User:Razorsedge877/Skyrim Extended LOTD v2.0

Skyrim SE = LOTD^v2

Skyrim Special Edition with Legend of the Dragonborn.

Created and maintained by Razorsedge877

Last Update: 17 January 2018

Pre Guide Work

There are a few things that need to be completed before starting this guide. Most of these things should already be completed, but if they are not, please do so.

Game Setup

If it is not, Steam should be installed to a location not affected by User Account Control (UAC). This is typically a place outside of C:\Program Files\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\. A separate hard drive, preferably a SSD, is recommended. If a separate drive is not available, a separate partition on a single hard drive is the second best option. If neither options are available, using the root of the system drive is recommended: C:\Steam\. If Steam is already installed to a UAC controlled area, users can move the program installation by following the instructions here: How do I move my existing Steam Installation?.

Once the game is installed, users will need to complete an initial setup:

1. Launch Skyrim Special Edition from within Steam
2. Accept any default settings and click [Play] to launch the game
3. Once at the main menu, exit the game to desktop.
4. The game files have now been initialized and the game is ready for modding.

Game Cleanup

This section only needs to be completed by users who have already had the game installed and modded prior to installing this guide.

Users upgrading from v1 of the guide or users who have previously modded Skyrim SE with NMM or WB, will need to ensure they revert their installation back to a vanilla state. The easiest way to accomplish this is to simply delete all the files/folders in the Skyrim root directory, and then re-verify the files using Steam. This will re-download the latest version of the game files in their vanilla states. This method is my suggestion for most users and is what I, personally, did as well. Advanced users can pick and choose which files to remove to ensure they're back to a vanilla install state. In either case, the Data folder should be in a 100% vanilla state before continuing this guide. This is due to MO's use of a virtual file system which keeps the game's Data folder pristine during modding.

Manager Installation

Mod Organizer 2 (MO2) is now the recommended mod manager for this guide. Mod Organizer has proven its versatility as a mod manager through countless hours of modding Skyrim LE, and has earned my respect as the optimal manager to be used by newbies and veterans alike. I am very happy to be using it again for Skyrim SE and this guide.

Mod Organizer 2

Download

Users should download the latest stable version from Nexus. This should at least be version 2.1.1 or higher.

1. Download the Installer Version main file: Nexus

Installation

Next we need to set up the installation folder. Below is how I, personally, set up my installation. Users are free to change their paths and folder names.

1. Navigate to the root Skyrim SE folder (..\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition\)
2. Create a new folder for the MO2 files.

   I named mine Mod Organizer 2: ..\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition\Mod Organizer 2\

3. Navigate to the file downloaded above and run it.
4. Leave the defaults besides:
   • On the Choose Components page users can opt to have MO2 handle NXM links or not. I opted yes.
   • On the Choose Components page users should install a Startmenu Shortcut for easy uninstalling later when upgrading.
   • On the Choose Install Location page, browse to the folder created in step 2: ..\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition\Mod Organizer 2\
5. Install the program.
6. Opt to [Run Mod Organizer 2.X.X] and click [Finish]

MO2 Setup

1. MO2 should have launched from the installation above. If not, launch it for the first time now.
2. Upon launch, users will have a choose between setting it up as portable or create a new instance. Choose to create a new instance.
3. Select [SkyrimSE] and choose [OK].

   A prompt will appear informing you about the option of changing the location of data stored. Read it and click past it.

4. The installer should automatically detect the Skyrim SE installation (...Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition\). Select it. If it didn't, browse to it's root folder.

   Another prompt will appear for first time installers asking to run the tutorial or not. First time MO users should run it. Experienced MO users can skip it.

5. MO2 is now set up and ready to use.

Category Markers

Category Markers are separators in the mod pane (left pane) to help users visualize the separate categories. Though it is not necessary, I recommend users setting up a new marker for each mod section below. To do this:

1. Double-click on the Overwrite folder at the bottom of the mod list in the left pane.
2. In the pane of the new window, right-click and choose [New Folder].
3. Rename the folder to Docs and close the window.
4. Right-click on the Overwrite folder and choose [Create Mod...].
5. Enter the category name in the box and choose [OK].

Utilities

Since some utilities are now able to be used across multiple games, I have started organizing them on my personal system within a centralized location instead of within the game's folder. Users are not required to use my organization and may organize the utilities whichever way works best for them individually. Many of these utilities will already be installed on on the system due to their use for other games. If any of them are already installed, there is no reason to re-install them for this guide unless users wish to use a single copy of the software for each game. I find this a waste of space and unnecessary so the instructions below will instruct installation for how I install the utilities. Again, users may install these utilities however they wish.

Utilities Folder Setup

First a centralized folder will be needed to install the utilities to:

1. Choose a location outside of UAC control and outside of the game's folder for the new folder and open that location up in an Explorer window.

   I have chosen: D:\Modding\

2. Click [New folder] on the menu bar of the window.
3. Name the folder and hit [Enter] to accept it.

   I have chosen Programs for my name because it is descriptive of what is housed within.

   (optional) It is recommended to create a shortcut to this folder location for ease of access to these utilities.

4. Open the new folder and keep the window open for the utilities installations.

Utilities Installation

Creation Kit

The Creation Kit (CK) is required for mod conversion and will be used within this guide for this purpose. To obtain the CK:

1. Download and install Bethesda.net Launcher.
2. Run the Launcher and sign in (create an account if you don't have one).
3. Users should see the grey "Creation" icon on the left. Click on it and install.
4. Users should now launch the CK, choose no to extracting the scripts, and close the program.

There are a few edits to the INI file that need to be made before users can use the CK to port mods.

1. Download the file I have made for you here.
2. Extract the file into the root Skyrim Special Edition directory: ..\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition\.

BethINI

Download: Nexus

Description

A utility used for setting up and editing game INIs.

Installation

1. Download the utility from Nexus
2. Extract the contents to the new folder created above:

   On my system this is: D:\Modding\Programs\BethINI\.

3. BethINI will be ran and setup up at the end of the guide.

DynDOLOD

Download: Beta via Mega (v2.36 beta 7)

Description

This is an utility used to create a mod based on the load order, which adds custom, distant LOD for objects to Skyrim.

Installation

1. Download the archive file.
2. Extract the contents to the new folder created above:

   On my system this is: D:\Modding\Programs\DynDOLOD Standalone\.

DynDOLOD Setup

1. Open the installed DynDOLOD folder from above.
2. Right-click on TexGen64.exe and choose [Create shortcut].
3. Right-click on the newly created shortcut and choose [Properties].
4. In the Target field after the ending quote, type a space and -sse

   It should look like: TexGenx64.exe" -sse

5. Repeat steps 2 through 4 for DynDOLODx64.exe.

LOOT

Download: Nexus

Description

A program used for sorting plugins for load orders.

Installation

1. Download the utility from Nexus and run the installer.
2. Install LOOT to the new folder created above.

   On my system this is: D:\Modding\Programs\LOOT\

SSE Edit

Download: Nexus

Description

This is an utility used for conflict resolution between plugins, cleaning plugins, and other various uses. Users installing mods beyond the scope of this guide are encouraged to learn how to resolve mod conflicts using this tool.

Installation

1. Download the utility from Nexus
2. Extract the contents to the new folder created above:

   On my system this is: D:\Modding\Programs\SSEEdit\.

Wrye Bash

Download: Nexus

Description

Wrye Bash is a mod manager with a few special features. For this guide we'll be using WB for its Bashed Patch feature, which allows users to combine (bash) a few simple mods together, maintain game tweaks, and merge leveled lists.

Installation

1. Download the main file from Nexus
2. Run the executable.
3. Uncheck the boxes for [Install for Skyrim].
4. Ensure the path for the Skyrim SE installation is correct.
5. Click [Next] and [Install].
6. Do not run WB yet. Simply close the installer.

Utility Setup - Mod Organizer

Since Mod Organizer works with a virtual file system (VFS), the utilities much be set up to be ran through MO; else the utilities will not be able to see mod files. I will show users the basics of how to do this below. Furthermore, MO may have automatically detected some installed utilities such as LOOT. Please ensure these auto-detected utilities are set up correctly.

1. Click the gears icon.
2. In the Binary box, browse to the location of your installed utility, select the utility's executable, and choose [Open].

   For this example, I will use SSEEdit and mine is located here: D:\Modding\Programs\SSEEdit\SSEEdit.exe

3. In the Title box name the utility.

   I chose SSEEdit.

4. In the Arguments box, add in arguments you may wish to pass to the utility at run.

   I have added the -IKnowWhatImDoing argument for SSEEdit which turns off the warning prompt.

5. Check the Use Application's Icon for shortcuts box and click [Add].
6. Repeat steps 2 through 5 to add the necessary utilities to MO. Users should add at least the following:
   • Creation Kit
   • DynDOLOD

     Add argument: -sse

   • DynDOLOD TexGen

     Add argument: -sse

   • LOOT
   • SSEEdit
   • Wrye Bash

DLC Maintenance

Mod Organizer allows us to easily manage the DLC. By placing the cleaned DLCs into their own mod installations within MO, we can maintain cleaned DLC files during a Creation Club update without the need to re-clean them. The process is the same for all files, therefore, I will lay out instructions for one file and users and rinse and repeat for the rest.

Cleaning with SSEEdit

1. Select SSEEdit from the executable drop-down in MO and click the [Run] button.
2. Only select Update.esm and click [Ok].
3. Once loaded, right-click on the last plugin in the left pane and choose [Apply Filter for Cleaning].
4. Once applied, right-click on Update.esm and select {{ui|Remove "Identical to Master" records.
5. Once finished, right-click on Update.esm again and select [Undelete and Disable References].
6. Close SSEEdit.
7. At the prompt, ensure Update.esm is checked and select [OK].

Adding the cleaned file

1. MO should now be the main window after closing SSEEdit above.
2. Right-click on the Overwrite folder and select [Create mod...].
3. Name it Update.esm - Cleaned.
4. Click and drag the new mod listing to the top of the list.
5. Activate the mod by checking the box next to the listing.

Converting Old Plugins

Throughout the guide, there are a few naughty plugins which are still using the old Form format for classic Skyrim. These plugins must be properly converted in the CK for Skyrim SE. Even though some of these mods are SE mods, this can sometimes result from creating plugins in xEdit and never running them through the CK. We will handle these issues now so that our patching, at the end of the guide, comes out clean.

Mods are tagged throughout the guide which require conversion. The instructions for converting these plugins are found below. Users can refer back to them as needed when running across the tag, or return here before starting the patching. There will be a warning to remind users to complete this step. The tag looks like so:

The following plugins must be converted:

• Chesko_LoreBasedLoadingScreens.esp
• IcePenguinWorldMap.esp
• SkyrimImprovedPuddles-DG-HF-DB.esp

Resaving a plugin in the CK

Converting plugins is the simple part of the process. The basis of how this is down is below. I will provide more specifics for plugins where necessary.

1. Ensure the Overwrite folder is empty.
2. Run the CK from the executable drop-down menu.
3. Select the File menu and choose [Data...].
4. Find the plugin to be converted, and select [Set as Active File].
5. Note the Parent Masters listed and ensure they are checked (double-click the plugin listing to check it).
6. Click [OK] and allow the CK to load.
7. Once complete, save the plug (icon on toolbar or File > Save).
8. Close the CK and allow it to sit for a moment.

   More often than not, the CK will hang when closing. Click the close button a few times and Windows will allow you to force close it.

9. The newly saved plugin will be located in the Overwrite folder in MO. Double-click the Overwrite folder to open it.
10. Drag and drop the new plugin into the mod listing which it belongs to and close the Overwrite window.

Verifying the plugin with xEdit

The more terrifying part of converting plugins for most users will be giving it a checkup using SSEEdit (xEdit). This process is only daunting for users who are newbies to xEdit, itself. Once users learn xEdit a bit they start to realize it's a fairly easy to use program, which just so happens to grant the user a lot of power.

1. Run SSEEdit from the executable drop-down menu.
2. Right-click in the plugin pane and choose [Select None].
3. Double-click on the new plug saved from the steps above and allow xEdit to load until the log says, "Background Loader: finished".
4. Right-click on the last plugin in the left pane (it should be the new plugin), and select [Check for Errors].

   The check should come back clean reading, "All done!". If there are errors, the user will have to take steps to correct them before continuing to the next step.

5. Right-click on the plugin again and choose, [Sort Masters].
6. The last step is to clean the plugin as we did for the DLCs above.
7. Close xEdit and be sure the plugin is checked in the saving prompt.

Lore Based Loading Screen

This is a simple resave in the CK. No need to check in xEdit.

A Quality World Map

This is a simple resave in the CK. No need to check in xEdit.

Skyrim Improved Puddles

This is a simple resave in the CK. No need to check in xEdit.

Mod Categories

Below are the mod categories for downloading and installing individual mods. Users should be familiar with the installation process. I will not be explaining everything in detail so reference the Mod Organizer Guide as needed. Mods should also be installed and placed under the newly created markers, in the order which they are listed below. I will go into detail on how to install specific mods which are out of the normal realm for installation with MO.

Resources

These resources are mods which provide extended functionality to the game. At this time, users should create the category marker for this section, drag it to the top of the mod list, and install the following mods. All mods in this section should be placed under the Resources marker, in the order they are listed.

SKSE64

Download: Silverlock

Description

SKSE is a framework that extends the scripting functionality of the game. It is required by many mods, which allows those mods to perform functions not normally accessible from vanilla scripting.

Install Extracted Files

1. Download the most current archive for Skyrim SE.
2. Open the downloaded archive and extract the following files to the Skyrim Special Edition folder (..\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition\):
   • skse64_1_5_23.dll
   • skse64_loader.exe
   • skse64_steam_loader.dll

Install in MO

1. Click the Archive button.
2. Browse to and select the downloaded archive.
3. In the manual installation prompt, right-click data and select [Set data directory]. It should say it Looks good, and not say No game data at top level.
4. Click [OK].

Creating the SKSE.ini

Currently for this guide, a SKSE.ini file will not be created as it is not needed. Instructions will be provided if this ever changes.

Now restart MO2; if SKSE is installed correctly, MO2 will detect and show it in the executables drop down menu. Use the SKSE executable when launching Skyrim SE from MO2.

PapyrusUtil SE

Download: Nexus

Description

An SKSE plugin adding several new scripts with native functions that provide various conveniences related to data storage and other misc functions to the scripter/modder.

Installation

1. Download the main file and install the mod.

Resources install Order

After this category is complete, the mod order in the left pane up to this time should be:

• Resources
• SKSE64
• PapyrusUtil SE
• Update.esm - Cleaned
• DLC: Dawnguard
• Dawnguard.esm - Cleaned
• DLC: HearthFires
• HearthFires.esm - Cleaned
• DLC: Dragonborn
• Dragonborn.esm - Cleaned

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Game Fixes

Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch

Download: Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch

Description

A comprehensive bugfixing mod for The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim - Special Edition.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

1st Person Candlelight Fix

Download: 1st Person Candlelight Fix

Description

Have you ever been annoyed that the candlelight spell is much brighter in 3rd person view than 1st person view? This mod aims to reduce that difference and make them more equal.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Dragon Stalking Fix

Download: Dragon Stalking Fix

Description

This mod fixes the bug where dead dragon corpses follow you around or fall out of the sky, affectionately known as "dragon stalking".

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Flora Respawn Fix

Download: Nexus

Description

Fixes a bug, which causes harvestable flora to not respawn.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Simple Auto Unequip Ammo

Download: Simple Auto Unequip Ammo 3.0

Description

This mod Unequips your current ammo when unequipping a ranged weapon, It will also Re-equip the proper ammo (the last one you used) when you re-equip a ranged weapon.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Skyrim Project Optimization SE

Download: Skyrim SE - Project Optimization - ESM VERSION

Description

This is a mod aimed at improving performance in almost all interiors of Skyrim while staying as a clean mod by using Occlusion Culling.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Unlimited Bookshelves

Download: Unlimited Bookshelves

Description

Lets you place as many books on a bookshelf as will fit, instead of a fixed number, as well as any other kind of item.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

WoodElf - MaleHair - Fix

Download: WoodElf - MaleHair - Fix

Description

This fixes the hair clipping issues with some hairstyle selections on the racemenu and also fixes the the head morph a little to make it abit even.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

General User Interface

Better Dialogue Controls

Download: Better Dialogue Controls v1_2

Description

Ever pick the wrong item in a dialogue with a NPC? This mod aims to fix some annoyances with the way keyboard and mouse selection works in the dialogue interface.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Better MessageBox Controls

Download: Better MessageBox Controls v1_2

Description

This mod lets you navigate the message boxes with the keyboard. Use Left/Right controls, and Activate to select options (typically A,D and E but it should work if you remapped those controls to other keys). Fixes the clickable area of buttons so they are easier to click.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Better Skill and Quest Books Names SE

Download: Better Skill and Quest Books Names SE v 1-0

Description

No more opening every book or checking its value to see if it increases a skill or gives you a quest. This mod renames skill books and quest books so that you can identify them quickly by just hovering with your crosshair. It also renames some journals, notes, and letters with the same purpose.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Even Better Quest Objectives = Main File

Download: Even Better Quest Objectives - 1.5.8a

Description

This mod enhances the quest descriptions in the vanilla game so that you have a clear sense of where you are supposed to go and what you are supposed to do besides looking at the quest markers.

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Add-ons = Dark Brotherhood Forever' to Misc Quests
   • Patches = Alternate Start - Live Another Life
   • Patches = Cutting Room Floor
   • Patches = The Paarthunax Dilemma
3. Install the mod.

Font Overhaul - Natural Typefaces for Skyrim -- FONTS

Download: Font Overhaul

Description

Interface font overhaul, with more realistic print.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Lore-Based Loading Screens

Download: Lore-Based Loading Screens 1.2

Description

Adds 160+ new loading screens steeped in Tamrielic lore. Become deeper immersed in the Elder Scrolls mythos with tons of quotes from in-game books (from Skyrim and past Elder Scrolls titles), history, mythology, and little-known facts about the world of Tamriel.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Main Menu Spinning Skyrim Emblem = Average Speed

Download: Main Menu Spinning Skyrim Emblem Average Speed v2-00

Description

This simply makes the Skyrim emblem on the main menu spin 360 degrees every 8 seconds to help you appreciate the nifty emblem's curves and reflections.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Skyrim SE Skill Interface Re-Texture

Download: SSIRT SE v4.1

Description

This mod is a collection of new textures that you can pick and choose to replace the vanilla skill interface textures.

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options desired, than click Install.
3. For reference, I have selected the following FOMOD options:
   • Background = Irradiant Stars - HDR Nebula
   • Perk Lines = Option 1
   • Perk Line Colour = Grey
   • Constellations = HD Default
   • Perk Stars = Enhanced Default
   • Dawnguard Moon & Stars = HD Vanilla Moon and More Stars
   • Vampire Background = HDR Nebula 2

SkyUI

Download: SkyUI_5_2_SE

Description

Elegant, PC-friendly interface mod with many advanced features.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Small Cursors = Steel

Download: Small Cursors - Sanguine

Description

Just a few different in game mouse pointers to choose from, Steel Arrow, Sanguine or Pearl, smaller than the original.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Heads Up Display

A Matter of Time - A HUD clock widget

Download: AMatterOfTime_v3_0_0_alpha_4

Description

This mod adds a clock to the HUD showing the current time of day and more.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Immersive HUD - iHUD Special Edition

Download: Immersive HUD - iHUD Special Edition

Description

The aim of iHUD is to provide the immersive feel you get from having no HUD, whilst keeping the usefulness of having one. It takes the permanantly visible HUD elements such as compass and crosshair, and hides them when not needed.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

moreHUD SE

Download: moreHUD SE Alpha

Description

Adds more information to the HUD. Now you can target an object such as a weapon, piece of armor, or an ingredient and see information about the object

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Your Own Thoughts SE

Download: YOT - Your Own Thoughts SE All-In0One Installer 1.5

Description

YOT is a mod that changes the main game, DLCs and many other mods messages and notifications from second person into First person to make things more immersive.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

The World Map

A Quality World Map = Vivid with Stone Roads

Download: 9.0.1 A Quality World Map - Vivid with Stone Roads

Description

This mod provides a new set of highly-detailed world map textures, complete with roads! This mod also adds a detailed Solsteim map.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Atlas Map Markers = MCM Edition

Download: Atlas Map Markers - MCM Included

Description

Features Over 700 new map markers to discover, 470 Skyrim + 130 Dawnguard + 80 Dragonborn + 26 Blackreach!

A simple port to the oldrim mods. - All credit to Kronixx & kryptopyr Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Optional World Maps = Modified SkyUI

Stones of Barenziah Quest Markers

Download: BarenziahQuestMarkers SSE v1-3-1

Description

This mod adds quest markers to all 24 of the Stones of Barenziah (Unusual Gems) that you need to find/collect for the "No Stone Unturned" quest.

The markers are only added after you take an "Unusual Gem" to Vex, and she gives you the objective to find all 24 of them.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Modified Vanilla Quests & Adventures

Alternate Start - Live Another Life

Download: Alternate Start - Live Another Life

Description

Live Another Life provides an alternative means to start the game for those who do not wish to go through the lengthy intro sequence at Helgen.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Cutting Room Floor = Main File

Download: Cutting Room Floor

Description

A mod to restore several pieces of cut content in Skyrim Special Edition.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Gildergreen Regrown

Download: Gildergreen Regrown

Description

A mod to make the Gildergreen in Whiterun grow from the sapling back into a full tree over time. Takes approximately 6 months in-game time to grow from a sapling into a full adult.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Not So Fast - Mage Guild

Download: NotSoFast-MageGuildV14

Description

Introduces two pauses in the rather short mage guild quest line at the College of Winterhold and allows for customizing the start of the three apprentices' quests. The actual time delays can be configured with the SkyUI MCM (or the console).

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Not So Fast - Main Quest

Download: NotSoFast-MainQuestV16

Description

Introduces pauses in the otherwise hectic pace of the main quest and alters a few other plot points along the way. The actual time delays and whether the Season Unending negotiations are skipped can be configured.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Relic Hunter (Legacy and ASLAL addon)

Download: Relic Hunter SSE 1.2

Description

Begin your Legacy experience with a new Alternate Start Live Another Life option as Guild Master for the Explorer's Society!

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

The Choice is Yours

Download: The Choice is Yours

Description

Stop quests from starting automatically. Pursue the quests you want, ignore the ones you don't. Make your choices matter.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

The Paarthurnax Dilemma

Download: The Paarthurnax Dilemma

Description

Small expansion on the quest the Blades give you concerning Paarthurnax.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

New Lands & Quests

Legacy of the Dragonborn SSE

Download: Legacy of the Dragonborn SSE

Description

Legacy of the Dragonborn is a DLC sized expansion which centres around your own personal museum in Solitude. Offering dozens of new fully voice acted quests, hundreds of new items, a completely new guild and MUCH more.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Legacy of the Dragonborn SSE = Patches

Download: Legacy of the Dragonborn Patches FOMOD

Description

This mod adds patch that allows Legacy of the Dragonborn to work with other mods in this guide.

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
3. Install the mod.

Beyond Skyrim - Bruma SE

Download: Beyond Skyrim - Bruma SE 1.3.3

Description

Travel beyond the borders of Skyrim and explore Bruma, the northernmost county in Cyrodiil. Delve into Ayleid ruins, meddle in local affairs or explore the wilds - the journey begins now.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Beyond Skyrim - Bruma SE = DLC Integration Patch

Download: Beyond Skyrim DLC Integration Patch

Description

Travel beyond the borders of Skyrim and explore Bruma, the northernmost county in Cyrodiil. Delve into Ayleid ruins, meddle in local affairs or explore the wilds - the journey begins now.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Beyond Reach

Download: Beyond Reach

Description

Beyond Reach is a DLC sized mod that takes place in the east of High Rock, commonly known as The Reach. You will experience a story of intrigue, conspiracies sowed by both men and gods, and the struggles of those in the most squalid situations.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Falskaar

Download: Falskaar V2_2

Description

A DLC sized new lands mod that adds 20+ hours of fully voiced lore friendly (But not canon) quests, dungeons, and more.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Helgen Reborn

Download: Helgen Reborn SSE Version 106 with loose files

Description

Helgen Reborn is a fully voiced adventure with over 20 superb voice actors. As you help rebuild the town you'll reunite two old friends, uncover an underground slavery ring, battle in an arena and many other adventures!

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Moon and Star

Download: Moon and Star

Description

A mysterious and powerful criminal has been spotted in Skyrim, his trail dogged by hunters from Morrowind. However, there may be more at stake than it seems, and this criminal may be familiar...

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Moon and Star = Immersion Patch

Download: Immersion Patch

Description

Don't like being called the dragoborn when you're not? This adds "The Way of the Voice" as a prerequisite for the main path of the quest.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

The Notice Board

Download: The Notice Board

Description

This mod adds new and alternative radiant (and side) quests. It was inspired from other good games like The Witcher which make use of notice boards in their gameplay.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Foundational Graphics

The following mods lay the foundation from which the rest of the graphics will be built upon. Users should now create a new marker for this section.

Static Mesh Improvement Mod - SMIM

Download: SMIM SE 2-07

Description Static Mesh Improvement Mod mod makes massive improvements to 3D models; making them less blocky and more natural looking. The main focus for SMIM are smaller objects (food, chains, ropes, clutter, etc), however, the mod does cover larger architectural as well (buildings, pillars, rocks, etc). Installation Download the specified file Choose the FOMOD options listed to the right, than click Install. General Note The tan choices have multiple options. I have selected the following FOMOD options:

Skyrim Game Version and Install Choices = Skyrim 2016 Special Edition Custom Barrels = Modified Vanilla Barrels Bowl Ingredients = Improved Bowl Ingredients Bridges = Bridges The Bridges Real Roads Option is not compatible with this guide. 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 Dense Grey (NOTE: If heavy flickering occurs with the fences, either disable or a different option.) 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 Vanilla Lanterns = Lanterns 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 and Glorious Scaffolding Ropes 3D - Farmhouse = Farmhouse 3D Ropes No Fade (Recommended)

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 (NOTE: Low VRAM graphic card users can use the half-size textures.) Xtra Options - Ultra-Sized Textures Addon = Select Nothing Merged Plugin Special Edition Forced Install = Special Edition Merged Plugin Will Be Installed

Skyrim Realistic Overhaul

Download: Mod DB

Description

Skyrim Realistic Overhaul overhauls a ton of the textures in the game while keeping the vanilla style.

General Note

SRO has some very large textures including a lot of 4K and 2K. Users with limited VRAM and GPU power may wish to consider constraining the sizes using DDSopt. I will not be doing so for this guide.

Installation

1. Download the following files from Mod DB:
   • Skyrim Realistic Overhaul Part 1
   • Skyrim Realistic Overhaul Part 2
   • Skyrim Realistic Overhaul Part 3
   • Skyrim Realistic Overhaul Part 4
2. Extract all 4 archives into a single directory and overwrite anything when asked.

   I have named my directory Skyrim Realistic Overhaul SSE.

   Fair warning...there is nearly 10GBs (extracted) of textures for this mod.

3. Ensure the textures folder is the only sub-directory and archive the mod.
4. Install with MO2

Step #3

Landscape & Environment

The following mods will focus on enhancing the landscape and architectural features of the game. Users should create a new marker for this section.

Arri's Snow Elf Ruins Retexture SE = SSE 2K Textures

Download: SSE 2K Textures

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Better Dynamic Snow SE

Download: Better Dynamic Snow SE v2.6.0

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Meshes = SMIM
   • Patches = Majestic Mountains Patch

Blended Roads

Download: Blended Roads

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Main Files = Blended Roads
   • SMIM Compatibility Patch = Blended Roads

Deathbell HD - All-New Textures 2k

Download: Deathbell HD 2k

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Detailing the Eldrich - Higher-Res Riekling Architecture (Skyrim LE)

Download: [ ]

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Embers HD (Skyrim LE)

Download: [ ]

Description

General Note

This mod will be installed again for its patches.

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Select One = Embers HD 2K
   • Select Add-Ons = Fireplaces Add-On
   • Select Add-Ons = Forges Add-On
   • Select Add-Ons = Lava Crater Add-On

Ethereal Clouds - Special Edition 2k

Download: ETHEREAL CLOUDS - Special Edition - 2K

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Farmhouse Chimneys

Download: Farmhouse Chimneys v3.0.2

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Meshes = Thinner Meshes
   • Plugin = Merge Patch

Footprints

Download: Footprints 1.5.3

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

HD Dark Brotherhood Door = No Glowing Eyes Version (Skyrim LE)

Download: [ ]

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

HD Road Signs 2k

Download: HD Road Signs 2K Version

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

HD Road Signs = Patch = Cutting Room Floor

Download: Cutting Room Floor Signs

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

HD Road Signs = Patch = Point the Way - Kynesgrove Sign

Download: Point the Way - Kynesgrove Sign

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

HQ College of Winterhold (Nov 8, 2016)

Download: HQ College of Winterhold

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

HQ Tree Bark

Download: HQ Tree Bark

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Texture Design = Main Set
   • Texture Resolution = 2k
   • Color Preference = Realistic

Hybrids HD Plants and Herbs Retexture

Download: Hybrids HD Plants and Herbs Retexture v4

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Just Ice V2 = Alternative 2K

Download: Just Ice V2 Alternative (2K) v2.3

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Landscape Fixes For Grass Mods = Main File

Download: Landscape Fixes For Grass Mods

Description

Goal of this mod

Primary: Change landscape to reduce grass clipping through objects and restore lost details (details=pathways and small objects)

Secondary: Improve performance by removing grass where it cannot normally be seen without ~tcl (under Whiterun and inside Buildings of Falkreath for ex.)

Reduce overgrown sections of some roads Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Landscape Fixes For Grass Mods = Patch = Alternate Start

Download: Alternate Start- LAL Locations

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Landscape Fixes For Grass Mods = Patch = Cutting Room Floor

Download: Cutting Room Floor Locations

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

LeanWolf's Better-Shaped Talos Statue with Greatsword SE

Download: LeanWolf's Better-Shaped Talos Statue with Greatsword SSE

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Talos Statue = High-Poly Statue
   • Weapon = Nord Hero Greatsword
   • Patches = No Snow Under the Roof
   • NSUtR Weapon = Snow Nord Hero Greatsword

No grass in caves = (ELE) Enhanced Lighting for ENB Edition

Download: No grass in caves (ELE) Enhanced Lighting for ENB Patch

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

No snow under the roof

Download: No snow under the roof 3.2

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Nordic Snow (aka HQ Snow Texture)

Download: Nordic Snow 3.4.1

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Oblivion Gates Remade

Download: Oblivion Gates Remade

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Textures Files = Hana's Textures
   • Add-ons = 1st Person Messages

Point The Way

Download: Point The Way

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Real Wood Textures - Farmhouses = No Green Moss Version Skyrim LE)

Download: [ ]

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Realistic Water Two

Download: Realistic Water Two v1.40

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Optional Texture Resolutions = None
   • Sounds = Extended Ambience
   • Mod Patches = iNeed

Majestic Mountains - Lightside

Download: 3. Majestic Mountains Lightside

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Optionals = Moss Rocks
   • Sun Direction = None
   • Compatibility Patches = SMIM

Realistic Aspen Trees SE 2k

Download: Realistic Aspen Trees SE 3.6se

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Resolution = 2048 x 2048
   • 4k -> 11 Core 4k
   • Vanilla or SFO Tree LOD = Vanilla

Remove Small Rocks

Download: Remove Small Rocks

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Shadowmarks Improved = Optional File = Improved Shadowmark Textures (Skyrim LE)

Download: [ ]

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Skyrim SE Improved Puddles

Download: Skyrim SE Improved Puddles FOMOD

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Windhelm Ice Puddle Textures = 2048x2048 Resolution

Terrain LOD redone

Download: Terrain LOD redone

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Ultimate HD Fire Effects = Ultra Version (Skyrim LE)

Download: Ultimate HD Fire Effects -Ultra Version-

Description

This mod retextures the fire and fire effects.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Embers HD (Skyrim LE)

Download: [ ]

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • EHDPatchUHDEF

Vanilla Vegetation Overhaul

Download: Vanilla_Vegetation_Overhaul_v1_05

Description

Installation

1. Download the main file and install.
2. From the FOMOD installation window, click [Manual] to manually install the mod.
3. Expand 01_Plants and drag both the Meshes and Textures folders into the 00_Trees folder.
4. Repeat step 3 for the 03_HD_LOD and 03_HD_LOD_Billboards folders.
5. Right-click the 00_Trees folder and set it to be the data directory.
6. Install the mod.

Hide the following files

• textures\plants\cabbage01.dds
• textures\plants\cabbage01_n.dds
• textures\plants\mountainflower01blue.dds
• textures\plants\mountainflower01purple.dds
• textures\plants\mountainflower01red.dds
• textures\plants\mountainflower01red_n.dds

Veydosebrom - Grasses and Groundcover

Download: Veydosebrom - Grasses and Groundcover

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • BSA Archive = 2k Flora Pack
   • Loose Files - 2k Flora Pack
   • INI Settings = Default
   • Landscape Variants = Vanilla

Post Installation

1. • Right Click Veydosebrom - Grass and Groundcover and choose "Information"
   • Choose the Filetree Tab
   • Delete "Veydosebrom - Grasses and Groundcover.ini". We'll be setting the INI setting up using BethINI.

WEBS SE 2k

Download: WEBS SE x2048

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Whiterun Trellis Redesigned and HQ (Skyrim LE)

Download: [ ]

Description

Installation

1. Download/copy to Bash Installers, than install the mod.

Lighting & Weather

Lighting & Weather Option #1

Enhanced Lighting for ENB (ELE) - Special Edition

Download: ELE_SSE

Description

"Normalizes" lighting color throughout the game. Even without an ENB Preset installed, this mod make desired changes to the color tones of the light sources and other effects bringing a more natural (read realism) feel to the lighting. ENB authors who use ELE will find more granular control over the lighting with more consistent results, such as being able to control dungeon lighting separately from other interior lighting.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Lanterns of Skyrim SE

Download: Lanterns of Skyrim SE

Description

This mod add lanterns to main roads, villages, towns and settlements.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Lanterns of Skyrim = Tech's LOS color Fix

Download: [ ]

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Lightning During Storms Sse (Minty lightning)

Download: Lightning During Storms

Description

This mod adds lightning during the thunder storms.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Relighting Skyrim - SSE

Download: Relighting Skyrim SSE

Description

Relighting Skyrim will place lights at their light sources, exterior lights will cast light on the landscape, lights values are standardized and more consistent throughout the game, and it stays aligned to the vanilla style.

General Note

This mod is the chosen lighting overhaul due to the aim of correcting the lighting and nothing else. Other lighting overhauls like go beyond their scope to achieve the desired results, like editing meshes which causes a lot of compatibility issues.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Vivid Weathers Special Edition - a complete Weather and Visual overhaul for Skyrim SE

Download: Vivid Weathers SE

Description

Alters the weathers, lighting based around weathers, and weather effects providing a great deal more variety and depth to the weather system.

Installation

1. Download the specified file.
2. Choose the FOMOD options listed below, than click Install.
   • Alternative Addons = Extended Snow Flakes - Real Snow Skyrim
   • Compatibility Patches = Beyond Skyrim - Bruma SE
   • Compatibility Patches = Falskaar
   • Compatibility Patches = Lightning During ThunderStorms
3. Install the mod.

Lighting & Weather Option #2

Enhanced Lighting for ENB (ELE) - Special Edition

Download: ELE_SSE

Description

"Normalizes" lighting color throughout the game. Even without an ENB Preset installed, this mod make desired changes to the color tones of the light sources and other effects bringing a more natural (read realism) feel to the lighting. ENB authors who use ELE will find more granular control over the lighting with more consistent results, such as being able to control dungeon lighting separately from other interior lighting.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Lanterns of Skyrim SE

Download: Lanterns of Skyrim SE

Description

This mod add lanterns to main roads, villages, towns and settlements.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Lanterns of Skyrim = Tech's LOS color Fix

Download: [ ]

Description

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Lightning During Storms Sse (Minty lightning)

Download: Lightning During Storms

Description

This mod adds lightning during the thunder storms.

Installation

1. Download the mod from Nexus and install.

Relighting Skyrim - SSE

Download: Relighting Skyrim SSE

Description

Relighting Skyrim will place lights at their light sources, exterior lights will cast light on the landscape, lights values are standardized and more consistent throughout the game, and it stays aligned to the vanilla style.

General Note

This mod is the chosen lighting overhaul due to the aim of correcting the lighting and nothing else. Other lighting overhauls like go beyond their scope to achieve the desired results, like editing meshes which causes a lot of compatibility issues.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Obsidian Weathers and Seasons

Download: Obsidian Weathers 1.03

Description

Sharp, ominous, and atmospheric weathers that accentuate proximal detail while obscuring distant landscapes with mysterious fogs. Obsidian Weathers and Seasons is a collaborative work by the authors of Dolomite and Rustic Weathers; a hybridization of artistic styles that glorifies Skyrim for her beauty while preserving her dated modesty.

Installation

1. Download the specified file, than install the mod.

Clutter & Miscellaneous

High Quality Food and Ingredients SE

Download: High Quality Food and Ingredients SE

Description

This mod retextures a lot of the food and ingredients while keeping the vanilla style.

Installation

1. Download the main file and move the mod into the Bash Installers folder.
2. Select all the sub-packages except the following:
   • 02 cabbage01
   • 08 chicken
   • 10 cooked beef
   • 14 cooked venison
   • 17 aider cheese02
   • 20 goat cheese01
   • 35 salmon01
   • 40 All Texture
3. Install the mod.