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__NOTITLE__
<br>
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= A Real Explorer's Guide to Skyrim =
<center>{{Warning|This is just a test page.}}</center>
<br>
<br>
Skyrim is a great game, but it suffers terribly from a lack of life overall. Does the great empire really only consist of mini settlements with some farmers in them? <br/>The cities are too small and underpopulated. Most of the towns seem deserted. Even its capital, Solitude, is smaller than the average city in Oblivion.
<center>{{Notice Small|Latest version: 3.1.0 (19 March 2014). Changelog is [[Pack:Explorers_Guide#Changelog|here]]|1}}</center>
<center><font size="6" color="#cc6600">A Real Explorer's Guide to Skyrim</font></center>


''A Real Explorer's Guide'' (REGS) will provide players with a mod compilation that will finally turn Skyrim into a country that feels alive, without derailing from the original game's style. <br/>You will not find any over the top mods here. Mods that had overpowered, non-fitting or broken contents were stripped from those parts. <br/>REGS attempts to hold true to the intended spirit of the game and is generally lore-friendly.


What we wanted to achieve is to bring you a modlist which you would like to use permanently in all of your next playthroughs. <br/>
Enjoy!<br/><br/>


<hr>
<center>Skyrim is a great game, but it suffers terribly from a lack of life overall. Does the great empire really only consist of mini settlements with some farmers in them? <br>The cities are too small and underpopulated. Most of the towns seem deserted. Even its capital, Solitude, is smaller than the average city in Oblivion. <br>
<small>Small Text</small>
''A Real Explorer's Guide'' (REGS) will provide players with a mod compilation that will finally turn Skyrim into a country that feels alive, without derailing from the original game's style.
<big>Big Text</big>
<br>
You will not find any over the top mods here. Mods that had overpowered, non-fitting or broken contents were stripped from those parts.
<br>
Our goal is to bring you a modlist which you would like to use permanently in all of your next playthroughs. <br> REGS attempts to hold true to the intended spirit of the game and is generally lore-friendly.</center>




== Potato ==
<div>{{TOC right}}</div>
== Introduction ==


<span class="boss">BOSS Userlist updating required:</span> REGS - Better City Entrances.esp ''BOTTOM'' Towns and Villages ([http://wiki.step-project.com/User:Neovalen/Skyrim_Revisited_-_Legendary_Edition/BOSS_Masterlist_Updating <small>Updating Guide</small>])
A Real Guide to Skyrim is a STEP hosted guide, designed with three goals in mind:
<ul>
<li>Providing users with some of the best landscape, city and quest mods.</li>
<li>Maintaining Lore-Friendliness, meaning mods that differ greatly from the vanilla feel of the game will not be listed.</li>
<li>Focusing on compatibility with other guides and mods.</li>
</ul>


<span class="clean">Mod Cleaning Required:</span> ExpandedWinterHoldRuins.esp (ITM:6, UDR:12) [http://wiki.step-project.com/User:Neovalen/Skyrim_Revisited_-_Legendary_Edition/Mod_Cleaning <small>(Cleaning Guide)</small>]
REGS is mostly modular. It is your choice to install a mod or not, although it is strongly recommended to install everything.


<span class="clean">Mod Cleaning Required:</span> ExpandedWinterHoldRuins.esp (ITM:6, UDR:12) [http://wiki.step-project.com/User:Neovalen/Skyrim_Revisited_-_Legendary_Edition/Mod_Cleaning <small>(Cleaning Guide)</small>]


<span class="donotinstall">Do not install the following file(s) and/or folder(s):</span>
== On compatibility ==


<span class="installonly">'''Only''' install the following file(s) and/or folder(s):</span>
REGS is ''incompatible'' with the following mods:
<ul>
<li>[http://wiki.step-project.com/Chimneys_for_Skyrim Chimneys of Skyrim]: <small>Expanded Towns and Cities already adds chimneys, using this with it will cause clipping (Use Hearthfire Chimneys which is part of REGS).</small></li>
<li>[http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/8058/? Open Cities Skyrim]:<small> Open cities is renown for being incompatible with most, if not all, city mods.</small></li>
</ul>
<br>
REGS has ''limited compatibility'' with the following mods:
<ul>
<li>[http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/27043/? Enhanced Lighting and FX] <small> The Exteriors module is not compatible with Lanterns of Skyrim.  Install either ELFX Exteriors OR Lanterns of Skyrim, not both. ELFX is otherwise compatible with REGS. </small></li>
<li>[http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/12933/? Extensible Follower Framework]<small> If using Nightingale Hall Restored, Karliah will miss some follower dialogue although she otherwise works as intended. Read the descriptions at the Nexus for more information.</small></li>
<li>[http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/19281 Requiem]<small> This mod is incompatible with Realistic Room Rental Enhanced. Choose one of the two.</small>
</ul>
<br>


== Content ==
== Pre-Installation Setup ==
 
If you are using NMM or Wrye Bash, we strongly encourage you to switch to [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/1334 Mod Organizer].
 
You will need to install the following utilities:


The pack will provide you with:
<ul>
<ul>
<li>Cleaned and CTD-free mods</li>
<li>[http://boss-developers.github.io BOSS] v2.2.0</li>
<li>Conflict resolution</li>
<li>[http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/311 BOSS Userlist Manager(BUM)] v6.7</li>
<li>Custom-made Navmesh fixes</li>
<li>[http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/25859 TES5Edit] v3.0.31 Experimental </li>
<li>Grey face bug fixes</li>
<li>Merged ESPs </li>
<li>Modified versions of mods (such as e.g. [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/13608/? Expanded Towns and Cities]) to make them fit in with vanilla Skyrim.</li>
<li>Optimal mod combinations</li>
<li>Proper NPC behaviour packages</li>
<li>Removed incompatible or low quality content</li>
<li>Revamped versions of outdated mods</li>
<li>Same cell edit fixes</li>
</ul>
</ul>


'''''Everything is modular. Your choice to install a mod or not, although we strongly recommended to install everything.''''' <br/>
Last notes before you begin:
# Ensure that your current setup is running stable. Whether it is STEP, SRLE or your own custom modlist.
# Install the REGS mods after the last mod in your mod manager program.
# Ignore all the BOSS warnings about any of the REGS mods.
# Never clean a mod listed in this guide unless it is mentioned.
# Only install patches offered by a mod when REGS doesn't warn you not do it.
# Read every sentence, even if you think it doesn't apply to you.
# Remember: REGS is modular. You can choose to install whichever mods you like.
 
== Mod lists ==
 
=== Vanilla Locations ===
 
==== Cities ====
 
===== [REGS - Cities] =====
'''Authors:''' Nernie, Viltuska, CJ<br>
'''Version:''' 3.0.3<br>
'''Mod Notes:''' This mod is actually a merged version of the Skyrim Sewers mod (by Viltuska) and a modified version of Nernie's Cities (by Nernie), with several additions and fixes.<br>
This mod makes changes to: Solitude, the Whiterun outskirts, and the Windhelm outskirts, plus it adds sewers to the 4 main cities.<br>
<br>
 
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/50336 Dawn of Riften] =====
 
'''Author:''' BluePianoTwo<br>
'''Version:''' 1<br>
'''Mod Notes:''' This mod turns Riften into what it should have been from start: The city of the thieves’ guild.<br>
<br>
 
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/37460 Dawn of Whiterun] =====
 
'''Author:''' BluePianoTwo<br>
'''Version:''' 1.4<br>
'''Mod Notes:''' Dawn of Whiterun is 100% lore-friendly and focuses on making Whiterun the trading capital of Skyrim that it was meant to be.<br>
<br>


'''''Everything is included in a FOMOD installer for your convenience. Always run this FOMOD installer, regardless of your mod choices.''''' <br/>
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/43701 Dawn of Windhelm] =====


== Compatibility ==
'''Author:''' BluePianoTwo<br>
'''Version:''' 1<br>
'''Mod Notes:''' Notice a pattern yet? This mod makes Windhelm match the description that people ingame give of it, and is 100% lore friendly.<br>
<br>


REGS has been designed for 100% compatibility with the following guides and/or packs:
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/8333/ Expanded Winterhold Destruction Ruins] =====
<ul>
 
<li>[http://wiki.step-project.com/User:Neovalen/Skyrim_Revisited_-_Legendary_Edition Skyrim Revisited: Legendary Edition]<small> (conflict resolution guide available [http://wiki.step-project.com/Pack:Explorers_Guide/Conflict_Resolution here])</small></li>
'''Authors:''' Rhinala70 & phaota<br>
<li>[http://wiki.step-project.com/STEP:2.2.8 STEP] <small> (both Core and Extended)</small></li></ul>
'''Version:''' 2.22<br>
<br />
'''Mod Notes:''' The Great Collapse is not presented well visually in-game. Winterhold is merely another small village, with a few damaged and abandoned houses. Yet the history of the hold tells you that this was once a major city in Skyrim that attracted travelers from across Tamriel. This mod expands the ruins to match the lore by adding several new buildings, a small (but neglected) market place and the remains of a great wall complete with gates.<br>
REGS has been made explicitly compatible with (but not dependent on) the following mods:
<br>
<ul>
<span class="clean">TES5Edit Cleaning Required:</span> ([http://wiki.step-project.com/User:Neovalen/Skyrim_Revisited_-_Legendary_Edition/Mod_Cleaning Cleaning Guide])
<li>[http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/15508/? Better Fast Travel - Carriages and Ships]</li>
* ExpandedWinterHoldRuins.esp (ITM:6, UDR:12)
<li>[http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/8429/? Interesting NPCs]</li>
<br>
<li>Lighting Mods </li>
<li>[http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/38529/? Touring Carriages]</li>
<li>[http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/19/? Unofficial Skyrim Patches]</li>
</ul>


<small>Note: Touring Carriages is incompatible with Better Fast Travel, so choose one of the two. </small><br/>
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/21374 Understone Keep Fountains and Rubble] =====
<small>N.B.: If a mod is not listed here it doesn't mean it is incompatible. 99% of Nexus mods are compatible with this pack, though some might need some conflict resolution via TES5Edit. Ask in the [http://forum.step-project.com/topic/4152-a-real-explorers-guide-to-skyrim/ forum] if you're not sure.</small>
'''Author:''' Venatoris<br>
<br />
'''Version:''' 1.4<br>
<br />
'''Mod Notes:''' Understone Keep Fountains and Rubble overhauls the three main open areas of the Keep and one back room. For ease of description the main areas are the Entry Hall, Main Hall, and Calcelmo's Hall. I wanted to improve the overall look and feel without straying from a vanilla theme.<br>
Known incompatible mods:
<ul>
<li>[http://wiki.step-project.com/Chimneys_for_Skyrim Chimneys of Skyrim]: <small>Expanded Towns and Cities already adds chimneys, using this with it will cause clipping (Use Hearthfire Chimneys which is part of REGS).</small></li>
<li>[http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/8058/? Open Cities Skyrim]:<small> Open cities is renown for being incompatible with most, if not all, city mods.</small></li>
</ul>
<br>
<br>
Other compatibility issues:
<span class="boss">BOSS Masterlist Update Required:</span> ([http://wiki.step-project.com/User:Neovalen/Skyrim_Revisited_-_Legendary_Edition/BOSS_Masterlist_Updating Updating Guide])
<ul>
* Understone Keep Repair.esp ''BOTTOM'' Towns and Villages
<li>'''Enhanced Lighting and FX:''' The Interiors and Enhancer parts of this mod are compatible with the pack, but the Exteriors module might not be compatible with Lanterns of Skyrim. Install either the Exteriors module of ELFX OR Lanterns of Skyrim, not both.</li>
<li>'''The Paarthunax Dilemna:''' Sky Haven Temple Enhanced already has a fix for the Paarthunax quest. Disable The Paarthunax Dilemna mod or you'll have problems.</li>
<li>'''Extensible Follower Framework:''' Using this mod might prevent you from recruiting more than 3 blades even if using Sky Haven Temple Enhanced, but there is no real incompatibility here, it's just that EFF reverts the blades system to vanilla.</li>
</ul>
<br>
<br>


==== Settlements ====


{{PackTableFrame
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/13608 Expanded Towns and Cities] =====
|packName=Pack:Explorers Guide/Major Overhauls
|intro=Large mods that affect more than one city or village.
|table={{PackTableEntry
|packName=Explorers Guide
|tableName=Major Overhauls
|modName=Expanded Towns and Cities
|customInstall=Version: 8.4


Installer Options - Main File:
'''Author:''' missjennabee<br>
'''Version:''' 8.4<br>
'''Installer Options:'''
<ul>
<ul>
<li>Complete</li>
<li>Complete</li>
<li>Complete - No inns</li>
<li>Complete - No inns</li>
<li>Do not install Dragon Bridge South <small>(a village is added there instead by Fight Against the Thalmor)</small></li>
<li>Do not install Dragon Bridge South</li>
<li>Inn Signs: User's choice</li>
<li>Inn Signs: User's choice</li>
<li>Falkreath Textures: User's choice</li>
<li>Falkreath Textures: User's choice</li>
<li>Do not install the Smelters Add-On</li>
<li>Do not install the Smelters Add-On</li>
</ul>
</ul>
'''Mod Notes:''' The most comprehensive mod for changing the smaller towns. Unlike most other mods that aim to do the same, this one does it intelligently by hand placing a lot of elements, new buildings with functional interiors and working NPCs, instead of just putting trees everywhere.<br>
'''Important note:''' You can use the mod as is, both modular or complete. But it is recommended to use the custom replacer that is listed below instead.<br>
<br>


<small>Note: Do not install the ETaC patch pack. They are provided as custom ESPs in the REGS FOMOD installer at the end of the guide.<br>
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/33162 Immersive Settlements] =====
Note2: At the end of the guide, a REGS-modified version of ETaC - Complete.esp is offered which has been stripped of the parts that are out of line with vanilla Skyrim and which doesn't ruin your FPS or cause CTD's.</small>
}}{{PackTableEntry
|packName=Explorers Guide
|tableName=Major Overhauls
|modName=Immersive Settlements
|customInstall=Version: 0.55


<span style="color:#99ccff">'''Only''' install the following file(s) and/or folder(s):</span>
'''Author:''' Pymous<br>
'''Version:''' 0.55<br>
'''Special Instructions:''' Only install the following file(s) and/or folder(s):
<ul>
<ul>
<li>meshes/actors/characters/facegendata/facegeom/Immersive Orc Strongholds.esp/ (all files in the folder)</li>
<li>meshes (folder)</li>
<li>textures/actors/characters/FaceGenData/FaceTint/Immersive Orc Strongholds.esp/ (all files in the folder)</li>
<li>textures (folder)</li>
<li>Immersive Orc Strongholds.esp</li>
<li>Immersive Orc Strongholds.esp</li>
</ul>
</ul>
'''Mod Notes:''' Like Expanded Towns and Cities, this mod also adds new buildings and clutter to the smaller towns. For the purposes of the guide, only the Orc Strongholds module of the mod will be used.<br>
<br>
<span class="clean">TES5Edit Cleaning Required:</span> ([http://wiki.step-project.com/User:Neovalen/Skyrim_Revisited_-_Legendary_Edition/Mod_Cleaning Cleaning Guide])
* Immersive Orc Strongholds.esp (ITM:8, UDR:0)
<br>
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/31582 Raven Rock Expanded] =====
'''Author:''' uglydemon<br>
'''Version:''' 2.6.9<br>
'''Mod Notes:''' An expansion to Raven Rock, making it closer to town than settlement. Adding well fitting buildings and NPCs with unique schedules and AI, Morrowind style Banners, Ashlander camp, Travelers visiting etc.<br>
<br>
<span class="clean">TES5Edit Cleaning Required:</span> ([http://wiki.step-project.com/User:Neovalen/Skyrim_Revisited_-_Legendary_Edition/Mod_Cleaning Cleaning Guide])
* RavenRockExpanded.esp (ITM:176, UDR:0)
<br>


<span style="color:orange">Mod cleaning required:</span> Immersive Orc Strongholds.esp (ITM:8, UDR:0) [http://wiki.step-project.com/User:Neovalen/Skyrim_Revisited_-_Legendary_Edition/Mod_Cleaning <small>(Cleaning Guide)</small>]
==== Locations ====
}}{{PackTableEntry
|packName=Explorers Guide
|tableName=Major Overhauls
|modName=Nernies City and Village Expansion
|customInstall=Version: 1.25 (Loose Files)


<span style="color:#ffcc99"> Do not install the following file(s) and/or folder(s):</span>
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/41580 High Hrothgar Overhaul] =====
 
'''Author:''' MannyGT<br>
'''Version:''' 1.0<br>
'''Mod Notes:''' This mod adds some elements to the exterior area of High Hrothgar for a better visual experience.<br>
<br>
 
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/36849 Immersive College of Winterhold] =====
 
'''Author:''' Grantyboy050<br>
'''Version:''' 2.2<br>
'''Installer Options:'''
<ul>
<ul>
<li>NerniesOptionalFiles folder</li>
<li>CWI Core Files</li>
<li>NerniesCityandVillageReadme.txt</li>
<li>Dawnguard Patch</li>
<li>NerniesCityandVillageExpansion.esp</li>
<li>Dragonborn Patch</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<small>Note: There's no need to download version 1.26.</small><br>
'''Special Instructions:''' SR:LE users should follow these [http://wiki.step-project.com/Pack:Explorers_Guide/Conflict_Resolution#Immersive_College_of_Winterhold special instructions]<br>
<small>Note2: In the FOMOD installer at the end of the guide, this mod's .esp is integrated into the REGS - Cities.esp</small>
'''Mod Notes:''' This mod attempts to bring some of the missing grandeur, magic and mystery to the College by adding a variety of new objects, activators, locations and books as well as improving the magical aptitudes of the faculty members.<br>
}}{{PackTableEntry
<br>
|packName=Explorers Guide
|tableName=Major Overhauls
|modName=Skyrim Sewers
|customInstall=Version: None


This mod is already included in the REGS - Cities.esp that is available in the REGS Files which you will find at the end of the guide.<br>
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/13632 Nightingale Hall Restored] =====
You should not activate this mod, but please endorse it nonetheless.
'''Author:''' kryptopyr<br>
}}
'''Version:''' 3.0<br>
}}
'''Mod Notes:''' Upgrades Nightingale Hall into a more liveable and functional space and allows Karliah to become a follower. Adds a portal to the Twilight Sepulcher, ability to level up Nightingale gear, and other features. These changes will occur after the completion of the quest Darkness Returns.<br>
<br>


===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/25029 Realistic Room Rental Enhanced] =====
'''Author:''' perseid9<br>
'''Version:''' 1.8.3 (RealisticRoomRental-Enhanced)<br>
'''Installer Options:'''
<ul>
<li>02 RRR_3DNPC-Patch</li>
</ul>
'''Special Instructions:''' Requiem users should not install this mod.<br>
SR:LE users should follow these [http://wiki.step-project.com/Pack:Explorers_Guide/Conflict_Resolution#Realistic_Room_Rental_Enhanced special instructions].<br>
'''Mod Notes:''' Overhauls all the inns and taverns, both aesthetically and functionally.<br>
<br>
===== [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/41626 Sky Haven Temple Merchants and More] =====
'''Author:''' brokendeck<br>
'''Version:''' 3.3 (Optional File '''only''')<br>
'''Mod Notes:''' This mod makes several additions to the Sky Haven Temple, without breaking immersion.<br>
<br>


=== Enhancement mods ===


===== Hearthfire Chimneys =====




{{#css:User:Nearox/Test.css}}
 
 
 
== BOSS Userlist Sorting ==
 
Generally speaking, the REGS patches and custom esp files should go near the bottom of your loader order but BEFORE any lighting mods you might have (ELFX, ELE, and RLO). Please do the following in the order stipulated here (depending on your mod choice you may or may not have all the files listed):
 
<span class="boss">BOSS Userlist updating required:</span> ([http://wiki.step-project.com/User:Neovalen/Skyrim_Revisited_-_Legendary_Edition/BOSS_Masterlist_Updating Masterlist Updating Guide by Neovalen])<br/>
{|
|-
| REGS - Resources.esm || BOTTOM || ESMs
|-
| REGS - Cities.esp || BOTTOM || City Overhauls
|-
|  || ||
|-
| REGS Patch - 3DNPC.esp || AFTER || REGS - Cities.esp
|-
| REGS Patch - CRF.esp || AFTER || REGS - Cities.esp
|-
| REGS Patch - ORS.esp || AFTER || REGS - Cities.esp
|-
| REGS Patch - NSutR.esp || AFTER || REGS - Cities.esp
|-
| REGS Patch - NSutR + RRR.esp || AFTER || REGS - Cities.esp
|-
|  || ||
|-
| REGS Patch - RWT.esp || AFTER || RealisticWaterTwo.esp
|-
| REGS Patch - ELFX Exteriors.esp || AFTER || ELFX - Exteriors.esp
|-
| REGS Patch - STEP Extended.esp || AFTER || SoS - The Dungeons.esp
|-
| Helgen Reborn - Cyrodiil Frontier Patch.esp || AFTER || Helgen Reborn.esp
|-
|}
 
Due to the important amount of BOSS userlist updating required, [https://www.dropbox.com/s/i5det69wbki7bmf/userlist.txt here is a "userlist.txt" file] that you can append to your existing one to get all the BUM rules present in this guide.
 
== Conflict Resolution ==
 
STEP - Core users: Necessary conflicts have been resolved and are included in the REGS esps.<br/>
 
STEP - Extended users: A patch has been made available in the FOMOD installer.<br/>
 
SRLE users: There is now a guide with special install instructions and conflict resolution available for SRLE. Please follow [http://wiki.step-project.com/Pack:Explorers_Guide/Conflict_Resolution this link.] <br/>
 
If you don't use STEP or SRLE but you use your own compilation, then you will have to do the conflict resolution by yourself.
 
== Final Steps ==
 
* If you are using [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/9557/ Alternate Start - Live Another Life by Arthmoor]:
# Run BOSS and rebuild the Bashed Patch. Also run FNIS and/or SUM if you use those tools.
# Play the game.
# When you wish to start Helgen Reborn, ensure that you have talked to the Whiterun Guards (yes, seriously) and played the game (or waited) at least 4 days after that. Verify there are bandits in Helgen. Make sure you do that before talking to the guy at Falkreath.
<br>
* If you are NOT using [http://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/9557/ Alternate Start - Live Another Life by Arthmoor] OR you want to play the vanilla start:
# Disable Helgen Reborn.esp and Helgen Reborn - Cyrodiil Frontier.esp from the load order.
# Run BOSS and rebuild the Bashed Patch. Also run FNIS and/or SUM if you use those tools.
# Start a new game.
# Finish the Helgen Sequence.
# Save after getting out of the cave and exit the game.
# Enable the Helgen Reborn.esp and Helgen Reborn - Cyrodiil Frontier.esp.
# Run BOSS again.
# Play the game.
 
== Credits ==
 
<ul>
<li>Nernie for her Better Cities mod and resources.</li>
<li>Viltuska for his Skyrim Sewers mod.</li>
<li>Drakulux for the Jeweller stand in his Whiterun Outskirts Market mod.</li>
<li>Ga-Knomboe Boy for his modder's resources.</li>
<li>InsanitySorrow for his modder's resources.</li>
<li>CJ2311 for suggestions, navmeshing and patching to make everything work together.</li>
<li>Nearox for suggestions, SR:LE conflict resolution, and writing the guide.</li>
<li>MonoAccipiter on the STEP forums for all the feedback and bug reports he submitted.</li>
</ul>
 
{{#css:User:CJ2311/Explorer_Guide.css}}

Revision as of 16:16, March 22, 2014


Template:Warning


Template:Notice Small
A Real Explorer's Guide to Skyrim


Skyrim is a great game, but it suffers terribly from a lack of life overall. Does the great empire really only consist of mini settlements with some farmers in them?
The cities are too small and underpopulated. Most of the towns seem deserted. Even its capital, Solitude, is smaller than the average city in Oblivion.

A Real Explorer's Guide (REGS) will provide players with a mod compilation that will finally turn Skyrim into a country that feels alive, without derailing from the original game's style.
You will not find any over the top mods here. Mods that had overpowered, non-fitting or broken contents were stripped from those parts.

Our goal is to bring you a modlist which you would like to use permanently in all of your next playthroughs.
REGS attempts to hold true to the intended spirit of the game and is generally lore-friendly.


Introduction

A Real Guide to Skyrim is a STEP hosted guide, designed with three goals in mind:

  • Providing users with some of the best landscape, city and quest mods.
  • Maintaining Lore-Friendliness, meaning mods that differ greatly from the vanilla feel of the game will not be listed.
  • Focusing on compatibility with other guides and mods.

REGS is mostly modular. It is your choice to install a mod or not, although it is strongly recommended to install everything.


On compatibility

REGS is incompatible with the following mods:

  • Chimneys of Skyrim: Expanded Towns and Cities already adds chimneys, using this with it will cause clipping (Use Hearthfire Chimneys which is part of REGS).
  • Open Cities Skyrim: Open cities is renown for being incompatible with most, if not all, city mods.


REGS has limited compatibility with the following mods:

  • Enhanced Lighting and FX The Exteriors module is not compatible with Lanterns of Skyrim. Install either ELFX Exteriors OR Lanterns of Skyrim, not both. ELFX is otherwise compatible with REGS.
  • Extensible Follower Framework If using Nightingale Hall Restored, Karliah will miss some follower dialogue although she otherwise works as intended. Read the descriptions at the Nexus for more information.
  • Requiem This mod is incompatible with Realistic Room Rental Enhanced. Choose one of the two.


Pre-Installation Setup

If you are using NMM or Wrye Bash, we strongly encourage you to switch to Mod Organizer.

You will need to install the following utilities:

Last notes before you begin:

  1. Ensure that your current setup is running stable. Whether it is STEP, SRLE or your own custom modlist.
  2. Install the REGS mods after the last mod in your mod manager program.
  3. Ignore all the BOSS warnings about any of the REGS mods.
  4. Never clean a mod listed in this guide unless it is mentioned.
  5. Only install patches offered by a mod when REGS doesn't warn you not do it.
  6. Read every sentence, even if you think it doesn't apply to you.
  7. Remember: REGS is modular. You can choose to install whichever mods you like.

Mod lists

Vanilla Locations

Cities

[REGS - Cities]

Authors: Nernie, Viltuska, CJ
Version: 3.0.3
Mod Notes: This mod is actually a merged version of the Skyrim Sewers mod (by Viltuska) and a modified version of Nernie's Cities (by Nernie), with several additions and fixes.
This mod makes changes to: Solitude, the Whiterun outskirts, and the Windhelm outskirts, plus it adds sewers to the 4 main cities.

Dawn of Riften

Author: BluePianoTwo
Version: 1
Mod Notes: This mod turns Riften into what it should have been from start: The city of the thieves’ guild.

Dawn of Whiterun

Author: BluePianoTwo
Version: 1.4
Mod Notes: Dawn of Whiterun is 100% lore-friendly and focuses on making Whiterun the trading capital of Skyrim that it was meant to be.

Dawn of Windhelm

Author: BluePianoTwo
Version: 1
Mod Notes: Notice a pattern yet? This mod makes Windhelm match the description that people ingame give of it, and is 100% lore friendly.

Expanded Winterhold Destruction Ruins

Authors: Rhinala70 & phaota
Version: 2.22
Mod Notes: The Great Collapse is not presented well visually in-game. Winterhold is merely another small village, with a few damaged and abandoned houses. Yet the history of the hold tells you that this was once a major city in Skyrim that attracted travelers from across Tamriel. This mod expands the ruins to match the lore by adding several new buildings, a small (but neglected) market place and the remains of a great wall complete with gates.

TES5Edit Cleaning Required: (Cleaning Guide)

  • ExpandedWinterHoldRuins.esp (ITM:6, UDR:12)


Understone Keep Fountains and Rubble

Author: Venatoris
Version: 1.4
Mod Notes: Understone Keep Fountains and Rubble overhauls the three main open areas of the Keep and one back room. For ease of description the main areas are the Entry Hall, Main Hall, and Calcelmo's Hall. I wanted to improve the overall look and feel without straying from a vanilla theme.

BOSS Masterlist Update Required: (Updating Guide)

  • Understone Keep Repair.esp BOTTOM Towns and Villages


Settlements

Expanded Towns and Cities

Author: missjennabee
Version: 8.4
Installer Options:

  • Complete
  • Complete - No inns
  • Do not install Dragon Bridge South
  • Inn Signs: User's choice
  • Falkreath Textures: User's choice
  • Do not install the Smelters Add-On

Mod Notes: The most comprehensive mod for changing the smaller towns. Unlike most other mods that aim to do the same, this one does it intelligently by hand placing a lot of elements, new buildings with functional interiors and working NPCs, instead of just putting trees everywhere.
Important note: You can use the mod as is, both modular or complete. But it is recommended to use the custom replacer that is listed below instead.

Immersive Settlements

Author: Pymous
Version: 0.55
Special Instructions: Only install the following file(s) and/or folder(s):

  • meshes (folder)
  • textures (folder)
  • Immersive Orc Strongholds.esp

Mod Notes: Like Expanded Towns and Cities, this mod also adds new buildings and clutter to the smaller towns. For the purposes of the guide, only the Orc Strongholds module of the mod will be used.

TES5Edit Cleaning Required: (Cleaning Guide)

  • Immersive Orc Strongholds.esp (ITM:8, UDR:0)


Raven Rock Expanded

Author: uglydemon
Version: 2.6.9
Mod Notes: An expansion to Raven Rock, making it closer to town than settlement. Adding well fitting buildings and NPCs with unique schedules and AI, Morrowind style Banners, Ashlander camp, Travelers visiting etc.

TES5Edit Cleaning Required: (Cleaning Guide)

  • RavenRockExpanded.esp (ITM:176, UDR:0)


Locations

High Hrothgar Overhaul

Author: MannyGT
Version: 1.0
Mod Notes: This mod adds some elements to the exterior area of High Hrothgar for a better visual experience.

Immersive College of Winterhold

Author: Grantyboy050
Version: 2.2
Installer Options:

  • CWI Core Files
  • Dawnguard Patch
  • Dragonborn Patch

Special Instructions: SR:LE users should follow these special instructions
Mod Notes: This mod attempts to bring some of the missing grandeur, magic and mystery to the College by adding a variety of new objects, activators, locations and books as well as improving the magical aptitudes of the faculty members.

Nightingale Hall Restored

Author: kryptopyr
Version: 3.0
Mod Notes: Upgrades Nightingale Hall into a more liveable and functional space and allows Karliah to become a follower. Adds a portal to the Twilight Sepulcher, ability to level up Nightingale gear, and other features. These changes will occur after the completion of the quest Darkness Returns.

Realistic Room Rental Enhanced

Author: perseid9
Version: 1.8.3 (RealisticRoomRental-Enhanced)
Installer Options:

  • 02 RRR_3DNPC-Patch

Special Instructions: Requiem users should not install this mod.
SR:LE users should follow these special instructions.
Mod Notes: Overhauls all the inns and taverns, both aesthetically and functionally.

Sky Haven Temple Merchants and More

Author: brokendeck
Version: 3.3 (Optional File only)
Mod Notes: This mod makes several additions to the Sky Haven Temple, without breaking immersion.

Enhancement mods

Hearthfire Chimneys

BOSS Userlist Sorting

Generally speaking, the REGS patches and custom esp files should go near the bottom of your loader order but BEFORE any lighting mods you might have (ELFX, ELE, and RLO). Please do the following in the order stipulated here (depending on your mod choice you may or may not have all the files listed):

BOSS Userlist updating required: (Masterlist Updating Guide by Neovalen)

REGS - Resources.esm BOTTOM ESMs
REGS - Cities.esp BOTTOM City Overhauls
REGS Patch - 3DNPC.esp AFTER REGS - Cities.esp
REGS Patch - CRF.esp AFTER REGS - Cities.esp
REGS Patch - ORS.esp AFTER REGS - Cities.esp
REGS Patch - NSutR.esp AFTER REGS - Cities.esp
REGS Patch - NSutR + RRR.esp AFTER REGS - Cities.esp
REGS Patch - RWT.esp AFTER RealisticWaterTwo.esp
REGS Patch - ELFX Exteriors.esp AFTER ELFX - Exteriors.esp
REGS Patch - STEP Extended.esp AFTER SoS - The Dungeons.esp
Helgen Reborn - Cyrodiil Frontier Patch.esp AFTER Helgen Reborn.esp

Due to the important amount of BOSS userlist updating required, here is a "userlist.txt" file that you can append to your existing one to get all the BUM rules present in this guide.

Conflict Resolution

STEP - Core users: Necessary conflicts have been resolved and are included in the REGS esps.

STEP - Extended users: A patch has been made available in the FOMOD installer.

SRLE users: There is now a guide with special install instructions and conflict resolution available for SRLE. Please follow this link.

If you don't use STEP or SRLE but you use your own compilation, then you will have to do the conflict resolution by yourself.

Final Steps

  1. Run BOSS and rebuild the Bashed Patch. Also run FNIS and/or SUM if you use those tools.
  2. Play the game.
  3. When you wish to start Helgen Reborn, ensure that you have talked to the Whiterun Guards (yes, seriously) and played the game (or waited) at least 4 days after that. Verify there are bandits in Helgen. Make sure you do that before talking to the guy at Falkreath.


  1. Disable Helgen Reborn.esp and Helgen Reborn - Cyrodiil Frontier.esp from the load order.
  2. Run BOSS and rebuild the Bashed Patch. Also run FNIS and/or SUM if you use those tools.
  3. Start a new game.
  4. Finish the Helgen Sequence.
  5. Save after getting out of the cave and exit the game.
  6. Enable the Helgen Reborn.esp and Helgen Reborn - Cyrodiil Frontier.esp.
  7. Run BOSS again.
  8. Play the game.

Credits

  • Nernie for her Better Cities mod and resources.
  • Viltuska for his Skyrim Sewers mod.
  • Drakulux for the Jeweller stand in his Whiterun Outskirts Market mod.
  • Ga-Knomboe Boy for his modder's resources.
  • InsanitySorrow for his modder's resources.
  • CJ2311 for suggestions, navmeshing and patching to make everything work together.
  • Nearox for suggestions, SR:LE conflict resolution, and writing the guide.
  • MonoAccipiter on the STEP forums for all the feedback and bug reports he submitted.

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