SkyrimSE:2.2.0

SkyrimSE v2.2.0

Changelog   |   Release Date: January 16, 2023

WARNING

This guide is out of date and is NOT supported! It may contain information that is incorrect or not in line with the current state of the game.
Go to the latest supported SkyrimSE Guide.

WARNING

This is Step's Skyrim Special Edition guide for Skyrim Anniversary Edition and requires Skyrim Special Edition (≥ 1.6.xxx). Additionally ...

• This guide has been only partially updated to support the latest game runtime update (1.6.1170). First and foremost, DO NOT install Backported Extended ESL Support if using SkyrimSE v1.6.1170 runtime. This mod only applies to those using SkyrimSE v1.6.640 runtime or lower. The next guide release (2.3) will fully support the new game version once all runtime-dependent mods in the guide are updated. Realistically, this will be several weeks into the new year, but it's TBD by BGS and the mod authors.
• Requires SE Anniversary Upgrade DLC (Anniversary Upgrade - AU). The 70+ Creation Club (CC) mods required by the Step Patches must be visible in MO.
• In-game activation of Survival Mode is optional.

This Release

The most noteworthy changes are listed below. See the Step Versioning Documentation for more information on Step's versioning methodology.

• Updated the ModList with new engine-level 'NG' mods that finally support Skyrim v1.6.640 and beyond
• Added ISC with AOS compatibility to comprehensively round out the soundscape
• Adopted aMidianBorn Content Addon for more interesting and vanilla-friendly weapon & armor variation
• On-demand game and player statistics available in the UI thanks to Skyrim Character Sheet
• Added several other game-enhancing mods
• Adopted DynDOLOD DLL NG for automatic fixes to applicable large reference bugs (fixes some distant object flicker)
• Remastered all Step Patches, which now officially support optional installation of CCOR, CACO, and TCIY
• Small changes to ENB & game INI settings as well as TexGen/DynDOLOD settings
• Improved & updated instructions everywhere

See the changelog for more details and to determine if upgrading from a previous version is advisable.

• Visit the forums, and provide feedback related to this guide.
• Also follow Step Modifications on Facebook.
• Donate to support hosting and maintenance of the Step website.

About Step

A Foreword

Created by TheCompiler (Daniele Ferraro), 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 SkyrimSE mod build. Our guides provide detailed, well-tested build instructions for a very stable game with an enhanced, vanilla experience.

The Step team collects information from the modding community through extensive mod testing, detailed reviews, feedback, and suggestions exchanged on the Forums. Posting rules apply, so be sure to read and follow them.

New to Modding?

We recommend that you review this entire guide before attempting installation, especially if this is your first exposure to a Step mod-build guide. We and the community, have consolidated a lot of information into our guides for use as a free 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 Q&A.

Nomenclature and Instructions

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: The recommended install option is shown within the Baseline column of the mod tables below.
• Step Patches: Custom patches created for the respective Step Guides. Always use them!

Expand Instructions!

Click the heading below to expand detailed instructions that are collapsed by default for readability:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Click Me, I'm a Spoiler!

I have more instructions for those that need them.

Expand mod table detailed instructions:

Not Safe For Work Content

Installing this Guide in the manner intended results in no not safe for work (NSFW) content in-game. However, there may be mod pages linked within the Guide that do include NSFW content; namely images. In the past, mod instructions included direct links to download files; bypassing these pages. However, when Nexus Mods implemented a unique MD5 hash to every download request it prevented Step from providing links directly to specific files. As such, these mod pages are indicated with warning text.

Example:

This is a Not Safe For Work (NSFW) mod page!

System Requirements

SkyrimSE should be run on a relatively modern Windows 10/11 64-bit desktop or laptop, gaming capable PC. While CPU specs and performance are important factors, they matter only to a point beyond which is diminishing return on investment. Smooth gameplay, LODGen-related tools, and ENBSeries post-processing are most limited by the GPU performance coupled to the resolution at which the game is run.

• The minimum specs assume that the recommended 'baseline' mod options will be installed, which are biased towards 'performance' options when available.
• The recommended specs assume a bias toward 'quality' and assume higher quality mod options will be installed when available.
• CPU/GPU Marks should be within the ranges listed below. Refer to the links for examples.

Hardware	Minimum	Recommended
CPU CPU Mark Range	4,000 - 7,000	> 7,000
System RAM	8GB	16GB
GPU G3D Mark Range	8,000 - 10,000	> 10,000
Video RAM	at least 4GBs	8GBs or higher
Game Drive	HDD	SSD
Resolution	1080p (HD)	1440p (QHD)

Time Commitment

Be aware it will take anywhere from several hours to a several days to complete this build from start to finish. This time will vary greatly depending on internet download speed and user experience. Following are cumulative time estimates on average:

3-6 hours : Steps 1 - 3 (modding-environment setup)

10-12 hours : Step 4 (mod download, installation)

4-6 hours : Steps 5 - 7 (LODGen, post-build configuration, and fine-tuning the build)

STEP 1

Game & Tool Installation

Follow the System Setup Guide!

Those who have not completed the System Setup Guide (SSG) should STOP and do so now BEFORE beginning Step 2! This is a perquisite for completing this guide, as many of the following instructions reference concepts, tools, and even file paths established in the SSG.

STEP 2

Tool Configuration

Mod Organizer - SkyrimSE Initialization

FIRST, follow the System Setup Guide. The below instructions describe how to initialize a SkyrimSE instance in Mod Organizer (MO). If MO was installed as a Portable application, the instructions below will need to be interpreted accordingly. If a SkyrimSE instance was created in Step 1 or otherwise, simply select the instance. Otherwise:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Initialize SkyrimSE in MO

1. Launch MO by running its executable (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/Mod Organizer/ModOrganizer.exe)
2. Upon load, click the Instance Manager button .
3. Click on [Create new instance].
4. Select Skyrim Special Edition and click [Next].

   If the game wasn't found, manually browse to the game's location.

5. Name the instance something like SkyrimSE or keep the default. Click [Next].
6. (optional) change the location of data stored. Step recommends the default location, unless space restraints prevent this. Click [Next].
7. A confirmation window will display with the installation information. Click [Finish].
8. MO is now ready to use with this guide.

Step 2

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Profile Setup

MO's profile feature allows the creation of multiple mod builds that rely on the same mod list and mod-level configurations (learn more about profiles). For the purpose of this guide, a single mod configuration is all that's needed. Begin by creating a profile:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Profile Creation Steps

1. Launch MO, choosing the applicable Skyrim Special Edition Instance.
2. Click the button on the menu bar.
3. Select the Default profile.
4. Ensure the Use profile-specific Game INI Files box is ticked and click [Copy].
5. Name the new profile Step SkyrimSE, or similar.
6. Ensure the Use profile-specific Game INI Files box is ticked.
7. Close the window by clicking [Close].
8. Select the Step SkyrimSE profile from the profile selection down-drop.
   • It is normal to get a notice saying some INI files were missing and will be copied.
   • If an error is displayed about missing "modlist.txt" files, restart MO (or do a system reboot if that doesn't resolve).

Tool Setup

All modding tools needed should already be installed according to the System Setup Guide. Some tools will have been auto-detected and added; nevertheless, ensure the settings are correct for all tools. xEdit is used in the following example. 'SSEEdit', TES5Edit, FO4Edit, etc. are all 'xEdit', which applies to all Bethesda games.:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Tool Setup Steps

1. For xEdit, it is useful to create a mod into which all xEdit ouput can be directed in order to keep it all together:
   1. Click at the top of the left pane in MO, and select "Create empty mod".
   2. Type xEdit Output, and select [OK].
   3. Place this mod at the top of the mod list just below the vanilla game files, and enable it.
2. Click at the top of the main Mod Organizer window.
3. In the left pane of the executables config, click the [+] to add a new executable, and then [Add from file...].
4. Browse to the SSEEdit.exe file (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/xEdit/SSEEdit.exe).
   • This should auto-fill most of the fields.
5. Change the title to xEdit.
6. Input the following 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 enables that.
7. Tick the Create files in mod instead of overwrite box. Select the xEdit Output mod from the drop-down.
8. Tick the Use applications icon for desktop shortcuts box.
9. Click [Apply].
10. Repeat these steps to add the remaining executables as indicated in the table following.

    Arrange the tools in any order using the up and down buttons above the list. This will dictate the order that tools are listed in the MO "Run" dropdown menu. Close the window by clicking the [OK] button.

NOTE

For tools previously installed, adjust the arguments below for use with SkyrimSE.

Application Title	Executable	Argument(s)
xEdit	xEdit.exe	-SSE -IKnowWhatImDoing -AllowMasterFilesEdit Tick the Create files in mod instead of overwrite box and select the xEdit Output mod from the drop-down.
xEditQuickAutoClean	xEditQuickAutoClean.exe	-SSE Tick the Create files in mod instead of overwrite box and select the xEdit Output mod from the drop-down.
LOOT	LOOT.exe	--game="Skyrim Special Edition"
xLODGen	xLODGenx64.exe	-lodgen -SSE -o:"DriveLetter:\Modding\Tools\xLODGen\xLODGen_Output" Replace DriveLetter with the drive letter of the 'Modding' folder.

Tools can be arranged in any order 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

BethINI needs to be run for the current MO profile to establish the configuration files. This ensures a standard configuration and simplifies support should any issues arise.
Please do not deviate from the instructions below. BethINI will be revisited later in the guide to finalize the optimal configuration.

BethINI Initialization

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] BethINI Initialization Steps

1. Close MO, and run BethINI (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/BethINI/BethINI.exe).

   If prompted by Windows protection, click More Info and then [Run anyway].

2. When BethINI launches, select "Skyrim Special Edition" from the game selection box.

   Allow BethINI to handle custom INIs, if prompted.

3. Go to the Setup tab and ensure the
   • Ensure the Game path is correct (e.g. ..\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition).
   • Ensure the Mod Organizer path is correct (e.g. ..\Modding\Tools\Mod Organizer).
   • The INI Path name depends on the MO Profile Setup
     • If BethINI does not automatically open with the profile created previously in step 8 of the MO initialization instructions, browse to and set that profile (e.g., %LOCALAPPDATA%\ModOrganizer\{instanceName}\profiles\STEP SkyrimSE) ...
     • Select the Step SkyrimSE profile folder, and click [Open].
     • Click [OK] at the prompts to restart BethINI with the desired profile configured. Allow BethINI to handle custom INIs, if prompted.
4. Return to the Setup tab.
   • The “Auto-detect Invalid Settings”, “Always Select Game”, and “Modify Custom INIs” boxes should be ticked.
5. Keep BethINI open.

BethINI Setup

BethINI Baseline Configuration

Configure BethINI as described in the steps below, which are reflected in the images where applicable. Please do no deviate from these instructions at this time:

BethINI Baseline Configuration

[  Basic  ]Click to show/hide
Click the [Default] button and wait until the "Your INI files have been successfully reset to default values." message is displayed. Click the [High] preset and wait until the "Video settings have been set for BethINI high quality." message is displayed. Please avoid the temptation to click 'Ultra' for now, even if the PC is high-end. Tick Recommended Tweaks and wait until the "Recommended tweaks have been automatically applied." message is displayed. Window Resolution should match the system native resolution and not necessarily what's indicated in the image. Tick Borderless and 64-Bit Render Targets. Untick VSync and Lock Frame Rate
[  General  ]Click to show/hide
Screenshots directory, Filename, and Index can be set as desired. Screenshots are taken by pressing [Print Screen] on the keyboard.
[  Gameplay  ]Click to show/hide
Set Over-Encumbered Reminder to 300 (5 mins) or 3600 (1 hour) NPC Use Ammo is optional, but recommended.
[  Interface  ]Click to show/hide
Subtitles may be enabled here if desired. Untick Mod Manager Menu
[  Detail  ]Click to show/hide
Untick Reflect Sky and Anamorphic Lens Flare. Set Particles to at least 2000. ENB users should set this to 7500 to compensate for added particles to prevent waterfall flicker and incomplete rendering of other particle effects. The following can be ticked, but if ENB is used, remember to untick the following: Lens Flare Ambient Occlusion
[  View Distance  ]Click to show/hide
View distance settings can be left unchanged.
[  Visuals  ]Click to show/hide
Untick Fade-In Set Far-off Tree Distance to 0. The far-off trees will be rendered in object LOD via DynDOLOD instead. Set Grass Density to 60 and Grass Diversity to 15.
[  Custom  ]Click to show/hide
In the Section drop-down, select Papyrus. In the Setting drop-down, select iMaxAllocatedMemoryBytes. Change the value to 500000 and click [Save]. (optional) Consider the following to reduce the sun size if using ENB: In the Section drop-down, select Weather. In the Setting drop-down, select fSunBaseSize. Change the value to 200 and click [Save]. In the Setting drop-down, select fSunGlareSize. Change the value to 282 and click [Save]. Return to Basic tab, and click [Save and Exit]

STEP 3

Plugins & Considerations

Sorting Plugins With LOOT

At any time during the mod installation process, LOOT should be used to sort plugins before running the game. This is necessary to ensure proper plugin priority (load order), which can have a dramatic impact on the game:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Steps to Sort Plugins

1. Relaunch Mod Organizer, if it isn't already running.
2. Launch LOOT via MO from the executables drop-down menu at the top of the right pane.
   • If LOOT fails to start, try adding the following argument as described in Tools Setup: --single-process. If LOOT cannot find the game directory, add the path to ../Skyrim Special Edition folder to Install Path under LOOT settings.
3. Click the [Sort Plugins] waffle icon at the top of the LOOT window next to the game name.
4. Several plugins will show warnings in yellow. The next section describes how to clean them up.
5. Click the [Apply Sorted Load Order] checkmark button at the top of the LOOT window next to the game name.
6. Close LOOT.

Up to this point, only the following plugins should be listed in the MO right pane in the order listed. (If not, run LOOT again):

1. Skyrim.esm
2. Update.esm
3. Dawnguard.esm
4. HearthFires.esm
5. Dragonborn.esm
6. Creation Club Plugins

Cleaning Vanilla Master Plugins

To resolve potential issues later, the vanilla plugin masters should be cleaned with xEdit. Step is aware of the debate regarding whether or not it's necessary to clean vanilla masters. While it may or may not matter for general references, that is not the case regarding large references. Any large reference that is deleted, "initially disabled", or overwritten triggers large reference bugs. See the relevant posts for details and further reading.

Prior to getting started, create an empty mod:

1. Click at the top of the left pane in MO, and select "Create empty mod".
2. Type Cleaned Vanilla Masters, and select [OK].
3. Place this mod at the top of the mod list after the xEdit Output listing, and enable it.

Clean the Vanilla Masters

Use the following procedure to clean the vanilla plugins (including Creation Club masters). There are approx. 44 'dirty' vanilla masters that should be cleaned. If all of the following cleaning and housekeeping instructions are followed, this only needs to be done once unless or until a master is updated by Bethesda.

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Standard Cleaning Procedure

1. Run LOOT from the drop-down executable list in MO, sort the plugins, and apply the changes. Do not close LOOT.

   NOTE: that any dirty plugins plugins will have yellow "warning" blocks. These are the plugins that should be cleaned.

2. Leaving the LOOT window open, click on the MO window and note the "Mod Organizer is locked ...." message in the center of the MO window. Click [Unlock].

   This allows the LOOT window to remain open as a reference for the plugins that should be cleaned. The vanilla plugins with 'dirty' warnings should be cleaned in order listed.

3. Run xEditQuickAutoClean from the drop-down executable list in MO.
4. On the plugin selection window, double-click on the first dirty plugin (e.g., Update.esm).
5. Once xEdit is finished, click [X] at upper right to close.
6. Repeat this procedure on the remaining dirty plugins indicated by LOOT.
7. When all of the vanilla plugins have been cleaned, close the LOOT window and rerun LOOT from MO to verify that no warnings appear.

Move the Cleaned Vanilla Masters

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:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Move the Cleaned Vanilla Masters

1. In MO, open the Cleaned Vanilla Masters mod in Windows Explorer (right-click Cleaned Vanilla Masters, then click Open in Explorer).
2. Click the button above the MO mod list (left) pane, and select Open Game Folder to open the game folder in Windows Explorer (e.g. ..\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition
3. Open ..\Data folder, and move all the cleaned master files from ..\Data into ..\Cleaned Vanilla Masters folder.

   Tip: Set the folder to Details view and sort by the Date modified column. This will sort all the recently modified files to the top of the file list. (reference image)

4. Close the Cleaned Vanilla Masters folder, and tick the box to enable it in the MO left pane if it isn't enabled.
5. Close MO for the next steps and continue below

Restore the Original Vanilla Masters

To quickly and easily restore the original masters, follow the instructions for Verify integrity of game cache. Once that is complete, use Steam to launch the game to allow it to download any missing Creation Club content. This must also be done to reinitialize the game with Steam and allow MO to run configured executables without complaint (Any time Steam 'updates' the game files and actually downloads new files, the Steam manifest (or other Steam config) for the game resets and requires a Steam launch).

For those that don't want to reacquire the game files via Steam, the xEdit backups of the originals can be renamed and moved into the game's Data directory as described below:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Restore the Original Vanilla Masters

1. In MO, open the xEdit Output mod in Windows Explorer (right-click xEdit Output, then click Open in Explorer).
2. 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).
   • NOTE: If the backed-up vanilla plugins are not present, then backups were disabled by unticking Backup plugins in a previous xEdit session, contrary to previous instructions. In that case, the vanilla files MUST either be restored using the instructions for Verify integrity of game cache, OR the DontBackup=1 setting must be changed back to DontBackup=0 in %LOCALAPPDATA%\Skyrim Special Edition\Plugins.sseviewsettings.
3. Move or copy the renamed files into the 'real' game Data directory (..\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition\Data), choosing to overwrite/replace, if asked.
4. Close all Explorer windows.

MO2

Any time Bethesda updates these master files, they will likely need to be cleaned again and replaced in MO. 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 prioritization in the left pane should reflect as follows (ignore the plugin prioritization in the right pane for now):

1. DLC: Dawnguard
2. DLC: HearthFires
3. DLC: Dragonborn
4. ...Creation Club Mods...

77. Cleaned Vanilla Masters
78. xEdit Output

NOTE

To verify the vanilla mods have been cleaned, LOOT can be run again, and no warnings should be apparent.

After all mods are installed later in the guide, clean any plugins with the applicable LOOT warnings using the standard cleaning procedure.

STEP 4

Step SkyrimSE Mod List

At this point, the modding environment should be fully configured and ready for mod installation.
IMPORTANT: Please read ALL of the following carefully BEFORE requesting support on the forums!

• This guide can be installed in one of three (3) ways:
  1. All mods from all ModGroups (mod tables) installed. This is recommended, due to the coordination of this build in terms of lighting, weather, and ENB. These are usually the most difficult aspects of a build to get right, given vanilla Skyrim's rather wonky lighting 'incoherence'.
  2. All mods from all ModGroups EXCEPT for the optional ModGroup, 21-Post-Processing. Like the default recommended option, this is most useful for those that cannot afford the performance cost of running with post-processing mods like ENBSeries. For those that want to use a custom ENB setup, we obviously cannot support that, but feel free to try any ENBs that are compatible with the 18-Lighting and Weather ModGroup.
  3. All mods from all ModGroups EXCEPT for the optional ModGroups, 18-Lighting and Weather and 21-Post-Processing. Use this approach if a custom lighting/weather/post-processing solution will be applied, which are not supported.

Understanding the Step Patches

A “conflict resolution” patch is a plugin that resolves conflicts between various active plugins. They allow using various mods together that would otherwise be incompatible. The Step Patches are built exclusively for the Step mod build. They are required and are dependent on specific mods as noted by indicators in the mod tables in Step 4. They will not resolve conflicts with any conflicting mod pluginss that are not in this guide.

Step Patches

The following reference the Step Guide Nexus files.

1. Step Patch - Conflict Resolution (CR) - required
   • Patches all conflicting plugins except for optional mods and ModGroups noted below.
   • The "Step Patch - WACCF.esp" plugin is a component of the CR patch files and is maintained independently. This way, WACCF can be disabled by advanced guide followers that don't want to use it. (disabling WACCF is NOT officially supported.)

   The following patches accommodate corresponding mods that do not strictly adhere to the Step Mandate. These mods are exceptions to the Mandate, because we think they are important for enriching the game in a vanilla-friendly manner. Thus, these mods and their corresponding Step patches are optional.

   • Step Patch - CACO - optional - only required if CACO is installed per guide instructions
   • Step Patch - CCOR - optional - only required if CCOR is installed per guide instructions
   • Step Patch - TCIY - optional - only required if TCIY is installed per guide instructions

2. Step Patch - Lighting and Weather (LW) - optional
   • Only required if the LW ModGroup is installed per guide instructions
   • Patches the 18-Lighting and Weather ModGroup
3. Step Patch - Post-Processing (PP) - optional
   • Requires the Step LW Patch
   • Only required if the PP ModGroup is installed per guide instructions
   • Patches the 18-Lighting and Weather AND 21-Post-Processing ModGroups for use with ENB

Mod Table Reference

Below is the legend and reference for the mod tables used in this guide.

Mod Table Legend

				Table Flags	A red vertical bar indicates that the mod is required by Step Patch - Conflict Resolution. A yellow bar indicates that the mod is required by Step Patch - Lighting and Weather. A green bar indicates that the mod is required by Step Patch - Post-Processing. A blue bar indicates the mod supports or otherwise relates to mods in the 21-Post-Processing ModGroup.
				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 note specifying a recommended install option. In some cases, mods will have several options. In such cases, click [Expand] to expand the mod row to reveal detailed instructions.

Quick Reference

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions
				Master to NO patches with NO ENB option	Baseline	Notes
				Master to all patches with ENB option	Baseline	Notes

Mod Installation Considerations

• If no Notes or Step recommendations are provided for a particular mod, always install the Main File, any Update Files, and all Optional Files are valid.
• After installing a mod, ALWAYS enable the mod and any related plugins in MO unless otherwise instructed.
• Mods are listed in alphabetical order within each ModGroup and any deviations from this are purposeful to achieve the desired outcome.
• 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.
• Always install plugins (ESLs/ESMs/ESPs), unless otherwise noted. When there is a choice to use an ESL, always choose that UNLESS continuing a playthrough using a previously-existing savegame (ESL-flagged plugins can 'break' a save that relies on a ESP or ESM version of the same plugin!).
• Always follow LOOT's advice in regards to mod cleaning and sorting unless otherwise noted.
• Do not extract BSAs unless specifically instructed to do so.

ModGroup 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 ModGroup below:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Steps to Create MO Separators

1. Click at the top of the mod list pane.
2. Select [Create Separator], and give the separator a name. Step recommends using the Mod Group names (i.e., Extensions, Resources, Lighting and 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.

---

02-Extenders

Mods that expand on the inherent functionality of a game or another mod without themselves affecting content

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Address Library for SKSE Plugins		Install the All in one (Anniversary Edition) main file.

				Crash Logger SSE AE VR - PDB support

				Papyrus Tweaks NG		Install the main file and merge the INI file for reference miscellaneous file.

				PapyrusUtil SE		Install PapyrusUtil AE SE - Scripting Utility Functions main file.

				Scaleform Translation Plus Plus NG

				SKSE64		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Root Files Installation Download the main file that says it is compatible with Steam. 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 NOTE: This file is no longer implemented with the latest versions of SKSE. (reference image) Keep this archive open for the next steps. Data Files Installation Click on the button and select, [Create empty mod]. Name it SKSE64. This places the new, empty mod at the bottom of the mod list. Enable SKSE64 in the MO left pane. Open the SKSE64 in Windows Explorer (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, and 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: ..\SKSE64 \scripts \Source <file list> <file list> \SKSE \skse.ini \meta.ini Launcher Configuration Normally, MO should auto-detect that SKSE is installed upon a restart of the program, 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. Please ensure the following is correct for SKSE: In MO, click the 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 for clarity, however, if this is done, MO will automatically create the "SKSE" launcher again and place it at bottom of the list. Use this executable to launch Skyrim SE going forward. Reference Image:

				SSE Display Tweaks		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
As stated in the mod's Description, this mod will stabilize the display of rendered content for smooth gameplay without limiting frame rates, and this should be the case for almost all modern PCs running SSE. Download the Main File and and High performance configuration Optional File. Install the Main File first. Then install the Optional File, choosing Merge to merge it into the Main File. (ONLY if hardware supports) Enable NVIDIA G-SYNC or AMD Freesync via the display software Also enable NVIDIA Low Latency (reference image) or AMD anti-lag via the display software Double-click on the mod in the MO left pane and ensure the following in SSEDisplayTweaks.ini PC has NVIDIA G-SYNC or AMD Freesync video card AND monitor support, set each frame limit (FPS cap) to: [monitor refresh rate] - 3 (e.g., 144 Hz monitor should have 141 limit: 144 - 3 = 141) PC does NOT have NVIDIA G-SYNC or AMD Freesync video card OR monitor support, set each frame limit (FPS cap) to: [monitor refresh rate] - 1 (e.g., 60 Hz monitor should have 59 limit: 60 - 1 = 59) [Render] FramerateLimit=?? UIFramerateLimit=?? [OSD] Enable=true InitiallyOn=false To enabled the framerate counter, hold Left Shift and press Insert. Repeat to disable again. NOTE: No further configuration is required, but read on for additional information. For more general information, see the SSE Display Settings guide. Advanced Configuration As with any mod with an INI configuration, Step recommends creating an 'empty' mod to contain a customizable configuration that will not be overwritten when the mod is updated. The INI file will not be generated until the game is launched, and it should appear in Overwrite. Once that is done later in the guide, revisit this mod and complete the following if it will be customized: Click > Create empty mod, and name it (CONFIG) SSE Display Tweaks. Copy the entire SKSE/ path from the source mod into the new mod. Delete all content under SKSE/Plugins/ except the INI file. Prioritize this configuration mod just after the source mod in MO such that the INI will override that of the source mod. Example Custom Configuration Override [Render]  ; EnableVSync=false    ; Uncomment to disable Vsync from this mod. Useful for those with G-SYNC/Freesync-compatible hardware  ; EnableTearing=true    ; Uncomment to disable Vsync/frame limits in bordered windowed mode FramerateLimit=141    ; Uncomment to set a specific in-game frame limit UIFramerateLimit=141    ; Uncomment to set a specific UI frame limit (i.e., in-game menus)  ; LoadingScreenFramerateLimit=60    ; Uncomment to set a specific loading-screen frame limit [HAVOK] MinimumFramerate=50    ; Uncomment to set a specific loading-screen frame limit MaximumFramerate=141    ; Uncomment to set a havok frame limit (should be equal to FramerateLimit) OSDStatsEnabled=true    ; uncomment to enable havok stats in the in-game screen display [Papyrus] DynamicUpdateBudget=true BudgetMaxFPS=141    ; Uncomment to set a papyrus budget frame limit (should be equal to FramerateLimit) OSDStatsEnabled=true    ; Uncomment to enable papyrus budget stats in the in-game screen display [OSD] Enable=true    ; Uncomment to enable the in-game screen display using the default toggle (Left Shift + Insert by default) InitiallyOn=false    ; uncomment to enable the in-game screen display on by default

				SSE Engine Fixes		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install (Part 1) Engine Fixes for 1.6.xxx and newer Main File in MO as normal. Download (Part 2) Engine Fixes - skse64 Preloader and TBB Lib Main File. Extract the contents of the Part 2 archive to the root Skyrim SE directory (e.g. ..\Steam\SteamApps\Common\Skyrim Special Edition) (reference image) Once installed, double-click on the mod to open up the information window, and ensure the following settings in EngineFixes.toml ("Text Files" tab): If running game version 1.6.1170: [Patches] EnableAchievementsWithMods = false SaveAddedSoundCategories = false WaterflowAnimation = true WaterflowSpeed = 16.0 [Fixes] SaveScreenshots = false If running game version 1.6.640: [Patches] WaterflowAnimation = true WaterflowSpeed = 16.0 Leave the remainder of the settings at their defaults.

				Unique Map Weather Framework

Game-Launch Smoke Test

At this stage, the preliminary build should be tested to confirm that there are no issues with the modding environment or engine-level mod configurations:

1. Start the game by running the SKSE launcher from Mod Organizer. The game should load to the main menu without issue.
2. Open the console (~), type in coc riverwood, and press Enter/Return. The game should load at Riverwood without issue.
3. Exit the game using the qqq console command or the standard menu options.

If the game launched and loaded as expected, continue forward. Otherwise, all instructions were not followed, and something was missed. Revisit the installation steps above starting with the System Setup Guide in Step 1. If a careful review of the previous instructions does not resolve the issue, post on the guide support forums for help.

WARNING

Beyond this point, DO NOT launch the game again until instructed to do so.
Many of the following mods are interdependent, and launching the game prematurely will most likely result in issues or failures. Please DO NOT post on the forums for support of non-issues relating to a failure to RTFM.

03-Resources

Mods solely providing assets intended specifically for use by other mods without themselves affecting content

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Grass Cache Fixes

				MCM Helper		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions MCM Helper Game Version Game Version ◉ Skyrim Special Edition Mod Files Plugin ◉ ESL Resources ◉ BSA Install

				Sound Record Distributor

				Spell Perk Item Distributor		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Spell Perk Item Distributor Main DLL ◉ SSE v1.6.629+ ("Anniversary Edition") Install

04-Foundation

Baseline mods that should be overridden by other mods AND/OR that make widely-accepted programmatic changes expected by other mods

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Unofficial High Definition Audio Project		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download and install all Main Files. Merge when asked. Since LOOT no longer supports this mod, the UHDAP masters will load at higher priority than the USSEP master. This is most easily corrected by changing the LOOT group of the UHDAP masters to "Creation Club" ... Modify the LOOT Group Change the LOOT Group to "Creation Club"

				Skyrim Landscape and Water Fixes		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Skyrim Landscape and Water Fixes Main Options (ONLY tick the following) ☑ Free Crops Patches - Creation Club (ONLY tick the following) ☑ Alternative Armors - Elven Hunter ☑ Farming ☑ Hendraheim ☑ Tundra Homestead Walkway Wall Mesh Fix ◉ Vanilla Patches - ELFX Interiors (Select NOTHING) ◉ None Patches - Navigator ◉ None Patches - Other (ONLY tick the following) ☑ Landscape Fixes for Grass Mods Install

				Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch

				Cathedral - Plants

				Particle Patch		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install ONLY the Particle Patch main file. 21 Post-Processing For "Light Shafts" option, select 'Yes' if using ENB. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Particle Patch for ENB Installation Installation Format ◉ Loose Files Plugin Name ◉ Particle Patch Light Shafts ◉ No (See Post-Processing note above) Fake Light Glow ◉ Particle Light Custom Textures ◉ Yes Install

				DynDOLOD Resources SE 3		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions DynDOLOD Resources SE Options Visual Options ☑ Whiterun Exterior Grass ☑ Solitude Occlusion Planes ☑ High Hrothgar Window Glow ☐ DLC2 Vvardenfell 3D Plume Performance Options ☐ Low-Res LOD Textures Misc Options ☑ Desync Birds of Prey ☐ Holy Cow Install 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.

				DynDOLOD DLL NG		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions DynDOLOD DLL NG Runtime Version Select ◉ > 1.6.640 Install

				Far Object LOD Improvement Project SSE

				Static Mesh Improvement Mod		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Static Mesh Improvement Mod Options Main Installer Choice ◉ Skyrim 2016 Special Edition: Custom Next Original Skyrim Custom Install Barrels ◉ Modified Vanilla Barrels Bowl Ingredients ☑ Improved Bowl Ingredients Bridges ◉ Bridges Candelabras ☑ Improved Candelabras Carriage Seats and Fixes ☑ Improved Carriages Chains 3D - Misc ☑ Chains 3D - Misc Chains 3D - Pull Levers ◉ Chains 3D - Pull Levers Small Rings (Recommended) Chains 3D - Signs ☑ Chains 3D - Signs Chains 3D - Whiterun ☑ Chains 3D - Whiterun Chandeliers ◉ Improved Chandeliers (Recommended) Clothing Fixes ☑ Clothing Fixes Dawnguard Soulcairn Bone Piles ◉ Bone Piles Yellow Bones (Recommended) Draugr Corpses ☑ Draugr Corpses Dungeons Cliffs Snow Skirts ◉ Snow Blending ESP (Recommended) Dwemer Animated Lifts ☑ Dwemer Animated Lifts Dwemer Clutter ☑ Dwemer Clutter Farmhouse Woven Fence ◉ Woven Fence Less Flicker (Recommended) Food ☑ Improved Food Food - Tomato Style ◉ Default Heirloom Furniture Chests ☑ Improved Furniture Chests Furniture Common ◉ Improved Furniture SMIM Textures (Recommended) Furniture Noble ☑ Improved Furniture Noble Hanging Rings ☑ Hanging Rings Hawk ☑ Hawk Improvements Hearthfires Stuff ☑ Hearthfires Stuff Human Skull Fixes ☑ Human Skull Fixes Imperial Jail ◉ Improved Imperial Jail (Recommended) Jewelry Rings ◉ Jewelry Rings CCO Remade or Jewelcraft Lanterns ☐ Lanterns    leave unticked! Nordic Tables and Benches ☑ Nordic Tables and Benches Orc Longhouse ☑ Orc Longhouse Poor Coffin ☑ Poor Coffin Rabbit ☑ Improved Rabbit Rocks - Blackreach ☑ Rocks - Blackreach Rocks - Generic ☑ Rocks - Generic Rocks - Mountains ☑ Rocks - Mountains Ropes 3D - Dungeons ◉ Dungeons 3D Ropes 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 ☑ Stockade 3D Ropes Ruins Sarcophagus ☑ Ruins Sarcophagus Shack Roofs ☑ Improved Shack Roofs with Dragonborn Skeletal Remains 3D ☑ Skeletal Remains 3D Smelters ☑ Smelters Solitude Gate Doors ☑ Solitude Gate Doors Tankards ◉ Dark Brushed Metal Tankards Tree - Juniper Tree ☑ Improved Juniper Tree Tree - Tundra Tree ☑ Improved Tundra Tree Whiterun Castle Wood Carvings ◉ Wood Carvings Improved Vanilla Whiterun Doors ☑ Whiterun Doors Windmills ◉ DynDOLOD/SkyMills Compatibility Xtra Options - Half-Size Textures Addon ◉ None    use the half-size textures if VRAM is an issue Xtra Options - Ultra-Sized Textures Addon ☐ Ultra-Sized 4096x4096 Textures    leave unticked! Next Merged Plugin Special Edition Forced Install Merged Plugin Special Edition Forced Install ☑ Special Edition Merged Plugin Will Be Installed Install Also install the Optional File as a separate mod.

				Skyrim Realistic Overhaul		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install Part 1-3, choosing to merge the files when asked. Install the update file, choosing to merge as well. Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): Textures\architecture\whiterun\wrfieldgrass01_n.dds

				Major Cities Mesh Overhaul		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Also install the Optional File as a separate mod. Installing additional files not under Nexus' "Main Files" section as separate mods preserves their version tracking to keep pace with updates.

				Enhanced Lights and FX		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Only the meshes from this mod will be used. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Enhanced Lights and FX Main Main ☑ Enhanced Lights and FX Main - Ambience ◉ None Main - Exterior ☑ ELFX - Exteriors Next Patches SMIM ☑ SMIM Meshes ☐ SMIM Lantern Patches ☐ Select Nothing Misc. Optionals Optionals ☐ Select Nothing Install Disable the following plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): EnhancedLightsandFX.esp ELFX - Exteriors.esp

				ELFX Fixes		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions ELFX Fixes Main ELFX Fixes main plugin ☑ Main Plugin Ragged Flagon Fix ◉ Vanilla Water Reflection ELFX Meshes Fixed for ENB users ☐ ENB ELFX Meshes    leave unselected, regardless of ENB Install Disable the following plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): ELFX Fixes.esp ELFX Fixes Ragged Flagon Fix.esp

				ELFX - Exteriors Fixes		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Choose only 'one' Main File. Disable the following plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): ELFX - Exteriors.esp 21-Post-Processing Those installing this ModGroup should choose the ENB version.

				Static Mesh improvement Mod - SMIM - Quality Addon

				Static Mesh Improvement Mod Improvement Mod		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Static Mesh Improvement Mod Improvement Mod Optional Meshes ☑ Hawk ☑ Dwemmer post alternative Textures ☐ Apples Next Patches Mods ☐ Dynamic Things Alternative ☐ Real Rabbits HD ☐ Wiseman's Flora Fixes ☑ SMIM Quality Add-On Install

				Assorted mesh fixes

				Unofficial Material Fix		Install the Unofficial Material Fix main file.

				Majestic Mountains		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File of preference Step Recommends Lightside for best matching textures with the Guide. Install the Update File and merge into the main file. It's fine to merge this, since it will almost certainly never be versioned independently of the Main Files. Install the DynDoLod V 3.0 Lod pack (all versions) from Optional Files as a separate mod. Installing additional files not under Nexus' "Main Files" section as separate mods preserves their version tracking to keep pace with updates. Main File ExpandFOMOD Instructions Majestic Mountains Lightside Required ☑ Main files Landscape ESM ◉ AE version Optionals ☑ Moss Rocks ESL Version Sun Direction (choose one or none) ◉ None Next Final Notes ☑ Load order and notes Install Optional File Install the Optional File as a separate mod. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Majestic Mountains DynDoLod 3 Pack Step 1 Lod Meshes ☑ Lod Meshes LOD Textures ◉ Lightside choose the option matching the Main File used Install

				Majestic Mountains Double-Sided Patch		Install the MM Double-Sided main file. Compatible with MM v4.02 (NOT the parallax file).

				Flickering Meshes Fix		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Flickering Meshes Fix Main Cities Riften ◉ No parallax version Solitude ◉ No parallax version Whitrun ◉ No parallax version Markarth ◉ No parallax version Windhelm ◉ No parallax version Next Towns and Villages Whiterun and Windhelm Hold's farmhouses ◉ None Solitude Hold's farmhouses ◉ None Markarth Hold's farmhouses ◉ None Next Compatibility Choices Select what you are using ☐ Bright Waterfall Fix for ENB ☐ Icy Windhelm ☑ ELFX Exteriors ☑ Majestic Mountains ☐ Riften Architectural Details ☐ SMIM    not needed ☐ Skyrim 202X by Pfuscher ☑ Skyrim - A Mountainous Experience ☐ Water for ENB Install

				Cathedral Landscapes		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This mod deviates to small degree from the vanilla style with respect to some landscape textures. Nevertheless, the deviations are exceptional to the Step Mandate. Install the Main File: ExpandFOMOD Instructions Landscapes - Cathedral Concept Choose Plugin Type ◉ Use fat ESP -->compatible with an existing playthrough otherwise, choose "Use light ESPFE" Next Select Install ◉ Full Install, Brown Tundra Next Select Roads ◉ Blended Roads Install Install the LODGEN Textures for v3 Optional File as a separate mod! 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 mod: (TEMP) Cathedral Landscapes - xLODGen.

				Mesh Patch for Various Mods		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the following Main Files, in the order listed, and merge when asked: Skyrim Particle Patch for ENB - Assorted Mesh Fixes - Solitude Mesh Fixes Patch Unofficial Material Fix - Assorted Mesh Fixes Patch Skyrim Particle Patch for ENB - ELFX - Unofficial Material Fix Patch SMIM - Quality Addon - Unofficial Material Fix Patch Assorted Mesh Fixes - SMIM - Blended Roads Patch Note that the Blended Roads Patch applies to Cathedral Landscapes (CL) in the Step build, because CL incorporates Bleanded Roads.

				RUSTIC CLOTHING - Special Edition	2K

05-Animation and Physics

Mods that affect animations or physics

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				D13 Faster GET UP STAND UP Animation	Loose

				Dual Wield Improved Animation SSE

				Ice skating fixed for real - No more attack sliding movement		Applies to 3rd-person play. Requires Nemesis.

				Realistic Boat Bobbing SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Also install RBB - SMIM Meshes as a separate mod. Installing additional files not under Nexus' "Main Files" section as separate mods preserves their version tracking to keep pace with updates.

				Run Sprint and Jump SE

				Stronger Swimming Animation SE		Install version 1.0 from Old Files.

				XP32 Maximum Skeleton Special Extended		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a Not Safe For Work (NSFW) mod page! NOTE: The plugin may or may not be applicable to the Step build, since it modifies game settings that we don't yet understand with respect to the vanilla game or the Step build. Whether to use it or not is TBD, so please post on the forums if there are any issues found (physics/ragdolls) with or without the plugin. Install the Main File: ExpandFOMOD Instructions XP32 Maximum Skeleton Special Extended Installation Installation ☑ Basic Install This mod's plugin alters game settings that may or may not be important to any mod build, so please post in the forums if physics/ragdoll issues are observed with OR without the plugin being enabled. It's user preference for now (instructions for disabling plugins): XPMSE.esp

06-Models and Textures

Mods that replace existing models or textures

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				3D Junipers - Trees and Berries

				3D Snowberries

				3D Snowberries HD Texture Option

				8K Night Skies - Stars and Galaxies		Step recommends: Night Skies - Vanilla Blue (8K) - CP

				AMidianBorn Book of Silence		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This mod has two install options. Choose ONLY one. Option 1 (Recommended - CCOR WILL be used) Install ONLY the 2) aMidianBorn Book of Silence SE -- CCOR CONTENT ADDON Main File. Option 2 (CCOR will NOT be used) The best solution is to follow the 2.1.0 SkyrimSE guide mod recommendations: Download the following files: aMidianBorn book of silence -- ARMORS aMidianBorn book of silence -- DRAGONBORN aMidianBorn book of silence -- UNIQUE ITEMS aMidianBorn book of silence -- WEAPONS Step recommends: Merge all files into single mod listing named aMidianBorn Book of Silence SE The instructions below are for the most vanilla-like replacements. ExpandFOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence ARMORS Options Options ◉ Custom Next Options Iron and Banded ◉ Iron - Vanilla Cut Steel ◉ Steel Steel Plate ☑ Steel Plate Leather ☑ Leather Hide and Studded ◉ Hide Fur ☑ Fur Elven ◉ Elven - Gold Dwarven ☑ Dwarven Ancient Nord ☑ Ancient Nord Orcish ◉ Orcish Scaled ◉ Scaled Wolf ◉ Wolf - Grey Fur Glass ◉ Glass - Golden Ebony ◉ Ebony - Black Blades ☑ Blades Falmer ☑ Falmer Install ExpandFOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence DRAGONBORN Options Options ◉ Custom Next Custom Nordic Carved Armor ◉ Black Fur (default) Bonemold Armor ☑ Bonemold Armor Acolyte Masks ☑ Acolyte Masks Dragon Priest Acolytes ☐ Dragon Priest Acolytes Hulking Draugr ☐ Hulking Draugr Ash Spawn ☑ Ash Spawn Ash Guardians ☑ Ash Guardians Install ExpandFOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence UNIQUE ITEMS Options Options ◉ Custom Next Custom Targe of the Blooded ☑ Targe of the Blooded Wuuthrad ☑ Wuuthrad Savior's Hide ◉ Savior's Hide Helm of Yngol ☑ Helm of Yngol Mace of Molag Bal ☑ Mace of Molag Bal Mehrune's Razor ☑ Mehrune's Razor Volendrung ☑ Volendrung Tsun's Armor ☑ Tsun's Armor Ebony Mail ◉ Ebony Mail - Black Staff of Magnus ☑ Staff of Magnus Dragon Priest Masks ☐ Dragon Priest Masks Install ExpandFOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence WEAPONS Options Options ◉ Install all weapons (default) Install Disable the following plugin installed with aMidianBorn Book of Silence WEAPONS (instructions for disabling plugins): aMidianborn_Skyforge_Weapons.esp Hide the following file installed with aMidianBorn Book of Silence - Armors (instructions for hiding files/folders): textures\clothes

				AMidianBorn Content Addon		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This mod requires WACCF. ExpandFOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Content Addon aMidianBorn Content Addon Main File ☑ aMidianBorn Content Addon Next Options Weapon Meshes (excluding bows) ◉ Leanwolf's Better-Shaped Weapons with Greatsword Scabbards Bow Meshes ◉ Vanilla Ebony Weapons ◉ Leanwolf's Better-Shaped Weapons with Greatsword Scabbards Ebony Weapons - Patches (Select NOTHING) Elven Weapons ☑ Elven Weapon Textures Glass Armor ◉ Vanilla Glass Armor - Patches (Select NOTHING) Glass Weapons ◉ Leanwolf's Better-Shaped Weapons with Greatsword Scabbards Glass Weapons - Patches (Select NOTHING) Next Patches Animated Armoury and Heavy Armory (Select NOTHING) Crossbow Mods with AA and HA (Select NOTHING) Stealth Skills Rebalanced ☐ Stealth Skills Rebalanced Install

				AMidianBorn imperial light and studded	2K	This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored.

				AMidianBorn stormcloak officer armour	2K	This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored.

				Arctic - Frost Effects Redux	Lite	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Arctic - Frost Effects Redux Arctic Installation Main Installation ☑ Core Files Next Arctic Add-ons ENB Light Compatibility ☑ ENB Light    use only for ENB Next Arctic Texture Resolution Resolution Options ◉ 1x Next Arctic Frost Color Color Options ◉ Realistic Hue Next Arctic Icicles Size Size Options ◉ x.5 Next Arctic Optional Plugin Plugin Option ◉ Frost Mesh Patch (ESL-Tagged) Install

				Armor and Clothing Extension	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
NOTE: This mod extends WACCF, which is itself a hard requirement for the Step SkyrimSE build. Install the Main File. Also install the Armor and Clothing Extension - Spell Perk Item Distributor (SPID) Patch Optional File as a separate mod. Installing additional files not under Nexus' "Main Files" section as separate mods preserves their version tracking to keep pace with updates.

				Armor Mesh Fixes SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Install the Update File as a separate mod. Install the Blades Helmet - aMidianBorn Patch Optional File as a separate mod. Installing additional files not under Nexus' "Main Files" section as separate mods preserves their version tracking to keep pace with updates.

				Barenziahs Glory SE	1k	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Barenziah's Glory SE Optional Textures Crown Texture Options ◉ Desaturated Crown Texture - 1k Jewelrybox Texture Options ◉ Gamwich Jewelrybox Texture - 1k Gem Texture Options ◉ Gamwich Gem Texture - dark Install

				Bellyaches Animal and Creature Pack Revamp		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Bellyaches Animal and Creature Pack Revamp Options Options ◉ Custom Install Next Custom Bear (brown and black) ◉ Bear Replacers Chaurus ◉ None Chicken ◉ Brown Dog ◉ Default HD Deer ☑ Deer replacers Dragonfly ☐ Dartwing replacers Fox (Red) ◉ Red Fox (Arctic) ◉ Arctic Frostbite Spider (Brown) ◉ None Frostbite Spider (Arctic) ◉ None Goat ◉ None Hawk ◉ None Highland Cow ◉ Orange Horker ◉ Grey Install Horse Textures? ◉ No Install Mammoth Textures? ◉ No Install Skeever Textures? ◉ Yes, mangy skeevers Next Skeevers Skeever (Grey) ◉ Dark Grey Skeever (Arctic) ◉ Grey Hooded Next More Custom Options Mudcrab ◉ None Rabbit ☑ Rabbit Replacer Sabre Cat (Brown) ◉ None Sabre Cat (Arctic) ◉ None Wolf (Black) ◉ Darker Black Wolf (Ice) ◉ White (Brown Eyes) Wolf (Red) ◉ Brown Werewolf ◉ Dark Grey Werewolf Eyes ◉ Normal Brown Install

				Better Dynamic Ash SE

				Better Dynamic Snow SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Better Dynamic Snow SE Better Dynamic Snow SE - Plugins Color Options ◉ Brighter Material Color Walkway Material UVs ◉ Default UVs Better Dynamic Snow SE - Options Projected Diffuse Textures ◉ None Optional Addons ☐ No Glacier Snow Install

				Better Falmer Cave Ceiling Glow		STEP Recommends: BetterFalmerCaveCeilingGlow_Cyan

				Blackreach Tentacle Mesh Fix

				Blended Roads		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Blended Roads Main Files ◉ Blended Roads SMIM Compatibility Patch ◉ Blended Roads Install Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): meshes\architecture\solitude\sbridge01.nif

				Blue Palace Dome Windows		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Also install the Optional File as a separate mod. Installing additional files not under Nexus' "Main Files" section as separate mods preserves their version tracking to keep pace with updates.

				Book Covers Skyrim		STEP Recommends: Book Covers Skyrim SE - Desaturated

				Book Covers Skyrim - Lost Library		STEP Recommends: Book Covers Skyrim SE - Lost Library - Desaturated

				Creation Club Open Helmets		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install v1.4 from Old Files. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Creation Club Open Helmets Merged or Individual All ESPs Merged or pick them Individually ◉ Merged Next Unofficial Skyrim Creation Club Content Patch USCCCP ☑ Patch Next Creation Club Integration Patch Patch ☐ Patch Next Merged Power of Creation Patch ☐ Patch Next Merged Tamriellic Distribution Patch Patch ☐ Patch Next Merged CC Misc Patches CC Misc Patches ☐ Patch Next Legacy of the Dragonborn CC Legacy of the Dragonborn CC Patches ☐ Select nothing Next Crimson Trail Crimson Trail ☐ Select nothing Next Mystical Materials Mystical Materials Patch ☐ Alternative Armors Silver Next Iron Cubemap Cubemap ◉ Iron Default Cubemap Next Bittercup Ebony Gear Patch Grand Champion Gear Ebony Style Retexture ◉ Default Next Creation Club - Adjustments Rebalancing and Variants Merged ☐ Adjustments Rebalancing and Variants Merged Tweaks ☐ Select nothing Variants ☐ Select nothing Next Daedric Male Open Helmet USCCCP Daedric Male Open Helmet USCCCP ☐ Daedric Male Open Helmet Next Immortal Remnant - Redguard Elite Armor Variants Immortal Remnant ☐ Patch Next Saints and Seducers Extended Cut Thoron's Helmet Patch ☐ Patch Next Stalhrim Fur Refrozen Patch Stalhrim Fur ◉ Default Next Forgotton Seasons More Shiny Helmets Default or Shiny ◉ Keep Default Next (OPTIONAL) Bodyslide Files Bodyslide Files (females are fit to CBBE 3BA sliders) ☐ Select nothing Install

				Dark Brotherhood Tenets Restored	1K	This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored.

				Deadly Spell Impacts		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Deadly Spell Impacts Installation Options Options ◉ Customize Next Impact Options Fire Spell Impact Options ◉ One Fire Impact (Default) Next Texture Options Fire Impacts ◉ Charred (Default) Frost Impacts ◉ Default Lightning ◉ Purple Embers Install

				Deathbell HD	1K

				Detailed Rugs

				Detailing the Eldrich - Higher-Res Riekling Architecture

				Dragon Masks Retextured SE	2K

				DRAGON PRIEST	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Dragon Priest by Kajuan Custom Select One ◉ Full (High suggested) Install

				Frankly HD Dragonbone and Dragonscale	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File, and merge the Update File. Merging should be fine for this one, since it will almost certainly never be updated again.

				Dragonbone Mastery	2k/1k	ExpandDetailed 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. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Dragonbone Mastery - Weapons Retexture Page 1 Main Weapon Texures ◉ Darker Bone Next Page 2 Arrow Options ◉ New Style Arrows Next Page 3 Scabbard Style ◉ Full Length Scabbard Next Page 4 Full Sized Scabbard Texture Options ◉ Traditional Design Full Sized Scabbard Mesh Optional ◉ Transparent Meshes Install NOTE: The archive is missing is an empty "99 None" folder, so click Install anyway when prompted. This may not work when using the latest version of MO. If this is the case, move the archive into a working directory, and extract it. Then add the missing "99 None" folder, and repackage into a new archive using 7-zip. Then install the new archive:

				DRAUGR	2K

				DROPS	512	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Step recommends: Version 3 Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): meshes\effects\fxdrips01.nif meshes\effects\fxdrips01_more.nif meshes\effects\fxdrips01_more_wider.nif meshes\effects\fxdrips01tall.nif

				EASIER LOCKPICKING		This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored.

				Elemental Staffs SE	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File, and merge the Elemental Staffs SE Basic Optional File, since it will almost certainly never be updated.

				ElSopa HD - Ants SE	1K

				ElSopa HD - Briar Heart	1K	Step recommends: ElSopa HD - Briarheart Red 1k

				ElSopa HD - Dirt Blast SE	2K	Step recommends: 2K ElSopa HD - Dirt Blast

				ElSopa - HD Keys Redone SE	512

				Embers XD	2K Optimized	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install Embers XD 2K main file. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Embers XD 2K Flames and Lights Customization Flames Style ◉ Embers XD Flames (Burnt Orange) Particle Light Quality ◉ Optimized    (High Quality looks better with high FPS cost) Particle Light Intensity ◉ Normal Next Plugin Selection Select One ◉ Standard Next Add-On Selection Select One ☑ Install Fire Magick Add-On Select One ☑ Install Forges Add-On Select One ☑ Install Torches Add-On Select One ☑ Install Lava Craters Add-On Next Further Customization Select Required (ONLY tick the following options) ☑ Alternate Torch Flame ☑ Less Flying Embers ☑ No Burnt Wood Glow ☑ No Parallax ☑ No Torch Particle Light ☑ Reduced Fake Glow ☑ Vanilla Campsite Rocks Next Compatibility Patches Select Required ☐ UNtick Goldenhills Plantation (covered by the Step CR patch) Install

				Enhanced Blood Textures SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install _Enhanced Blood Textures SE (LITE VERSION) Main File. (Optional) To remove blood spatters from the screen, merge the No Screen Blood Optional File, since this mod will almost certainly never be updated again.

				Enhanced Vanilla Textures Shrines

				Enhanced Vanilla Trees SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install one Main File of choice. Enhanced Vanilla Trees SE-Basic is the most vanilla-like experience, but all are vanilla 'friendly'. The images on the Step SE Nexus page show the Lush Trees version. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Enhanced Vanilla Trees SE Preview ☐ Introducing EVT Next Enhanced Vanilla Trees ☑ Core Files Next Mesh Tint Options Choose Mesh Option ◉ Default* Next Tree Options (doesn't apply to Basic) Size applies to ALL trees ◉ ...(small)* Next Additional Options Vanilla Pine Branch Textures ◉ SFO V1 (vanilla)* Vanilla Snow Pine Branch Textures ◉ Alternative Vanilla Snowy Branches* Miscellaneous ☑ Enhanced Tree Clutter* ☑ Firewood* ☐ Hi-Res Aspen Bark ☑ SFO Aspen Branches* Next Alternative Trees ☐ Realistic Aspen Trees ☐ SFO Snowy Trees Install

				Aspens Ablaze		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. The selections below are the most vanilla-like options, however, users can select options according to preferences: ExpandFOMOD Instructions Aspens Ablaze Plugin Selection Select One ◉ Without Thickets Size Select One ◉ Normal Leaf Color Select One ◉ Autumnal Next LOD Assets Select One ☐ Install    leave unticked Install

				Aspens Ablaze Add-On - DynDOLOD 3		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
If the instructions from Aspen Ablaze were followed as recommended, then install using the instructions below. Otherwise, install the version that matches the version and options selected when installing Aspen Ablaze. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Aspens Ablaze Add-On - DynDOLOD 3 Quality/Performance Options Select One ◉ Performance Next Size Select One ◉ Normal Next Leaf Color Select One ◉ Autumnal Install

				ETHEREAL CLOUDS - Special Edition	1K

				FALMER	2K

				Fixed Mesh Lighting		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File using the instructions below. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Fixed Mesh Lighting Main Main ◉ Modular Next Modular Main ☑ Flora ☐ Trees ☑ Ice ☑ Creatures Next Flora Main ◉ Vanilla Flora Patches (ONLY tick the following) ☑ Assorted Mesh Fixes Beyond Skyrim ☐ Beyond Skyrim : Bruma JK's Skyrim ☐ JK's Skyrim Depths of Skyrim ☐ Depths of Skyrim New Plants ☐ Unique Flower and Plants Mountain Flowers ☐ 3D Mountain Flowers Snowberries ◉ 3D Snowberries Juniper ◉ 3D Juniper Tundra Cotton ☐ Tundra Cotton by Mari Jazbay ◉ None Creep Cluster ☐ Creep Cluster by Mari Soul Husk ☐ High Ploy Soul Husks Canticle Tree ☐ High Ploy Canticle Tree Next Ice Main ☑ Ice Patches (ONLY tick the following) ☑ Arctic ☑ Landscape And Water Fixes ☑ Unofficial Material Fix Ice Replacer (Select NOTHING) Next Creatures Main ☑ Creatures Patches (Select NOTHING) Next Other Bee Hives ◉ Vanilla Hagraven (ONLY tick the following) ☑ Vanilla ☑ Static Mesh Improvement Mod Improvement Mod ☑ Unofficial Material Fix Notes ☑ Vanilla Potions (ONLY tick the following) ☑ Vanilla ☑ Rustic Animated Potions ☑ Adventurer's Backpack Rag ☑ Vanilla Effects ☑ Vanilla Install

				Cathedral - 3D Lavender		Install the Cathedral - 3D Lavender - Vanilla Size main file.

				Footprints		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. 21-Post-processing The Footprints - ENB Optional File is no longer necessary when running SSE ENB v0.484 or higher (Step recommends using the latest version of the ENB binary, which is 0.502 at the time of this writing).

				Frankly HD Thieves Guild Armors	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Frankly HD Thieves Guild Armors Texture Resolution Options ◉ 2K Resolution Install

				Gemling Queen Jewelry SE	1K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Gemling Queen Jewelry SE Main Modules Main Modules ☑ Amulets ☑ Circlets ☑ Rings DLC Addons ☑ Dawnguard Addon ☐ Dawnguard Addon - Unobtainable Items Next Amulet Textures Amulet Textures Options ◉ Gamwich Amulet Textures - 1024 Next Ring Textures Ring Texture Options ◉ Gamwich Ring Textures -Combined - 1k Optional Mesh Packs ◉ None Optional Mesh Packs Dawnguard ☐ Vampire Beast Blood Ring Left Hand Install Disable the following plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): GQJ_DG_vampireamuletfix.esp

				GIANT	2K

				Glacier LOD Meshes		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a Skyrim LE mod, so ignore the MO warning. Install ONLY the Glacier LOD Meshes Main File.

				HAGRAVEN	2K

				Hardy Hares

				HD Dark brotherhood door		Step recommends: No glowing eyes version. This is a SkyrimLE mod, so ignore any MO warnings.

				HD Executioners Block SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
The link for this mod points to an archived version of the mod, because the version Step recommends is not available on the Nexus mod page.

				HD Misc		This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored.

				HD Pondfish

				HD Reworked Horses	2K-1K

				HD Road Signs	2K	Install one Main File, and merge both Optional Files.

				HD Stone Quarry and Clay Deposit	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install one of the Main Files. Step recommends: ...2K Ignore the Majestic Mountains Patch Optional File. It does not blend well and introduces z fighting.

				High-Res Dartwing Texture

				High Hrothgar Fixed		Install the High Hrothgar Fixed main file.

				High Quality Food and Ingredients SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
The link for this mod points to an archived version of the mod, because the version Step recommends is not available on the Nexus mod page. ExpandFOMOD Instructions High Quality Food and Ingredients SE High Quality Food and Ingredients SE Select One ◉ Custom Next Pick and Choose Select all you want ☑ Baked Potatoes ☑ Boiled Creme Treat ☑ Bone Meal ☑ Bread ☐ Cabbage ☑ Carrots ☑ Charred Skeever Hide and Meat ☑ Chicken Breast ☐ Chicken ☐ Cooked Beef ☑ Dead Hare ☑ Dead Pheasant ☐ Elder Cheese ☑ Garlic ☐ Goat Cheese ☑ Green Apple ☑ Grilled Chicken Breast ☑ Grilled Leeks ☑ Honey Nut Treat ☑ Long Taffy Treat ☑ Mead ☑ Moon Sugar ☑ Mora Tapinella ☑ Pie ☑ Potatoes ☑ Powdered Mannoth Tusk ☑ Raw Beef ☑ Red Apple ☑ Salmon Meat ☐ Salmon ☑ Salmon Steak ☑ Salt Pile ☑ Scaly Photiota ☑ Seared Slaughterfish ☑ Slaughterfish Scales ☑ Sweet Roll ☐ Venison Chop ☑ Venison ☑ Void Salts Next Please Read Finish ☑ Confirm Install

				Highland Cows More Wooly - Cut Content Restoration

				HORNCANDLES	2K-1K

				Hybrids HD Plants and Herbs Retexture		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Hide the following files (instructions for hiding 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

				Iconics Real Hay	2K Alt

				Iconic's Remastered Paragon Gems		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Iconic's Remastered Paragon Gems Size Texture Sizes ◉ 2K Next Metal Options Choose Metal Color ◉ Gold Install Hide the following file (instructions for hiding files/folders): meshes\dlc01\clutter\animated\portalgem01\portalgemstand01.nif

				Immersive Dragons

				Immersive Smilodons

				Improved closefaced helmets

				Improved Sparks		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Step recommends: Grindstones - Vanilla Sparks and Impact Effects - Vanilla Sparks. Install as a separate mods to preserve their version tracking to keep pace with updates. Consider renaming the files to match the mod name.

				Improved Weapon Impact EFFECTS Correct Metal SE

				Just Ice	2K

				LeanWolfs Better-Shaped Weapons SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the LeanWolfs Better-Shaped Weapons Installer v2.1.03 SE main file. NOTE: If selecting Greatsword Sheaths on page 2A, also install the LWs BSW Orcish Greatsword inventory fix - sheath Update File. 21-Post-Processing Ignore Dawnbreaker ENB option, since ENB Light will provide the ENB version. ExpandFOMOD Instructions LeanWolf's Better-Shaped Weapons SE Step 1 All or Custom ◉ Install everything (default) Next Step 2A All Sheath Options ☑ Onehanded Sheaths ☑ Greatsword Sheaths    (if selected, merge Update File) Next Step 3 Variants and Patches Patches ☐ FrankFamily HD Imperial Armor and Weapons ☐ FrankFamily Ultra HD Silver Sword ☐ Scimitar Bling ☑ Keening with Refraction ☐ Runed Nord Hero Weapons Next Step 4 Glass Glass Refraction Options ◉ Refractive Glass Weapons Next Step 5 Stalhrim Stalhrim Refraction Options ◉ Stalhrim with Refraction Next Step 6A Dawnbreaker Sheath Dawnbreaker ◉ Dawnbreaker Sheath Dwarf Next Step 6b Dawnbreaker ENB Patches ◉ Dawnbreaker No ENB    (see Post-Processing note) Next Step 7 Dragonbone Dragonbone Options ◉ DragonBoring Weapons Next Step 8 Dual Sheath Left-hand Meshes ◉ No Dual Sheath Install

				LeanWolfs Improved Enchanter Candle Meshes SE

				MAMMOTH	2K

				Markarth - A Reflective Experience

				Masque of Argonian Vile SSE

				Metallurgy - Ingots and Ore HD	1K	Step recommends: Metallurgy - Ingots Ore and Veins HD 1K (LOOSE) main file.

				Nightingale Prime HD	Leather	This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored.

				Northfires Skidmarks SE 2K-4K	2K	Install the Main File of choice, and also install the Optional File.

				N-R HD Display Case	Clear Glass

				Obsidian Mountain Fogs Tweaked		Install either the the Reduced 10% or Reduced 20% Main File.

				Pilgrims Delight

				Quality CubeMaps - HD Cube Maps		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download the main file. Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): textures\armor\ebonymail\f\chitin_e_ebony.dds textures\armor\ebonymail\m\chitin_e_ebony.dds textures\cubemaps\chitin_e_ebony.dds textures\cubemaps\ore_obsidian_e.dds

				Rallys Hanging Moss	Desaturated

				Rallys Hooks and Saws		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Only Install the Rallys Hooks and Saws file. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Rally's Hooks and Saws Step 1 Rally's Hooks and Saws ◉ Rusty Install

				Rallys Instruments		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Rally's Instruments Step 1 Welcome ☑ Rally's Instruments Next Step 2 Rally's Instruments ◉ Version 2 New Vanilla Optional ☐ Blank Lute ☐ Blank Lute 1K Install

				Real Wood Textures - Farmhouses		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. Install only 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 retired Guides. For SE, the 2K textures are desired. Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): textures\architecture\farmhouse\StoneWall01.dds textures\architecture\farmhouse\StoneWall01_n.dds

				Realistic HD Baskets Remastered

				Realistic HD Pickaxe Remastered

				Realistic HD Woodcutters Axe Remastered

				Realistic Water Two SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File, and merge any Update Files if they exist. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Realistic Water Two SE Core Files Core ☑ Core Files Next Mod Options Smaller Textures ◉ None Optional Textures ☐ Select Nothing Watercolors ☐ Select Nothing Next Mod Patches Optional Patches ☐ Select Nothing (Covered by the Step Patch) Install

				Remove Small Rocks		Install the Remove Small Rocks v1.1 - High Compatibility main file.

				Retexture for Bread - Hearthfire

				Retexture for Soup		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. Install SMIM Mesh - Poor Version.

				Retexture for The Scroll SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. The following options are suggested: ExpandFOMOD Instructions Retexture for The Scroll Choose Version (1/2) Choose Version ◉ Mixed Set Next Choose Version (2/2) Mixed Set - Choose Texture ◉ Mixed Set Install

				Ruins Clutter Improved		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Ruins_Clutter_Improved SE main file. Also install Ruins Clutter Improved Subliminal Traps Optional File. Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): meshes\furniture\workbenches meshes\furniture\enchantingworkbench.nif meshes\furniture\enchantingworkstation.nif meshes\loadscreenart\loadscreenenchantingworkbench.nif textures\clutter\candles

				RUSTIC AMULETS - Special Edition

				RUSTIC ANIMATED POTIONS and POISONS	1K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install a Main File. Also install SSE Meshes Update File, merging when asked. Merging is fine, since all files use the global version, and it simplifies the following procedure. Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): Once installed, double-click the mod in MO to bring up Mod Information window Select the Conflicts tab At the top on the Winning file conflicts:' filter at top right, type Fixed Mesh Lighting Select all lines in the filtered Winning file conflicts: pane Right-click on any selected file and select Hide

				RUSTIC ARMOR and WEAPONS SE	2K

				RUSTIC AZURAS STAR - Special Edition	2K

				RUSTIC COOKING - Special Edition	1K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Hide the following file (instructions for hiding files/folders): meshes\_byoh\furniture\ovenmarker.nif

				RUSTIC DAEDRA - Special Edition	2K	Step recommends: RUSTIC DAEDRA SSE - VANILLA - 2K optional file.

				RUSTIC DEATH HOUND and GARGOYLE - Special Edition	2K	Step recommends: RUSTIC DEATH HOUND AND GARGOYLE SSE - DARK - 2K main file.

				RUSTIC DRAGON CORPSE - Special Edition	2K

				RUSTIC DRAGONS - Special Edition	Reduced	Step recommends: RUSTIC DRAGONS SE - Reduced main file.

				RUSTIC ELDERSCROLL - Special Edition	2K

				RUSTIC FROSTBITE SPIDER - Special Edition	2K

				RUSTIC RELIEFS		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): textures\architecture\windhelm\500wall.dds textures\architecture\windhelm\500wall_n.dds textures\clutter\birthsign*.dds (disable all of these, 39 files) textures\dungeons\nordic (entire folder) textures\dungeons\mossdirtpile01.dds textures\dungeons\mossdirtpile01_n.dds textures\dungeons\ridgedstone*.dds (disable all of these, 6 files) textures\dungeons\scrollworktrim01.dds textures\dungeons\scrollworktrim01_n.dds

				RUSTIC SOULGEMS - Special Edition	1K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the RUSTIC SOULGEMS - Special Edition - FOMOD - English Only main file. ExpandFOMOD Instructions RUSTIC SOUL GEMS Step 1 - Texture Resolution Choose your texture resolution ◉ 1k Textures Next Step 2 - Plugin Select your plugin ◉ Sorted + ESL + GIST Patch Install

				RUSTIC SPRIGGAN - Special Edition	2K	Install one Main File of choice, and merge the Optional File, since versioning is consistent.

				RUSTIC WINDOWS - Special Edition	2K

				SABRECAT	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions SABRECAT by Kajuan PLEASE SELECT AT LEAST ONE ☑ Install the Sabrecat and Sabrecat Snow ☑ Install the Valecat Install

				Security Overhaul SKSE - Lock Variations	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Security Overhaul SKSE - Lock Variations Main Textures ◉ 2K Textures DLL ◉ SSE v1.6+ ("AE") Install

				Security Overhaul SKSE - Add-ons	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Security Overhaul SKSE - Add-ons Main Textures ◉ 2K Textures Install

				Security Overhaul SKSE - Gems Patch - The Cause Chests Secured	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File using the FOMOD instructions below. Merge the Miscellaneous File, since versioning is consistent. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Security Overhaul SKSE - Gems Patch - The Cause Chests Secured Step 1 Options ☑ Rielle Secured ☑ Gem Patch Next Step 2 Textures ◉ 2K Textures Install

				Security Overhaul SKSE - Regional Locks	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Security Overhaul SKSE - Regional Locks Main Textures ◉ 2K Textures Install

				Security Overhaul SKSE - Some More Locks		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Security Overhaul SKSE - Some More Locks Main Main ☑ Some More Locks Next Snazzy Strongboxes Snazzy Strongboxes ◉ None Next Mod Patches Strongbox/Safe Replacer ◉ None Metalcage Replacer ☐ JS Common Cages SE East Empire Strongbox Logo ☐ East Empire Strongbox Logo Next Lock UI Variations Variations ☐ Jail Door With Handle ☐ Smaller Locks Install

				Soul-Cairn Objects Secured

				SKELETON	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Skeleton and Human Bones by Kajuan Custom Select one ◉ Skin, clutter without sounds Install

				Skygazer Moons SSE	No Glow

				Skyrim - A Mountainous Experience		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): meshes\architecture\solitude\smuseleum.nif meshes\Landscape\unique\markarthcliff02.nif meshes\Landscape\unique\markarthcliff03.nif meshes\Landscape\unique\markarthcliff04.nif

				Skyrim Objects SMIMed - Glazed and Nordic Pottery

				Majestic Mountains - More Accurate Collision		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Also install as a separate mod the Majestic Mountains - More Accurate Collision - AME Patch from Optional Files. Installing additional files not under Nexus' "Main Files" section as separate mods preserves their version tracking to keep pace with updates.

				Skyrim Redesigned WIP		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. Download the FOMOD version Main File. In MO, click    from the toolbar above the left pane (just to the right of the Profile selector). Select Install mod... from the context menu. Navigate to FOMOD version-8954-.7z, and click the Open button to invoke the FOMOD installer. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Skyrim Redesigned Main Modules Main Modules ◉ S.T.E.P. Recommended Textures Install Once installed, two files must be manually moved, due to having the incorrect file path: In MO, double click on the newly-installed Skyrim Redesigned mod in the left pane. Under the Filetree tab, right click on the Textures folder, and select New Folder. Type interface as the new folder name. Finally, drag the objects folder onto the new interface folder. The final folder structure should appear as follows: SR Folder Structure

				Skyrim SE Improved Puddles		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Choose one of the following: 21-Post-Processing will NOT be used Install the Skyrim SE Improved Puddles FOMOD for Non-ENB users Miscellaneous Files. 21-Post-Processing Install the Skyrim SE Improved Puddles FOMOD vXX for ENB users Main File. With either option, the FOMOD is the same: ExpandFOMOD Instructions Skyrim SE Improved Puddles Options Windhelm Ice Puddle Textures ◉ 1024x1024 Resolution Choose an ESP ☑ Skyrim Special Edition (all DLCs) Install

				Skyrim SE Skill Interface Re-Texture		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
The instructions below are for the most vanilla-like experience. Users may customize their installations to their preference. ExpandFOMOD Instructions SSIRT v4.1 Introduction Introduction ◉ Please Read Next Background Background ◉ Background - Default Stars - HDR Nebula Next Perk Lines Perk Lines ◉ Perk Lines - Option 1 Next Perk Line Colours Perk Line Colours ◉ Perk Line Colour - Default Next Constellations Constellations ◉ Constellations - HD Default Next Perk Stars Perk Stars ◉ Perk Stars - Enhanced Default Next Dawnguard Moons and Stars Dawnguard Moons and Stars ◉ HD Masser and Secunda Vanilla Stars Next Vampire Background Vampire Nebula Background ◉ HDR Nebula Next Thanks Thanks ☑ Thank You Install

				Smooth Sky Mesh - SSE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
The link for this mod points to an archived version of the mod, because the version Step recommends is not available on the Nexus mod page. Only install this mod if 18-Lighting and Weather ModGroup will NOT be installed!

				SSE - Skyrim Sun Enhanced		Install the SSE - No lens flare main file.

				Stalhrim Source	2K

				Superior Chaurus - 4k Retexture	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Superior Chaurus 4K Introduction Welcome ☑ Next Next Diffuse 4K - 2K Diffuse Maps ☑ 4K - 2K Diffuse Maps Next Normal Maps NormalMaps ◉ 2K Normal Maps Install

				Superior Mudcrab - 4k Retexture	2K/1K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File: ExpandFOMOD Instructions Mudcrab 4K FOMOD Installer Introduction Welcome ☑ Next Next Diffuse Maps Diffuse Maps ☑ 4K Diffuse Maps Next Normal Maps ◉ 2K Normal Maps Install Merge the performance/quality option, if applicable. Step recommends: Mudcrab 2K2K - Creatures optional file.

				Sweet Mother		Step recommends: Sweet Mother HD. This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning can be ignored.

				The Elder Scrolls V Rewritten - Arvak SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions The Elder Scrolls V Rewritten - Arvak SE Installation Options Plugins ☑ Main File Texture Sizes ◉ High Definition Model Options ◉ Soul Cairn Install

				TROLL	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Troll by Kajuan Custom Select one ☑ Default Install

				Vivid Landscapes - Tundra Moss Revised	1K Yellow	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. 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 (merging is fine for this one).

				WEBS S.E.	2K

				White Phial Replacer SE		Install White Phial Replacer SE main file. Step recommends: White Phial Replacer 0.5x size optional file.

				Whiterun Mesh Fixes		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Hide the following file (instructions for hiding files/folders): meshes\architecture\whiterun\wrterrain\wrblacksmithbase.nif

				Whiterun Skyforge - Reforged		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Whiterun Skyforge - Reforged - No ENB Lights or Glow main file. 21-Post-Processing Consider installing the 'Whiterun Skyforge - Reforged main file, which adds glowing eyes and ENBSeries Complex Particle Lights.

				Whiterun Trellis Redesigned SE	2K

				WISPMOTHER	2K-1K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Wispmother.by.Kajuan Custom Select One ◉ Full version - skin with a linen fabric cloth Install

07-Sounds and Music

Mods that affect sounds or music

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Acoustic Space Improvement Fixes		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Acoustic Space Improvement Fixes Acoustic Space Improvement Fixes Installer ☑ Continue Next Acoustic Space Improvement Fixes Base Game and DLC ☑ Main Files Creation Club ☑ Farming ☑ Saints and Seducers Acoustic Space Improvement Fixes Saints and Seducers ◉ Default Next Acoustic Space Improvement Fixes Sound ☑ Reverb Interior Sounds Expansion Lighting ☑ Ambiance ☐ ELFX Enhancer - Shadows ☐ Enhanced Lighting for ENB ☐ Luminosity ☐ Lux ☐ Shadows RT Next Acoustic Space Improvement Fixes Ambiance - Ambient Lighting Overhaul ◉ Ambiance Next Installation Complete Thank You! ☑ Thank You! Install

				Audio Overhaul - Immersive Sounds Integration

				Immersive Sounds - Compendium		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Immersive Sounds Compendium Main Files Immersive Sounds - Compendium ☑ Main Files (Required) Next Melee Options Weapon Impact Options ◉ IS Default (Extra Bloody) Unarmed Impact Options ◉ S'wit Fighter Turbo Weapon Draw/Sheath Options ◉ IS Default (Stylized Fantasy) Next Ranged Weapon Options Bow Shot Options ◉ High Fantasy Bow Pull Options ◉ IS Default Arrow Impact Options ◉ High Fantasy Next Bonus Weaponry Options Options Extra Weaponry Options ☐ Extra Gory Killmove Sounds ☐ Smooth Weapon Swings ☑ Silent Arrow Projectile Loop Next Magic Options Soul Trap Options ◉ Soul Suck Restoration Options ◉ High Fantasy Firebolt Options ◉ Swooshy Next Creature Options Creature Options ☑ Demonic Draugr ☑ Well-Mannered Wolves ☑ Sensible Storm Atronachs ☑ Brutal Bears Next Misc Options Nirnroot Options ◉ Vanilla Nirnroot Sound Misc Options ☐ Oblivion Skillup Sound ☐ Dungeon Ambiance ☐ TESO Summoning ☐ Silent Weapon Enchants ☐ Silent Left Hand ☐ Silent Sneak Attack ☐ Silent World Map ☐ Silent Player Ragdoll Install

				Audio Overhaul for Skyrim SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Audio Overhaul for Skyrim Audio Overhaul for Skyrim (#.#.#) Main Files ☑ Required Files Next Requirements and Recommendations Requirements ☑ Engine Fixes ☑ Sound Record Distributor Recommendations ☑ Acoustic Space Improvement Fixes ☑ Reverb Interior Sounds Expansion Next Addons Mods ☐ Enhanced Blood Textures ☐ Rumble Additions ☐ True Storms Next Installation Complete Thank You! ☑ Thank You! Install

				Better Animal Footsteps		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Better Animal Footsteps Custom Select on option ◉ Install all of the footstep sounds Next Custom Optional Pets of Skyrim patch ☐ Pets of Skyrim - cats Install

				Better Horse Pain Sounds		This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored.

				Dragons Shout with Voice		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. Install the Dragons Shout with Voice - LOOSE main file.

				Guard Dialogue Overhaul - UHDAP Patch

				Heart of the Beast		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. Step recommends: Feral Werewolf sounds - HIGH AGGRESSION

				IHSS - Improved Horse Step Sounds

				Lower Sounding Thieves Guild Door		This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored.

				Realistic wolf howls		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. Step recommends: Realistic Wolf Howls more barks than howls

				Regional Sounds Expansion

				Reverb Interior Sounds Expansion		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Reverb Interior Sounds Expansion Reverb Interior Sounds Expansion Installer ☑ Continue Next Reverb Interior Sounds Expansion Main Files ☑ Reverb, Ambience, Output Models Interior Sounds ☐ Rain ☐ Thunder ☑ Wind Next Installation Complete Thank You! ☑ Thank You! Install

				Sound Hammering Sounds

				Thundering Shouts		Step Recommends: Thundering Shouts main file.

				Ultra Realistic Bow Shoot Sounds		This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored.

				Ultra Realistic Crossbow Shoot Sounds		This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored.

08-Character Appearance

Mods that affect the appearance of the player character or NPCs

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Beards	1K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Beards Choose options Choose full or vanilla replacer ◉ Full install Choose resolution ◉ Low: 1024 Install

				Brows	512	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Brows Choose options Choose full or vanilla replacer ◉ Full install Choose resolution ◉ Low: 512 Install

				Consistent Older People		Step recommends: Consistent Older People XX Loose optional file

				Female Vampires Have Fangs

				Lore Corrected Races

				Lucien Lachance AE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Lucien Lachance Restored - Immersive Spectral Assassin Introduction Introduction ☑ Introduction Next Pick a version Version ◉ Alternative Install

				More Realistic Hair		This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored.

				Natural Eyes SSE	Low Res	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
The SSE version of this mod was hidden, so the LE version is linked instead. There is no difference, since these are only textures.

				Northborn Scars

				Simple Children		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File using the instructions below. Merge the Update File, selecting the textures of choice. NOTE: This mod relies on meshes from TK Children, which will be installed later. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Simple Children Vanilla or USSEP? ◉ USSEP Required ☑ Base Data Next Texture Choices ◉ Paler Eye Area Install This mod's plugin should be cleaned, as it contains an old USSEP forward that will result in the game freezing otherwise. Run xEdit using MO, and click [OK] when the Module Selection window appears. All plugins should be selected by default. Click [OK] again without selecting any ModGroups. Type or paste 00014132 into the FormID filter. Scroll down to Packages(aligned). In the FacegenForKids column, right-click on [REFR:XX000808] and click Remove in the context menu. 'XX' will vary, depending on the Load Order (LO) of the USSEP plugin. Close xEdit, saving the edited plugin when prompted. Reference:

				Superior Lore-Friendly Hair	1K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. Step recommends: SLF Hair - Rough Hair - Lite 1K

				Vanilla Body with UNP Textures

				Tempered Skins for Females - UNP		ExpandDetailed 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. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Tempered Skins for Females A - Body type Body type ◉ A7 - Bikini type IV Next B - Body diffuse options Body diffuse options ◉ B09 - Dirty, hairy, no scars Next C - Body normal options Body normal options ◉ C2 - Fit Next D - Face diffuse options Face diffuse options ◉ D2 - Elder Next E - Face normal options Face normal options ◉ E2 - Rougher Next F - Facemarks, scars (not necessary) Scars ☐ F1 - Female Scars by Xenius Female tintmasks by Xenius ◉ None Male tintmasks by Xenius ◉ None Beast tintmasks by Xenius ◉ None Next Warning Attention ☑ I got it Install

				Tempered Skins for Males		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a Not Safe For Work (NSFW) mod page and installer! Step recommends: Tempered Skins for Males - Dressed Version Main File. The instructions below are for the most vanilla-like options (A1 - Vanilla Underwear). ExpandFOMOD Instructions Tempered Skins for Males A - Main Files ◉ A1 - Vanilla underwear Next B - Body diffuse options ◉ B6 - Dirty light haired Next C - Body normal options ◉ C1 - Ripped Next D - Face diffuse options ◉ D2 - Elder Next E - Face normal options ◉ E2 - Harsh Next F - Facemarks, scars (not necessary) Scars ☐ F1 - Male Scars by Xenius Male tintmasks ◉ None Beast tintmasks ◉ None Next Warning) Attention ☑ I got it Install Hide the following files (instructions for hiding files/folders): textures\actors\character\male\maleunderwear.dds textures\actors\character\male\maleunderwear_n.dds textures\armor\briarheart\briarheart.dds textures\armor\briarheart\briarheart_n.dds

				TK Children SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. When installing the FOMOD, use the default options, since all but the TRI meshes will be disabled as indicated below. Disable the following plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): TKChildren.esm TKChildren.esp Hide the following folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): Textures Meshes\Actors\character\facegendata Meshes\Actors\character\TKChildren

				Vanilla Makeup HD	2K	Step recommends: VMHD - All Races - 2K main file. Merge Update File matching the quality chosen for the Main File.

				Vanilla Warpaints Absolution	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Vanilla Warpaints Absolution Main Files Vanilla Replacers ◉ 2K Vanilla Replacers RaceMenu Plugins ◉ 2K RaceMenu All-In-One Next Variant Textures Vanilla Variants General Watercolor ◉ None Vanilla Variants Wood Elves Muddy ◉ None Vanilla Variants Dark Elf Ashy ◉ None Vanilla Variants Khajiit Stripes Furry ◉ 2K Furry Vanilla Variants Nord Splattered ◉ None Vanilla Variants Argonian Scaley ◉ 2K Scaley RaceMenu Variants General Watercolor ◉ None RaceMenu Variants Wood Elves Muddy ◉ None RaceMenu Variants Dark Elf Ashy ◉ None RaceMenu Variants Khajiit Stripes Furry ◉ 2K Furry RaceMenu Variants Nord Splattered ◉ None RaceMenu Variants Argonian Scaley ◉ 2K Scaley Next Other Files SKSE Tintmask Configs ◉ None Install

09-Fixes

Mods have a programmatic component that fixes various bugs and/or inconsistencies

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Battle-Ready Candlelight Fixes

				Bug Fixes SSE		Install the second main file "compatible with game version 1.6.629.0 and later on Steam."

				Butterflies Land True		Step recommends: Butterflies Land True - ESPFE Alternate Version optional file

				Critters Aint Snitches

				Don't Push Me Around

				Eye Normal Map Fix SSE		Step recommends: Eye Normal Map Fix SSE BC7 optional file

				Fix Note Icon for SkyUI (SKSE64 plugin)		Install the FixNotesForSkyUI Skyrim AE main file.

				Fuz Ro D-oh - Silent Voice		Install the Main File. Merge the Optional File.

				Hearthfires Houses Building Fix

				Hunters Not Bandits

				I'm walkin' here NG

				Invisibility and Eyes Mesh Fix		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Invisibility and Eyes Mesh Fix Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Invisibility and Eyes Mesh Fix by HHaleyy Custom Installation Options ☑ Eyes Mesh Fix ☑ Bug Fix Spell Install

				Labyrinthian Shalidor's Maze Fixes

				NPC AI Process Position Fix - NG		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions NPC AI Process Position Fix - NG Files Plugin ☑ DLL and INI file Patches ◉ AI Overhaul Install

				Powerofthrees Tweaks		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the powerofthree's Tweaks main file, choosing "SSE v1.6.629+ (*Anniversary Edition*)" in the FOMOD. As with any mod with an INI configuration, Step recommends creating an 'empty' mod to contain a customizable configuration that will not be overwritten when the mod is updated. The INI file will not be generated until the game is launched, and it should appear in Overwrite. Once that is done later in the guide, revisit this mod and complete the following if it will be customized: Right click Overwrite > 'Create mod...', and name it (CONFIG) powerofthree's Tweaks. Sort the custom CONFIG mod just after powerofthree's Tweaks, and always edit this INI after updates In po3_Tweaks.ini, change the following parameter under [Fixes]: Validate Screenshot Location = false This is required to enable the screenshot location from BethINI to function. Else they will be saved to: ..\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition\screenshots

				Raven Rock - Fix Exit on Horseback

				Scrambled Bugs		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File for Anniversary Edition (1.6.629.0 and later). Also install both Optional Files as separate mods to allow MO versioning tracking to work properly. In the FOMODs for each, select the 1.6.629.0+ (Anniversary Edition) plugin option. In ScrambledBugs.json, Step recommends the following change to the 'patches' section: "equipBestAmmunition": true All 'fixes' are applied by default, but most 'patches' are disabled by default. Any other changes are optional, so read the mod page description carefully to fully understand the effects of each setting. NOTE: "Reequipping the Quiver/Bolt" set to 1 in Unequip Quiver SE MCM negates equipBestAmmunition=true. A value of 2 for this MCM setting is redundant with equipBestAmmunition=true, and a value of 0 for this MCM setting does not conflict with equipBestAmmunition=true. 21-Post-processing In ScrambledBugs.json, make the following change to the 'patches' section: "attachHitEffectArt": true This is required by Elytra and Bliss Bug ENB Light installed later in the guide.

				Shadows Of Sunlight - In Small Exterior World Spaces

				Skyrim Project Optimization SE		Install the Skyrim SE - Project Optimization - ESL VERSION.

				Soft Shadows

				SPID for Footprints

				Unlimited Bookshelves

				Unnecessarily Fixed Fixed Dragon Stalking Fix

				Waterbreathing Breathless Emerge SSE		Install Waterbreathing Breathless Emerge USSEP optional file.

10-Gameplay-General

Mods that affect general or multiple gameplay mechanics

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Complete Alchemy and Cooking Overhaul		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This mod makes large changes the alchemy and cooking systems! Since this mod's changes are widespread and considered overly invasive by some, its installation has been made optional, and a separate Step Patch is provided later in the guide to support this. Installation Install the Main File with the following options: ExpandFOMOD Instructions Complete Alchemy and Cooking Overhaul Complete Alchemy and Cooking Overhaul Main File ☑ CACO Game Version ◉ 1.6.1170 (Steam) Options ☑ Cleaned Textures ☑ True Fortify Effects for Magic Skills Install

				Complete Crafting Overhaul Remastered		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
NOTE: This mod (CCOR) deviates significantly from vanilla in that it overhauls armor, item, and weapon stats. As such, CCOR is optional and is supported by the Step Patches either way. Nevertheless, Step recommends CCOR as an acceptable deviation from the Mandate and considers CCOR to be equal parts 'fix' and 'enhancement'.

				GIST - Genuinely Intelligent Soul Trap SE		Install the Main File only.

				Weapons Armor Clothing and Clutter Fixes	2K-1K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
NOTE: If Greatsword Sheathes option was chosen for LeanWolfs Better-Shaped Weapons SE, select the Leanwolf's BetterShaped Weapons with Greatsword Scabbard option. Otherwise, select the Leanwolf's BetterShaped Weapons option. Installation Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Weapons Armor Clothing and Clutter Fixes Weapons Armor Clothing and Clutter Fixes Main File ☑ WACCF Next Textures Texture Resolution ◉ 2K (default) Next Patches Orcish Weapons ◉    see note above Bashed Patch ☐ WACCF_BashedPatchLvlListFix.esp Next Options Optional Files ☐ Vanilla Daedric Weapons ☐ Vanilla Dragon Priest Masks ☐ Vanilla Gold Coin ☐ Vanilla Orcish Weapons ☐ Vanilla Projectiles Next Documentation Documentation ☑ Documentation Credits ☑ Credits Install

11-Gameplay-AI and Combat

Mods that affect AI, stats, or combat mechanics of NPCs

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				AI Overhaul SSE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions AI Overhaul SSE Mod Options Main .ESP Options ◉ AI Overhaul 1.8 Scripted Install

				Better Stealth AI for Followers

				Faction Fixes SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This mod was dropped as of SkyrimSE Guide v2.3. See forum topic for details.

				Follower Trap Safety

				Ghosts Mechanics and Shaders Restored

				Realistic AI Detection SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the main file, Realistic AI Detection 3 - Medium Interior Medium Exterior. This is recommended for more realistic gameplay with Ambiance. The Step Patches include changes equivalent to the 'Lite' version for exteriors, so this mod balances well with Cathedral Weathers

				Run For Your Lives

				Simple Offence Suppression

				Spellbreaker Spell Reflection and Ward Visuals Restored		Step Recommends: EVE - Spellbreaker Spell Reflection and Ward Visuals Restored main file

				Tavern AI fix

				Unequip Quiver SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Unequip Quiver SE Step 1 Install Main Files ◉ Version 1.6.629+ Next Step 2 Install MCM Support ◉ Install MCM Support Next Step 3 Install other files ☐ Changelog Next Step 4 ☑ Thanks for installing my mod :) Install NOTE: "Reequipping the Quiver/Bolt" set to 1 in this mod's MCM negates equipBestAmmo=true in Scrambled Bugs. A value of 2 for this MCM setting is redundant with equipBestAmmo=true, and a value of 0 for this MCM setting does not conflict with equipBestAmmo=true.

12-Gameplay-Economy

Mods that affect currency, rewards, values, rates, or any other economy-related mechanics

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Trade and Barter

13-Gameplay-Immersion

Mods that help to improve game immersion and role-playing scenarios

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Butterflies Unchained		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Butterflies Unchained (ESL Version) main file. If CACO will be used, also install the Butterflies Unchained (ESL Version) - Complete Alchemy and Cooking Overhaul Patch from Optional Files.

				Disease Descriptions for the Immersive Adventurer SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Disease Descriptions for the Immersive Adventurer Options Mod Patches ☑ Skyrim AE or CC Survival Mode ☐ Realistic Needs & Diseases Install

				Get Snowy		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Disable the following plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): getSnowy_ObsidianWeathers_Patch.esp getSnowy_WnC-Ashes Patch.esp 21-Post-Processing Ignore the Main File, and install the Optional File instead. Disable the plugins as instructed above.

				Go On Ahead

				Guard Dialogue Overhaul SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install Guard Dialogue Overhaul - ESP. The ESL version is not compatible with Guard Dialogue Overhaul - UHDAP Patch.

				Improved Traps		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Improved Traps main file. Also install Improved Traps - Follower Safety Patch from Miscellaneous Files as a separate mod for independent version tracking. Do not install Mining Makes Noise file!

				No Lockpick Activate (SKSE) - Updated

				Point The Way

				Reasonable Movement Speed

				Relationship Dialogue Overhaul Lite

				Simple Drop Lit Torches SE

				Simplest Horses

				Torches Ignite Oil		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Torches Ignite Oil - Shock Edition Arcane Archer Pack Compatibility main file. Disable the following plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): Torches Ignite Oil - Shock Edition and Arcane Archer Pack Compatibility.esp

14-Gameplay-Quests

Mods that alter aspects of quests and/or related lore

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Alternate Start - Live Another Life - SSE		The latest version is on AFK Mods. Nexus page does not receive updates.

				At Your Own Pace		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install and merge the following Main Files: At Your Own Pace - College of Winterhold At Your Own Pace - Companions At Your Own Pace - Dark Brotherhood At Your Own Pace - Misc

				Even Better Quest Objectives SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
First, install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Even Better Quest Objectives SE Mod Options Mod Version ◉ EBQO with USSEP Optional Files ☑ Dark Brotherhood Forever to Miscellaneous Quests Next Grouped Mod Patches Book Patches ◉ Book Covers Skyrim (by DanielCoffey) Paarthurnax Patches ◉ The Paarthurnax Dilemma (by Arthmoor) Next Individual Mod Patches Available Patches    Only tick the following options ☑ Alternative Start - Live Another Life by Arthmoor ☑ Cutting Room Floor by Arthmoor Install Hide the following file (instructions for hiding files/folders): scripts\qf_mgritual05_000d0755.pex scripts\source\qf_mgritual05_000d0755.psc Next, install Even Better Quest Objectives SE v1.11.0 RC1 as a separate mod (e.g., Even Better Quest Objectives SE - Patches). In the BAIN Package Installer window, tick ONLY the following: 230 Patches - AYOP Companions 231 Patches - AYOP College of Winterhold

				Gildergreen Regrown

				Here We Go Again - World Interactions		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Here We Go Again - World Interactions Here We Go Again Here We Go Again ◉ Vanilla quests Install

				Not So Fast - Main Quest

				Savos Aren's Regrets Restored

				The Choice is Yours		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This mod causes some vanilla quests to not start pending player interaction or until specific conditions are met. Since these changes can cause downstream compatibility issues, the Step Patches support its installation as optional. Installation Install the main file.

				The Paarthurnax Dilemma		The latest version is on AFK Mods. Nexus page does not receive updates.

				Thieves Guild Requirements SE		Install the Main File. A new game is required, if upgrading from v4 to v5

				Timing is Everything SE

15-Gameplay-Skills and Perks

Mods that affect the player character's or NPC skills and perks or related leveling

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Enemy REvolution of Skyrim		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions EEOS - Enemy Revolution of Skyrim Introduction Introduction ☑ Introduction Mod functions provided to NPCs Vanilla Plugins: ☐ Potions for NPCs ☑ Shouts for NPCs Plugins for Mods: ☐ Select Nothing    (do not select Odin) Vampires Only: ☐ Select Nothing Werewolves Only: ☐ Select Nothing Next Optional Hardcore Plugins: ☐ Select Nothing Next Last Words Last Words ☑ Last Words Install

				FIZZLE		This is a 'realism' mod that departs slightly from vanilla. Spells will FAIL if PC/NPC is not skilled enough.

				Lock Overhaul		Install the Lock Overhaul main file.

				Odin - Skyrim Magic Overhaul

				ODIN spells for NPCS		Install the ODIN Spells For Spell Casters main file.

				Skyrim Skill Uncapper AE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
As with any mod with an INI configuration, Step recommends creating an 'empty' mod to contain a customizable configuration that will not be overwritten when the mod is updated: Click > Create empty mod, and name it (CONFIG) Skyrim Skill Uncapper AE. Copy the entire SKSE/ path from the source mod into the new mod. Delete all content under SKSE/Plugins/ except the INI file. Prioritize this configuration mod just after the source mod in MO such that the INI will override that of the source mod.

				Smart NPC Potions - Enemies Use Potions and Poisons		Step recommends v1.11 (without the added NPC vocalizations) from Old Files.

				Vokrii - Minimalistic Perks of Skyrim		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Also install as a separate mod the Odin - Vokrii Compatibility Patch from Optional Files. Installing additional files not under Nexus' "Main Files" section as separate mods preserves their version tracking to keep pace with updates.

				Vokrii Perks For NPCS		Install the Vokrii Perks For NPCS 50 main file.

16-Interface

Mods that affect any aspect of the user interface

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				A Clear Map of Skyrim and Other Worlds		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions A Clear Map of Skyrim and Other Worlds FOMOD Options Core Files ☑ Core Files DynDOLOD Rules ◉ DynDOLOD 3 LOD Setup ◉ With DynDOLOD LOD32 Other Worlds ☐ Select nothing Optional Components ☑ Remove Clouds Patches Patches ☑ Worldspace Transition Tweaks Install

				Atlas Map Markers SE - Updated with MCM		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
If updating during an existing playthrough, install v2.7.1, and also install Atlas Map Markers v2 - Updated CoMAP Config. Otherwise, install the latest version available: ExpandFOMOD Instructions Atlas Map Markers (3.0.0+) Atlas Map Markers SE - Updated with MCM Main File ☑ Atlas Map Markers Next Updated Third-Party Patches ☐ Select Nothing Install

				Better Container Controls for SkyUI		Install the BCC-SkyUI-ESL-v31 optional file.

				Better Dialogue Controls

				Better MessageBox Controls

				CoMAP - Common Marker Addon Project		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This mod has several "Undiscovered Marker Options", and all are valid except NORDIC UI. For the most vanilla-friendly gameplay, Step recommends: Obscured Undiscovered HUD Markers - Question Mark. For more immersive/mysterious gameplay, Step recommends: Invisible Undiscovered Markers. The most vanilla-friendly options are as follows: ExpandFOMOD Instructions CoMAP Core files CoMAP Core Pack ☑ CoMAP for Skyrim 1.6.x Configs ☑ CoMAP Config Pack Next Undiscovered Marker Options Obscured Undiscovered Options ◉ Obscured Undiscovered HUD Markers - Question Mark Next Addons Khajiit Caravan Markers ◉ None Jorrvaskr Map Marker ◉ Jorrvaskr Map Marker (Closed City) Vigilants of Stendarr Map Marker ◉ None Other Addons ☑ Ruined Map Markers Use Original Outline ☑ Altars and Shrines ☐ Abandoned Mines Use Vanilla Design ☑ Orc Only Bandit Locations Use Orc Stronghold Marker ☑ Hearthfire (and Tundra Homestead) Uses Settlement Next Beyond Skyrim Beyond Skyrim Extensions ☐ Bruma - CoMAP Extension Beyond Skyrim Design Swaps ☐ Select nothing Install Hide the following file so that the version provided by Atlas Map Markers will be used instead (instructions for hiding files/folders): MapMarkers\Atlas Map Markers.json Configuration As with any mod that includes an INI configuration, Step recommends creating an 'empty' mod to contain a customizable configuration that will not be overwritten when the mod is updated: Click > Create empty mod, and name it (CONFIG) CoMAP. Copy the entire SKSE/ folder from the source mod into the new mod. Delete all content under SKSE/Plugins/ except the INI file. Prioritize this configuration mod just after the source mod in MO such that the INI will override that of the source mod. Make the following changes to the custom configuration file: Double-click the (CONFIG) CoMAP mod in the left pane to open Mod Information. Click the "INI Files" tab to modify MapMarkerFramework.ini. Make the following changes according to preference: [Map] bObscuredUndiscovered=0 ; Set to '1' if a Obscured Undiscovered Option other than "None" was chosen fMarkerScale=0.75 [HUD] bObscuredUndiscovered=0 ; Set to '1' if a Obscured Undiscovered Option other than "None" was chosen

				Convenient Reading UI - SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Merge the Font Overhaul Compatibility Patch optional file. Configure INI Step recommends using the default for the INI with a change to the 'Steal' font color if the book is not owned or free for the taking, but all INI settings should be adjusted as desired. Double click on the Convenient Reading UI - SE mod Click on the INI Files to modify Convenient Reading.ini Find the following setting, and edit as follows: sBookStealTextColor=0xFF0000

				Font Overhaul - Natural Typefaces for Skyrim		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Font Overhaul - Natural Typefaces for Skyrim Info Info ☑ Okay Next Patches Patches ◉ None Next Configure Fonts Interface ◉ Fertigo Pro Book ◉ Morris Roman Handwritten ◉ Anke Calligraphy FG Realistic Print ◉ Don't Install Install

				HD Local Map

				Horse Stamina HUD - Script-Free		Install Horse Stamina HUD SE main file for 1.6.x.

				Immersive HUD - iHUD Special Edition

				Informed Mail Delivery		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Choose only the Informed Mail Delivery - Vanilla Style Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Informed Mail Delivery - Vanilla Style Version Compatibility Version ◉ Vanilla Next Patches Patches ☐ Loot and Degredation Animations Install Light Plugin for Animations? ◉ Install Install

				Lore-Based Loading Screens

				More Informative Console		Install the More Informative Console 1.x.x AE (1.6.640 plus) main file.

				MoreHUD Inventory Edition		Install moreHUD Inventory Edition Loose Version - AE main file.

				MoreHUD SE		Install the moreHUD SE Light Master - AE master file.

				Oxygen Meter		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This mod is not needed if playing an Argonian. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Oxygen Meter Main DLL ◉ SSE v1.6.629+ ("Anniversary Edition") Install

				QUI

				RaceMenu

				Show Player In Menu

				Skyrim Character Sheet		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Double click on the Skyrim Character Sheet mod in the MO left pane Click on the "Text Files" tab to modify SkyrimCharacterSheet_Input.json Find the following setting, and edit as follows: "inventory_auto_show_inventory": false, This will prevent the character sheet from auto-displaying on the inventory screen, obscuring the view in the right pane. To toggle the character sheet, press '0'.

				SkyUI		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. As a temporary measure to fix an issue introduced with game runtime update 1.6.1130, also install SkyUI SE - Difficulty Persistence Fix as a separate mod at one higher priority than SkyUI.

				SkyUI SE - Flashing Savegames Fix		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This fix works for all versions of Skyrim SE and AE before v1.6.1130. The "Creations" update (v1.6.1130 and later) introduced new changes to the menu. With the v1.6.1130-v1.6.1170 runtime, use SkyUI SE - Difficulty Persistence Fix, which includes this Flashing Savegames Fix.

				SkyUI - Ghost Item Bug Fix

				Smaller Vanilla Cursors SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Smaller Vanilla Cursors Step 1 1 ◉ Right Install

				Whose Quest is it Anyway NG

				Wider MCM Menu for SkyUI		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install one Main File of choice. Step Recommends: Opt. 3 or Opt. 4. Compares: LINK NOTE: Some display configurations may require a different option if top/bottom of menus are cut off.

				Yes Im Sure NG

17-Locations

Mods that programmatically add new or alter vanilla locations

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Bring Out Your Dead

				Cutting Room Floor - SSE

				Farmhouse Chimneys SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File: ExpandFOMOD Instructions Farmhouse Chimneys SE Base Options Alternative Toppers ☐ Clay Chimney Stacks Next Modded Towns Towns ☐ Helgen Reborn New Locations New Lands ☐ Falskarr New Villages ☐ Fall of Granite Hill Install Also install the USSEP patch from Optional Files.

				Hearthfire Extended		Install the Main File. Merge the Hearthfire Extended - Cutting Room Floor Patch optional file.

				Helarchen Creek

				Landscape Fixes For Grass Mods		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Install Patches for Arthmoor's Town add-ons FOMOD under Optional Files as a separate mod for independent version tracking: ExpandFOMOD 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 Arthmoor's Dragon Bridge ☐ Patch for Arthmoor's Shor's Stone ☐ Patch for Arthmoor's Falkreath ☐ Patch for Arthmoor's Rorikstead ☐ Patch for Arthmoor's Ivarstead ☐ Patch for Provincial Courier ☑ Patch for Oakwood Next Patches Installed. Select an Option ☑ Reminder Install

				Oakwood

				Oblivion Gates Remade		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Oblivion Gates Remade Step1 Optional Files ☑ Map Markers ☐ First Person Messages Textures ◉ Mountain-Like Textures for MAJESTIC MOUNTAINS. Install

				Smooth Shores

				Snowy Landscapes in Snowy Regions		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Snowy Landscapes for Snowy Regions Mod Version Select a version ◉ Landscape Fixes for Grass Mods Next Mod Patches Select installed mods ☑ Cutting Room Floor ☐ Stave Church of Skyrim ☐ Thanedom of Anga's Mill Install

				Worldspace Transition Tweaks

18-Lighting and Weather

Mods that affect lighting and/or weather systems **installation is optional**

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Ambiance - A Vanilla(plus) Ambient Lighting Overhaul		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Ambiance Introduction Welcome ☑ Next Next Choose which Plugins you want to install Main Plugin ◉ Ambiance Optional - Recommended ☑ Tweaked Light Colors Install

				Cathedral Weathers MCM

				Cathedral Weathers and Seasons		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. 21-Post-Processing Merge the Update File if installing the post-processing ModGroup.

				Enhanced Volumetric Lighting and Shadows

				Lanterns of Skyrim SE - MCM version		Install the Lanterns of Skyrim SE - MCM Version - 1 Original MannyGT main file.

				Relighting Skyrim - SSE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File only. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Relighting Skyrim SE Installation Options Choose with or without USSEP requirement ◉ With USSEP (Recommended) Choose a version to install ◉ Full Version Install

				Storm Lightning for SSE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Storm Lightning for SSE and VR Select Game Select Game ◉ Skyrim Special Edition Next Select Game Version Select SSE Version ◉ 1.6.61170 Next Select Plugin Type Select Plugin ◉ ESL Flagged Next Select Night Time Sheet Halo Select Sheet Halo ◉ Halo with Dimmer Lightning (Level 0) Next Select Day Time Sheet Halo Select Sheet Halo ◉ Halo Very Dim (Level 3) Next Select Night Time Fork Halo Select Fork Halo ◉ Halo Dimmer (Level 1) Next Select Day Time Fork Halo Select Fork Halo ◉ Halo Very Dim (Level 3) Next Select Thunder Delay Select Fork Halo ◉ With Delay (Realistic) Install

				Wonders of Weather		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Wonders of Weather Options Core ☑ Wonders of Weather Optionals ☑ Less Opaque Splashes ☐ More Opaque Splashes Install

				WoW Dragon Mounds CTD Fix		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions WoW Dragon Mounds CTD Fix Main Select Version ◉ BSA + ESL Flagged Next Optional Enable or disable ☐ Alternative Rain Splash Effect Install

19-Utilities

Mods that generate derived mod output from load-order-specific assets

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				ACMOS Road Generator		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download and extract to the Tools folder (e.g. ..\Modding\Tools\ACMOS Road Generator). It will be used later in the guide.

				DynDOLOD 3 Alpha		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Ensure that both x86 and x64 versions of Visual Studio 2015, 2017 and 2019 are installed. Download the Main File. Extract the archive to the Tools folder (e.g. ..\Modding\Tools\DynDOLOD). Create a folder for the application output called, DynDOLOD_Output: ..\Modding\Tools\DynDOLOD\DynDOLOD_Output Configure MO Executable Configure as follows (If necessary, revisit the Tool Setup in the guide.): Application Title Executable Argument(s) DynDOLOD DynDOLODx64.exe -SSE TexGen TexGen64.exe -SSE NOTE: The output paths are defined in the TexGen/DynDOLOD GUI and NOT in the MO executable configurations. Modify INIs The guide disables grass LOD by default. Instructions for enabling grass LODGen are also provided and may be enabled at a later time as instructed by the guide if adequate performance headroom is available. Navigate to C:/Modding/Tools/DynDOLOD/Edit Scripts/DynDOLOD/DynDOLOD_SSE.ini, and modify as follows by removing the semicolons at the start of each line where necessary: Expert=1 Level32=1 GrassGID=gid ComplexGrassBillboard=5  ; only necessary when using ENB ComplexGrassBacklightMask=25  ; only necessary when using ENB DoubleSidedTextureMask=mountain,mtn DoubleSidedMeshMask=mountain,mtn Navigate to C:/Modding/Tools/DynDOLOD/Edit Scripts/DynDOLOD/TexGen_SSE.ini, and modify as follows: TreeMSAlphaThreshold=144 ENB post-processing If ENB will NOT be used, then complex grass will not be used, so also set the following in TexGen_SSE.ini ForceComplexGrass=0

				Nemesis Unlimited Behavior Engine		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Add to Mod Organizer Executables Nemesis is run through Mod Organizer like most other tools. Add Nemesis to the list of executables by doing the following: In the right pane, go to the Data tab. Locate the Nemesis_Engine folder and expand it. Right-click the Nemesis Unlimited Behavior Engine.exe file and select [Add as Executable]. In the window that opens, type Nemesis for the title. Click [OK]. Create Mod for Output It is recommended to create a mod to store output files from Nemesis by doing the following: Click on the button and select, [Create empty mod]. Name it Step SkryimSE - Nemesis Output. Open the Executables menu and choose [Nemesis]. Tick the Create files in mod instead of overwrite (*) checkmark and select Step SkryimSE - Nemesis Output from the dropdown. Click [Apply] and then [OK]. Run Nemesis Nemesis must be run whenever animation/skeleton mods are added/updated. To do so: Ensure all plugins are ticked, and sorted with LOOT. Choose Nemesis from the executables dropdown and click [Run] to run it through Mod Organizer. Tick the Ice skating fixed for real box. It may be necessary to click [Update Engine] and wait until the progress bar has finished. Click [Launch Nemesis Behavior Engine] and wait until it says "Behavior generation complete" and close.

20-Patches

Mods that programmatically resolve load-order conflicts

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Circlet USSEP Fixes		Install the Gemling Queen Jewelry SE USSEP Circlet Fix main file.

				Hearthfires Extended and Creation Club Fishing Patch

				Kryptopyrs Patch Hub		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Since the FOMOD is not updated as regularly as the individual patches, do not install it. Instead, install the following individual patches under Miscellaneous Files. NOTE: If CACO, CCOR, and/or TCIY will NOT be used, then do not install those of the following that correspond to the omitted mod(s) in the file name. Install each separately under unique mod names so that MO version indicators will flag each when an update is available: Bittercup (CC) __ CACO Bloodchill Manor (CC) __ CACO Bow of Shadows (CC) __ CACO Fearsome Fists (CC) __ WACCF_CCOR Fishing (CC) __ CACO Fishing (CC) __ WACCF_CCOR Gemling Queen Jewelry __ CCOR Goblins (CC) __ CACO Headman's Cleaver (CC) __ TCIY Metallurgy - Ingots and Ore HD __ CCOR Nix-Hound (CC) __ CACO Rare Curios (CC) __ CACO Saints and Seducers (CC) __ CACO Saints and Seducers (CC) __ TCIY Survival Mode (CC) __ CACO The Cause (CC) __ CACO Unofficial Material Fix __ Improved Traps Vokrii __ CCOR

				Majestic Mountains Creation Club Landscape Patch

				Realistic Boat Bobbing Patch Hub		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the following patches. In MO, these can be merged into a custom named mod, or simply install them separately under unique mod names: Realistic Boat Bobbing - Bring Out Your Dead Patch Realistic Boat Bobbing - Oakwood Realistic Boat Bobbing - USSEP Patch

				Smooth Shores Patches		Install all files EXCEPT Smooth Shores Patches - Depths of Skyrim Patch. Merge if prompted.

				Umgak's Vokrii Compatibility Patch Compendium		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions UVCPC - Umgak's Vokrii Compatibility Patch Compendium Umgak's Vokrii Compatibility Patch Compendium Umgak's Vokrii Compatibility Patch Compendium ☑ Trade and Barter Patch Install

				Unofficial Skyrim Creation Club Content Patches		Install the Main File.

				Vokrii - Complete Alchemy and Cooking Overhaul Patch		Install ONLY if CACO will be used.

				Step Patch - Conflict Resolution		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
The Step Conflict Resolution Patch is now delivered as separate files to fix MO's update tracking features. Going forward, this will allow each file to be flagged by MO if it has been updated. First, download Step Patch - Conflict Resolution and any update file, if one exists. (required) Then install the optional files that apply into separate mods just after Step Patch - Conflict Resolution as follows (the sequence doesn't matter): If grass LOD will be used, install Step Grass. If CACO will be used, install Step Patch - CACO. If CCOR will be used, install Step Patch - CCOR. If TCIY will be used, install Step Patch - TCIY.

				Step Patch - Lighting and Weather		Install the Step Patch - Lighting and Weather optional file ONLY if the 18-Lighting and Weather ModGroup is installed.

Performance Tuning

It's necessary to determine the available performance headroom prior to generating LOD or setting up ENB, because the full LODGen setup can cost upwards of 20 FPS on average in exteriors, and ENB can cost upwards of an additional 40 FPS. The goal at this point is to have at least 120 FPS (≥ 140 recommended) on average in the tundra with clear weather (and ideally the Rift as well). Keep in mind that decreasing game resolution can drastically improve performance.

NOTE

For guidance on additional display settings (e.g., ultra widescreen, FreeSync, G-SYNC, etc.), refer to the SSE Display Settings Guide before continuing.

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Benchmarking Steps

1. Temporarily disable A Clear Map of Skyrim and Other Worlds. Keep this mod disabled while performance benchmarks and tuning are performed.
2. Uncap frame rates if they are capped (ignore any stuttering, screen tearing, etc. for the time being):
   1. Double click SSE Display Tweaks in the MO left pane, select the INI Files tab, and adjust the following settings under the [Render] section:
      • EnableVSync=false
      • EnableTearing=true
      • FramerateLimit=300
   2. If applicable, ensure that G-SYNC or Freesync are properly disabled via NVIDIA Inspector or AMD Adrenalin.
   3. If applicable, ensure that NVIDIA ultra low latency mode (ULLM) or AMD anti-lag are properly disabled via NVIDIA Inspector or AMD Adrenalin.
3. Launch SkyrimSE, and start a NEW game to verify that Skyrim loads without issue. Skyrim should successfully load into the Alternate Start character generation interface.
4. At the Statue of Mara, select "I own property in one of the holds".
5. Select "Breezehome".
6. Proceed to the front door of Breezehome, wait until approx. 11:00, and save the game. This will be the clean save to use for testing performance before and after LODGen.
7. Exit Breezehome and exit the Whiterun gate.
8. Once outside of Whiterun, approach the tundra, and look West (this is a large expanse showing all LOD levels).
   • use the Shift + INS keyboard combo to bring up the SSE Display Tweaks OSD.
   • Other third-party applications like FRAPS, Skyrim Performance Monitor (SPM) can also provide OSD.
   • Consider testing in the Rift as well, as this is one of the most performance-taxing areas of the game, due to Aspens Ablaze: Open the console and type cow tamriel 40 -24, and assess frame rates by moving around the Rift.

Once testing is complete, revert the changes and reapply frame caps:

1. Re-enable A Clear Map of Skyrim and Other Worlds.
2. Double click SSE Display Tweaks in the MO left pane, select the INI Files tab, and adjust the following settings under the [Render] section:
   • EnableVSync=true
   • EnableTearing=false
   • FramerateLimit=<previousValue>
3. If applicable, ensure that G-SYNC or Freesync are properly enabled via NVIDIA Inspector or AMD Adrenalin.
4. If applicable, ensure that NVIDIA ultra low latency mode (ULLM) or AMD anti-lag are properly enabled via NVIDIA Inspector or AMD Adrenalin.

Performance/Quality Optimization

This process will optimize the performance-quality trade off prior to configuration of ENB and LOD.

• If the average FPS is 120 - 130 FPS, stop here and continue to 21-Post-Processing or Step 5 - LOD.
• If the average FPS is lower or higher than 120 - 130 FPS continue below to optimize performance/quality to get closer to this range.

1. Right click, "open in new window" this link to revisit the BethINI setup instructions that should be in effect if the BethINI instructions were followed.
2. Close MO, and run BethINI (e.g. ..Modding\Tools\BethINI\BethINI.exe).
   • If the average FPS is lower than 120 FPS:
     1. Set the [Medium] preset, and otherwise follow the text instructions in each step of the BethINI Setup instructions but DO NOT adjust values based on the images this time, since the preset will have changed many..
     2. Rerun the benchmark.
     3. If average FPS is still not ≥ 120, repeat these steps selecting the [Low] preset.
   • If the average FPS is now higher than 125 FPS:
     1. Set the [Ultra] preset, and otherwise follow the text instructions in each step of the BethINI Setup instructions but DO NOT adjust values based on the images this time, since the preset will have changed many..
     2. Rerun the benchmark.
     3. If average FPS is not ≥ 120, revert to the default [High] preset.

NOTE: Once finished, don't forget to re-enable graphics settings as described at the bottom of the "Benchmarking Steps" spoiler above to reap the benefits of those disabled settings.

Performance Examples

Following are performance results using the approach described previously. This serves as a preview to help in making decisions about ENB/DynDOLOD configurations. Note that with Step's recommended configurations, ENB is more costly than DynDOLOD in terms of performance.

Reference System

All ModGroups installed, including Post Processing (installed later by ENB users only)

Resolution: 2560x1440 (2k/QHD/1440p) - HD/1080p resolution should perform much better ... even on a lesser/cheaper/older GPU.

Weather: SkyrimClearTU (10A240) - One of the more performance-demanding weathers. With ENB, clear weathers costs more FPS than cloudy.

Location: Tundra at Whiterun looking west

Configuration
BethINI	ENB	DynDOLOD	FPS	Note
High	n/a	n/a	121	Baseline (G/Free-Sync disabled)
Ultra	n/a	n/a	108	Baseline (G/Free-Sync disabled)
Ultra	n/a	n/a	110	Baseline (Re-enable G/Free-Sync)
Ultra	Heavy	n/a	53
Ultra	Light	n/a	63
Ultra	Milk Drinker	n/a	72
Ultra	Heavy	Ultra	34	Max quality
Ultra	Heavy	Optimal	38	Ideal performance/quality trade-off
Ultra	Light	Optimal	43
High	Light	Optimal	45
Ultra	Milk Drinker	Performance	50
High	Milk Drinker	Performance	53
*Based on these data, a few FPS could be gained by running the BethINI 'Medium' preset. Among other things, this will reduce the distance of LOD4 objects. Best Performance Best Performance/Quality Trade-Off Best Quality DynDOLOD Tree Rule LOD4 LOD8 LOD16 Performance Billboard4 Billboard4 Billboard1 Optimal Level0 Billboard4 Billboard1 Ultra Level0 Level1 Level2

The following gallery shows visual compares and performance snapshots for the cost of DynDOLOD and ENB using a number of Step's supported configurations. Different PCs and game resolutions will yield varying FPS results, but the proportional and relative differences between these presets should be similar:

• 

  Step Milk Drinker ENB, DynDOLOD 'Performance', BethINI 'High'

• 

  Step Milk Drinker ENB, DynDOLOD 'Performance', BethINI 'High'

• 

  Step Milk Drinker ENB, DynDOLOD 'Performance', BethINI 'Ultra'

• 

  Step Light ENB, DynDOLOD 'Optimal', BethINI 'High'

• 

  Step Light ENB, DynDOLOD 'Optimal', BethINI 'Ultra'

• 

  Step Heavy ENB, DynDOLOD 'Optimal', BethINI 'Ultra'

• 

  Step Heavy ENB, DynDOLOD 'Ultra', BethINI 'Ultra'

21-Post-Processing

Decide whether or not to install the Post-Processing ModGroup (and use ENB).

NOTE

Keep in mind that LOD generation is more fundamentally important to visual enhancement than ENB, so if average frame rate from the previous benchmark is consistently below 100 FPS at this point, consider skipping 21-Post-Processing, and continuing on to Final Sorting and Cleaning.

NOTE: If ENB will be used, revisit the BethINI Setup to disable: Display > Lens Flare, Anamorphic Lens Flare, and Ambient Occlusion. Also consider modifying the sun size as instructed under Custom.

Optional Post-Processing Mods

Beginning at 04-Foundation, confirm that all mod rows prefixed with a blue vertical bar are configured with Post-Processing options.

Post-Processing Mod Table

Mods that affect post-processing graphics **installation is optional**

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Cathedral Landscapes Complex Grass for ENB		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
21-Post-Processing Skip this mod if ENB will not be used. This mod requires the ENBSeries runtime. If ENB isn't installed, loaded grass will have purple boxes. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Cathedral Landscapes Complex Grass Grass Options Grass Color ☑ Core (Brown Tundra) ☐ Green Tundra Install

				Deadly Spell Impacts Transparency Fix for ENB

				Elytra and Bliss Bug ENB Light		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Elytra and Bliss Bug ENB Light - Scrambled Bugs Version main file. In ScrambledBugs.json, make the following change to the 'patches' section (see Scrambled Bugs for details): "attachHitEffectArt": true

				ENBSeries		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
For those unfamiliar with ENB, see the ENBSeries guide for information about ENBSeries post processing. Otherwise, download and install ENB as follows: Install ENBSeries Binaries Scroll to the bottom of the page Click on the link for the newest version available Scroll to the bottom of the page again, and click on to download the archive Open the archive and open the WrapperVersion folder Extract d3d11.dll, d3dcompiler_46e.dll, and enblocal.ini into the root Skyrim Special Edition directory (e.g., ..Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition\) Close the archive, but leave the game directory open for installing the Step SkyrimSE ENB later.

				ENB Helper SE		Install the ENB Helper SE for SSE 1.6.x main file.

				ENB Light		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the ENB Light 0.98 Alpha 2 update file using the instructions below. ExpandFOMOD Instructions ENB Light NOTE: Ignore the Missing files or folders warning by clicking [Install anyway]. ENB Light Main Base Install Option ◉ Base - Candlelight, Magelight, vanilla torch Wall-mounted torches ◉ NO Addition options...    Only tick the following ☑ Blackreach and Cave plants ☑ Smelter ☑ Magic hand effects ☑ Magic effects - Low-Moderate cost ☑ Magic weapon effects - fairly low cost ☑ Fire magic projectiles - Low to High cost ☑ Magic hazards and burning fires - Low to High cost ☑ Magic effects - High cost ☑ Dragon fire ☑ Creatures - Flame Atronachs ☑ Creatures - Storm Atronachs ☑ Creatures - Ice Wraiths ☑ Creatures - Spriggans ☑ Creatures - Wispmother Dawnbreaker ◉ Lean Wolf's Better Shaped Weapons Dawnbreaker - default sheath Dawnbreaker - DSR (Left hand) ◉ NO Dawnbreaker DSR option Patches    Select nothing Install NOTE: The archive is missing is an empty "01 - Base/Vanilla Torch/meshes" folder, so click Install anyway when prompted. This may not work when using the latest version of MO. If this is the case, move the archive into a working directory, and extract it. Then add the missing folder, and repackage into a new archive using 7-zip. Then install the new archive: Hide the following files/folders: Once installed, double-click the mod in MO to bring up Mod's window. Select the Conflicts tab. At the top on the Winning file conflicts: pane, click on the Overwritten Mods column heading to sort assets by overwritten mod name. Select all lines in the filtered Winning file conflicts pane EXCEPT for the two smelter meshes overwriting Static Mesh Improvement Mod. Right-click on any selected file and click Hide.

				ENB Lights For Effect Shaders		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions ENB Lights for Effect Shaders Main DLL ◉ SSE v1.6+ ("Anniversary Edition") Install

				ENB Lights for Aetherium Shards

				ENB Particle Lights Dwemer Lanterns

				Particle Lights for ENB - Nordic Ruins Candles

				Particle Lights for ENB Wisps Witchlight

				Particle Lights For ENB SE - Paragon Gems		Install the Particle Lights For ENB SE - Paragon Gems - Iconic's Gems Patch main file.

				Radiant - Candles		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Radiant - Candles Color Options Select a version ◉ Luminosity or WS Optional Patches Meshes ☑ ELFX ☑ Saints and Seducers ☐ STaC Install

				Rudy HQ More Lights for ENB SE Bthardamz

				Rudy HQ More Lights for ENB SE Deathbells and Nirnroots

				Rudy HQ More Lights for ENB SE Glowing Mushrooms		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Hide the following file (instructions for hiding files/folders): textures\plants\glowingmushrooms01.dds

				Rudy HQ More Lights for ENB SE Torchbugs and Moths

				More Lights for ENB - Blood Splatter Fix		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions More Lights for ENB - Blood Splatter Fix Installation Options Installation Options ☐ Bthardamz ☐ Chaurus Eggs and Sacs ☐ Deathbells and Nirnroots ☑ Glowing Mushrooms ☐ Soul Gems ☐ Patch for Rustic Soul Gems Install

				Saints and Seducers Flora ENB Light		Install the Main File. Merge the Update File.

				Word Wall Transparency Fix for ENB

				Step Patch - Post-Processing		Install the Step Patch - Post Processing optional file.

Final Sorting and Cleaning

If plugins have not been sorted this session, run LOOT again. Examine the plugins in LOOT for errors or warnings (ignoring the game's default masters at the top of the list). Ignore any reported missing compatibility patches or other warnings. These are either handled by the Step Patches or not of any concern. Perform the standard cleaning procedure on any mods requiring cleaning (except for the game's default masters).

Be aware that the Step Patches are designed to work with a default, LOOT-sorted plugin order. This eliminates the need to set rules on the load order. From this point on:

• Ensure all applicable mods are ticked in the left pane of MO.
• Ensure all plugins are ticked in the right pane of MO.
• Sort the load order using LOOT whenever plugins are added/removed.
• Update LOOT (the program and masterlist) whenever updates are available.

STEP 5

Level of Detail (LOD)

Now that all mods and patches have been installed/sorted and performance margins are acceptable, the next step is to generate custom LOD data for the mod list. Recommended settings correspond to rendered game resolutions that will benefit from those settings.

NOTE

Tip for AMD Users: Consider killing any AMD* named processes via Task Manager to significantly increase LODGen processing time. Right click on the Windows taskbar, select Task Manager, and from the Processes screen, right click > End Task. These processes are not needed for LODGen and can be easily restored by rebooting the OS.

LOD Setup

Before moving on, create three empty mods for the LOD output:

1. Click on the button and select, [Create empty mod].
2. Name it Step SkyrimSE - xLODGen Output.

   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.

3. Repeat these steps to create two more mods named: Step SkyrimSE - TexGen Output, and Step SkyrimSE - DynDOLOD Output.
4. Place these new mods directly after Step SkyrimSE - xLODGen Output.
5. Find the (TEMP) Cathedral Landscapes - xLODGen mod from the 04-Foundation mod group and enable it, if necessary.

   This mod only needs to be enabled for terrain LOD generation. If it is not disabled before actually playing the game, it will cause visual glitches.

6. Sort with LOOT.

The last few mods in the mod list should now reflect the following (numbering is approximate and reflects the number of mods installed without extra mods or mod-list separators):

1. DLC: Dawnguard

382. ...
383. (TEMP) Cathedral Landscapes - xLODGen NOTE: This mod can be here or under 04-Foundation with Cathedral Landscapes main mod, but it must be DISABLED later as instructed!
384. SkyrimSE - xLODGen Output
385. SkyrimSE - TexGen Output
386. SkyrimSE - DynDOLOD Output

WARNING

The steps following must be completed in the order presented (terrain LODGen/installation first, followed by object LODGen/installation). Using higher resolutions than recommended for any of the following LOD applications will result in a waste of PC resources with NO BENEFIT.

xLODGen

xLODGen is run first to generate updated LOD terrain textures and meshes so that landscape LOD is updated with mod changes:

NOTE

xLODGen gamma settings used here apply to the Step SkyrimSE 2.2.0 build and probably builds using Cathedral Landscapes. Otherwise, gamma should be 1.00.

Generate terrain LOD

1. Ensure LOD Setup was completed.
2. Run xLODGen from the MO executable drop-down list.
3. Select all worldspaces.
4. Ensure that ONLY the Terrain LOD box is ticked in the right pane.
5. Use the following settings, which have been verified in extensive testing:

   NOTE: Unless you are running SSE at ≥ 4k resolution, resist the urge to wastefully increase the texture resolutions shown, which will only reduce FPS with NO BENEFIT. Those running ≥ 4k resolution WILL benefit by doubling the resolution for LOD4, LOD8, and LOD16 from 256 to 512.

   

   LOD4

   

   LOD8

   

   LOD16

   

   LOD32

6. Click [Generate] to run the process, which will require upwards of 20 minutes, depending on the PC.
7. Once the "LOD generation complete" message has appeared, close xLODGen.

   NOTE: If the xLODGen window closes itself, post in the xLODGen topic and include ../Modding/GameName/Tools/xLODGen/bugreport.txt and any logs created.

Paint roads on terrain LOD

1. Run ACMOS Road Generator which was installed as part of A Clear Map of Skyrim and Other Worlds.
2. Ensure Path Only is selected from the Roads dropdown
3. For Path to LOD, browse to the xLODGen output folder (e.g. ..Modding/GameName/Tools/xLODGen/xLODGen_Output)
4. Click Generate
5. At the prompt to "Overwrite LOD Textures," choose Yes
6. When prompted to "Zip?", choose No
7. Wait until it says "All Done!" and then click OK and close

Terrain LOD Wrap-Up

1. Browse to the xLODGen output folder (e.g. ..Modding/GameName/Tools/xLODGen/xLODGen_Output).
2. In MO, open the xLODGen Output mod in Windows Explorer (Ctrl + double-click).
3. Cut and paste the files from ../xLODGen_Output into the SkyrimSE - xLODGen Output folder, then close both folders.
4. Enable xLODGen Output mod.
5. Disable (TEMP) Cathedral Landscapes - xLODGen mods (only needed as xLODGen resources for terrain generation only).

DynDOLOD

Object LOD will be created using Dynamic Distant Objects LOD (DynDOLOD). At a significant performance cost (upwards of 10 FPS) for a subtle improvement to LOD, DynDOLOD v3+ supports generation of grass billboard LOD. Generate grass LOD ONLY if performance headroom is available per Performance Tuning instructions.

NOTE

TexGen settings used here apply to the Step SkyrimSE 2.2.0 build and probably builds using Cathedral Landscapes, Cathedral Weathers, Majestic_Mountains, Enhanced Vanilla Trees, and the Step ENB (or no post processing).

• DynDOLOD 3 has good default starting points for TexGen and DynDOLOD settings, so use them if not running the Step SkyrimSE 2.2.0 build.

• Settings still vary, depending on the end user's hardware, particularly the monitor and driver-soft settings, which should be optimized in accordance with the SSG.

Run TexGen

TexGen 3, shipped with DynDOLOD 3, will generate custom object LOD textures based on enabled mods. TexGen 3 will also generate grass billboards for LOD.

1. Run TexGen from the MO executable drop-down list.
2. Use the setting corresponding to rendered game resolution: 1080p = HD, 1440p = QHD, 2160p = 4k

   NOTE: If generating grass LOD, be sure to tick "Grass" when replicating the following examples. Whether ENB is used or not, these grass settings apply to presumably any grass mod, since grass tint settings will be normalized later in DynDOLOD_SSE.ini

   Tick Grass only if generating grass without ENB Complex Grass.

   Tick HD grass only if generating grass with ENB Complex Grass.

   

   HD

   

   QHD

   

   4k

3. Click [Start].
4. Once the completed message has appeared (1-5 minutes, depending on the PC), click [Exit].
5. Navigate to the DynDOLOD TexGen_Output folder location (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/DynDOLOD/TexGen_Output).
6. Move the files from the TexGen_Output folder into the Step SkyrimSE - TexGen Output mod:

   In MO, hold down the Ctrl key and double-click the Step SkyrimSE - TexGen Output mod. Alternatively, right click the mod to open it in an Explorer window.

7. Enable the Step SkyrimSE - TexGen Output mod in MO.

Run DynDOLOD

DynDOLOD will generate the object LOD. IF grass LOD is being generated, also modify grass tint and brightness as follows. This effectively eliminates any RGB color bias so that the grass LOD matches the loaded grass as closely as possible. YES, this is suitable whether or not ENB is used.

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Modify Grass Tint/Brightness

Browse to ..\Modding\Tools\DynDOLOD\Edit Scripts\DynDOLOD\DynDOLOD_SSE.ini, and modify the following, which normalizes grass LOD brightness/hue for Cathedral Landscapes and presumably ANY grass mod:

For generating grass without ENB Complex Grass:

; grass LOD brightness multipliers
GrassBrightnessTopR=0.500
GrassBrightnessTopG=0.500
GrassBrightnessTopB=0.500
; make bottom darker to fake shadowing
GrassBrightnessBottomR=0.500
GrassBrightnessBottomG=0.500
GrassBrightnessBottomB=0.500

For generating grass with ENB Complex Grass:

; grass LOD brightness multipliers
ComplexGrassBrightnessTopR=0.500
ComplexGrassBrightnessTopG=0.500
ComplexGrassBrightnessTopB=0.500
; make bottom darker to fake shadowing
ComplexGrassBrightnessBottomR=0.500
ComplexGrassBrightnessBottomG=0.500
ComplexGrassBrightnessBottomB=0.500

Configure and Generate

1. Run DynDOLOD from the MO executable drop-down list to open the GUI configuration in 'expert' mode (if the DynDOLOD INI modification was set as described previously).
2. Select all worldspaces.
3. Tick Candles and FXGlow.
4. IMPORTANT - Click the 'High' button to bring in mesh rules for A Clear Map of Skyrim mod and the Step Patch - Conflict Resolution. For slightly better performance with some quality loss, consider clicking on 'Medium' or 'Low' instead.
5. Configure by replicating everything in the images following (tick/untick all boxes likewise), or make performance modifications as instructed further below before continuing to the next step:
   • ONLY generate Occlusion data on the first run. If DynDOLOD is run again for some reason, leave Occlusion UNticked to speed up generation.
   • Tick Grass LOD to generate grass LOD. Otherwise, leave this UNticked.
   • 'Optimal' tree & catch-all rules with recommended LOD32 rules for A Clear Map of Skyrim.

   

   HD / QHD

   

   4K

6. Click [OK].
7. Once the completed message has appeared (15-30 minutes [25-50 minutes with Occlusion ticked], depending on the PC), click [Save & Exit].
8. Navigate to the DynDOLOD DynDOLOD_Output folder location (e.g. ..\Modding\Tools\DynDOLOD\DynDOLOD_Output).
9. Move the files the DynDOLOD_Output folder into the Step SkyrimSE - DynDOLOD Output mod:

   In MO, hold down the Ctrl key and double-click the Step SkyrimSE - DynDOLOD Output mod. Alternatively, right click the mod to open it in an Explorer window.

10. Enable the Step SkyrimSE - DynDOLOD Output mod in MO.
11. Ensure the DynDOLOD.esm and DynDOLOD.esp plugins are ticked in the right pane.
12. Sort with LOOT.

NOTE

Multiple DynDOLOD outputs at varying quality settings can be created and stored in different mods. If this is done, generate occlusion only on the first run and copy this into a separate mod (e.g., 'DynDOLOD Occlusion') to reduce the generation time of subsequent outputs. Likewise, consider generating only for the Tamriel worldspace before settling on the chosen output and generating for all worldspaces.

When to Regenerate LOD

xLODGen

Whenever there are changes to the mod list that affect the underlying landscape: height, shape, textures, etc. This does not include grass, mountains or other objects added to the landscape.

TexGen

Whenever there are changes to the mod list that affect objects with LOD: new objects, moved structures or objects, removed structures or objects, changes to grass (only when using grass LOD), changes to trees and/or landscape height, when its master plugins order is changed (out of order masters), etc. When grass is re-cached, TexGen should also be run again to update grass billboards.

DynDOLOD

Whenever there are changes to the mod list that affect objects with LOD: new objects, moved structures or objects, removed structures or objects, changes to grass (only when using grass LOD), changes to trees and/or landscape height, when its master plugins order is changed (out of order masters), etc. When LOD textures are updated with TexGen, DynDOLOD should also be run again to update all affected object LOD.

Occlusion

Only with noticeable changes to geography of Tamriel and/or Solstheim. For Step, this should only need to be run once.

STEP 6

Mod Configuration (MCM)

The game is now ready to be loaded to configure mods in the Mod Configuration Menu (MCM). The MCM is a feature of SkyUI that allows mod authors to provide custom, game-accessible settings for their mods. Recommendations are provided below for select mods. The remainder are user preference.

First Launch

To run the game, select the SKSE executable from the drop-down list and click the Run button. Keep the following in mind when first launching from a fresh Guide installation:

• Test the build on a new game

  In other words, don't load from a save after a fresh Guide install to avoid false flags caused by savegame incompatibility. See the changelog before upgrading from a previous version of this Guide to determine whether or not a new game is advisable.

• 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, INI files may appear in the Overwrite folder after closing the game (e.g. ../SKSE/Plugins/SkyrimUncapper.ini). These files should be moved to their respective mod folders, respecting their folder structure during the move.

Alternate Start

Upon starting a new game, Alternate Start - Live Another Life is the first mod in play. Let's face it, Skyrim is old and the vanilla start quest is the last thing many people want to play through. Alternate Start provides a variety of ways to start the game and begins in a locked cell, so this is a good time to configure the Mod Configuration menu (MCM).

1. Create a character.
2. Stop! Press, Esc to open the Settings Menu.
3. Select the [Mod Configuration] menu (MCM) and configure all of the installed mods using the instructions in the next section of the guide.

   Some mod configurations must first be enabled in the MCM prior to configuring, so fully exit Settings and return to the MCM to complete the remainder.

4. Once the MCM configuration is completed, save the game to allow another Alternate Start option without having to reconfigure the MCM.
5. Finally, talk to the statue in the room and choose an option (the vanilla start is also provided), and then sleep in the bed to start the game.

Mod Configuration Menu Settings

⟡ Cathedral Weathers ⟡Click to show/hide
If the 18-Lighting and Weather ModGroup was installed, it is user preference on whether or not to set Interior Vision to Darker. The Step ENB was designed for Normal.
⟡ Complete Crafting ⟡Click to show/hide
The following screenshots display the recommended settings for the mod's MCM:
⟡ Farmhouse Chimneys SE ⟡Click to show/hide
Vanilla villages should all be ticked on the first page. The following screenshot displays the recommended settings for the New Locations page:
⟡ Lock Overhaul ⟡Click to show/hide
This mod must be activated to work. Once enabled, the settings are user preference.
⟡ Smart NPC Potions ⟡Click to show/hide
It's suggested to reduce the maximum an NPC can use, but it's user preference.
⟡ Storm Lightning ⟡Click to show/hide
The Minimum preset in the MCM is recommended.
⟡ Timing is Everything ⟡Click to show/hide
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 they are a part of the world. Dragonborn will not start until the news of your deeds has time to reach the island, and the player becomes something that must be dealt with. Attack chances are lowered from 100% so there will be 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 the player is a vampire, Thalmor won't attack until after engaging their quest line, etc. The following screenshots display the recommended settings for the mod's MCM:

Remaining Mod Configurations

The remaining mod configurations are recommended to be left at their defaults.

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS

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

Community members interested in becoming Mod Testers, please contact z929669 via PM on the forums. Once registered, Mod Testers will be given access to Staff forums that houses useful information.

Call for Forum Moderators

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.

Thank you for reading and enjoy the game!

Credits

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
• sheson for DynDOLOD and all things LODGen
• The Nexus community
• Bethesda Softworks for their games
• Tannin for the gift that is Mod Organizer
• All the developers that kept MO going

Personnel

Testers

• D1Z4STR
• Mercury71
• Mousetick

LODGen Support

• sheson

MO Support

• GSDfan

Step Administrators

• DoubleYou
• Greg
• TechAngel85
• z929669

Retired Staff

Aiyen Bealdwine deathneko11 EisDrache EssArrBee

Farlo frihyland GrantSP hishutup Kelmych

MontyMM Nebulous112 oqhansoloqo phazer11 rootsrat

stoppingby4now TheCompiler torminater Uhuru WilliamImm

wolverine2710