Naruto Storm Evolution is installed by placing the project launcher directly into your legal Steam game directory, clearing out conflicting mods, and running the built-in updater. The mod modifies Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 with expanded characters, balance changes, custom stages, and system adjustments, but it requires an unmodified base game to function properly.
Prerequisites Before Installation
Before downloading mod files, make sure your system and base game meet the project requirements confirmed by community guides and official documentation:
- Official PC Version: You must own a legitimate copy of Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 on Steam. Pirated or cracked versions cannot run Evolution and trigger missing files or slow-motion bugs.
- DLC Requirements: Official DLCs—specifically the Road to Boruto expansion and the Next Generation pack featuring Momoshiki and Kinshiki—are required for character slots and DLC-dependent assets to load without crashes.
- Clean Installation Directory: Evolution cannot be combined with standard Storm 4 mod packs. If you have an existing mod folder named
data_win32in your game files, move it to your desktop or delete it before proceeding. - Initial Game Run: Launch your unmodified base game through Steam at least once so that base configuration files and user directories are created.
Step-by-Step PC Installation Guide
The mod uses a dedicated launcher that manages updates, builds, and settings automatically. Follow these steps to set it up:
- Download the Launcher: Visit the official project website (
unsevolution.com) or access the download link provided in the official Ultimate Ninja Discord server under the "About Evo" section. - Locate Your Game Directory: Open your Steam installation folder. The default path on most Windows systems is:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\NARUTO SHIPPUDEN Ultimate Ninja STORM 4 - Move Conflicting Mods: Check the main folder for existing mod packages or a
data_win32directory. Drag them completely out of the folder. - Place the Launcher: Drag the downloaded Evolution launcher executable into the main
NARUTO SHIPPUDEN Ultimate Ninja STORM 4folder alongside the base game executable. - Run the Launcher: Open the launcher executable from the game folder. If Windows SmartScreen displays a warning, select "More info" and then "Run anyway."
- Select Your Build: Choose between the Release Build (stable version for standard play) or the Test Build (experimental branch containing preview characters and balance tests).
- Run the Updater: Click the Updater tab in the top-right corner of the launcher window, then click Update (or Install). Wait for the launcher to download all assets until the status window indicates it is finished.
- Validate Files: Click the Validate button to ensure no archives were corrupted or skipped during the download process.
- Configure Settings: Use the launcher's settings menus to adjust keyboard controls, window modes (such as Borderless Fullscreen Windowed Mode), and graphics options (such as setting the target frame rate to 60 FPS and toggling VSync or motion blur).
- Launch the Game: Click Play within the launcher. The game window will display the title
NSUNS4EVO. Always launch the game through the Evolution launcher rather than the default Steam shortcut to ensure mod files load.
Choosing Between Release Build and Test Build
The launcher lets you pick between two primary installation branches depending on what content you want to access:
| Feature / Aspect | Release Build | Test Build |
|---|---|---|
| Intended Use | Standard competitive and casual play | Previewing in-development features and bug testing |
| Stability | Fully verified public release | Experimental balance adjustments and work-in-progress assets |
| Roster Additions | Verified roster additions such as Nanashi Uchiha | Preview roster tests (e.g., Borushiki, Kawashiki, Kurenai, Season 1 skins) |
| File Handling | Recommended for daily matchmaking | Kept separate; do not manually merge files with Release folders |
To switch builds, toggle your selection in the launcher rather than copying and overwriting loose files manually.
How to Install on Steam Deck
Community testing confirms that the mod can be run on Steam Deck using Proton Experimental. Follow this setup procedure:
- Download the Evolution executable from the official site in Desktop Mode.
- Move the executable directly into your Steam Deck's Storm 4 game directory where the standard game executable resides.
- Open Steam in Desktop Mode, click Games, and select Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library, choosing the Evolution installer executable.
- Open the entry's Properties, navigate to Compatibility, check the box to force compatibility tool use, and select Proton Experimental.
- Switch to Gaming Mode, launch the added executable, select your preferred build (Release or Test), open the Updater menu, and click Install.
- Once the status shows "Finished," return to Desktop Mode.
- Locate the generated executable (
NSUNS4e.exefor Release, or the corresponding Test executable) inside the game directory and add it as a Non-Steam Game in Steam. - Set the new entry's compatibility to Proton Experimental. You can now launch Evolution directly from Gaming Mode using this shortcut.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
If you encounter errors during or after installation, check the following verified solutions:
- Slow-Motion Gameplay or Missing Icons: This occurs when running an unauthorized game copy, leaving leftover mod folders in the directory, or failing to download the complete file set. If mods are removed and you own the Steam version, open Steam, right-click the game, go to Properties > Installed Files, and click Verify integrity of game files, then run the Evolution updater again.
- Secondary Controller Not Detected: Base Storm 4 supports local multiplayer configurations, but some community members report local input detection issues with secondary controllers under modded launchers. Check Steam controller settings or map the second device in the launcher's controller config menu.
- Separate Save Data: Evolution uses an independent save file designated as
STORM4E.Sto prevent corrupting your main game progression. If the Evolution save file fails to load initially, the launcher automatically loads and converts your existing base game save data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install Naruto Storm Evolution without owning the base game on Steam?
No. The launcher checks the core game directory and requires base executable files, archives, and official Steam assets to deploy the mod.
Will installing Evolution overwrite my original Storm 4 save file?
No. The mod uses a dedicated save file titled STORM4E.S. Your original save file remains intact, and the mod converts your base progress automatically if the mod save does not exist.
Where can I check for the newest patch notes and updates?
The official website (unsevolution.com) maintains a full changelog detailing system updates, character hitboxes, and presentation fixes. You can also monitor announcements on the project's official X account or the Ultimate Ninja Discord server.
