Abstract:
This mod replaces the detection indicator when in sneak mode with a pseudo "light gem" that estimates from what distance NPCs can detect the player when in line of sight.

Version History:
v1.02
- Improved, more accurate algorithm
v1.01
- Restores status display ("Hidden" etc.)
- Sound and visual detection now uniquely displayed (see notes)
- Fixed an error that prevented movement sound from being properly estimated
- Lutana's NVSE plugin is now required

Note: My efforts to add functionality that will show active detection by NPCs, similar to Fallout 4's detection indicator, have failed.  I have no plans to continue this mod unless and until somebody cracks better detection functions in an NVSE plugin.


Compatibility:
Note: This mod requires NVSE, JIP plugin, and Lutana's plugin to function.  Make sure that all are up to date.

The Light Gem mod is compatible with most, if not all, stealth related mods; however, it will conflict with any mod that changes the sneaking indicator. If using Project Nevada, remember to disable sneak indicator functionality or otherwise it will "flicker" as the two mods try to overwrite one another.


Notes:
The "light gem" replaces the status messages at the top of the screen when sneaking. It appears as an array of characters/symbols that represent an NPC''s ability to detect you within a certain range. Each character starting from the left approximates 10 meters distance, so a display with three characters means that you may be detected by NPCs up to 30 meters away. Additionally each character has individual significance as follows:
"x" denotes that you can be detected by noise alone, even without line of sight.
"+" denotes that you can be detected by any NPC that has line of sight visual contact with you.
">" denotes that you may be detected by an NPC in line of sight, depending on its Perception score.

Flanking the light gem are two characters that represent the player's current status. "H", "C", "D", and "!" stand for "Hidden", "Caution", "Detected" and "Danger" states respectively.

For example "C x++>>> C" would indicate that enemies are alert to your presence but have not spotted you. NPCs within 10 meters can spot you without line of sight, any NPC can spot you visually within 30 meters, and NPCs with maximum Perception can spot you within 60 meters.

Note that lighting as a factor of detection either does not update or is not reported in real time. This means that there may be a delay between what's happening on screen and how the light gem responds. So if you move in and out of the shadows, it may take a second or two before you see the gem contract or expand accordingly.

Though I describe this feature as a "light gem", it estimates overall detection factors, including sound generated from movement and bonuses derived from the player's Sneak score. While light is a factor, it is not always the deciding factor in determining the player's visibility. Variance in game may not be as dramatic as expected compared to a game where stealth is a major focus, like Thief or VTMB.

I have tried to make the estimation accurate to what is known of how the engine calculates visibility, but the information available is often incomplete and sometimes counter intuitive. Consequently, the gem is not 100% accurate but can serve as a rough gauge of the player's visibility.

I have no intention at this time of making the Light Gem into a HUD element; however, if you're a modder who is willing to take on that challenge, you are free to use my script as a basis.

Special thanks to salomaogh for saving me a lot of trouble in helping me pass variables to string game settings. Yes, $ makes all the difference.