The look and feel of the game world it self (graphically speaking) will be the same with some modifications to armor, weapons.

You should see a difference with your in-game menus and interface though. It should be a lot less intrusive with the DARN/DARK UI installed? I think they're maroon?

Other than that, it sounds like you've got it figured out.

If you want to see a big difference, make a save point and then go wandering off into the hills / caves as a low level character and see how long you last :)