 |
Warning:
|
This guide is out of date! It may contain information that is incorrect or not in line with the current state of the game!
View the latest release.
|
STEP Skyrim SE Guide[edit]
Because we have been working towards a major website overhaul and guide methodology change since the last release (v2.10.0), we have been using "STEP 3.0" as an overarching term in reference to our new site, methodology, and guide(s). Details about the coming changes are on the forums, and we have refined the STEP:Mandate and some of the detail on our new direction. With the release of STEP 3.0, we will be releasing guide updates to Skyrim SE, exclusively. For our STEP Skyrim LE Guide, we will release a final update and continue to support it, but do not plan on releasing any updates beyond routine maintenance. Here, we present a beta release of the STEP Skyrim SE Guide v0.2.0b under our standard versioning scheme but distinct from that of our Skyrim LE guides.
There have been many changes, so check out the Changelog for all the fine details.
- Visit the forums and provide feedback related to STEP.
- Also follow STEP on Facebook.
- To support hosting and maintenance of the STEP Community Project, contributions are welcome.
About STEP[edit]
A Foreword
Created by TheCompiler, STEP is a collaborative project with input from the modding community, technical volunteers, and project administrators. The goal is to provide tested and validated methods for establishing and maintaining an enhanced modded Skyrim. Thus, the Guide provides detailed, well-tested build instructions for a solid modding template. New modders can follow STEP explicitly to achieve an enhanced, vanilla experience, or more experienced modders may use it as general guide from which to build a foundation.
The STEP team collects information from the modding community through extensive mod testing, detailed reviews, feedback, and suggestions exchanged on the STEP Community Forums. Posting rules apply, so be sure to read and follow them. Engage and enjoy a warm welcome and plenty of high-quality support from a large community of experienced members.
New to Modding?[edit]
We recommend that you ...
- read through this Guide at least once before attempting installation.
- follow all linked guides and read through them, as well.
There is a lot of information to absorb and learn in order to successfully build a modded game. We and the community, have brought together a lot of this information into guides as a free and hopefully convenient resource for all. New and experienced modders alike will find many answers within these guides and linked resources. This Guide is written in such a way that it expects users to know the basics of modding and related tools (e.g. mod managers, LOD optimizers, configuration utilities, etc.). However our support forums are always available for our users.
Nomenclature[edit]
The following nomenclature is used throughout this guide and should be understood before proceeding.
- 'tick' means 'check': Frequently, the word 'check' or 'checked' can mean 'ensure' in addition to "check mark", so 'check' is not used where it is synonymous with 'tick' to avoid any mistakes that can (and have) happened from this conflation.
- Baseline: An installation of a mod using the recommend file option listed within the Baseline column of the mod tables below.
- STEP Patches: A "patch" is a plugin that allows two or more mods to work together without conflicting. The STEP Patches are such plugins, but allow all of the mods in the STEP Guide to work harmoniously together. Some users refer to this as a conflict resolution patch or "CR Patch".
Minimum System Requirements[edit]
We recommend the following hardware configuration for running a STEP Skyrim SE installation at a resolution of 1920x1080. The minimum requirements will allow most users to install and run the Baseline options, which are Skyrim SE's recommended requirements. The recommended requirements for this Guide will allow most users to install and run a modded setup beyond that of the Baseline options (higher quality options). For those wishing to use high quality options at resolutions higher than 1920x1080, be advised that a more powerful system will likely be required.
Hardware
|
Minimum
|
Recommended
|
Windows OS
|
Windows 10 64-bit
|
Windows 10 64-bit
|
CPU
|
Intel Core i5-2400 or equivalent
|
Intel Core i5-4430 or equivalent
|
System RAM
|
8 GB
|
8 GB or higher
|
GPU
|
Nvidia GTX 780 3GB / AMD R9 290 4GB
|
Nvidia GTX 970 or equivalent or better / 4GB VRAM or higher
|
Drive Space
|
~40 GBs
|
~50 GBs
|
Monitor Resolution
|
1920x1080
|
1920x1080 or higher
|
Time Requirement[edit]
Users should be aware that it will usually take anywhere from several hours to a several days to complete this Guide from start to finish. Since this is a start to finish process, a recommend schedule for completing it is:
- Day 1 : Steps 1 - 3
- Day 2 : Step 4
- Step 4 is installing all the mods. Depending on download speeds and previous modding knowledge, this step could span 1-3 days.
- Final Day : Finish the remainder of the Guide.
The overall message here is that STEP encourages users to always follow proper computer ergonomics when modding! Remember to take breaks and happy modding!
Game & Tool Installation
Game Installation and Modding Setup[edit]
 |
Notice:
|
Start Out Clean!
It is particularly important for new users begin with clean installations of both Steam and Skyrim in order to be successful with the setup of this Guide the first time through.
PLEASE READ EACH SECTION BELOW CAREFULLY, as no information included in this Guide is irrelevant!
|
Before continuing with this Guide[edit]
Those who have not completed the System Setup Guide should stop and do so now. The STEP guide expects that all users have previously completed the steps in related guides or are at least familiar with those steps and ramifications of not having completed them.
 |
Notice:
|
Users deviating from our instructions and recommendations will need to reinterpret other instructions and recommendations in this guide accordingly. Make sure to note any such deviations for later reference.
|
Mod Organizer 2[edit]
Mod Organizer 2 is the successor to Mod Organizer, and is now the official mod manager for all STEP game guides. It supports both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Bethesda games. The major changes it brings are ...
- A return to normal plugin/BSA relationship - Users will no longer be able to load BSAs without loading the corresponding plugin as they did with MO. The plugins must be active for the BSAs to load, which is the intended behavior that the game expects.
- New MO2 installation options - Users will have the choice between installing MO2 in "standalone" or "portable" mode. Unless Merge Plugins is going to be utilized, it’s purely an individual preference. Merged Plugins will currently only work when MO2 is installed and used in “portable” mode. STEP recommends “standalone” mode for use with this guide. This allows us to design all of our game guides around using MO2's "Instances". This means one MO2 installation is used for all supported games. Users should decide how they wish to install and use MO2 before continuing; keeping in mind the space requirements mentioned in our System Setup Guide.
 |
MO Users:
|
This guide assumes that the reader is familiar with MO, so if that is not the case, please see the Mod Organizer Guide.
|
Tools Installation and Setup[edit]
STEP recommends the tools for modding be installed and setup as “standalone” applications, when possible. This means a tool is installed once and used for all games. Most of the modding tools used already have this feature built in and some are meant to be used as such. Following this recommendation will also reduce redundant tool installations; thus, saving hard drive space, and it's more organized. The instructions throughout this Guide will assume the tools are installed as “standalone” applications. However, users are free to set up their tools as they see fit.
Tool Installation[edit]
Users should install the tools to the location created while following the System Setup Guide (i.e., ../Modding/Tools/
). Install the following tools to that location:
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
|
|
BethINI SE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
- Download BethINI from Nexus.
- Extract the archive to the *Tools* folders (e.g.
../Modding/Tools/ )
User's should now have a new BethINI folder (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/BethINI Standalone ).
|
|
|
DynDOLOD SE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
- Download and install the DynDOLOD Main File.
- Extract the archive to the Tools folder (e.g. C:\Modding\Tools\).
- If Visual Studio 2015, 2017 and 2019 are missing, download and install them; both x86 and x64 files.
Users should now have a DynDOLOD folder (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/DynDOLOD ). Users will download and install the Resources file later in the Guide, so ignore it for now.
|
|
|
LOOT
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
- Download the latest version of LOOT from their GitHub page (LOOT.Install.exe).
- Install LOOT by running the installer and changing the path to the Tools folder (e.g.
../Modding/Tools/ )
Users should now have a LOOT folder (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/LOOT ).
|
|
|
Mod Organizer 2
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
- Download Archive version of Mod Organizer 2 from Nexus.
- Create a new folder in the Tools folder named: Mod Organizer 2
- Extract the archive to the new Mod Organizer 2 folder (e.g. ..\Modding\Tools\Mod Organizer 2\)
Do not run MO2 yet! It will be ran for the first time later in the Guide.
|
|
|
SSEEdit
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Users who already have xEdit installed can skip these setups. STEP uses xEdit as a standalone application, therefore, it will be set up in MO2 as such with the use of arguments.
- Download SSEEdit from Nexus.
- Create a new folder in the Tools folder named: xEdit
- Extract the archive to the new xEdit folder (e.g.
../Modding/Tools/xEdit/ )
|
|
|
SSELODGen
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
- Ensure the latest version of the required redistributable packages are installed. Both the x86 and x64 version should be installed.
- Download the latest xLODGen Beta
- Extract the file to the Tools folder. (e.g.
../Modding/Tools/ )
- Open the extracted folder and create a new folder within for the tool's output files.
- Recommended folder name is: xLODGen_Output
Users should now have a xLODGen folder (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/xLODGen/ ). Users will run it at the end of the Guide.
|
The "Modding" folder structure should now reflect:
../Modding/Steam
(optional; may be installed elsewhere)
../Modding/Tools
../Tools/BethINI Standalone
../Tools/DynDOLOD
../Tools/LOOT
../Tools/Mod Organizer 2
../Tools/xEdit
../Tools/xLODGen
Tool Configuration
Mod Organizer 2 - Configuration[edit]
Initialization[edit]
STEP recommends using all applications as standalone programs, including Mod Organizer 2. The below instructions for MO2's first run reflect this. If MO2 is run in Portable mode, users will need to adjust the instructions as appropriate. To initialize Mod Organizer 2:
➕ Initialization Instructions
- Launch MO2 by running its executable (e.g.
..Modding/Tools/Mod Organizer 2/ModOrganizer.exe
)
- Upon launch, users will have a choose between setting it up as portable or create a new instance. Choose [New - Create a new instance.]
- Select SkyrimSE from the drop-down and choose [OK].
- A prompt will appear informing you about the option of changing the location of data stored. Read it and click [OK].
- The installer should automatically detect the Skyrim SE installation (e.g.
..Steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim Special Edition
). Select it.
- If it didn't find the location, browse to to the Skyrim SE installation path.
- Another prompt will appear for first time installers asking to run the tutorial or not. First time MO users should run it for a quick lesson on MO. Experienced MO users can skip it.
- MO2 is now ready to use.
Settings[edit]
The only settings covered here are to enable MO to download mods from Nexus.
➕ Nexus Mods Connection
- Open the MO settings by clicking on the Configure settings and workarounds icon.
- Click on the Nexus tab.
- Click the [Connect to Nexus] button under the Nexus Connection section.
- This opens a browser window to Nexus Mods. If necessary, login. Then click the [Authorize] button and close the window.
- Upon returning to MO window, users should find their Nexus account information populated.
- Click [OK] to close the settings window. If MO prompts a restart, let it.
Profile Setup[edit]
Now users will take advantage of Mod Organizer's profile feature by creating/editing two profiles for use during this Guide:
➕ Profile Setup Instructions
- Launch MO2, choosing the Skyrim SE Instance.
- On the default profile, arrange the mods in the left pane in the following order:
- DLC: Dawnguard
- DLC: HearthFires
- DLC: Dragonborn
- Click the Configure Profiles button on the menu bar.
- Select the Default profile and click [Rename].
- Rename this profile to
Vanilla Skyrim
or something similar
- Ensure the Use profile-specific Game INI Files box is ticked and select [OK].
- Users can also tick Use profile-specific Save Games, if desired.
- Ensure the renamed profile is still selected and click [Copy].
- Name the new profile
STEP Skyrim SE
, or anything similar.
- Tick the same boxes from step 6, above.
- Close the window by clicking [Close].
- Users will likely see a window saying some INI files were missing and will be copied. This is normal.
- If an error is displayed about missing "modlist.txt" files, restart MO (or do a system reboot if one hasn't been done yet).
- Ensure that the STEP Skyrim SE profile is the currently selected profile in the Profile drop-down menu.
Tool Setup[edit]
All tools installed in Step 1 should be added to MO2. Some tools will have been auto-detected and added already; however, ensure the settings below are set for all tools, regardless. xEdit is used for this example:
➕ Tool Setup Instructions
- Click the [Configure the executables...] button at the top of the main Mod Organizer window.
- Over the left pane of the executables config, click the [+] to add a new executable, and then [Add from file...].
- Navigate to the SSEEdit.exe file (e.g.
..Modding/Tools/xEdit/SSEEdit.exe
).
- This should auto-fill most of the fields.
- Change the title to xEdit.
- The following arguments can be helpful. Input them in the Arguments field separated by a single space:
- e.g.
-IKnowWhatImDoing -SSE -AllowMasterFilesEdit
- "-IKnowWhatImDoing": This turns off a warning presented when users make edits.
- "-AllowMasterFilesEdit": By default xEdit will not allow master file editing. This allows users to edit these files.
- Click [Apply].
- Repeat these steps to add the remaining executables as indicated in the table below:
Tool Setup Table
Executable
|
Title
|
Argument(s)
|
SSEEdit.exe
|
xEdit
|
-IKnowWhatImDoing -SSE -AllowMasterFilesEdit
|
SSEEditQuickAutoClean.exe
|
xEditQuickAutoClean
|
-SSE
|
DynDOLOD64.exe
|
DynDOLOD
|
-SSE
|
LOOT.exe
|
LOOT
|
--game="Skyrim Special Edition"
|
TexGen64.exe (installed with DynDOLOD)
|
TexGen
|
-SSE
|
xLODGen64.exe
|
xLODGen
|
-lodgen -sse -o:"C:\Modding\Tools\xLODGen\xLODGen_Output\"
|
Users can arrange their tools in any order they wish using the up and down buttons above the list. This will dictate the order they are listed in the MO "Run" dropdown menu. When complete, close the window by clicking the [OK] button.
BethINI Setup[edit]
BethINI needs to be run for the current MO2 profile to establish the INIs before beginning the mod installations. To do this:
➕ BethINI Initialization and Setup
- Close MO2 and run BethINI (e.g.
..Modding/Tools/BethINI/BethINI.exe
).
- Select "Skyrim Special Edition" from the game selection box.
- Allow BethINI to handle custom INIs, if prompted.
- Go to the Setup tab
- Ensure the Game path is correct (e.g.
../Modding/Steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim Special Edition
).
- Ensure the Mod Organizer path is correct (e.g.
../Modding/Tools/Mod Organizer 2
).
- For the INI Path, select Mod Organizer - STEP Skyrim SE from the drop-down menu. NOTE: This depends on the MO2 Profile Setup
- If BethINI does not automatically find the profiles, browse to MO2's
/Profile
folder.
- For 'instance' users, the profile will be stored in the user's
/AppData
folder (e.g. %LOCALAPPDATA%/ModOrganizer/STEP Skyrim SE/profiles/
)
- BethINI should restart whenever the INI path changes in order to associate the MO2 profile information.
- Return to the Setup tab.
- If BethINI will be used for multiple games from a single installation, the “Always Select Game” box should be selected.
- Select the Basic tab.
- Ensure the Window Resolution matches the system resolution.
- The recommended Antialiasing is "TAA".
- The other recommended options to tick are:
- Windowed Mode
- Borderless
- Vsync
- Lock Frame Rate NOTE: This reduces 'tearing' effects and is optional, depending on whether or not the graphics software is used to limit frame rate.
- The [Medium] Preset is recommended as a baseline to avoid problems before initial testing when guide setup is complete (this can be changed at any time later).
- Tick the box for Recommended Tweaks.
- Select the Detail tab.
- Untick Reflect Sky (water reflections are not accurate with respect to the LOD of most custom builds)
- Select the Visuals tab.
- Untick Improved Shader (introduces visual glitches and inconsistencies on snow)
- Now Save and Exit.
Users now have a minimal setup for the game INIs for testing and running the game during the mod installations. Once all mods have been installed, BethINI will be run again to complete the INI setup.
Users should now relaunch Mod Organizer and ensure the STEP Skyrim SE profile is selected to continue with the Guide.
Cleanup and Considerations
At any time during the mod installation process, LOOT should be used to sort plugin load order before running the game. This is necessary to ensure proper plugin priority (load order), which can have a dramatic impact on the game. Users not running the game during the mod installation step of the Guide can wait to sort after this step is complete. To sort with LOOT:
- Launch LOOT via Mod Organizer 2 from the executables drop-down menu at the top of the right pane.
 |
Notice:
|
If LOOT fails to start, try adding the following argument as described in Tools Setup: --single-process
|
 |
Notice:
|
If LOOT cannot find the game directory, add the path to ./Skyrim Special Edition folder to Installed Path under LOOT settings.
|
- Click the [Sort Plugins] icon at the top of the LOOT window.
- Several plugins will show warnings. The next section describes how to clean them up.
- Click [Apply] button, which has replaced the Sort button at the top.
- Close LOOT.
 |
Notice:
|
When running LOOT before completing the STEP Guide, additional warnings may be indicated. These will all be fixed by the end of this guide.
|
Up to this point, users should only have the following plugins, in the order listed:
- Skyrim.esm
- Update.esm
- Dawnguard.esm
- HearthFires.esm
- Dragonborn.esm
If the plugins are not in the order listed, run LOOT now.
Cleaning Vanilla Master Files[edit]
To resolve potential issues later, the vanilla plugin masters should be cleaned with xEdit.
Clean the Masters[edit]
Vanilla masters should be cleaned in the following order:
- Update.esm
- Dawnguard.esm
- Hearthfires.esm
- Dragonborn.esm
Standard Cleaning Procedures[edit]
➕ Toggle cleaning procedures...
- Run xEditQuickAutoClean from the drop-down executable list in MO2.
- On the plugin selection window, double-click on the mod being cleaned (e.g. Update.esm).
- Once xEdit is finished, click [X] at upper right to close. A backup of the original plugin will automatically be saved into (e.g.,
../xEdit Output/SSEEdit Backups
) inside of Overwrite at the bottom of the MO mod list (left) pane.
Follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean Update.esm, followed by Dawnguard.esm. Once Dawnguard is cleaned, complete the manual cleaning below...
➕ Toggle Dawnguard manual cleaning procedures...
- Run xEdit from MO.
- At the prompt, double-click on Dawnguard.esm.
- Once loaded, type in
00016BCF
in the FormID field (above the mod list) and hit [Enter/Return].
- In the right pane, find the "XEZN - Encounter Zone" record.
- In the Dawnguard.esm column, right-click on the "RiftenRatwayZone [ECZN:0009FBB9]" entry and select [Remove].
- If a prompt appears select Yes for each of these removals.
- In the FormID field again, type in
0001FA4C
and hit [Enter/Return].
- On the Dawnguard.esm column, right-lick on the "Dawnguard.esm" header and select [Remove].
- In the FormID field again, type in
0006C3B6
and hit [Enter/Return].
- On the Dawnguard.esm column, right-lick on the "Dawnguard.esm" header and select [Remove].
- Now close xEdit.
- Ensure Dawnguard.esm is ticked in the pane, Backup plugins is ticked at the bottom of the prompted window and click [OK].
Once Dawnguard's manual cleaning is complete, follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean Hearthfires.esm, and then finally, Dragonborn.esm.
Moving the Cleaned Files[edit]
After the vanilla master files are cleaned, they should be moved into the "Cleaned Vanilla Masters" mod in MO, and the original files should be restored into the 'real' "Data" directory in the game folder. This makes Steam happy when "validating" files so that it remains unaware of changes. To move the new files and restore the original files, complete the following:
➕ Toggle instructions
Cleaned Masters
- On the MO window, click the [Open list options...] button at the top of the left pane, next to the profile selection drop-down.
- Choose Create empty mod, name it
Cleaned Vanilla Masters
, and click [OK].
- Move this mod up the MO mod list to just after "DLC: Dragonborn".
- Enable the new mod listing.
- In MO, hold Ctrl and double-click on the now-empty Cleaned Vanilla Masters mod to open it in Windows Explorer.
- Click the [Show Open Folders menu...] button above the MO mod list (left) pane, and select Open Game Folder to open the game folder in Windows Explorer (e.g.
../Modding/Steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim Special Edition/
, and open ../Data
.
- Move the four cleaned master files from
../Data
into ../Cleaned Vanilla Masters
.
Original Masters
- In MO, scroll to the end of the mod list (left) pane, and hold Ctrl + double click on Overwrite to open in Explorer.
- Inside the "SSEEdit Backups" folder, rename the files to "MasterName.esm" (i.e. "Update.esm").
- If there are multiple copies of any of the files, use the one with the earliest timestamp (the original).
- Click the [Show Open Folders menu...] button above the MO mod list (left) pane, and select Open Game Folder to open the game folder in Windows Explorer (e.g.
../Modding/Steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim Special Edition/
- Move or copy the renamed files into the 'real' game "Data" directory (
../Data
), choosing to overwrite/replace, if asked.
- All Explorer windows can be closed now.
- Right click on Overwrite, select [Clear Overwrite], and click [OK].
 |
MO Users:
|
Any time Bethesda updates these master files, they will likely need to be cleaned again and replaced in MO2. Any previously cleaned versions of these same files that exist in the MO mod list must be either disabled or deleted first, because xEdit will see only the cleaned versions otherwise.
|
At this point, the Bethesda masters should be cleaned and the mod list order should reflect:
- DLC: Dawnguard
- DLC: HearthFires
- DLC: Dragonborn
- Cleaned Vanilla Masters
 |
Notice:
|
To verify that the vanilla mods have been cleaned, LOOT can be run again, and no warnings should be apparent.
|
Understanding the STEP Patches[edit]
A “conflict resolution” patch, or CR Patch, is a plugin that resolves conflicts between various active plugins. They allow users to use various mods together without any major issues, while still achieving the desired outcome from the mods. Thus, the STEP Patches are one part patch and one part mod.
 |
Notice:
|
The STEP Patches are built specifically for the STEP mod list. They are required to run the STEP mod build and are dependent on specific mods within the STEP mod list (those tagged at left with a green vertical bar), and they will not resolve conflicts with any applicable mods that are not in the STEP mod list in this guide. For experienced users using this guide as a basis for further build customization, the STEP Patches may be skipped or disabled, as they could cause issues if dependencies are not present or if other mod conflicts are introduced via customization.
|
STEP Patches[edit]
- STEP Skyrim SE - Conflict Resolution Patch
- For those that would opt for their own custom lighting and weather mods
- Patches all applicable mods except for Lighting & Weather mods
- STEP Skyrim SE - Lighting & Weather Patch
- For those that are using STEP Guide lighting and weather
- Patches only the applicable Lighting & Weather mods
STEP SkyrimSE Mod List
 |
Notice:
|
At this point users should have their systems fully set up and ready to install mods . Users who are unaware of how to complete mod installations using MO2 should return to that Guide and refresh their knowledge. When installing mods, keep the following in mind:
- To maintain compatibility with downstream Patch instructions, it is important to install Patch-related mods as described in their respective Notes.
- After installing a mod, enable the mod in MO.
- If no Notes or STEP recommendations are provided for a particular mod, STEP encourages user customization.
- Mods should be arranged in MO in the order that they are listed to ensure other mods further down the list overwrite/override those occurring before them. This is necessary to ensure the desired outcome.
- Mods are listed in alphabetical order within each Mod Group and any deviations from this are purposeful to achieve the desired outcome.
- Always install plugins (ESLs/ESMs/ESPs), unless otherwise noted.
- Always follow LOOT's advice in regards to mod cleaning and sorting unless otherwise noted.
- STEP does not recommend extracting BSAs as a general principle, since it adds to the potential for user error and unnecessary support issues. Experienced and self-supporting users may derive benefit from doing so, however.
|
 |
MO Users:
|
MO Separators: Mod Organizer features the ability to create separators within the mod list to group mods for easier visual reference. STEP recommends using these separators for each Mod Group following. To create a separator:
- Click the Open list options button on the top of the mod list pane.
- Select [Create Separator] and give the separator a name. STEP recommends using the Mod Group names (i.e. Extensions, Resources, Audiovisual - Lighting & Weather, etc.).
- Create a new separator for each new Mod Group while working through the Guide.
- Separator colors can be customized by right-clicking on any separator and selecting Select Color.
|
Mod Table Reference[edit]
Below is the legend and reference for the mod tables used in this Guide. Users should refer back to it when confused about a mod listing.
Mod Table Legend[edit]
|
|
Patch Requirement
|
A green vertical bar indicates that the mod is required by the STEP CR Patch, and a red bar indicates that the LW patch is required.
|
|
|
Mod Name
|
Nexus mod name presented as a link to Nexus for download.
|
|
|
|
Link to the mod's wiki page, which includes various information about the mod.
|
|
|
Baseline
|
This notes the STEP Baseline version or option of the corresponding mod that should be installed, and usually refers to options affecting performance/quality. General suggestions are located in the "Notes" column; see below.
|
|
|
Instructions
|
Brief notes that apply to the mod or installation. In some cases, mods with several options will include a suggested option. These suggestions will take the form of: "STEP recommends 'Option A'." In other cases, there may only be one appropriate option, which fits the STEP Mandate. These instructions will take the form of: "Download and install 'Option A'." Users will also see links displayed as: Detailed instructions available. Users should follow these links to find detailed instructions for installing the mod.
|
02-Extenders[edit]
- Extend the game engine and required for use by downstream mods or utilities
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
|
|
SKSE64
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Root Files Installation
- Download the "Current SE build" archive file.
- Open the archive and extract the following files to the Skyrim Special Edition root folder
../Steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim Special Edition/ :
- skse64_X_X_X.dll
- skse64_loader.exe
- skse64_steam_loader.dll
- Keep this archive open for the next steps.
Data Files Installation
- Create a empty mod in the mod list of MO and name it SKSE64, or anything similar.
- Open the SKSE64 mod folder (Ctrl+double-click).
- Create a new folder named SKSE and open it.
INI File
- Within the SKSE folder, create a new file named SKSE.ini i.e.
..SKSE64/SKSE/SKSE.ini
- Open the new file and copy and paste the code in the box below
- Save and close the file when finished.
[Display]
iTintTextureResolution=2048
[General]
ClearInvalidRegistrations=1
Scripts
- From the archive downloaded above, open the Data folder e.g.
SKSE64_x_x_x.7z/SKSE64_x_x_x/Data/
- Extract the scripts folder from the archive to the SKSE64 folder i.e.
..SKSE64/scripts/ .
- Close archive and Windows Explorer sessions.
Once complete, the SKSE64 mod's folder structure should be:
Launcher Configuration
Normally, MO should auto-detect that SKSE is installed, and it will auto-generate the SKSE game launcher. This should be used for launching Skyrim going forward. Below are some recommendations for further configuration of the SKSE launcher ... or, if for some reason MO fails to configure this, following is how to do so manually:
- In MO, click the "Executables button" at the top of the main Mod Organizer window.
- Over the left pane, click the [+] (add executable button) and select [Add from file...].
- Navigate to the skse64_loader.exe file (e.g.
../Steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim Special Edition/skse64_loader.exe ).
- "SKSE" can be renamed to to "SKSE Skyrim Launcher" or similar for clarity. NOTE: If this is done, MO will automatically create the "SKSE" launcher again and place it at bottom of the list.
- (optional) Create files in mod instead of Overwrite : select the "SKSE64" mod created above.
- Use this to launch Skyrim SE going forward.
|
03-Resources[edit]
- Applications or mods that provide additional functions or resources
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
04-Foundation[edit]
- Baseline mods that may be overwritten or overridden by other mods
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
|
|
Skyrim SE particle patch for ENB
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
This is the first time users will have encountered a mod that isn't downloaded via MO.
- Download the Special Edition PARTICLE PATCH ALL-IN-ONE INSTALLATION file.
- Install the file by clicking the Install new mod icon at the top of MO.
- Navigate to the location where the archive was downloaded and open it for MO to start the installation.
Once the mod is installed users should move the plugin to Optional Plugins in MO.
- Double-click on the mod and click on the Optional ESPs tab.
- Under Available ESPs, select the mod's plugin and click the left arrow button to move it to the Optional ESPs pane.
|
|
|
DynDOLOD Resources SE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the DynDOLOD Resources SE Main File, selecting the following options:
- Whiterun Exterior
- Solitude Exterior
- High Hrothgar Window Glow
- DLC2 Vvardenfell 3D Plume
- Desync Birds of Prey
As with all mods in this guide, this mod should be enabled in MO once it is installed. This mod in particular MUST be enabled for proper LOD generation later in this guide.
|
|
|
Static Mesh Improvement Mod
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Static Mesh Improvement Mod
|
- Options
- Main Installer Choice
- ◉ Skyrim 2016 Special Edition: Custom
- Original Skyrim Custom Install
- Barrels
- ◉ Modified Vanilla Barrels
- Bowl Ingredients
- ☑ Improved Bowl Ingredients
- Bridges
- Candelabras
- Carriage Seats and Fixes
- Chains 3D - Misc
- Chains 3D - Pull Levers
- ◉ Chains 3D - Pull Levers Small Rings (Recommended)
- Chains 3D - Signs
- Chains 3D - Whiterun
- Chandeliers
- ◉ Improved Chandeliers (Recommended)
- Clothing Fixes
- Dawnguard Soulcairn Bone Piles
- ◉ Bone Piles Yellow Bones (Recommended)
- Draugr Corpses
- Dungeons Cliffs Snow Skirts
- ◉ Snow Blending ESP (Recommended)
- Dwemer Animated Lifts
- Dwemer Clutter
- Farmhouse Woven Fence
- ◉ Woven Fence Less Flicker (Recommended)
- Food
- Food - Tomato Style
- Furniture Chests
- ☑ Improved Furniture Chests
- Furniture Common
- ◉ Improved Furniture SMIM Textures (Recommended)
- Furniture Noble
- ☑ Improved Furniture Noble
- Hanging Rings
- Hawk
- Hearthfires Stuff
- Human Skull Fixes
- Imperial Jail
- ◉ Improved Imperial Jail (Recommended)
- Jewelry Rings
- ◉ Jewelry Rings CCO Remade or Jewelcraft
- Lanterns
- Nordic Tables and Benches
- ☑ Nordic Tables and Benches
- Orc Longhouse
- Poor Coffin
- Rabbit
- Rocks - Blackreach
- Rocks - Generic
- Rocks - Mountains
- Ropes 3D - Dungeons
- ◉ Dungeons 3D Ropes and Glorious Scaffolding
- Ropes 3D - Farmhouse
- ◉ Farmhouse 3D Ropes No Fade (Recommended)
- Ropes 3D - Raven Rock Docks
- ☑ Raven Rock Docks 3D Ropes
- Ropes 3D - Riften
- ◉ Riften 3D Ropes Default Ropes Style (Recommended)
- Ropes 3D - Solitude Docks
- ☑ Solitude Docks 3D Ropes
- Ropes 3D - Stockade
- Ruins Sarcophagus
- Shack Roofs
- ☑ Improved Shack Roofs with Dragonborn
- Skeletal Remains 3D
- Smelters
- Solitude Gate Doors
- Tankards
- ◉ Dark Brushed Metal Tankards
- Tree - Juniper Tree
- Tree - Tundra Tree
- Whiterun Castle Wood Carvings
- ◉ Wood Carvings Improved Vanilla
- Whiterun Doors
- Windmills
- ◉ DynDOLOD/SkyMills Compatibility
- Xtra Options - Half-Size Textures Addon
- ◉ None (NOTE: Low VRAM graphic card users can use the half-size textures.)
- Xtra Options - Ultra-Sized Textures Addon
|
|
|
|
Skyrim Realistic Overhaul
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
- Install Part 1-3, choosing to merge the files when asked.
- Install the update file, choosing to merge as well.
|
|
|
Majestic Mountains - Cathedral Concept
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
STEP Recommends: Lightside
Lightside is the most vanilla-like replacement, however, it can appear too bright in-game when combined with certain post processors. Users are free to choose the style that suits their preference.
Download the Main File of preference and the Lod Pack for DynDoLod (all versions) Optional File.
The "Lod Pack for SSELodGen xLodGen (all versions)" optional file is NOT needed, since we are not using landscapes (terrain) from this mod.
Main File
FOMOD Instructions Majestic Mountains - Cathedral Concept
|
-
- Required
- Snow Mountain Type
- ◉ Snow Mountain New version ESL
- Optionals
- Sun Direction (choose one or none)
-
|
Optional File
Do not merge this mod into the main file. Install this mod separately, and name it something like (TEMP) Magestic Mountains - LODGen . This mod will be enabled for LOD generation only.
FOMOD Instructions Majestic Mountains DynDoLod Pack
|
|
|
|
|
Cathedral Landscapes
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
 |
Notice:
|
STEP Mandate Notice
STEP wishes to make users aware this mod deviates to a degree from the vanilla style in regards to some landscape textures. However, we feel the benefits the mod brings out-weigh this fact.
Users who wish to use another mod are free to do so. The mod can be removed from the CR Patches (installed at the end of the Guide) by simply removing it from the plugin header in xEdit (it's included only for sorting purposes). Users who choose to do so should install SkyrimSE:Blended Roads.
|
The following FOMOD instructions are for the most vanilla-like options, but deviation from this is user preference.
- Download and install the Main File (instructions below).
FOMOD Instructions Cathedral Landscapes
|
-
- Select Install
- ◉ Full Install, Brown Tundra
-
|
- Download and install the LODGEN Textures for v3 Optional File.
Don't merge this file! Install it separately! This file will be installed as a separate mod so that it can be activated for LOD generation later in the guide and deactivated after. Name the file something like: "(TEMP) - Cathedral Landscapes - LODGen".
INI Edits
Cathedral Landscapes includes it's own INI file, therefore users are not required to make any changes in BethINI to support the mod. However, some users may wish to have more or less grass. To do this:
- Double-click on the mod listing in MO's left pane.
- Select the INI Files tab and select the listed INI.
- Change the value of the iMinGrassSize setting (also refer to iMinGrassSize INI definition).
- Higher values = less grass and increased performance
- Lower values = more grass and decreased performance
- Default for Cathedral is 60. STEP suggests changing this value by intervals of 10 until the desired result is reached.
- Click [Close] and then [OK] to save the changes.
|
05-Animations & Effects[edit]
- Mods that alter the animations and effects in the game
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
|
|
Realistic Boat Bobbing SE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
- Download and install the Main File.
- Download and merge the RBB - Oakwood Patch and RBB - USSEP Patch Optional Files.
- Download and merge the RBB - SMIM Meshes Miscellaneous File.
|
|
|
XP32 Maximum Skeleton Special Extended
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
This is a Not Safe For Work (NSFW) mod page!
Download the main file and install using the following:
FOMOD Instructions XP32 Maximum Skeleton Special Extended
|
- Skeleton
- Meshes
- ☑ Skeleton Meshes
- ☑ Creature Meshes
- Animation Rig Map
- Character Creation
- Character Creation
- Weapon Style Randomizer for NPCs
- Animation Variants
- Belt-Fastened Quivers
- Dagger on Back
- Dagger on Hip
- Magic
- Sword on Back
- Sword on Hip
- First Person Animation
- Axe - Warning! Missing Sounds! Not compatible...!
- Sword - Warning! Missing Sounds! Not compatible...!
- Mounted Combat Animation
- Axe - Warning! Missing Sounds! Not compatible...!
- Bow
- Sword - Warning! Missing Sounds! Not compatible...!
- Compatibility Patches
- The Joy of Perspective
- Schlongs of Skyrim
- Compatibility Patches
- Compatibility Patches
|
When updating this mod, remember to run FNIS SE. For new users installing this Guide for the first time, FNIS will be ran at the end of the Guide.
|
06-Models & Textures[edit]
- Mods that alter the appearance of objects in the game
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
|
|
AMidianBorn Book of Silence
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download the following files:
- aMidianBorn book of silence -- ARMORS
- aMidianBorn Book of Silence -- CREATURES
- aMidianBorn book of silence -- DRAGONBORN
- aMidianBorn book of silence -- UNIQUE ITEMS
- aMidianBorn book of silence -- WEAPONS
Users have two installation options with this mod and other mods like it. When multiple files are used from the same mod, users may either create a single mod listing and merge all files into it or create a separate mod listing for each file.
STEP Recommends: Merging all files into single mod listing named aMidianBorn Book of Silence
FOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence ARMORS
|
- Options
- Options
- Iron and Banded
- Steel
- Steel Plate
- Leather
- Hide and Studded
- Fur
- Elven
- Dwarven
- Ancient Nord
- Orcish
- Scaled
- Wolf
- Glass
- Ebony
- Blades
- Falmer
|
FOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence CREATURES
|
- Options
- Options
- Skeleton
- Dragon Priest
- Draugr
- Falmer
- Chaurus
- Spriggan
|
FOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence DRAGONBORN
|
- Options
- Custom
- Nordic Carved Armor
- Bonemold Armor
- Acolyte Masks
- Dragon Priest Acolytes
- Hulking Draugr
- Ash Spawn
- Ash Guardians
|
FOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence UNIQUE ITEMS
|
- Options
- Custom
- Targe of the Blooded
- Wuuthrad
- Savior's Hide
- Helm of Yngol
- Mace of Molag Bal
- Mehrune's Razor
- Volendrung
- Tsun's Armor
- Ebony Mail
- Staff of Magnus
- Dragon Priest Masks
|
FOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence WEAPONS
|
- Options
- Options
- ◉ Install all weapons (default)
|
Optional ESPs
Depending on how the mods are installed:
- Right-click the aMidianBorn Book of Silence or aMidianBorn Book of Silence WEAPONS mod
- Click [Information...].
- Click the Optional ESPs tab and move aMidianborn_Skyforge_Weapons.esp from the right pane to the left.
Users should repeat these steps whenever asked to moved plugins to the Optional ESPs.
Hiding files and folders
Hide the following files/folders:
To do this,
- Double-click on the mod listing in the left pane.
- Click the Filetree tab.
- Expand the textures folder.
- Right-click on the clothes folder and select [Hide].
Users should repeat these steps whenever asked to hide files or folders from a mod.
|
|
|
Arctic - Frost Effects Redux
|
Lite
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Arctic - Frost Effects Redux
|
- Arctic Installation
- Arctic Texture Resolution
- Arctic Gradients Color
- Arctic Icicles Size
- Arctic Icicles Style
- Arctic Optional Plugin
- Plugin Option
- ◉ Frost Mesh Patch (ESL-Tagged)
|
|
|
|
Bellyaches Animal and Creature Pack SSE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Bellyaches Animal and Creature Pack
|
- Options
- Custom
- Bear (brown and black)
- Chaurus
- Chicken
- Dog
- Dragonfly
- Deer
- Fox (Red)
- Fox (Arctic)
- Frostbite Spider (Brown)
- Frostbite Spider (Arctic)
- Goat
- Hawk
- Highland Cow
- Horker
- Horse Options
- Horse Tails
- Horse Textures
- More Custom Options
- Mammoth
- Mudcrab
- Rabbit
- Sabre Cat (Brown)
- Sabre Cat (Arctic)
- Skeever (Grey)
- Skeever (Arctic)
- Wolf (Black)
- Wolf (Ice)
- Wolf (Red)
- Werewolf
- Werewolf Eyes
|
|
|
|
Better Dynamic Snow SE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Main File.
 |
Notice:
|
When updating from BDS v2.11 to v3+, users will need to regenerate DynDOLOD.
|
FOMOD Instructions Better Dynamic Snow SE
|
- Better Dynamic Snow SE - Plugins
- Plugin Installation
- ☑ Brighter Snow Materials
- Better Dynamic Snow SE - Options
- Projected Diffuse Textures
- Optional Additions
|
|
|
|
Deadly Spell Impacts
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Deadly Spell Impacts
|
- Options
- Custom
- Fire Spell Dependant Feature
- ◉ One Fire Impact (Default)
- One
|
|
|
|
Detailing the Eldrich
|
Higher Res
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
This mod is not packaged correctly. Users should do the following to install the mod:
- Download and install the Main File.
- MO will prompt with a window
- Expand the Detailing the Eldrich - Higher-Res Riekling Architecture folder.
- Right-click on the Data folder under Detailing the Eldrich - Higher-Res Riekling Architecture and select Set data directory.
- Click OK to install the mod.
|
|
|
DRAGON PRIEST
|
2K Full
|
Install with the Full (Highly suggested) option.
|
|
|
Dragonbone Mastery
|
2k/1k
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
STEP Recommends: Dragonbone Mastery - WITHOUT Engravings
This recommendation is for the vanilla experience. Users can install whichever version they desire and adjust the instructions below to suit their preferences.
FOMOD Instructions Dragonbone Mastery - Weapons Retexture
|
- Page 1
- Page 2
- Page 3
- Page 4
- Short Scabbard Texture Options
|
|
|
|
DROPS
|
512
|
STEP Recommends: Version 3
|
|
|
Elemental Staffs SE
|
2K
|
STEP Recommends: Elemental Staffs SE Main File and the Elemental Staffs SE Basic Optional File.
|
|
|
Embers HD
|
2K
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Embers HD
|
- Main Component
- Embers HD Fireplaces Add-On Component
- Embers HD Add-On Components
- Select Add-Ons
- ☑ Forges Add-On; Lave Crater Add-On
- Embers HD Compatibility Patches
|
|
|
|
Enhanced Blood Textures SE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the _Enhanced Blood Textures SE (LITE VERSION) Main File.
Optionally, download and merge the No Screen Blood Optional File. This will remove blood spatters from the screen.
|
|
|
Enhanced Vanilla Trees SE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
The instructions below will reflect the most vanilla-like options. Users are free to customize the installation to suit their preferences. For example, the images on the STEP SE Nexus page uses the Lush version.
FOMOD Instructions Enhanced Vanilla Trees SE
|
- Mesh Options
- Select a version
- ◉ Enhanced Vanilla Meshes
- Optional Addons
- Clutter
- ☑ Enhanced Tree Clutter (recommended)
- Tree LODs
|
|
|
|
Gemling Queen Jewelry SE
|
1K
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Gemling Queen Jewelry SE
|
- Main Modules
- Main Modules
- ☑ Amulets; Circlets; Rings
- DLC Addons
- Amulet Textures
- Amulet Textures Options
- ◉ Gamwich Amulet Textures - 1024
- Ring Textures
- Ring Texture Options
- ◉ Gamwich Ring Textures -Combined - 1k
- Optional Mesh Packs
- Optional Mesh Packs Dawnguard
|
|
|
|
Greatsword Sheaths and Scabbards Redux SE
|
v2.7.6
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Greatsword Sheaths and Scabbards Redux SE
|
- Installation Options
- Meshes Type
- Sheath/Scabbard Type
- ◉ Small - Default Textures
- Skyforge Weapons
|
|
|
|
HD Stone Quarry and Clay Deposit
|
2K
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the 2K Main File and Majestic Mountain Patch from Optional Files. For the patch, choose "Lightside" in the FOMOD.
|
|
|
High Quality Food and Ingredients SE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions High Quality Food and Ingredients SE
|
- High Quality Food and Ingredients SE
- Pick and Choose
- Select all you want
- ☑ Baked Potatoes
- ☑ Boiled Creme Treat
- ☑ Bone Meal
- ☑ Bread
- ☑ Carrots
- ☑ Charred Skeever Hide and Meat
- ☑ Chicken Breast
- ☑ Dead Hare
- ☑ Dead Pheasant
- ☑ Garlic
- ☑ Green Apple
- ☑ Grilled Chicken Breast
- ☑ Grilled Leeks
- ☑ Honey Nut Treat
- ☑ Long Taffy Treat
- ☑ Mead
- ☑ Moon Sugar
- ☑ Mora Tapinella
- ☑ Pie
- ☑ Potatoes
- ☑ Powered Mannoth Tusk [It's misspelled]
- ☑ Raw Beef
- ☑ Red Apple
- ☑ Salmon Meat
- ☑ Salmon Steak
- ☑ Salt Pile
- ☑ Scaly Photiota
- ☑ Seared Slaughterfish
- ☑ Slaughterfish Scales
- ☑ Sweet Roll
- ☑ Venison
- ☑ Void Salts
- Please Read
|
|
|
|
Hybrids HD Plants and Herbs Retexture
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Hide the following files/folders:
- Textures\Plants\FloraNirnroot01.dds
- Textures\Plants\MountainFloweringPurple.dds
- Textures\Plants\MountainFloweringPurple_n.dds
- Textures\Plants\Snowberry01.dds
- Textures\Plants\SnowberrySnow01.dds
- Textures\Plants\TundraCotton01.dds
|
|
|
Improved Sparks
|
|
STEP Recommends: Grindstones - 10X Sparks and Impact Effects - Vanilla Sparks
|
|
|
Inferno - Fire Effects Redux
|
Lite
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Inferno - Fire Effects Redux
|
- Inferno Installation
- Inferno Texture Resolution
- Inferno Flame Glow
- Inferno Flame Color
- Inferno Flame Tile
- Inferno Flame Size
- Inferno Optional Patches
- Inferno Optional Plugin
|
|
|
|
New Thinner Torch
|
|
Disregard the Main File, and download/install the Ultimate HD Torch by rheadude compatible file.
|
|
|
Real Wood Textures - Farmhouses
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and Install the Real Wood Textures - Farmhouses No Green Moss Version Optional File.
Please ignore the "STEP" version of the mod available for download. It's for past Guides. For SE, the 2K textures are desired.
Hide the following files/folders:
- textures\architecture\farmhouse\StoneWall01.dds
- textures\architecture\farmhouse\StoneWall01_n.dds
- textures\architecture\farmhouse\WovenFence01_n.dds
|
|
|
Rens HD Shrines
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Ren's HD Shrines by Rengel
|
- Choices
- Akatosh
- Arkay
- Dibella
- Julianos
- Kynareth
- Mara
- Stendarr
- Talos
- Zenithar
|
|
|
|
Ruins Clutter Improved
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Ruins_Clutter_Improved_SE_NMM_v3-1 Main File and all Update Files.
FOMOD Instructions Ruins Clutter Improved SE
|
|
Hide the following files/folders:
- meshes\furniture\workbenches
- meshes\furniture\enchantingworkbench.nif
- meshes\furniture\enchantingworkstation.nif
- meshes\loadscreenart\loadscreenenchantingworkbench.nif
- textures\clutter\candles
|
|
|
RUSTIC SOULGEMS - Special Edition
|
1K
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the RUSTIC SOULGEMS - Special Edition - FOMOD - English Only Main File.
FOMOD Instructions RUSTIC SOUL GEMS
|
- Step 1 - Texture Resolution
- Choose your texture resolution
- Step 2 - Plugin
|
|
|
|
SABRECAT
|
2K
|
Install both options in the installer.
|
|
|
SKELETON
|
2K
|
Install selecting the Skin, clutter without sounds option.
|
|
|
Skyrim SE Improved Puddles
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Skyrim SE Improved Puddles FOMOD for Non-ENB users Miscellaneous File.
FOMOD Instructions Skyrim SE Improved Puddles
|
- Options
- Windhelm Ice Puddle Textures
- Choose an ESP
- ☑ Skyrim Special Edition (all DLCs)
|
|
|
|
Skyrim SE Skill Interface Re-Texture
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions SSIRT v4.1
|
- Introduction
- Background
- Background
- ◉ Background - Default Stars - HDR Nebula
- Perk Lines
- Perk Line Colours
- Perk Line Colours
- ◉ Perk Line Colour - Default
- Constellations
- Constellations
- ◉ Constellations - HD Default
- Perk Stars
- Perk Stars
- ◉ Perk Stars - Enhanced Default
- Dawnguard Moons and Stars
- Dawnguard Moons and Stars
- ◉ HD Masser and Secunda Vanilla Stars
- Vampire Background
- Vampire Nebula Background
- Thanks
|
|
|
|
The Elder Scrolls V Rewritten - Arvak SE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Main File.
FOMOD Instructions The Elder Scrolls V Rewritten - Arvak SE
|
- Installation Options
- Plugins
- Texture Sizes
- Model Options
|
|
|
|
Vivid Landscapes - Tundra Moss Revised
|
1K Yellow
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
STEP Recommends:
- Main File: Vivid Landscapes - Tundra Moss Revised - yellow 1024
- Optional File: SMIM compatibility patch
To install the Optional File:
- During installation right-click on the first Data folder listed under the root "data" folder.
- Select [Set data directory].
- Click [OK] to finish installation and choose to merge it.
|
|
|
White Phial Replacer SE
|
|
STEP Recommends: White Phial Replacer SE Main File and White Phial Replacer 0.5x size Optional File.
|
|
|
WISPMOTHER
|
2K-1K
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Wispmother.by.Kajuan
|
- Custom
- Select One
- ◉ Full version - skin with a linen fabric cloth
|
|
07-Sounds & Music[edit]
- Mods that alter game audio
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
|
|
Audio Overhaul for Skyrim SE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Audio Overhaul Skyrim (x.x.x) Main File. The patches are not needed. Any conflicts are resolved with the STEP Patches.
|
|
|
Better Animal Footsteps
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Better Animal Footsteps
|
- Custom
- Select on option
- ◉ Install all of the footstep sounds
- Custom
- Optional Pets of Skyrim patch
|
|
|
|
Dragons Shout with Voice
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Dragons Shout with Voice - LOOSE Main File.
The Optional File, Dragons Shout with Voice from location, enables the sounds to play from the dragon's location. Without this option, the sounds will play at the player. Users can install this Optional File, however, it requires porting using the Skyrim SE Creation Kit. Porting mods is not covered in this Guides, however, it is as simple as loading the plugin in the CK, saving, and closing the CK.
|
08-Character Appearance[edit]
- Mods that alter any aspect of PC or NPC appearance
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
|
|
Beards
|
1K
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Beards
|
- Choose options
- Choose full or vanilla replacer
- Choose resolution
|
|
|
|
Brows
|
512
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Brows
|
- Choose options
- Choose full or vanilla replacer
- Choose resolution
|
|
|
|
FAR - Forgotten Argonian Roots
|
2K
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Detailed Instructions available
|
Step recommends: FAR 2k. all-in-one with readme
The instructions are broken up into segments for easier tracking:
- During installation, expand FAR-Forgotten Argonian Roots
- Expand Females→Default Body→MAIN texture
- Drag and drop the Textures folder onto < data > above
- Now fully expand the Textures folder that was just moved and leave it expanded.
- Expand Males→Better Males body→textures→actors→character
- Drag and drop the argonianmale folder onto character folder from the expanded Textures folder in step 4 above.
- Now expand the two argonianfemale and argonianmale folders from the expanded Textures folder in step 4 above.
- Untick the boxes next to the *body_s.dds, *hands_s.dds, and *head_s.dds within both the expanded folders.
- Expand no glow skin→Female→Textures→actors→character→argonianfemale
- Drag and drop the three files into the argonianfemale folder from the expanded Textures folder in step 4 above.
- Expand no glow skin→Male→Textures→actors→character→argonianmale
- Drag and drop the three files into the argonianmale folder from the expanded Textures folder in step 4 above.
- Untick FAR-Forgotten Argonian Roots and click [OK]
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Immersive Spectral Assassin
|
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Detailed Instructions available
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FOMOD Instructions Lucien Lachance Restored - Immersive Spectral Assassin
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The STEP Patch also changes the following:
- Magic has been increased
- Upon looking up the lore and Oblivion NPC, it was found that Lucien's magic was much higher than Skyrim has it. Therefore, it has been increased.
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Tempered Skins for Females - UNP
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Detailed Instructions available
|
This is a Not Safe For Work (NSFW) mod page and installer!
The instructions below are for the most vanilla-like options. Users are free to customize the options to according to their preferences.
FOMOD Instructions Tempered Skins for Females
|
- A - Body type
- B - Body diffuse options
- Body diffuse options
- ☑ B09 - Dirty, hairy, no scars
- C - Body normal options
- D - Face diffuse options
- E - Face normal options
- F - Facemarks, scars (not necessary)
- Scars
- ☑ F1 - Female scars by Xenius
- Female tintmasks by Xenius
- Male tintmasks by Xenius
- Beast tintmasks by Xenius
- Warning
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Tempered Skins for Males
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Detailed Instructions available
|
This is a Not Safe For Work (NSFW) mod page and installer!
STEP Recommends: Tempered Skins for Males - Dressed Version
The instructions below are for the most vanilla-like options. Users are free to customize the options to according to their preferences.
FOMOD Instructions Tempered Skins for Males
|
- A - Main Files
- B - Body diffuse options
-
- ◉ B6 - Dirty light haired
- C - Body normal options
- D - Face diffuse options
- E - Face normal options
- F - Facemarks, scars (not necessary)
-
- ☐ Select None or Nothing for all
- Warning)
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Hide the following files:
- textures\actors\character\argonianmale (entire folder)
- textures\actors\character\khajiitmale\khajiitmalehead_s.dds
- textures\actors\character\male\maleunderwear.dds
- textures\actors\character\male\maleunderwear_n.dds
- textures\armor\briarheart\briarheart.dds
- textures\armor\briarheart\briarheart_n.dds
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Vanilla Makeup HD
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2K
|
STEP Recommends: VMHD - All Races - 2K Also install the 2K update file, choosing to merge when asked.
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Vanilla Warpaints Absolution
|
2K
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Vanilla Warpaints Absolution
|
- Main Files
- Vanilla Replacers
- RaceMenu Plugins
- Variant Textures
- Vanilla Variants General Watercolor
- Vanilla Variants Wood Elves Muddy
- Vanilla Variants Dark Elf Ashy
- Vanilla Variants Khajiit Stripes Furry
- Vanilla Variants Nord Splattered
- Vanilla Variants Argonian Scaley
- RaceMenu Variants General Watercolor
- RaceMenu Variants Wood Elves Muddy
- RaceMenu Variants Dark Elf Ashy
- RaceMenu Variants Khajiit Stripes Furry
- RaceMenu Variants Nord Splattered
- RaceMenu Variants Argonian Scaley
- Other Files
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09-Fixes[edit]
- Mods that fix various bugs not addressed by the Foundation mod group
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Mod Name
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Baseline
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Instructions
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(SKSE64) Havok Fix
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Detailed Instructions available
|
Install this mod without any special configuration. It will be the simplest solution and all that is needed for most systems.
Depending on the GFX dirvers and PC environment, another option is available that may alleviate certain issues on higher-end PCs without having to cap frame rate. Read on for details.
After completing the guide and loading into the game for the first time, if there are issues like the following and no tweaks that fix:
- Input lag
- Stuttering
- Missing cursor on alt+tab or other cursor issues
- Other miscellaneous GFX bugs
... try disabling this mod and using SSE Dispay Teaks instead.
~z929669 Talk 4:50:41 14 February 2021 (UTC) wtote the following:
Rather than following the relevant display settings exactly as described in the STEP Guides, SSE Dispay Teaks was a much better option for my system. I also have a monitor with 144 Hz refresh. Configuring my setup as follows (all else remaining true to STEP Guides' recommendations) fixed all of my glitches without capping my frame rates (indoor/outdoor FPS range with max textures and settings in all mods and config ~ 70-144):
Radeon Adrenalin software for Skyrim deviations (from default) as follows:
- Radeon Anti-Lag set to "On"
- Wait for Vertical Refresh (Radeon driver vsync) set to "Off, unless application specifies"
- AMD Freesync (analogous to Nvidia G-SYNC, but slightly inferior) set to "AMD Optimized"
... with BethINI deviations as follows:
- VSync (unticked)
- Lock Frame Rate (unticked)
... and SSEDisplayTweaks.ini deviations as follows:
SwapEffect=flip_sequential
MaxFrameLatency=1
MaximumRefreshRate=144 (or set to your monitor's refresh rate)
FramerateLimit=144 (or set to your monitor's refresh rate)
MaximumFramerate=144 (or set to your monitor's refresh rate)
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Butterflies Unchained
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Install the Main File and the Butterflies Unchained - Complete Alchemy and Cooking Overhaul Patch Optional File.
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Invisibility and Eyes Mesh Fix
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Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Invisibility and Eyes Mesh Fix Main File.
FOMOD Instructions Invisibility and Eyes Mesh Fix by HHaleyy
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Skyrim Landscape and Water Fixes
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Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Skyrim Landscape and Water Fixes
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- Main
- Main Files
- ☑ Main plugin, meshes and scripts
- Patches
- ☑ Relighting Skyrim
[ONLY install if using Lighting & Weather mod group later in the Guide]
- Walkway Wall FIX
- Optional
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SSE Engine Fixes
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Detailed Instructions available
|
- Download and install the (Part 1) Engine Fixes Main File in MO.
- Download the (Part 2) Engine Fixes - skse64 Preloader and TBB Lib Main File.
- Extract the contents of the second archive to the root Skyrim SE directory (e.g. ..\Steam\SteamApps\Common\Skyrim Special Edition\)
Once installed open and ensure the following settings in EngineFixes.toml are configured:
[Patches]
EnableAchievementsWithMods = true
FormCaching = true
MaxStdio = true
TreeLODReferenceCaching = true
WaterflowAnimation = true
WaterflowSpeed = 16.0
20.0 = default. Smaller = slower, larger = faster.
[Fixes]
ArcheryDownwardAiming = true
AnimationLoadSignedCrash = true
DoublePerkApply = true
LipSync = true
MemoryAccessErrors = true
MO5STypo = true
SlowTimeCameraMovement = true
TreeReflections = true
VerticalLookSensitivity = true
 |
Notice:
|
Leave the remainder of the settings at their defaults, unless the changes are known and desired.
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10-Gameplay-General[edit]
- Mods that alter gameplay mechanics and don't naturally fit into any other gameplay mod group
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Mod Name
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Baseline
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Instructions
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11-Gameplay-AI & Combat[edit]
- Mods that alter AI and combat mechanics
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Mod Name
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Baseline
|
Instructions
|
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Auto Hide Ammo
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Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Simple Auto Unequip Ammo from the Old Files.
The old version of the mod is used due to potential issues with the newer version and to retain the functionality that users are used to from the LE Guide.
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12-Gameplay-Economy[edit]
- Mods that alter currency, item stats, or other economy-related aspects of the game
|
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Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
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Weapons Armor Clothing and Clutter Fixes
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2K
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
- Once installed, double-click on the mod listing in MO.
- Click on the Optional ESPs tab.
- Move WACCF_BashedPatchLvlListFix.esp to the left pane.
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13-Gameplay-Immersion[edit]
- Mods that help to improve game immersion and role-playing scenarios
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Mod Name
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Baseline
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Instructions
|
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Get Snowy
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Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and instal the Main File
Move getSnowy_ObsidianWeathers_Patch.esp and getSnowy_WnC-Ashes Patch.esp to the Optional ESPs in MO.
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Improved Traps
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|
STEP Recommends: Improved Traps Main File and Improved Traps - Follower Safety Patch Misc File. Do not install Mining Makes Noise.
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14-Gameplay-Quests[edit]
- Mods that alter aspects of quests and/or related lore
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Mod Name
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Baseline
|
Instructions
|
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Even Better Quest Objectives SE
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Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Main File.
FOMOD Instructions Even Better Quest Objectives
|
- Options for this mod
- Main
- Optional Files
- ☑ Dark Brotherhood Forever to Miscellaneous Quests
- Mod Patches
- Available Patches
- ☑ Alternative Start - Live Another Life by Arthmoor
- ☑ Book Covers Skyrim
- ☑ Cutting Room Floor by Arthmoor
- ☑ The Paarthurnax Dilemma by Arthmoor
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15-Gameplay-Skills & Perks[edit]
- Mods that alter PC skills and perks or related leveling
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
16-Interface[edit]
- Mods that alter any aspect of the user interface
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
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MoreHUD SE
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Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the moreHUD SE Light Master main file.
Users updating their installs with pre-existing saves (not starting a new game) who had the non-lite master version installed are required to continue using that version of the mod.
Users ignoring this advice risk their saves!
|
17-Locations[edit]
- Mods that add new locations and/or alter vanilla locations
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
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Farmhouse Chimneys SE
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Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Farmhouse Chimneys
|
- Base Options
- Lands
- Vanilla Villages
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Landscape Fixes For Grass Mods
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Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Main File and the following Optional Files:
- Patches for Arthmoor's Town add-ons
FOMOD Instructions Landscape Fixes For Grass Mods - Patches
|
- Select an Option
- Select options
- ☑ Patch for Alternate Start - Live Another Life
- ☑ Patch for Cutting Room Floor
- ☑ Patch for Oakwood
- Patches Installed.
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Oblivion Gates Remade
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Main File.
FOMOD Instructions Oblivion Gates Remade
|
- Step1
- Optional Files
- Textures
- ◉ Mountain-Like Textures for MAJESTIC MOUNTAINS.
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18-Lighting & Weather[edit]
 |
Notice:
|
This section is optional! We wish to be clear that the mods included within this section are completely optional. They are still within the Mandate, however, we've made this section optional for users who wish to customize their own lighting and weather for their games. As such, we've included an additional patch solely for this mod group.
|
- Optional mod group that alter lighting and weather systems in the game
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Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
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Lanterns Of Skyrim II
|
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Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Main File.
FOMOD Instructions Lanterns Of Skyrim II
|
- Main Installation
- Main Files
- Addons
- Main Patches
- Patches (A)
- Patches (B)
- Patches (C)
- Arthmoor Village Expansions patches
- ☑ LoS II-Helarchen Creek patch
- ☑ LoS II-Oakwood patch
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Relighting Skyrim - SSE
|
|
Users do not need any of the patches. These are incorporated into the STEP SE Core - L&W Patch.
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Storm Lightning for SSE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
FOMOD Instructions Storm Lightning for SSE and VR (Minty Lightning 2019)
|
- Select Game
- Select Game
- ◉ Skyrim Specicial Edition
- Select Game Version
- Select Plugin Type
- Select Night Time Sheet Halo
- Select Sheet Halo
- ◉ Halo with Dimmer Lighting (Level 0)
- Select Day Time Sheet Halo
- Select Night Time Fork Halo
- Select Day Time Fork Halo
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19-Utilities[edit]
- Tools used to generate mod resources from data provided by previous mod groups
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
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|
Fores New Idles in Skyrim SE
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
This mod is packaged incorrectly. To install,
- Download and install the Main File.
- MO will prompt the user.
- Expand the FNIS Behavior SE x.x.x folder.
- Right-click on Data and select Set data directory.
- Click OK to install the mod.
- Enable the mod.
Add to MO
FNIS is run through Mod Organizer like most other tools. Add FNIS to the list of executables by doing the following:
- In the right pane, go to the Data tab.
- Locate the tools folder and expand it. Then expand the GenerateFNIS_for_Users folder.
- Right-click the GenerateFNISforUsers.exe file and select [Add as Executable].
- In the window that opens, type FNIS SE for the Title.
- Click [OK].
|
Generating Animation Files[edit]
Once FNIS SE is installed, the animation files need to be generated for the skeleton changes.
- Sort the load order with LOOT, ignoring any plugin errors or warnings at this time.
- Run FNIS SE via Mod Organizer 2.
- In the Available Patches at the bottom of the window, tick the box adjacent to "SKELETON Arm Fix".
- Click the [Update FNIS Behavior] button and wait for a message to appear in the window stating "X animations for Y mods successfully included".
- Click [Exit].
After closing FNIS SE, there will be files in Overwrite (essentially a fake mod located at the bottom of the left pane if sorted by priority ascending):
- Right-click Overwrite and select Create Mod
- Name it STEP FNIS SE Output and click OK.
- This will create a new mod listing in the left pane for the FNIS SE generated files.
- Tick the new mod entry to enable it.
20-Patches[edit]
- Guide-specific mods required to resolve any incompatibilities among mods
|
|
Mod Name
|
Baseline
|
Instructions
|
|
|
Useless Patches Collection
|
|
Detailed Instructions available
|
Download and install the Main File using the following instructions:
FOMOD Instructions Useless Patches Collection
|
- Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch Patches
- Better Dynamic Snow Patches
- Song of the Green (Auri Follower) Patches
- Audio Overhaul for Skryim Patches
- Weapons Armor Clothing and Clutter Fixes Patches
- Plugin Type
- ☑ The Choice is Yours
- ☑ Cutting Room Floor
- Cutting Room Floor Patches
- Plugin Type
- ☑ Relationship Dialogue Overhaul - RDO SE
- Armor and Clothing Extension Patches
- The Forgotten City Patches
- Recorder - Standalone Fully Voiced Follower Patches
- Enhanced Lighting for ENB (ELE) Patches
- Immersive Sounds - Compendium Patches
- Extra Patches
|
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Sorting and cleaning the new load order[edit]
Before moving on, users should run LOOT, sort, and accept the default load order provided. Users should also take note of any plugins that LOOT reports as needing to be cleaned and perform the standard cleaning procedures on these mods. Keep in mind that LOOT tends to lag behind on the report information, therefore, it will not always be accurate. Users should ignore any reported missing compatibility patches. The STEP Patches take care of all the patching, thus eliminating the need for those additional plugins.
Users should be aware the new STEP Patches are designed to work with a default, LOOT-sorted order. This eliminates the need to set rules on the load order, thus, reducing user tasks and streamlines the Guide's installation. From this point on, users should:
- Sort their load order using LOOT when adding, removing, updating mods that adds, removes, or replaces a plugin (ESL, ESM, ESP) from their load order.
- Update LOOT (the program) any time it notifies their is an update available.
- For good measure, ALWAYS sort your load order by running LOOT before running the game.
 |
Notice:
|
At this point, it's a good idea to launch a NEW GAME to verify that Skyrim SE loads without CTD (after sorting with LOOT). The game should successfully load into the Alternate Start character generation interface. If so, just Alt + Tab to close Skyrim. If the game crashes, there is a problem with load order, enabled mods, or any number of things missed in the above instructions. Please review mods installed and enabled as compared to this guide and ensure LOOT is run and plugins sorted.
|
Level of Detail (LOD)
Users should now have all the mods and patches installed and sorted. The next step is to generate custom LOD data for the modded setup. Thankfully, xLODGen and DynDOLOD makes generating the data fairly simple. Before moving on, create three empty mods to use for the output files in this section:
- Right-click on Overwrite in the mod list in MO and hover over All Mods (this can also be done from the menu at the top of the left pane in MO as described earlier).
- Select, Create empty mod.
- Name it
(TEMP) - SSE Terrain - Tamriel - xLODGen
(recall that this will only be used as a resource for xLODGen).
- This places a new, empty mod at the bottom of the mod list. However if it's not, place it last in the mod list.
- Repeat these steps to create three other new mods named:
STEP SSE - xLODGen Output
, STEP SSE - TexGen Output
, and STEP SSE - DynDOLOD Output
; or anything unique and descriptive to their source/function.
- Place these other new mods directly after (TEMP) - SSE Terrain - Tamriel - xLODGen.
The last few mods in the mod list should now reflect the following (numbering is approximate):
- DLC: Hearthfires
- ...
- (TEMP) - SSE Terrain - Tamriel - xLODGen
- STEP SSE - xLODGen Output
- STEP SSE - TexGen Output
- STEP SSE - DynDOLOD Output
 |
Notice:
|
Because order is so important for properly generating all of the data, follow this section in the order it's presented!
|
xLODGen[edit]
xLODGen is run first to generate updated LOD terrain textures and meshes so that landscape LOD is updated with mod changes:
Preparation[edit]
➕ Terrain LOD preparation
- Visit the STEP Forum and download SSE-Terrain-Tamriel.esm.
- Place the file in the (TEMP) - SSE Terrain - Tamriel - xLODGen folder in MO and enable (tick) the mod.
- If the Overwrite folder isn't empty, it should be. Remove or delete all files/folders.
- Ensure the new plugin is active in the plugin list (ticked).
- Ensure the (TEMP) - Cathedral Landscapes - LODGen and (TEMP) Magestic Mountains - LODGen mods from the Foundation mod group are enabled, as these will be used by xLODGen to regenerate corrected landscape and mountain LOD.
- Sort with LOOT.
Generation[edit]
➕ Terrain LOD generation
- Run xLODGen from the MO2 executable drop-down list.
- Select all worldspaces.
- Ensure that ONLY the Terrain LOD box is ticked in the right pane.
- Use the following settings, which have been verified in extensive testing:
- Click [Generate] to run the process, which will require upwards of 30 minutes, depending on the PC.
- Once the "LOD generation complete" message has appeared, close xLODGen.
Wrap Up[edit]
➕ Terrain LOD wrap up
- Navigate to the xLODGen output folder (e.g.
..Modding/Tools/xLODGen/xLODGen_Output
).
- Back on MO, open the STEP SSE - xLODGen Output mod in an Explorer window (Ctrl+double click).
- Cut and paste the files from the LOD generation to the Step Skyrim SE - xLODGen Output folder. Close both folders.
- Enable STEP SSE - xLODGen Output mod.
- Disable (TEMP) - SSE Terrain - Tamriel - xLODGen and (TEMP) - Cathedral Landscapes - xLODGen mods (only needed as a xLODGen resources). NOTE: (TEMP) Magestic Mountains -LODGen will still be needed for object LOD.
DynDOLOD[edit]
Users will now create object LODs using Dynamic Distant Objects LOD (DynDOLOD). DynDOLOD is one part mod and one part tool. Users should already have both parts installed from earlier in the Guide.
Run TexGen[edit]
TexGen, shipped with DynDOLOD, is a program that will generate custom object LOD textures based on enabled mods. This means distance object textures will better match their fully rendered counterparts. To run TexGen:
➕ Instructions for TexGen
- Run TexGen from the MO2 executable drop-down list.
- Keep the default Output location. STEP Recommends:
- GPU with VRAM ≤ 4 GB:
- LOD Texture Size = 512
- Diffuse Alpha = BC3
- Normal Specular = BC7 Max
- Diffuse = BC1
- Normal = BC7 Max
- GPU with VRAM > 4 GB:
- LOD Texture Size = 1024
- Diffuse Alpha = BC7 Max
- Normal Specular = BC7 Quick
- Diffuse = BC7 Max
- Normal = BC7 Quick
- Once the option has been chosen, click [Start].
- Once the completed message has appeared (5-30 minutes, depending on the PC), click [Exit].
- Navigate to the DynDOLOD TexGen_Output folder location (e.g.
../Modding/Tools/DynDOLOD/TexGen_Output
).
- Copy or cut the files from the TexGen_Output folder.
- In MO2, hold down the Ctrl key and double-click on the STEP Skyrim SE - TexGen Output mod created previously. This opens the mod's folder in an Explorer window.
- Paste the files into the mod's folder, and close the window.
- Enable the STEP Skyrim SE - TexGen Output mod in MO.
Run DynDOLOD[edit]
DynDOLOD will now be run to generate the remainder of the LODs for the game. Users have the options of generating higher quality 3D Trees or generating the standard tree LOD. Following one of the two sets of instructions below, depending on the option desired.
Standard (2D) Tree LOD[edit]
➕ Instructions for Standard Trees
- Run DynDOLOD from the MO2 executable drop-down list.
- Click [Advanced] once the main tool window is displayed.
- Select all worldspaces.
- Ensure the following are ticked:
- Candles
- FXGlow
- Generate static LOD
- Generate tree LOD
- Create texture atlas
- Generate DynDOLOD
- Windows
- High
- Set Max tile size equal to the texture size used for TexGen previously.
- Keep the default Output Path and click [Medium]. NOTE: Users with systems able to handle High settings, may do so.
- Click [OK], and get a cup of coffee. This takes ~20-30 minutes on SSDs.
- Once the completed message has appeared, click [Save & Exit].
3D Tree LOD[edit]
This Guide will result in Hybrid 3D Trees. Full 3D trees are possible, but are not recommend for gameplay; thus, not covered here. Hybrid 3D Trees are a performance friendly option for high quality tree LODs. It generates 3D branches with 2D trunks.
➕ Instructions for 3D Trees
- Open the
./DynDOLOD SE
folder (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/DynDOLOD/
).
- Open the DynDOLOD_SSE.ini file (e.g.
../DynDOLOD/Edit Scripts/DynDOLOD/DynDOLOD_SSE.ini
)
- Set TreeLOD=0
- Run DynDOLOD from the MO2 executable drop-down list.
- Select all worldspaces.
- Ensure the following are ticked:
- Candles
- FXGlow
- Generate static LOD
- NOTE: "Generate tree LOD" will be greyed out as 'N/A' if
TreeLOD=0
was set in DynDOLOD.ini as described above.
- Create texture atlas
- Generate DynDOLOD
- Windows
- High
- Set Max tile size equal to the texture size used for TexGen previously.
- Keep the default Output Path and click [High]. NOTE: The High preset is the only preset that will generate 3D Trees! NOTE: If High is too performance heavy, users can select another preset and manually edit the tree line in the mesh rules to match how it reads from the High preset.
- Click [OK], and get a cup of coffee.
- Once the completed message has appeared, click [Save & Exit].
Wrap Up[edit]
➕ Instructions for DynDOLOD Wrap Up
- Navigate to the
./DynDOLOD
folder location (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/DynDOLOD
).
- Copy or cut the files from the
./DynDOLOD_Output
folder.
- In MO2, hold down the Ctrl key and double-click on the STEP SSE - DynDOLOD Output mod created above.
- Paste the files into the mod's folder and close the window.
- In MO2, enable the mod.
- Disable (TEMP) Magestic Mountains - LODGen.
- Ensure the DynDOLOD esm and esp files are ticked in the right pane.
- Sort with LOOT.
- Ensure DynDOLOD.esp is the last plugin in the load order and enabled. If not, sort with LOOT.
Occlusion[edit]
Users will now use xLODGen to update the occlusion data for the new mod list. During so will prevent holes in the distance landscape that is notoriously bad over water cells. To do this:
➕ Instructions for occlusion generation
- Run xLODGen from the MO2 executable drop-down list.
- Select only the Tamriel and DLC2SolstheimWorld worldspaces.
- Ensure only the Occlusion box is ticked.
- Use the following settings:
- Quality: 3
- Height: 100
- Radius: 100
- Mode: -Flat +Borders
- Click [Generate] to run the process.
- Once the completed message has appeared, click the red X to close xLODGen.
- Occlusion.esp is saved automatically and will be placed in the Overwrite folder in MO.
- Right-click on the Overwrite mod listing and select, [Create new mod].
- Name it
STEP SSE - Occlusion
or anything unique.
- Ensure the new mod is active (ticked).
- Ensure the Occlusion.esp is the last plugin in the load order just after DyDOLOD.esp and that it is enabled, else run LOOT and sort plugins.
When do users need to rebuild LODs?[edit]
Users should rebuild their LODs any time mods are installed or removed that include added, removed, or relocated exterior objects such as buildings, roads, trees, etc.
Mod Configuration (MCM)
Users should now be ready to load the game for the final steps, configuring mods in the MCM. The MCM is a feature of SkyUI that allows mod authors to provide custom settings for their mods, which users can set within the game. Below users will find recommendations for all the mods installed within this Guide.
First Launch[edit]
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Notice:
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The addition of MCM menu item may juxtapose the 'Exit' menu item, so be sure to scroll down to exit if it is 'missing'.
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To run the game, select the SKSE Skyrim Launcher executable from the drop-down list and click the Run button. Users should keep the following in mind when first launching from a fresh Guide installation:
- A new game is required! ... In other words, don't load from a save when first launching after a fresh Guide installation unless you know what can happen (which is beyond scope to support).NOTE: Users upgrading from a previous installation of the Guide should review the changelog of the update to determine whether or not a new game is recommended.
- When launching the game for the first time after a Guide install, the load could take significantly longer than normal. This will only be a one-time wait as all the installed mods are being initialized. Subsequent load times should be shorter.
- Finally, users may find INI files in their Overwrite folder after closing the game (e.g.
../SKSE/Plugins/SkyrimUncapper.ini
). NOTE: These files should be moved to their respective mod folders, respecting their folder structure in the move.
Alternate Start[edit]
Users starting a new game will see SkyrimLE:Alternate Start - Live Another Life in action. Lets face it, Skyrim is old and the vanilla start quest is the last thing many want to play through. Alternate Start provides a variety of ways to start the game for these users. Once a new game is started, players are loaded into a locked cell. Simply talk to the statue in the room, choose a preference for starting the game (the vanilla start is provided as an option), and then sleep in the bed to start your new life. Users choosing an alternate start location can start the main quest line by simply visiting Helgen.
Cathedral Weathers[edit]
Users who have installed the optional Lighting & Weathers mod group should set Interior Vision to "Darker" in order for Luminosity to have the correct interior brightness.
Complete Crafting[edit]
The following screenshots display the recommended settings for the mod's MCM:

Recipe Display

Learning & XP

Mining & Materials

Miscellaneous
Farmhouse Chimneys SE[edit]
Vanilla villages should all be ticked on the first page. The following screenshot displays the recommended settings for the Mod Support page:

Mod Support
Lanterns of Skyrim II[edit]
The following screenshots display the recommended settings for the mod's MCM:

Settings
Lock Overhaul[edit]
This mod must be activated to work. Once enabled, the settings are user preference.
Storm Lightning[edit]
The Minimal preset in the MCM is recommended.
Timing is Everything[edit]
Timing is Everything is set up in a way that integrates DLC content and balances the game's quests. Vampires and werewolves will show up early in the game because the are a part of the world. Dragonborn will not start until the news of your deeds have time to reach the island and you become something that must be dealt with. Attack chances are lowered from 100% so users will have less of a chance to predict an attack. Other things are active that make sense, such as not being able to do the Break of Dawn quest if you're a vampire, Thalmor won't attack until after they enter the questline, etc. The following screenshots display the recommended settings for the mod's MCM:

DLC Quests

Other Quests

Extra Options
Remaining Mod Configurations[edit]
The remaining mod configurations are recommended to be left at their defaults for the most enhanced, vanilla experience. However, users may adjust the settings for these mods to their preference.
Optional Customizations
(optional) BethINI Customization[edit]
Users are now ready to play their enhanced Skyrim SE, however, please consider reading the remainder of the Guide before taking an arrow to the knee.
The final consideration is customizing BethINI once the game is confirmed to be stable. Users who have no issues with performance and aren't knowledgeable with the settings can simply follow along. Other users can feel to customize the settings to their personal preferences. Caution is advised against using the custom INI input feature. This feature will allow users to make custom INI edits, however, doing so without the knowledge of exactly what the customizations are doing can cause instability.
The following are provided as examples of the settings used for taking the screenshot's on Nexus (1920x1080 using a GTX 1060). The recommended settings are called out and/or shown in the screenshots below. Simply click on a section heading to expand it.
➕ Basic STEP Recommends:
- Antialiasing: TAA
- Windowed Mode
- Borderless
- Vsync
- FPS: 60
- Recommended Tweaks
- BethINI Presets
- Users should select a preset. High was chosen for the screenshots.
 Basic Tab
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➕ General STEP Recommends:
- Users should match the image.
- Screenshot settings are optional and can be customized.
 General Tab
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➕ Gameplay STEP Recommends:
- Over-Encumbered Reminder: 300 (5 mins) or 3600 (1 hour)
Optionally, users can tick NPC Use Ammo or a more realistic experience. This will cause NPCs to only use the ammo available in their inventories.
 Gameplay Tab
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➕ Interface STEP Recommends:
- Untick Mod Manager Menu
- Tick Fix Map Menu Navigation and Remove Map Menu Blur
 Interface Tab
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➕ Detail STEP Recommends:
- Water: Select all but Sky
- Reflecting the sky can cause LOD seams on the water to be more visible.
- Particles: 4500 (this just over doubles vanilla)
- Tick Depth of Field
- Untick Lens Flare (optional)
- Untick Anamorphic Lens Flare (optional, this is the flare seen on candles)
 Detail Tab
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➕ View Distance STEP Recommends:
- Grass Fade: 18000 (max)
- Light Fade: 50000 (max)
- Flickering Light: 8192
The remainder of the Fade values are user preference. They are set fairly high for Tech's system, which allows for longer distance viewing of NPCs for archery and strategy planning. uGridsToLoad should never been changed from vanilla's default of 5. The preset here should match the preset selected on the Basic tab.
 View Distance Tab
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➕ Visuals Grass:If using SkyrimSE:Cathedral Landscapes, these setting should not need to be adjusted. If not, set the values for grass according to the installation instructions of the grass mod in use.
 Visuals Tab
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➕ Custom Make the custom adjustment in the image to speed up the book opening animation by twice the speed of vanilla. Make the below additional adjustment to fix the line in the water from SSR:
[Display]
fWaterSSRIntensity=0.5
 Custom Tab
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(optional) ENBSeries with the STEP Skyrim SE Guide[edit]
Because the effects of ENB are so variable, depending on 1) use of lighting/weather mods, 2) a great many other options for various mods, and 3) PC hardware and software environments, the Guide doesn't include an ENB preset. Instructions and recommendations would result in a massuve flurry of support 'issues'. To provide a bit of direction, we've included a small list of ENB presets below which were made to work with Cathedral Weathers without breaking the horizon. We've included a variety of "looks", but users should search on Nexus to find the preset that works best for their preferences.
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Notice:
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ENBoost is entirely redundant in Skyrim SE on a 64-bit system with > 4 GB RAM. A 64-bit PC should ALWAYS have > 4 GB RAM, as ≤ 4 GB introduces a completely unnecessary memory ceiling for any 64-bit app. The ENBoost option exists solely so that the Skyrim LE engine can behave more like a 64-bit game engine by providing extra memory spaces in a 32-bit environment. Use it only for Skyrim LE (past STEP Guides). It might be beneficial for those running Skyrim SE on a 64-bit system with ≤ 4 GB RAM.
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Help build STEP
STEP can only get bigger and better with help from the community. It is very time consuming for the STEP team to ensure that the Guide is consistently maintained at the highest quality possible. We need people to help us identify mods that improve the vanilla game while adhering to our Mandate. We also need ongoing bug reports, reviews, and updates on mods that may cause problems or that stray from the Mandate.
In order to suggest a mod for inclusion, visit the Mods section of the Forums.
Call for Mod Testers[edit]
Community members interested in becoming Mod Testers, please contact TechAngel85 via PM on the forums. Once registered, Mod Testers will be given access to Staff forums that houses useful information. For more information about our mod testing process, read through the Mod Testing Guide to get a sense of what's involved.
Call for Forum Moderators[edit]
Regular community members interested in becoming moderators, please contact TechAngel85 via PM on the forums. Forum Moderators will be determined based upon level and quality of activity within our community.
STEP Core Builds[edit]
STEP Builds are user-created guides that use one of the STEP Core mod lists as a foundation to their own mod list within their guide. If a STEP Build adheres to our guidelines, it can be considered as a candidate for being hosted on the STEP 3.0 website. An example of a STEP Build will be provided with the release of STEP 3.0 in the form of Tech's Skyrim Special Edition Guide. Be certain to read the STEP Builds documentation when it becomes available.
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MO Users:
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This one of the reasons why Mod Organizer is the chosen mod-management utility for STEP. MO2 makes building mod lists for STEP Builds a breeze.
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Thank you for reading and enjoy the game!
Credits[edit]
Thank you all!
The STEP administrators would sincerely like to thank (from the bottoms of our fuzzy little hearts):
- The authors of mods recommended within our Guides
- The authors of mods who granted permission for their mods to be incorporated into the STEP Patches
- The core Community for feedback, suggestions and input
- The Beta and Mod Testers for their good humor and rigorous analyses
- The Nexus community
- Bethesda Softworks for their games
- Tannin for the gift that is Mod Organizer
- All the developers that kept MO alive to create MO2
STEP Staff[edit]
Administrators[edit]
- TechAngel85
- Lead Release Coordinator, Patch Coordinator, Lead Forum Administrator, Mod Author
- z929669
- Project Founder, Lead Site Developer, Lead Site Administrator
SM Forum Moderators[edit]
Currently active STEP Forum Moderators:
Honorary Staff[edit]
Retired Founders, Administrators, and Staff:
- Aiyen
- Bealdwine
- deathneko11
- EisDrache
- EssArrBee
- Farlo
- frihyland
- GSDfan (still active: MO Support)
- GrantSP
- hishutup
- Kelmych
- MontyMM
- Nebulous112
- oqhansoloqo
- phazer11
- rootsrat
- stoppingby4now
- TheCompiler
- torminater
- Uhuru
- WilliamImm
- wolverine2710