button from the top (ref. Startup.exe picture) to start the game (AA2 Play) setup.
#Click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Change the destination to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2</tt> if you want to be able to play the game! (see picture on the right)
#Click N again a few times, and lastly (I), and wait while the game installs.
#About a third through the setup will ask for DISK2 (ref. Insert disk 2 picture on the right): Mount <tt>DISK2.iso</tt> with Daemontools Lite, wait a few seconds and then click OK.
#About two thirds through the setup will ask for DISK3: Mount <tt>DISK3.iso</tt> with Daemontools Lite, wait a few seconds and then click OK.
#Wait while the game finishes the installation.
#To run the game you need to mount <tt>DISK1.mdf</tt> again and right-click <tt>C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.

==Next step==
When you have successfully installed and tested the game you probably want to install official patches, DLC and essential mods like English translations and uncensor.

The (by far) easiest way is to use the HF Patch (if you don't know it, "HF" is a well-known acronym for "'''H'''ave '''F'''un").

===The HF Patch===
The latest version of the HF Patch includes all the official patches, so you don't have to worry about installing any of those. It also includes the no-dvd fix, English translations and UI as well as uncensors.

If you had just installed the game then you have to install the official DLCs before the HF Patch. The easiest way to install them is through the [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1572128 DLC HF Patch], which contains every official DLC.
=====Regfixer=====
If you downloaded a pre-installed version of the game or installed the game to a bad location (i.e. one with Unicode/unreadable characters) then both the HF patch and the DLC HF patch can fix the game's registry entries. To fix the registry, just do these simple steps:
#Rename the game folder(s) before running either patch.
#When the patch shows the suggested location, correct it to the renamed folder(s), e.g. C:\illusion\AA2.
#Check the fix registry component(s) (at the bottom of the component list) when running the patch.
#Wait for the patch to do its job.
#Play the game!
Please note that fixing the registry is not recommended because it will break uninstalling. Fixing the registry will make the game work, but you should not expect to be able to uninstall it without manual work.

====HF Patching for Dummies====
This section describes how to use the HF Patch.
#Install the game as outlined [[#Installing the Game|above]].
#Download [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 the Artificial Academy 2 HF Patch].
#Read the [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 patch release post] while downloading, so you know what is required (and what to expect).
#Run the patch by double-clicking on the file you just downloaded.
#Read the information in the beginning and make sure that you have enough free disk space to run the patch before you click ''Next''.
#Click ''Next'' and review the components. The ''Recommended installation'' is all you need to get the game updated, translated and uncensored, but you might want to check out the options anyway.
#Click ''Next'' and consider installing an icon on your desktop (TIP: The shortcut using AppLocale is highly recommended, because you still have to run the translated game with Japanese locale. Using the shortcut will make it completely transparent that you actually run the game with Japanese locale).
#Click ''Next'' to start patching your game. Beware that patching your game will change installed files and it cannot be reversed or uninstalled. Therefore you should keep the original files, so you can restore the game to it's original state later on if needed. Having the original files might be required if you plan to install additional or different mods later on.
#Let the patch work (you can do other stuff while it's working, just don't start/mess with the game). Patching may take several minutes and the progress bar may not move. Just be patient. It is guaranteed to work if you installed the game as outlined above.
#Play the updated, translated and uncensored game by double-clicking the "Artificial Academy 2" desktop icon. :)

TIP: You can move the desktop shortcut to anywhere you prefer (some prefer to have it in the game folder) and it will still work.

'''Note:''' It is safe to run the patch again if you want to install additional components and/or change options. Just deselect the components you previously installed and patching will be relatively quick.

=Install Order=
The easy/correct order of installing stuff is as follows:
#Install the game as outlined [[#Quick step-by-step guide|above]].
#Install [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1572128 the Artificial Academy 2 DLC HF Patch].
#Install the [[#Append Set Add-ons|Append Set I add-on]].
#Install the [[#Append Set Add-ons|Append Set II add-on]].
#Install the latest [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 Artificial Academy 2 HF Patch] (the latest version includes all official patches, so you don't have to worry about your game not being up to date).
#Have fun playing the game fully updated and with the essential mods!

'''Note:''' If you later want to update your game with the latest official patches and/or essential mods, you should just get the latest [http://www.anime-sharing.com/forum/requests-releases-123/release-%5Bmod-release-thread%5D-illusion-artificial-academy-2-a-223235/#post1532691 AA2 HF Patch].

=Installing the DLC=
This section explains how to install the all preorder bonus and DLC that has been released since the game has been launched. Currently this is available:
*DLC1 & DLC2 (hairstyle/sidehair)
*Preorder Hairstyles (long length)
*Preorder Personality (Cadet personality)
*Illusion Special Member Bonus (hairstyles)

Check out the [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/430353?p=3551838#post3551838 Artificial Academy 2 DLC HF Patch] release post for screens of the DLCs. The easiest way to install them is through it.

==Manual Install==
Below are a some examples of how to the DLC should be installed manually. You need to download all the DLC and not only the examples below.

Consider using the AA2 DLC HF Patch (all it does is copy official files to your game folder).

===jg2_sou.exe===
#Right-click <tt>jg2_sou.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Click the highlighted button (the left one) and wait while the archive extracts.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２予約特典" folder.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２曹" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2).
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit).
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２予約特典髪型" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2).
#Copy all files from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit).
#Done.

===jg2_03_plus.exe===
#Right-click <tt>jg2_03_plus.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Click the highlighted button (the left one) and wait while the archive extracts.
#Open the "ジンコウガクエン２追加髪型アップデートプログラム" folder.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\main\ to your AA2 folder (C:\illusion\AA2) - Yes to overwrite.
#Copy all files/folders from \setup\edit\ to your AA2 Edit (aka. AA2 Maker) folder (C:\illusion\AA2Edit) - Yes to overwrite.
#Done.

=Append Set Add-ons=
[[Artificial Academy 2/Append Set|The Append Set add-ons]] adds new personalities, hairs and costumes. The Append Sets are not free and therefore they will ''never'' be included in a [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. To get it you have to [http://www.dmm.co.jp/en/dc/pcgame/-/detail/=/cid=digib_0068/ buy Append Set I], [http://www.dmm.co.jp/dc/pcgame/-/detail/=/cid=digib_0070/ buy Append Set II] or get it [http://www.google.com/search?q=%E3%82%B8%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B3%E3%82%A6%E3%82%AC%E3%82%AF%E3%82%A8%E3%83%B32%E3%82%A2%E3%83%9A%E3%83%B3%E3%83%89%E3%82%BB%E3%83%83%E3%83%88 some other way]. The [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]] includes official patches and mods that will patch, translate and uncensor the Append Set I+II if you have them installed when running the patch.

Tips for buying the Append Sets: You have to do it in Japanese to be able to proceed at DMM, so do not choose English language! Instead you should use a browser that can translate the page for you on the fly. Once translated it's pretty straightforward to create an account, enter credit card info, buy a product and download it.

==Installing the Append Set I Add-on==
[[File:AA2_FileCopy.png|thumb|FileCopy.exe: Click the left button to copy the files]]
Follow these easy steps to get the Append Set I correctly installed:
#'''IMPORTANT:''' Right-click 7-zip (or WinRAR or your preferred extractor) and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Use 7-zip (or you preferred extractor) to browse to where you downloaded <tt>VJ008700.zip</tt> and open it.
#Extract it to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt> with and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.
#Click the left button and wait while it is working.
#Click the right button to exit <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt>.

===Alternative===
If you can't get <tt>FileCopy.exe</tt> to work (very unlikely if you followed the above guide to the point), you can hack your way with the following:
#'''IMPORTANT:''' Right-click 7-zip (or WinRAR or your preferred extractor) and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Use 7-zip to browse to where you downloaded VJ008700.zip and open it.
#Extract it to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット</tt> folder.
#Copy all files/folders from <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット\setup\main\</tt> to <your AA2Play folder>.
#Copy all files/folders from <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン2アペンドセット\setup\edit\</tt> to <your AA2Edit folder>.

==Installing the Append Set II Add-on==
It is essentially the same procedure as for Append Set I above, just with slightly different folder names.

==Installing the Append Set I Support Patch==
[[File:AA2_PackUpdater.png|thumb|PackUpdater.exe: Click the left button to patch the files]]
The [[Artificial Academy 2/Change Log#Append Set I Support|Append Set support patch]] was released on {{#dateformat:2014-09-05|mdy}} and is included in the [[#The HF Patch|HF Patch]]. Follow these steps if you prefer to install it manually:
#Download <tt>jg2append_support.exe</tt> to e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\append</tt>.
#Run <tt>C:\Downloads\append\jg2append_support.exe</tt>.
#Press Enter when the window with the destination is shown and wait while it copies the files.
#Open the <tt>C:\Downloads\append\ジンコウガクエン２アペンドセット修正パッチ</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>PackUpdater.exe</tt> with and select ''Run with Japanese locale''.
#Click the left button and wait while it is working.
#Click the right button to exit <tt>PackUpdater.exe</tt>.

=Installing the Maker=
Note that this covers installing the Maker ONLY (for those without the full game). '''IMPORTANT:''' If you have the full game you should follow the [[#Quick step-by-step guide|quick step-by-step guide]] above!
[[File:Maker_Startup.png|thumb|Maker Startup]]
[[File:ArtificialAcademy_destinationchanged.jpg|thumb|It should look like this before you click (N)]]
#Run <tt>jg2_02_make.exe</tt>.
#Enter a location to install it, e.g. <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker</tt> (you can just paste this to the extractor and it will create the folders).
#Press Enter and wait for the extraction to complete.
#Go to <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker</tt>.
#Rename the "ジンコウガクエン２きゃらめいく製品版" folder to e.g. "Maker", so that you have <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker\Maker</tt>.
#Go to <tt>C:\Downloads\AA2Maker\Maker</tt>.
#Right-click <tt>Startup.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale as administrator'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).
#Refer to Maker Startup screenshot on the right: If the second button is not grayed out you must install [http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?displaylang=en&id=35 DirectX 9.0c]. Your game will not work if you ignore this!
#Click the third button from the top (ref. Maker Startup screenshot on the right) to start the AA2 Edit (aka. Maker) setup.
#Wait while the setup starts up and then click the button with (N) '''once'''.
#'''IMPORTANT: '''Click the top-right button and ''change the destination'' to e.g. <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Maker</tt>!! (ref. 'It should look like this before you click (N)' screenshot on the right)
#Click (N) again a few times and wait while AA2 Edit installs (will only take a few seconds).
#Click (F) and you're done installing the AA2 Maker. :)

==Running the Maker==
#Go to the <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Maker\</tt> folder.
#Right-click <tt>AA2Edit.exe</tt> and select ''Run with Japanese locale'' (you need [http://www.hongfire.com/forum/showthread.php/328830 HF pApploc] for the right-click options).

=Improving the Visuals=
Some people may not know it, but it's possible to significantly improve how the game looks just by setting a few settings in your graphics adapter control panel. These settings shouldn't impact performance noticeably unless you have an older graphics adapter or if you are running the game at a very high resolution.

==NVIDIA 3D Settings==
For NVIDIA graphics do the following:
#Make sure that ''Options->Effects->Anti-Aliasing'' is set to ''None''.
#Open NVIDIA Control Panel
#Click ''Manage 3D settings''
#Click the tab ''Program Settings''
#Click Add and select or browse to <tt>C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play English.exe</tt> (for the Maker you should use <tt>C:\illusion\AA2Edit\AA2Edit.exe</tt>)
#Recommended settings for maximum visual effect:
##Anisotropic filtering: 16x
##Antialiasing - Gamma correction: On
##Antialiasing - Mode: Override any application setting
##Antialiasing - Setting: 32x
##Antialiasing - Transparency: 8x (Supersample)
##Texture filtering - Anisotropic sample optimization: Off
##Texture filtering - Negative LOD bias: Clamp
##Texture filtering - Quality: High quality
#Click Apply
#Experiment with lower settings if you don't have a recent graphics card or to tweak performance vs. visuals.

==ATi/AMD 3D Settings==
For ATi/AMD graphics do the following:
#Open AMD Catalyst Control Center
#Click Gaming
#Click the tab 3D Application Settings
#Under Application Settings click Add
#Select or browse to C:\illusion\AA2\AA2Play English.exe (for the Maker you should use C:\illusion\AA2Edit\AA2Edit.exe)
#Recommended settings for maximum visual effect:
#*Anti-Aliasing Mode: Override application settings
#*Anti-Aliasing Samples: 12xEQ
#*Filter: Edge-detect
#*Anti-Aliasing Method: Read ''Note''
#*Anisotropic Filtering Mode: Override application settings
#*Anisotropic Filtering Level: 8x
#*Texture Filtering Quality: High Quality
#*Surface Format Optimization: On
#*''Note:'' Supersample AA can bring even the most powerful computers to sub 30 FPS in this game during H-scenes and conversations. If you find the FPS drop to be unbearable, Adaptive Multi-Sampling AA is close to the same quality with drastically less of an impact on FPS.
#Click Save