fizzwhizHow does "cl_ragdoll_fade_time -3" (and -1) work?
cl_ragdoll_fade_time is the offset from the current time that the ragdoll will begin fading. Negative values just ensure that the fade out happens immediately.
fizzwhizI thought it was unnecessary. Can't one just type in the module name itself to switch to the next quality?
It is useful for quick comparisons of different quality levels, especially if you bind up and down to a key. Even without a binding, entering the same command into console is still easier.
fizzwhizDistracting in that distant textures may suddenly change when approached?
Yes, I believe many people noticed that, as well as an issue where textures seemed to have steps of decreasing quality at certain distance intervals.