SkyrimLE:2.10.0: Difference between revisions
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Follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean Dawnguard.esm; however, it is a special case and must be cleaned twice. Therefore, once the first cleaning is complete, repeat the process a second time before continuing to the manual cleaning below. | Follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean Dawnguard.esm; however, it is a special case and must be cleaned twice. Therefore, once the first cleaning is complete, repeat the process a second time before continuing to the manual cleaning below. | ||
Dawnguard also has some manual cleaning required. To do this, visit this topic on AFKMods and complete the section under “Dawnguard.esm needs manual cleaning as well as automatic cleaning”. Return here when those three (3) steps are completed: https://afkmods. | Dawnguard also has some manual cleaning required. To do this, visit this topic on AFKMods and complete the section under “Dawnguard.esm needs manual cleaning as well as automatic cleaning”. Return here when those three (3) steps are completed: https://www.afkmods.com/index.php?/topic/4110-manual-cleaning-skyrim-and-skyrim-se-master-files/ | ||
After the manual cleaning is complete, create the mod listing as directed above and place the “Dawnguard.esm - Cleaned” mod listing directly below Dawnguard.esm. | After the manual cleaning is complete, create the mod listing as directed above and place the “Dawnguard.esm - Cleaned” mod listing directly below Dawnguard.esm. |
Revision as of 21:07, January 3, 2022
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This guide is out of date and is NOT supported!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 SkyrimLE Guide.
- Visit the forums and provide feedback related to STEP.
- Also visit the STEP Facebook page maintained by TheCompiler (Daniel) and TechAngel85 (Jeremy).
- To support hosting and maintenance of the STEP Community Project, contributions are welcome.
STEP 2.10.0 Highlights
With this version of STEP comes a change in our versioning scheme. We realized from the last few releases the Guide needed a different solution for the versioning scheme. Up until now, we have included the underbelly of STEP as the first digit in our scheme. This meant major changes to software (like forum software and wiki upgrades) would count as STEP 1.x.x, STEP 2.x.x, and so on. This was not the best standard for us to use. Therefore, from this release and beyond, the versioning of STEP will go as: Major.Minor.Hotfix.
- Major - Introduce fundamental new functionality, tools, or methods. (e.g., Official Pack implementation [i.e., STEP Extended, STEP Lighting, STEP-sponsored Packs], BOSS to LOOT, Wrye Bash to MO).
- Minor - changes to mod lineup.
- Hotfix - Change/fix Guide instructions that require amendment to the changelog (however large or small) and any other 'hotfixes' (e.g., changes to mod install order).
For more information about the versioning scheme, see the link posted above.
Until now, we had been working up to STEP 2.3.0 as our next major release. With the change in the versioning scheme, we'll now be working towards STEP 3.0.0! From this release and beyond, each release will be a step towards bridging our move to the new paradigm. What does this mean for this release? This means that while there are no drastic changes to the Guide's structure, we have again fine-tuned the STEP setup to bring you a fluid mod list to enhance the beauty and feel of Skyrim.
A few of the larger changes in this release are:
- We have replaced Skyrim HD with Skyrim Realistic Overhaul has our baseline for all textures.
- Gone are several of the old character mods including: XCE, XCE - Dawnguard, Better Beast Races, and Better Freckles. These mods have been replaced by alternative selections.
- The entire Characters & Creatures section of the Guide has seen significant refinement.
- Many of the older mods in the Guide have been removed and replaced with more recent solutions.
- The entire INI section has been replaced with BethINI.
- There has been so many changes that we highly recommend users reviewing the changelog, for all the fine details.
About STEP
Created by TheCompiler, STEP is a collaborative project with input from the modding community, technical volunteers, and project administrators. The goal is to provide tested and validated methods for establishing and maintaining an enhanced modded Skyrim. Thus, the Guide provides detailed, well-tested build instructions for a solid modding template. New modders can follow STEP explicitly to achieve an enhanced, vanilla experience, or more experienced modders may use it as general guide to build a foundation from.
The STEP team collects information from the modding community through extensive mod testing, detailed reviews, feedback, and suggestions exchanged on the STEP Community Forums. Posting rules apply, so be sure to read and follow them. Engage and enjoy a warm welcome and plenty of high-quality support from a large community of experienced STEP-ers.
Nomenclature
The following nomenclature is used throughout this guide and should be understood before proceeding.
- Core mods: Mods that are Core to the STEP Guide collectively known as STEP:Core. STEP:Core is an installation of ONLY Core mods listed in the mod tables within STEP 2 of this Guide.
- Extended mods: Mods that are not Core mods in the STEP Guide collectively known as STEP:Extended. STEP:Extended is an installation of ALL mods listed in the mod tables within STEP 2 of this Guide.
- Baseline: An installation of a mod using the recommend baseline option listed within the Baseline column of the mod tables.
- STEP Patches: A "patch" is a plugin which allows two or more mods to work together without conflict. The "STEP Patches" are the same thing but allow for all of the mods in the STEP Guide to work harmoniously together. All users should use the STEP Patches unless a custom patch will be made; even then the STEP Patches can be used as a base to make a custom patch for STEP + other mods. The STEP Patches are installed with the STEP Compilation in Section N of this Guide. Users should determine whether or not they will be using a STEP Patch before starting STEP 2 due to select mods having alternative installation steps for users not installing a one of the Patches.
Minimum System Requirements for STEP:Core
We recommend the following hardware configuration for running a Baseline installation. The minimum requirements will allow most users to install and run the STEP Baseline recommendations, which provide a good performance/quality trade-off. The recommended requirements will allow most users to install and run a modded setup beyond that of Baseline with higher quality options. For those wishing to use the highest quality options available with higher resolutions than 1920x1080, be advised that a more powerful system will likely be required.
Hardware | Minimum | Recommended |
---|---|---|
Windows OS | Windows 7 32-bit | Windows 7 64-bit or later |
CPU | Intel Core i3/equivalent (dual core) | Intel Core i5/equivalent or higher |
System RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB or higher |
GPU | Nvidia GTX 660 2GB VRAM / AMD Radeon HD 7850 2GB | Nvidia GTX 660 2GB VRAM / AMD Radeon HD 7850 2GB / or better |
Monitor Resolution | 1366x768 | 1920x1080 |
NOTE
Start Out Clean!
It is particularly important for new users begin with clean installations of both Steam and Skyrim in order to be successful with the setup of this Guide the first time through.
Mod Table Reference
Below is the legend and reference for the mod tables used in this Guide. Users should refer back to it when confused about a mod listing.
Mod Name | Baseline | Notes | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Mod (patches not required) | Baseline | Notes | ||
Mod (requires patches) | Baseline | Notes |
Mod Table Legend
The following is an example of the mod tables, found in Step 2 below, followed by the legend for reading the table. Users should familiarize themselves with this information.
Mod Table Legend
NOTE
Chapter Heading Layout
A link to more detailed information related to each section, for users wishing to have more in-depth information, is provided directly below the section heading and looks as follows:
Detailed Information --> Link
Brief, quick setup instructions follow the heading for users wishing to get through the guide AFAP (as fast as possible).
STEP 1
1.A. Install Steam & Skyrim
Detailed Information --> Skyrim Installation Guide
1.B. Initialize the Game
Detailed Information --> Skyrim Launcher Guide
As a prerequisite to installing the remainder of this Guide:
- Launch Skyrim from Steam to initialize the auto-detection process and accept the preset provided. Users will customize these settings below.
- Launch the game to the main menu and then exit to desktop. This completes the required game initialization steps.
1.C. Install Utilities
- Standalone applications that aid in the management of the modding process
A mod-management utility is REQUIRED in order to easily keep track of a complex mod setup like STEP. These utilities also make it far simpler to deconstruct a STEP install in order to update to a new STEP version and to update to newer versions of the mods. This is impossible to do simply or efficiently without a mod manager.
There are a two mod managers that can be used to manage the STEP setup; however, to simplify Guide maintenance/support for staff and mod management for users, the STEP Guide only officially supports Mod Organizer. Although Wrye Bash is also mod manager, STEP recommends that it only be used for the functionality of creating the Bashed Patch. The reason for the limited support of Wrye Bash is, again, due to simplifying this Guide. Users who wish to use Wrye Bash may do so to install and maintain STEP, however, unless these users are experienced in modding, these users may find it difficult to install this Guide. Wrye Bash users can use the Wrye Bash Guide for detailed instructions on setting it up as a modding utility package. Wrye Bash users should also be aware that support may be limited when seeking help on the forums due to Wrye Bash not being the officially supported mod manager.
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
DDSopt | DDSopt - pre-release - update 4 | Detailed Instructions available | ||||
For users who do not want to do a custom run with DDSopt, STEP now provides the STEP Optimized Vanilla Textures which is installed during in the Fixes section of the STEP Guide. There is no need to run DDSopt if choosing to install this new mod from STEP.
Do NOT run through Mod Organizer! See DDSopt Guide for usage details. The Quick-Start Guide is a good place to start. |
LOOT | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
LOOT installation instructions have been moved to the SSG. Follow guides for usage instructions.
Users should now have a LOOT folder (e.g. |
Mod Organizer | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
Mod Organizer 2 installation instructions have been moved to the SSG. Follow guides for usage instructions.
Do not run MO yet! It will be run for the first time later in the guide. |
BethINI | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
User's should now have a new BethINI folder (e.g. |
Skyrim Performance Monitor | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
Installing Skyrim Performance Monitor
Please remember to completely uninstall any previous versions of SPM prior to upgrading. Initial Setup of Skyrim Performance Monitor
Configuring Skyrim Performance Monitor for Use with Mod Organizer
|
TES5Edit | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
To clean any mods that require it, run "Quick Auto Clean". It will allow users to select the mod to clean and automatically clean it. |
Wrye Bash | Installer version | Detailed Instructions available | ||||
If updating to 306, you need to uninstall your previous version.
MO users - Install and be certain to tick the stand-alone executable version when prompted for the path to the Steam/Skyrim directory. Wrye Bash users - see the Wrye Bash Guide. Since you must launch Wrye Bash through Mod Organizer in order for it to recognize your mods, add Wrye Bash to the list of executables by doing the following:
Now each time you want to run Wrye Bash, simply select it from the drop-down menu at top right and click Run. |
1.D. INI Tweaks
Detailed Information --> Skyrim Configuration Settings Guide
The INI tweaks from previous versions of the Guide have been replaced with the BethINI utility listed in section "1.C Install Utilities". If you did not set up BethINI per the mod page instructions, please return there and so so now. For more advanced information about INI settings, please see the "Detailed Information" link below the header above.
1.E. Display & Video Card Settings
Often under-appreciated, display and driver settings have a huge potential impact on the graphic quality of games and anything else displayed on the monitor in 2D or 3D, so it is important to get these settings done correctly. Below are listed only the essential settings. No further tweaking is necessary beyond them. It is highly recommended that only the bare minimal tweaking be done here until after the Guide is installed and configured according to the Baselines provided.
Update Video Drivers
If there is any reason to believe that the latest drivers installed are not installed correctly and are causing issues, then complete the following instructions. Else, simply install the latest drivers as normal.
- Download the latest stable AMD drivers / Nvidia drivers.
- Download DDU and install it (DDU forum Page).
- Restart the system and boot into safe mode by repeatedly pressing F8 once the boot check initializes and before the OS begins loading (no need to uninstall the current drivers, but it will not hurt at all).
- If using UEFI while using Windows 8 or later, go to to your power options and while holding down the Shift key, press restart. This will open the advanced menu where you can select to boot into safe mode.
- Launch DDU, and select the appropriate driver from the drop-down combobox.
- Note the recommendations in DDU and initialize the cleanup.
- Reboot normally and install the latest drivers.
1.E.1. Configure Driver Settings
STEP has more detailed information in both the AMD-CCC guide as well as the Nvidia Inspector guide, and other AMD-CCC and Nvidia Inspector / Control Center guides exist for the inquisitive user. The following information is minimalistic, sound advice, and users are encouraged to add their own 2 cents for consideration via the AMD-CCC Talk and Nvidia Inspector Talk pages.
In Short - The graphics software should only be forcing max Anisotropic Filtering (AF). All other settings should be left to the Skyrim configuration (see above) and ENBoost configurations (see below).
1.E.1.1. AMD Users
Detailed Information --> Catalyst Control Center Guide (for old driver versions)
Detailed Information --> Radeon Settings
AMD users should read one of the above guides to correctly configure their driver graphics settings.
1.E.1.2. Nvidia Users
Detailed Information --> Nvidia Inspector Guide: Editing Skyrim Settings
Make the following changes via Nvidia Inspector, otherwise leave the defaults (they can be tweaked later if absolutely necessary).
- Download Nvidia Inspector. This is a portable program and requires no installation. Simply place in a convenient location and create a shortcut to the executable.
- Launch nvidiaProfileInspector.exe.
- In the "Profiles" bar, select the "Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim" profile and keep all of the default settings except for the following changes:
- Ensure Antialiasing - Mode is set to [Application-controlled]. If set to [Override], AA will be turned off in Skyrim, regardless of the Skyrim INI setting!
- Force Anisotropic filtering:
- Set Anisotropic filtering mode to [User-defined / Off]
- Set Anisotropic filtering setting to [16x]
- Click [Apply changes] at the top of the windows twice and then close.
1.E.2. Display Calibration
Color calibration is critical to photographers and graphic artists who work across media types, but it is also equally important for gamers. This is because there is a lot of screenshot sharing and qualitative discussion about in-game visuals. It is ideal if all users' systems are somewhat 'standardized' for comparative purposes alone. However, with that said, all monitors will be slightly different in their accuracy of displaying colors.
The gist: Calibrate the monitor's display settings based on the video driver configuration utility with all other configuration baselines set to something akin to "mid level".
There are three places to configure color saturation, temperature, brightness, contrast, gamma, etc:
- The monitor's built-in configuration menu
- Windows color management
- The driver configuration utility (see "Configure Driver Settings" above)
The value of one setting can affect the appearance of other settings, and depending on the quality of the monitor, #1 above could be very good or just 'OK'. The #2 and #3 objects should be standard though, since they are made to work across various monitors.
- Ensure that #1 above is set to "the middle ground" with respect to all settings. Having extreme settings in the monitor configuration could potentially constrain the other configurations. For some, setting all #1 values to mid levels will be best, but for the other options the 'auto-config' will be best (auto-config may not set all #1 values to mid settings). Depending on the monitor, there may be other auto-config options based on various presets. Whatever seems most "middle of the road" is probably best for option #1 above.
- Optionally, also run option #2 (Control Panel > Display > Calibrate Color) and set to 'vanilla' mid-levels with respect to all attributes. If this was never run previously, then it should already be at mid-levels.
- Calibrate using option #3 (see below) using a this reference image and in a room with no direct lighting that could affect what the monitor shows (not-too-bright, diffuse-lighted room). The main calibration should be done using option #3 once a mid baseline 'canvas' has been established for options #1 and #2.
- AMD-CCC: |Desktop Management| > |Desktop Color| (click "Reactivate AMD color controls").
- Nvidia Control Panel: Access from the Windows Control Panel. |Display| > |Adjust desktop color settings|
Final Pre-Installation Notes
- A STEP:Core installation is an installation of all, and only, the STEP:Core mods indicated in the tables below by a green bar to the left of the mod's name.
- Remember that STEP:Core can be used as a base for ANY modded setup. It is a universal build and will not spoil any downstream setup or Packs, although there may be a few minor redundancies whereby a STEP:Core mod is later installed again with some added or subtracted options.
- A STEP:Extended installation is an installation of all the mods listed below.
- Whether installing STEP:Core or STEP:Extended, install mods in the order that they are presented in the mod tables to achieve the correct result.
- Read the ReadMe files and other mod-related documentation that comes packaged with most mods. This also includes the mod description on Nexus. If the mod author has seen fit and taken time to create these reference materials, then they are relevant and important in the eyes of the mod author. This means that they are relevant and important to you!
STEP Patches
The STEP Patches are patches provided by STEP for the STEP:Core and STEP:Extended mod lists below. These patches resolve any conflicts between these mods which could cause issues if left unpatched. Users should decide now, before installing any mods, whether they will be installing STEP:Core or STEP:Extended and whether or not they will be using the STEP Patches. These two decisions now will be referenced later during mod installations. Deciding now will allow users to know which instruction sets to follow and will alleviate any confusion when these decisions arise. Users who decide to install the STEP Patches will do so at the end of the Guide during the STEP Compilation install.
All users should use one of the STEP Patches unless a custom patch will be made!
We recommend the use of the STEP Patches, even if users will be installing mods on top of a STEP build which require further patching. Using the STEP Patches will give these users a head start as most of the mods will already be patched for them. New users who are unfamiliar with the mod patching process are highly recommended to use the Patches.
- STEP Patches Requirements - It is recommended to keep the STEP Compilation topic open for reference to this list of required mods.
- Users who decide they will not use the STEP Patches will need to install all relevant patches for mods listed on that topic. Take note of those plugins since they are not listed throughout the Guide.
Finally, we offer the following options in regards to the STEP Patches:
- Full STEP:Core Patch
- Full STEP:Extended Patch
- STEP:Core Patch without Enhanced Lighting for ENB (ELE) and/or Immersive Citizens AI Overhaul
- STEP:Extended Patch without Enhanced Lighting for ENB (ELE) and/or Immersive Citizens AI Overhaul
That is a total of eight (8) Patch options to choose from.
STEP 2
NOTE
Consider the following while installing mods
- Mods should be installed in the order that they are listed to ensure that mods further down the list overwrite those occurring before them. This is necessary to ensure the desired in-game effect.
- Mods are listed in alphabetical order within each section, and any deviations from this are purposeful to achieve the desired outcome.
- Always install plugins (ESPs/ESMs) unless otherwise noted. If there are not any notes associated with a particular mod, then all options fit the STEP mandate and it is the user's decision. The notes only provide instructions where necessary; otherwise, STEP encourages user customization.
- Unless otherwise stated, follow LOOT's advice with regards to mod cleaning and sorting.
2.A. LOOT Sorting
At any time during the mod installation process LOOT should be used to sort plugin load order before running the game. This is necessary to ensure proper plugin priority order (load order), which can have a dramatic impact on the game (or at worst cause a CTD). To sort with LOOT:
- Launch LOOT via Mod Organizer from the executables drop-down menu.
- Click the [Sort] button at the top.
- Examine the resulting order carefully and look for any alerts or warnings and address each.
- Click the [Apply] button which has replaced the Sort button at the top.
- Close LOOT.
2.B. Cleaning Vanilla Master Files
To remove errors in the Bethesda master files, it is recommended they be cleaned with xEdit before modding begins. This ensures maximum stability and compatibility within the modding experience.
Standard Cleaning Procedures
- Run xEditQC from the drop-down executable list in MO.
- On the plugin selection window, double-click on the mod being cleaned (i.ee, Update.esm, Dawnguard.esm, etc).
- xEdit will now automatically clean up the "Identical to master" and "deleted" records from the selected mod.
- Once xEdit is done cleaning, click the X at upper right of the program window.
- At the prompt, check the box next to the mod that was cleaned and the Backup Plugins box. Click OK to close the tool.
After the vanilla master files are cleaned, users should create separate mods for them in MO and restore the original. This prevents users from having to re-clean the file after verifying their files in Steam. To do this, complete the following:
- Right-click the Overwrite folder in MO and select Create Mod..., name it “MasterName.esm - Cleaned” (i.e., Update.esm - Cleaned), and click OK.
- On the new mod listing that appears, right-click and select Open in explorer. Leave this folder opened.
- Open the Skyrim Special Edition Data directory (i.e., C:/Modding/Steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim Special Edition/Data)
- Drag and drop the just cleaned master file from Data to the "MasterName.esm - Cleaned" folder from step 2.
- Open the TES5Edit Backups folder found in Overwrite in MO and rename the file to “MasterName.esm”.
- Drag and drop the renamed file from the TES5Edit Backups folder to the Data directory and choose to overwrite it.
- Close the explorer windows.
- Drag and drop the new MasterName.esm - Cleaned mod listing in MO directly below its vanilla master mod listing.
Update.esm, Hearthfires.esm, Dragonborn.esm
Follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean these master files, one at a time. Place the “MasterName.esm - Cleaned” mod listing for each below it's vanilla master mod listing. Update.esm will not be listed in MO and Update.esm - Cleaned is placed at the top of the modlist.
Dawnguard.esm
Follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean Dawnguard.esm; however, it is a special case and must be cleaned twice. Therefore, once the first cleaning is complete, repeat the process a second time before continuing to the manual cleaning below.
Dawnguard also has some manual cleaning required. To do this, visit this topic on AFKMods and complete the section under “Dawnguard.esm needs manual cleaning as well as automatic cleaning”. Return here when those three (3) steps are completed: https://www.afkmods.com/index.php?/topic/4110-manual-cleaning-skyrim-and-skyrim-se-master-files/
After the manual cleaning is complete, create the mod listing as directed above and place the “Dawnguard.esm - Cleaned” mod listing directly below Dawnguard.esm.
02-Extenders
- Mods that expand on the inherent functionality of a game or another mod without themselves affecting content
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
ENBoost | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
ENBoost is required! Due to Skyrim LE's 32-bit memory limit, ENBoost must be used by everyone.
The following instructions pertain only to ENBoost; the memory manager of ENBSeries. Do not install a full ENB Preset during the Step Guide setup! This can be done later, after the installation of the Guide is confirmed to be working. Install
Alternatively, if the "WrapperVersion" does not function as advertised, try the "InjectorVersion". Remove any existing remnants of the Wrapper version, and extract only the enbhost.exe, ENBInjector.exe, enbinjector.ini, enblocal.ini, and enbseries.dll files from the "InjectorVersion" folder into Configure enblocal.ini
The following are important changes that are either required or highly recommended. Advanced users see the detailed INI configuration settings for more information: [PROXY] EnableProxyLibrary=true InitProxyFunctions=false ProxyLibrary=d3dx9_42.dll [GLOBAL] UsePatchSpeedhackWithoutGraphics=true UseDefferedRendering=false [MEMORY] ExpandSystemMemoryX64=false ReservedMemorySizeMb=128 ; This value should be set to lowest possible value without experiencing stutter. Increase this value until stuttering is either gone or minimal. See advanced guide above for more information. VideoMemorySizeMb={integer in MB} ; Download and run Boris's tool: VRamSizeTest. Run VRamSizeDX9.exe. Windows users subtract 350 from the value provided and use that value. AutodetectVideoMemorySize=false [ENGINE] EnableVSync=true VSyncSkipNumFrames=0 ; Be sure the parameters in the [THREADS] section match what is below! These are for special case use only. You are 99% not likely one of those special cases! The section should remain as follows: [THREADS] DataSyncMode=0 PriorityMode=0 ; This may be a necessary performance enhancement for some users. If experiencing stuttering and the [MEMORY] section is verified to be set up properly, enabling or disabling these parameters could help resolve some stuttering. [WINDOW] ForceBorderless=true ForceBorderlessFullscreen=true |
SKSE | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
Download and install the latest archive:
[Display] iTintTextureResolution=2048 [General] ClearInvalidRegistrations=1 The SKSE folder structure, including the skse.ini should look like the following: Restart MO; if SKSE is installed correctly, MO will detect it and show in the executables drop down. Use the SKSE executable when launching Skyrim from MO from now on. |
03-Resources
- Mods solely providing assets intended specifically for use by other mods without themselves affecting content
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
FISS |
PapyrusUtil-Modders Scripting Utility Functions |
Skyrim-Community-Uncapper | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
This mod is not packaged correctly. When installing this mod, right-click on the Data folder and choose [Set data directory]. Okay [OK] to install.
STEP recommends the defaul INI values. To customize Uncapper see this Guide: Skyrim Uncapper guide. |
SkyUI |
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 Skyrim Legendary Edition Patch |
Unofficial High Resolution Patch |
Dynamic Distant Objects LOD | Medium | Detailed Instructions available | ||||
Download and install the DynDOLOD Resources Main File, selecting the following options:
As with all mods in this guide, this mod should be enabled in MO once it is installed. This mod in particular MUST be enabled for proper LOD generation later in this guide. |
Static Mesh Improvement Mod | Detailed Instructions available | |||||||
|
Skyrim Realistic Overhaul | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
SRO contains files larger than the normal baseline for STEP
Please be aware that SRO contains files that are typically 2-4K in resolution. The typical baseline for STEP is 1-2K (or the vanilla/HRDLC sizes), therefore, SRO is often double the baseline in most cases. Users who experience slowdowns after installing SRO, may wish to consider reducing the texture sizes, but process is not covered in this Guide. Download and install:
|
RUSTIC CLOTHING | 2K-1K | Download and install the RUSTIC CLOTHING - COMPLETE - 2K-1K file. |
05-Animation and Physics
- Mods that affect animations or physics
No mods defined.
06-Models and Textures
- Mods that replace existing models or textures
No mods defined.
No mods defined.
08-Character Appearance
- Mods that affect the appearance of the player character or NPCs
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
Beards | 1K | Detailed Instructions available | ||||||
|
Better Males | Geonox Faces + Underwear - Default | NSFW Mod Page.
Direct downloads to remain SFW: |
Brows | Standard Resolution | Detailed Instructions available | ||||||
|
Consistent Older People | Install the Consistent Older People All NPCs USLEEP Main File. |
Cover Khajiits | 1024 | Install both Main Files. Merge when asked. |
FAR-Forgotten Argonian Roots | 2k | Detailed Instructions available | ||||
The instructions are broken up into segments for easier tracking:
|
Female Vampires Have Fangs |
Immersive Citizens-AI Overhaul | Detailed Instructions available | |||||||
Users not installing the STEP Patches will want to install the options the FOMOD installer automatically selects.
Additionally, this mod is optional and the STEP Compilation detects if it is not installed, thus providing a version of the Patches without this mod incorporated. Download and install the main file.
|
More Realistic Hair |
Northborn Scars |
PAINTERLY |
RUSTIC CHILDREN | 2K-1K | Download and install the RUSTIC CHILDREN - BODY - 2K-1K main file. |
Superior Lore-Friendly Hair | Rough Hair 1K | Use the "SLF Hair - Rough Hair - Lite 1K" main file. |
WSCO - Windsong Skyrim Character Overhaul | Detailed Instructions available | |||||||
Install the WSCO Occidental Vanilla Body v1 Main File:
xEdit Cleaning Required After cleaning this mod, open it in xEdit:
|
09-Fixes
- Mods have a programmatic component that fixes various bugs and/or inconsistencies
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
Dawnguard |
Hearthfire |
Dragonborn |
High Resolution Texture Pack | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
This is the Official DLC from Bethesda. It consists of three plugins, which should be listed right after Unofficial Skyrim Legendary Edition Patch in the left pane of Mod Organizer and prioritized sequentially (HighResTexturePack01, HighResTexturePack02, HighResTexturePack03). If optimized versions of the textures from the High Resolution Texture Pack are used they should be placed directly after HighResTexturePack03. |
STEP Optimized Vanilla Textures | Standard | Simply download and install one of the Optional Files and then check the archive in the Archives tab. |
Appropriately Attired Jarls |
Bug Fixes |
Enchantment Reload Fix |
Fuz Ro D-oh | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
The Fuz Ro D'oh.ini file needs to be edited manually. To do this:
|
Invisibility Glitch Eyes Fix |
Modern Brawl Bug Fix |
NARC | STEP recommends the NARC main file. All needed patches are included in the STEP Patches. |
Ragdoll Paralysis | Only install the Paralyze Miscellaneous file. |
Skyrim Project Optimization | Full Version | Install the "Skyrim Project Optimization - Full Version" Main File. Tick Data and click [OK] to install. |
Smart Souls | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
The Smart Souls.ini file needs to be edited manually. To do this:
NOTE: If you forget to follow the instructions above, the Smart Souls.ini file should be created upon running the game for the first time after this mod's installation. It will be located in the Mod Organizer Overwrite folder. This file needs to be dragged and dropped into the SKSE/Plugins folder within the Smart Souls mod. |
Wiseman303s Critter Fixes | Detailed Instructions available | |||||||
|
Wiseman303s Flora Fixes | Download and install the main file and the WM Flora Fixes SMIM Patch optional file. |
Realistic Ragdolls and Force | Realistic | STEP Extended Patch users can remove the plugin from this mod. All other files are required. |
Wiseman303s Trap Fixes | Install checking only the Traps Make Noise compatibility option. |
10-Gameplay-General
- Mods that affect general or multiple gameplay mechanics
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
Auto Unequip Ammo | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
In the MCM settings for Auto Ammo Unequip, STEP recommends changing following settings:
|
Clothing and Clutter Fixes | Download and install the "Clothing and Clutter Fixes" main file. |
Complete Crafting Overhaul Remade | Install the Main File and the CCO Compatibility Patch for WAFR Optional File. |
Weapons and Armor Fixes | Detailed Instructions available | |||||||
Install the Main File:
|
No mods defined.
12-Gameplay-Economy
- Mods that affect currency, rewards, values, rates, or any other economy-related mechanics
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
Trade and Barter | Install the Trade And Barter - Hearthfire Main File. |
13-Gameplay-Immersion
- Mods that help to improve game immersion and role-playing scenarios
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
Clams Drop Pearls |
Convenient Horses |
Dead Body Collision |
Disease Descriptions | Select Vanilla, Dawnguard, and Dragonborn in the installer. |
Guard Dialogue Overhaul | Do NOT clean with TES5Edit. ITMs/UDRs are intended by the author for the mod to work correctly. |
Non-Essential Children | Use the Hearthfire version. |
Point the Way |
Relationship Dialogue Overhaul | Install the Main File. Skip all patches in installer. |
SM Drop Lit Torches |
Skyrim Coin Replacer Redux | Install the SCRR - Legendary Edition Main File and Septim HD Coinpiles Optional File. |
Traps Make Noise | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
Install the Traps Make Noise Main File. Merger the Mining Makes Noise (for CCOR) Optional File. |
Wet and Cold | 1024 | Detailed Instructions available | ||||
Install the Wet & Cold - Ashes optional.
Optional Installation: Higher quality fur coats can be installed by ticking the High Res Fur Coats optional. This will install 2K textures. This is completely optional. Otherwise, just leave it unticked for the 1K textures. |
14-Gameplay-Quests
- Mods that alter aspects of quests and/or related lore
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
ESF - The Companions Guild | Download and install the ESFCompanions REQUIREMENTS-ONLY VERSION main file. |
Even Better Quest Objectives | Detailed Instructions available | |||||||
Do not install any patches (untick them), they are included in the Step Patch - Conflict Resolutiones.
|
Gildergreen Regrown |
Not So Fast - Mage Guild |
Not So Fast-Main Quest |
The Choice is Yours |
The Paarthurnax Dilemma | Note: The Nexus page for this mod has a spoiler for those that have not played the main quest yet. |
Thieves Guild Requirements |
Timing is Everything |
No mods defined.
16-Interface
- Mods that affect any aspect of the user interface
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
Better Dialogue Controls |
Better MessageBox Controls |
Immersive HUD |
KenMOD Time On Loading Screen |
Lore-Based Loading Screens |
Main Font Replacement | Fertigo Pro | DO NOT USE this mod if Skyrim language is not set to English! |
Main Menu Spinning Emblem | STEP recommends the Main Menu Spinning Skyrim Emblem Average Speed main file. |
MoreHUD |
RaceMenu |
Skyrim Skill Interface Re-Texture | Detailed Instructions available | |||||||
Download and install the SSIRT v3.0 main file.
|
Viewable Faction Ranks | Install the Viewable Faction Ranks Dawnguard and Dragonborn Main File. |
17-Locations
- Mods that programmatically add new or alter vanilla locations
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
Bring Out Your Dead |
Cutting Room Floor |
Farmhouse Chimneys | Detailed Instructions available | |||||||
|
Hearthfire Extended | Install the Hearthfire Extended - All DLCs (Legendary Edition) Main File. |
Oblivion Gates | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
Install the Oblivion Gates v3 Skyrim and Dawnguard DLC Main File.
Move the Oblivion Gates v3 without Markers - Skyrim + Dawnguard DLC.esp to Optional ESPs in MO. |
We wish to be clear that the mods included within this section are completely optional. They are still within the Mandate, however, we've made this section optional for users who wish to customize their own lighting and weather for their games. As such, we've included an additional patch solely for this mod group.
No mods defined.
19-Utilities
- Mods that generate derived mod output from load-order-specific assets
Mod Name | Baseline | Instructions |
---|
Fores New Idles in Skyrim | Detailed Instructions available | |||||
Install the FNIS Behavior Main File.
FNIS is run through Mod Organizer like most other tools. Add FNIS to the list of executables by doing the following:
Now each time you want to run FNIS, simply select it from the drop-down menu at top right and click Run. |
2.O. Launching STEP:Skyrim
When ready to play for the first time after a STEP install, it is recommended to start a brand new character. In the past, we advised that users they could continue an existing save, but with recent mod updates, we feel it is imperative users start a new character.
Archive Management
MO2
Mod Organizer allows loading archives without their dummy plugins.
- In the Plugins tab, deactivate HighResTexturePack01.esp, HighResTexturePack02.esp, HighResTexturePack03.esp, Unofficial High Resolution Patch.esp, STEP DLC Optimized Textures, STEP Vanilla Optimized Textures, Modern Brawl Bug Fix.esp, and BWS.esp as they are all dummy plugins.
- Go to the Archives tab.
- Tick Have MO manage archives.
- In the archive list, ensure all the mods are checked.
LOOT Meta Rules
Once all mods have been installed, run LOOT one final time to ensure the correct plugin order is set. Ensure the rules below were not missed before creating the Bashed Patch! If any were missed, please apply them and re-run the Bashed Patch:
Main:
- Global Priority: 45
RelightingSkyrim_Legendary.esp
Main:
- Global Priority: 30
RealisticWaterTwo.esp
Load after:
- RelightingSkyrim_Legendary.esp
Clothing & Clutter Fixes.esp
Load After:
- Lepidoptera Of Skyrim DLC1.esp
AOS.esp
Load after:
- ADS.esp
Book Covers Skyrim.esp
Load After:
- TheChoiceIsYours.esp
TheChoiceIsYours.esp
Load After:
- Relationship Dialogue Overhaul
Mod Configuration Menu Settings
Coming soon...
STEP 3
3.A. Troubleshooting Common Problems
A heavily modded Skyrim can bring even a very powerful system to its knees. Maximum visual quality is highly dependent upon total on-card graphics-dedicated video memory (VRAM), the number of GPUs, and monitor resolution. The goal should be to maintain 30 or more FPS on average without any noticeable stuttering.
3.A.1. Failure to Launch
Skyrim still sometimes fails to launch, and the following are some of the most common causes and solutions:
- Improper load order - Run LOOT and examine the output. Plugins out of order or plugins with missing masters will cause this. LOOT will sort everything properly, but certain patches installed with certain mods included with STEP:Extended will not apply under a STEP:Core install, so these plugins need to be un-ticked in MO or WB plugin lists.
- Improper Bashed Patch - This can result from ticking options that are not explicitly mentioned in this guide, or it can result if the Bashed Patch was not rebuilt after a mod-list/order change.
- Bad INI settings - If Skyrim.ini or SkyrimPrefs.ini were edited in a way that was not described in STEP 1.D. (or if a fresh, default INI was not used as a baseline), certain settings can cause this issue. The quickest solution is to revisit that section and regenerate a fresh INI with the recommended settings.
3.A.2. Crashes to Desktop (CTD)
There are unfortunately many reasons for CTDs just after launch or shortly thereafter, but if this guide was followed precisely, STEP mods should not be the cause. Following are some common causes and solutions.
- Improper Load Order - Run LOOT and examine the output as in the previous section.
- Missing Masters - If an active plugin is missing its dependent master, a CTD will occur immediately. To fix, either locate the missing master and add it in or deactivate the plugin missing its master.
- MO will show a red exclamation icon next to the plugin, while Wrye Bash will show a red checkbox next to the plugin.
- Improper Bashed Patch - See the previous section.
- Bad INI settings - Yep, see the previous section.
- Bad video settings or incompatible driver version - Revisit STEP 1.E. and verify settings, back them down to 'performance' options, or update to the proper video driver.
- Windows environment issue - This is highly possible and unfortunately too difficult to prescribe any remotely ubiquitous solution other than restarting the computer and checking for conflicting processes (e.g., anti-virus/maleware). Google is a friend to all in need.
3.A.3. Semi-Invisible People, Objects or Misbehaving Walls
Following are some solutions:
- Transparency Antialiasing - Turn off any transparency (adaptive) sampling if enabled under antialiasing settings of the graphics-driver software (see references under STEP 1.E.). Also, remember to download the latest graphic drivers.
- Bad INI settings - If using ENB, set
bFloatPointRenderTarget=1
in the SkyrimPrefs.ini.
3.A.4. Stuttering
- Microstutter - This is an annoying 'glitchiness' when moving or panning for those using higher-end graphics cards (usually) or multiple GPUs in SLI or CrossfireX configs (purportedly). Follow the recommendations for ENBoost, noting in particular
EnableVSync=true
. If this does not resolve the issue:- Ensure that microstutter is not being confused with 'macro'-stutter, which is more severe and memory related. Remember: microstutter is very annoying, but not hindering in any way.
- Try forcing vsync via Nvidia Inspector (Nvidia users) or RadeonPro (AMD users) ... sorry Intel users. Also (and this is very important), enable D3D-compatible triple buffering via RadeonPro. Nvidia Inspector users: D3D-compatible triple buffering is not available. Use D3Doverrider instead. This may also have a vsync function.
- Macrostutter - This is most likely the result of using textures and meshes that exceed the limits of GPU VRAM. ENBoost should prevent this in most cases, but certain user configurations and/or hardware may not behave as expected:
- Verify ENBoost settings and graphics settings described under STEP 1.E.!
- Re-install the most performance-friendly versions of mods as indicated by the "Quality Options" column of the mod tables above.
- Consult the DDSopt Guide to learn how to optimize textures accordingly.
- Finally, Un-install Skyrim Flora Overhaul, which is easily the most VRAM-intensive mod in STEP (although there are others under STEP 2.F. and STEP 2.G. in particular).
- Enable windowed mode via ENBoost (instructions at bottom of mod page).
3.A.5. Texture Flickering, Etc.
Refer to the Z-Fighting Guide.
3.B. In-Game Tips
- The console can be activated by pressing the tilde ([~]) key, often located just below [Escape], while in-game.
- ENBoost has a couple built in hotkeys that are helpful (can be adjusted in enblocal.ini section [INPUT]):
- Show FPS: [*] (on the numpad not shift+8)
- Free VRAM: [f4]
- Screenshot: print screen (Skyrim's screenshots do not work with ENB/ENBoost)
- Steam screenshots are [f12], but if using a keyboard with multimedia keys it could be [shift+f12].
- Be aware [shift+f12] is also the ENB Series Graphics hotkey to toggle the effects on/off. ENBoost ONLY users are not affected.
3.B.1. Optimize Field of View (FOV)
Prior to 2008, the most common monitor resolutions were 16:10 aspect ratio (source). Since then, 16:9 has become the standard. The Skyrim FOV defaults to 65 and is optimized for a monitor aspect ratio of 16:10. Therefore, users with 16:9 monitors (e.g. 1920x1080) will want to increase their FOV to 70.59. Setting this in the INI does not persist, so it must be done via the console. Within Skyrim, open the console (tap the tilde [~] key) and type: fov 70.59
. Those rare and unfortunate users stuck with 4:3 aspect ratio will need to reduce their FOV down to 55.93.
A helpful conversion calculator can assist in calculation of other monitor types and aspect ratios. To use:
- Change Resolution of single monitor to your total resolution (if using multiple monitors, use the combined resolution)
- Change Number of monitors? to the number of monitors being used Across and Tall (e.g., if you only have 1, set both Across and Tall to 1. If you have 3 beside each other, set Across to 3 and Tall to 1. If you have 4 monitors arranged so that it is 2 by 2, set Across to 2 and Tall to 2.
- Change Old Res or Ratio to 16:10.
- Change Old hFOV to 65.
- Your new optimized FOV value will be labeled New hFOV immediately below and to the right.
3.B.2. BIG Frame Drops During Cell Loading
This is a likely indicator that VRAM is too often operating at or beyond capacity (see 3.A.4).
STEP Packs
STEP Packs are generally intended to go over the STEP:Core build. Be certain to read the Pack instructions to determine what build the Pack is dependent upon.
MO2
You will now experience one of the reasons why Mod Organizer is the chosen mod-management utility for STEP. Pack installation is a breeze, as it is possible to have profiles for each build dependency that a given Pack relies upon.Consider reviewing some of the Packs that our users have been developing to augment STEP.
User Contributions
STEP can only get bigger and better with help from the user community. Even simply maintaining the current STEP is too much work for the core STEP team to ensure that the highest quality is maintained. We need people to help us identify mods that improve Skyrim while adhering to the STEP Mandate. We also need ongoing reviews and updates on mods that may be causing problems or that stray from the STEP philosophy. Finally, we need help from the community in terms of mod testing. More detail is presented in the Mod Testing Guide.
In order to suggest a mod, visit the Mods section of the STEP Forums.
Call for Wiki Content Editors
The STEP Community Wiki is open to editing by all registered community members; however, we need assistance maintaining and creating new supporting content. We are particularly interested in obtaining a few people with a passion for writing and editing. Familiarity with wiki markup is preferable but not necessary. Interested parties please contact TechAngel85 via PM on the forums (Please register on the forums and see the very bottom of the Forum Team page).
Call for STEP Mod Testers
STEP community members interested in becoming testers, please contact TechAngel85 via PM on the forums (Please register on the forums and see the very bottom of the Forum Team page). Once registered, record your system specs by clicking on the button and filling out the form. These specs will be associated with performance data given by testers. Before deciding, read through the Mod Testing Guide to get a sense what mod testing involves.
Call for STEP Benchmarks
Users interested in helping out with the STEP Benchmarking Project, see our benchmarking guidelines and submit results on the forums (see link at upper left of site header bar).
Call for Forum Moderators
Regular STEP community members interested in becoming moderators, please contact TechAngel85 via PM on the forums (Please register on the forums and see the very bottom of the Forum Team page).
Credits
The STEP administrators would sincerely like to thank (from the bottoms of our fuzzy little hearts):
- The authors of mods recommended in STEP
- The authors of mods who granted permission for their mods to be placed inside the STEP Compilation
- The core STEP Community for feedback, suggestions and input
- The STEP testers for their good humor and rigorous analyses
- The Nexus community
- Bethesda Softworks for Skyrim (and TES in general)
- Tannin for the gift that is Mod Organizer
The core STEP team is:
- EssArrBee - Release Coordinator, Fallout survivor, STEP Patches maintainer
- stoppingby4now - Lead Site Developer, administrator, Semantic Mediawiki developer & extraordinaire, site founder
- TechAngel85 - Lead Release Coordinator, Forum administrator, FOMOD extraordinaire
- z929669 - Wiki & forums content editor, administrator, hosting maintenance, site founder
- Other active volunteer staff: Aiyen, DoubleYou, Greg, GrantSP, GSDfan, hishutup, Kelmych, Nebulous112, phazer11, WilliamImm
- Honorary members: TheCompiler, Farlo, MontyMM, oqhansoloqo, rootsrat, torminater