SkyrimSE:1.0.0

SkyrimSE v1.0.0

Changelog   |   Release Date: Feb 14, 2021

WARNING

This guide is out of date and is NOT supported!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

WARNING

This guide is NOT compatible with SkyrimSE 1.6.x (Anniversary Edition compatibility update). To use this guide, you MUST have a copy of SkyrimSE 1.5.97 prior to the Steam update. For those that do not, it is possible to obtain this version. We are working on a major release supporting SkyrimSE 1.6.x AND Anniversary Edition. ETA in Mar-Apr, 2022.

Step SkyrimSE Guide

This is the official v1.0 release of the Step Skyrim Special Edition (SkyrimSE, SSE) guide. It'll now be considered our "active" gaming guide for Skyrim, meaning we will be releasing guide updates to SkyrimSE, exclusively. Our Step SkyrimLE Guide is considered retired, though we'll continue to perform any routine maintenance.

• For those running SkyrimSE 1.5.97, visit the SkyrimSE forums, and provide feedback related to this guide.

  SkyrimSE 1.6.x is NOT SUPPORTED with this guide, so please don't post questions about that.

• Also follow Step Modifications on Facebook.
• To support hosting and maintenance of this website, consider donating to the project.

About Step

A Foreword

Created by TheCompiler (Daniele Ferraro), Step is a collaborative project with input from the modding community, technical volunteers, and project administrators. The goal is to provide tested and validated methods for establishing and maintaining an enhanced modded Skyrim. Thus, the Guide provides detailed, well-tested build instructions for a solid modded Skyrim that achieves an enhanced, vanilla experience. It's meant to be installed in its entirety and not piecemeal.

The Step team collects information from the modding community through extensive mod testing, detailed reviews, feedback, and suggestions exchanged on the Step Community Forums. Posting rules apply, so be sure to read and follow them. Engage and enjoy a warm welcome and plenty of high-quality support from a large community of experienced members.

New to Modding?

We recommend that you ...

• read through this Guide at least once before attempting installation.
• follow all linked guides and read through them, as well.

There is a lot of information to absorb and learn in order to successfully build a modded game. We and the community, have brought together a lot of this information into guides as a free and hopefully convenient resource for all. New and experienced modders alike will find many answers within these guides and linked resources. This Guide is written in such a way that it expects users to know the basics of modding and related tools (e.g. mod managers, LOD optimizers, configuration utilities, etc.). However our support forums are always available for our users.

Nomenclature

The following nomenclature is used throughout this guide and should be understood before proceeding.

• 'tick' means 'check': Frequently, the word 'check' or 'checked' can mean 'ensure' in addition to "check mark", so 'check' is not used where it is synonymous with 'tick' to avoid any mistakes that can (and have) happened from this conflation.
• Baseline: An installation of a mod using the recommend file option listed within the Baseline column of the mod tables below.
• Step Patches: A "patch" is a plugin that allows two or more mods to work together without conflicting. The Step Patches are such plugins, but allow all of the mods in the Step Guide to work harmoniously together. Some users refer to this as a conflict resolution patch or "CR Patch".

System Requirements

We recommend the following hardware configuration for running a Step SkyrimSE installation at a resolution of 1920x1080. The minimum requirements will allow most users to install and run the Baseline options, which are SkyrimSE's recommended requirements. The recommended requirements for this Guide will allow most users to install and run a modded setup beyond that of the Baseline options (higher quality options). For those wishing to use high quality options at resolutions higher than 1920x1080, be advised that a more powerful system will likely be required.

Hardware	Minimum	Recommended
Windows OS	Windows 10 64-bit	Windows 10 64-bit
CPU	Intel Core i5-2400 or equivalent	Intel Core i5-4430 or equivalent
System RAM	8 GB	8 GB or higher
GPU	Nvidia GTX 780 3GB / AMD R9 290 4GB	Nvidia GTX 970 or equivalent or better / 4GB VRAM or higher
Drive Space	~50 GBs	~60 GBs
Monitor Resolution	1920x1080	1920x1080 or higher

Time Requirement

Users should be aware that it will usually take anywhere from several hours to a several days to complete this Guide from start to finish. Since this is a start to finish process, a recommend schedule for completing it is:

Day 1 : Steps 1 - 3

Day 2 : Step 4

• Step 4 is installing all the mods. Depending on download speeds and previous modding knowledge, this step could span 1-3 days.

Final Day : Finish the remainder of the Guide.

The overall message here is that Step encourages users to always follow proper computer ergonomics when modding! Remember to take breaks and happy modding!

STEP 1

Game & Tool Installation

Follow the System Setup Guide!

Those who have not completed the System Setup Guide should STOP and do so now BEFORE continuing this guide! This is a perquisite for completing any of the Step Bethesda mod-build guides.
NEW GUIDE FOLLOWERS: Deviate from these instructions at your own risk! Instructions in this guide presume that previous instructions have been followed.

STEP 2

Tool Configuration

Mod Organizer - SkyrimSE Initialization

FIRST, follow the System Setup Guide. The below instructions describe how to initialize a SkyrimSE instance in Mod Organizer (MO). If MO wass installed as a Portable application, the instructions below will need to be reinterpreted accordingly. Those who already have a MO instance for SkyrimSE can skip this initialization:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Initialization Instructions

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

   If it didn't find the game, users can manually browse to the game's location.

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

Step 2

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Profile Setup

Mod Organizer's profile feature allows the creation of multiple mod-builds. Begin by creating/editing two profiles for use with this guide:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Profile Setup Instructions

1. Launch MO, choosing the SkyrimSE Instance.
2. On the Default profile, arrange the mods in the left pane in the following order:
   1. DLC: Dawnguard
   2. DLC: HearthFires
   3. DLC: Dragonborn
3. Click the button on the menu bar.
4. Select the Default profile.
5. Ensure the Use profile-specific Game INI Files box is ticked and click [Copy].
6. Name the new profile Step SkyrimSE, or anything similar.
7. Ensure the Use profile-specific Game INI Files box is ticked.
8. Close the window by clicking [Close].
9. Select the Step SkyrimSE profile from the profile selection down-drop.
   • If users receive a notice saying some INI files were missing and will be copied. This is normal.
   • If an error is displayed about missing "modlist.txt" files, restart MO (or do a system reboot if one hasn't been done yet).
10. Now click the button and select [Create empty mod].
11. Name it xEdit Output.

Tool Setup

All tools installed in the System Setup Guide should already be configured in MO. Some tools will have been auto-detected and added; nevertheless, ensure the settings below are set correctly for all tools. xEdit is used in this example:

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

1. For xEdit, it is useful to create a mod into which all xEdit ouput can be directed in order to keep it all together:
   1. Click at the top of the left pane in MO, and select "Create empty mod".
   2. Type xEdit Output, and select [OK].
   3. Place this mod at the top of the mod list just below the vanilla game files.# Click at the top of the main Mod Organizer window.
2. In the left pane of the executables config, click the [+] to add a new executable, and then [Add from file...].
3. Browse to the SSEEdit.exe file (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/xEdit/SSEEdit.exe).
   • This should auto-fill most of the fields.
4. Change the title to xEdit.
5. Input the following in the Arguments field separated by a single space:
   • e.g. -IKnowWhatImDoing -SSE -AllowMasterFilesEdit
   • "-IKnowWhatImDoing": This turns off a warning presented when users make edits.
   • "-AllowMasterFilesEdit": By default xEdit will not allow master file editing. This enables that.
6. Tick the Create files in mod instead of overwrite box. Select the xEdit Output mod from the drop-down.
7. Tick the Use applications icon for desktop shortcuts box.
8. Click [Apply].
9. Repeat these steps to add the remaining executables as indicated in the table following.

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

NOTE

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

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

Tools can be arranged in any order using the up and down buttons above the list. This will dictate the order they are listed in the MO "Run" dropdown menu. When complete, close the window by clicking the [OK] button.

BethINI Setup

BethINI needs to be run for the current MO profile to establish the INIs before beginning mod installation:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] BethINI Initialization and Setup

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

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

2. Select "Skyrim Special Edition" from the game selection box.

   Allow BethINI to handle custom INIs, if prompted.

3. Go to the Setup tab
   • Ensure the Game path is correct (e.g. ../Steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim Special Edition).
   • Ensure the Mod Organizer path is correct (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/Mod Organizer).
   • For the INI Path, select Step SkyrimSE from the drop-down menu. NOTE: This name depends on the MO Profile Setup
     • If BethINI does not automatically find the profiles, browse to MO's /Profile folder. For standalone users, the profile will be stored in the user's /AppData folder (e.g. %LOCALAPPDATA%/ModOrganizer/Skyrim Special Edition/profiles)
     • Open the Step SkyrimSE profile folder, select the skyrim.ini, and click [Open].
     • BethINI will prompt, click [OK] on them, and a restart will happen. Allow BethINI to handle custom INIs, if prompted.
4. Return to the Setup tab.
   • The “Automatically Check for Updates”, “Auto-detect Invalid Settings”, and “Modify Custom INIs” boxes should be ticked.
   • Tick the “Always Select Game” box.
5. Select the Basic tab.
   • Ensure the Window Resolution matches the system resolution.
   • The recommended Antialiasing is "TAA".
   • The other recommended options to tick are:
     • Windowed Mode
     • Borderless

     The following could conflict with display-soft settings or other mod INI settings, so be sure to experiment which is best after running through this guide. Setting them here will not hurt anything, but these can be overridden, so keep that in mind and plan on setting these from the single 'best' source when testing this mod build later.

     • Vsync
     • Lock Frame Rate - set equal to the monitor refresh rate.
   • The [Medium] Preset is recommended as a baseline to avoid problems before initial testing when guide setup is complete. For those with more powerful hardware, [High] or [Ultra] may be best, but moderation is advised prior to first run at the end of this guide (this can be changed at any time later).
   • Tick the box for Recommended Tweaks.
6. Select the Detail tab.

   Untick Reflect Sky (sky reflections causes issue with LOD seams)

7. Select the View Distance tab.

   Change Grass Fade to 18000.

8. Select the Visuals tab.
   • Ensure Projected UV Diffuse Normals is ticked.
   • Untick Improved Shader (introduces visual glitches and inconsistencies on snow)
9. Select the Custom tab. The following apply if the [Medium] preset was chosen and represent higher quality settings relative to that preset.
   1. In the Section drop-down, select Decals.
      1. In the Settting drop-down, select uMaxSkinDecalsPerActor.

         Change the value to 100 and click [Save].

      2. In the Settting drop-down, select uMaxSkinDecals.

         Change the value to 100 and click [Save].

   2. In the Section drop-down, select Display.
      1. In the Settting drop-down, select fWaterSSRIntensity.

         Change the value to 0.5 and click [Save].

      2. In the Settting drop-down, select iMaxDecalsPerFrame.

         Change the value to 200 and click [Save].

      3. In the Settting drop-down, select iMaxSkinDecalsPerFrame.

         Change the value to 200 and click [Save].

   3. In the Section drop-down again, select Interface.
      • In the Settting drop-down, select fBookOpenTime.

        Change the value to 500 and click [Save].

10. Return the the Basic tab, and click [Save and Exit].

This results in a baseline setup for testing and running the game during mod installation. Once all mods have been installed, BethINI will be run again to complete the INI setup.

Relaunch Mod Organizer, and ensure the Step SkyrimSE profile is selected to continue with the guide.

STEP 3

Cleanup and Considerations

LOOT

At any time during the mod installation process, LOOT should be used to sort plugin load order before running the game. This is necessary to ensure proper plugin priority (load order), which can have a dramatic impact on the game. Users not running the game during the mod installation step of the Guide can wait to sort after this step is complete. To sort with LOOT:

1. Launch LOOT via Mod Organizer 2 from the executables drop-down menu at the top of the right pane.
   • If LOOT fails to start, try adding the following argument as described in Tools Setup: --single-process. If LOOT cannot find the game directory, add the path to ../Skyrim Special Edition folder to Installed Path under LOOT settings.
2. Click the [Sort Plugins] icon at the top of the LOOT window.
3. Several plugins will show warnings. The next section describes how to clean them up.
4. Click [Apply] button, which has replaced the Sort button at the top.
5. Close LOOT.

NOTE

When running LOOT before completing the Step Guide, additional warnings may be indicated. These will all be addressed by the end of this Guide.

Up to this point, users should only have the following plugins, in the order listed:

1. Skyrim.esm
2. Update.esm
3. Dawnguard.esm
4. HearthFires.esm
5. Dragonborn.esm

If the plugins are not in the order listed, run LOOT now.

Cleaning Vanilla Master Files

To resolve potential issues later, the vanilla plugin masters should be cleaned with xEdit.

Standard Cleaning Procedures

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Toggle cleaning procedures...

1. Run xEditQuickAutoClean from the drop-down executable list in MO.
2. On the plugin selection window, double-click on the mod being cleaned (e.g. Update.esm).
3. Once xEdit is finished, click [X] at upper right to close. A backup of the original plugin will automatically be saved into (e.g., ../xEdit Output/FNVEdit Backups) inside of xEdit Oputput mod (or in Overwrite at the bottom of the MO mod list (left) pane id previous instructions were NOT followed!).
4. To verify the plugin has been cleaned, LOOT can be run again, and no warnings should be apparent.

Clean the Masters

Vanilla masters should be cleaned in the following order:

1. Update.esm
2. Dawnguard.esm
3. Hearthfires.esm
4. Dragonborn.esm

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Toggle cleaning procedures...

1. Follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean Update.esm.
   
2. Once Update.esm is cleaned, next clean Dawnguard.esm using the standard cleaning procedures.
3. Next, complete the manual cleaning below for Dawnguard.esm:
   1. Run xEdit from MO.
   2. At the prompt, double-click on Dawnguard.esm.
   3. Once loaded, type in 00016BCF in the FormID field (above the mod list) and hit [Enter/Return].
   4. In the right pane, find the "XEZN - Encounter Zone" record.
   5. In the Dawnguard.esm column, right-click on the "RiftenRatwayZone [ECZN:0009FBB9]" entry and select [Remove].
      • If a prompt appears select Yes for each of these removals.
   6. In the FormID field again, type in 0001FA4C and hit [Enter/Return].
   7. On the Dawnguard.esm column, right-lick on the "Dawnguard.esm" header and select [Remove].
   8. In the FormID field again, type in 0006C3B6 and hit [Enter/Return].
   9. On the Dawnguard.esm column, right-lick on the "Dawnguard.esm" header and select [Remove] as in step 3.7.
   10. Now close xEdit.
   11. Ensure Dawnguard.esm is ticked in the pane, Backup plugins is ticked at the bottom of the prompted window and click [OK].
4. Once Dawnguard's manual cleaning is complete, follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean Hearthfires.esm, and then finally, Dragonborn.esm.

Step 3.3-4

Step 3.5

Step 3.6-7

Moving the Cleaned Files

After the vanilla master files are cleaned, they should be moved into the "Cleaned Vanilla Masters" mod in MO, and the original files should be restored into the 'real' "Data" directory in the game folder. This makes Steam happy when "validating" files so that it remains unaware of changes. To move the new files and restore the original files, complete the following:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Toggle instructions

Cleaned Masters

1. On the MO window, click the button at the top of the left pane, next to the profile selection drop-down.
2. Choose Create empty mod, name it Cleaned Vanilla Masters, and click [OK].
3. Move this mod up the MO mod list to just after "DLC: Dragonborn".
4. Enable the new mod listing.
5. In MO, hold Ctrl and double-click on the now-empty Cleaned Vanilla Masters mod to open it in Windows Explorer.
6. Click the button above the MO mod list (left) pane, and select Open Game Folder to open the game folder in Windows Explorer (e.g. ../Steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim Special Edition, and open ../Data.
7. Move the four cleaned master files from ../Data into ../Cleaned Vanilla Masters. Close the Cleaned Vanilla Masters folder.

Original Masters

1. In MO, scroll to the end of the mod list (left) pane, and hold Ctrl + double click on xEdit Output mod to open in Explorer.
2. Inside the "SSEEdit Backups" folder, rename the files to "MasterName.esm" (i.e. "Update.esm").
   • If there are multiple copies of any of the files, use the one with the earliest timestamp (the original).
3. Move or copy the renamed files into the 'real' game "Data" directory (../Data), choosing to overwrite/replace, if asked.
4. All Explorer windows can be closed now.
5. Return to the MO window.

MO2

Any time Bethesda updates these master files, they will likely need to be cleaned again and replaced in MO. Any previously cleaned versions of these same files that exist in the MO mod list must be either disabled or deleted first, because xEdit will see only the cleaned versions otherwise.

At this point, the Bethesda masters should be cleaned and the mod list order should reflect:

1. xEdit Output
2. DLC: Dawnguard
3. DLC: HearthFires
4. DLC: Dragonborn
5. Cleaned Vanilla Masters

NOTE:

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

Understanding the Step Patches

A “conflict resolution” patch, or CR Patch, is a plugin that resolves conflicts between various active plugins. They allow using various mods together without any major issues while still achieving the desired outcome from the mods. Thus, the Step Patches are one part patch and one part mod.

The Step Patches are built specifically for the Step mod list. They are required and are dependent on specific mods as noted in the mod list. They will not resolve conflicts with any applicable mods that are not within the guide's mod list, though.

Step Patches

1. Step SkyrimSE - Conflict Resolution Patch (Step Patch - Conflict Resolution)
   • For those that would opt for their own custom lighting and weather mods
   • Patches all applicable mods except for Lighting and Weather mods
   • Required for all users!
2. Step SkyrimSE - Lighting and Weather Patch (Step Patch - Lighting and Weather)
   • For those that are using Guide's lighting and weather mod from the Lighting and Weather mod group.
   • Patches only the applicable Lighting and Weather mods; the CR Patch is still required!

STEP 4

Step SkyrimSE Mod List

At this point, the PC modding environment should be fully set up and ready for mod installation.
IMPORTANT: Please read ALL of the following carefully!

• This guide can be installed in one of FOUR ways:
  1. All mods from all ModGroups (mod tables) installed. This is recommended, due to the coordination of this build in terms of lighting, weather, and ENB. These are usually the most difficult aspects of a build to get right, given vanilla's rather wonky lighting 'incoherence'.
  2. All mods from all ModGroups EXCEPT for the optional ModGroup, 18-Lighting and Weather. Use this approach if a custom lighting/weather solution will be applied.
• After installing a mod, ALWAYS enable the mod and any related plugins in MO unless otherwise instructed.
• If no Notes or Step recommendations are provided for a particular mod, download, install, and enable the mod. All options are valid.
• Mods should be arranged in MO in the order that they are listed to ensure other mods further down the list overwrite/override those occurring before them.
• Mods are listed in alphabetical order within each Mod Group and any deviations from this are purposeful to achieve the desired outcome.
• Always install plugins (ESLs/ESMs/ESPs), unless otherwise noted. When there is a choice to use an ESL, always choose that UNLESS continuing a playthrough using a previously-existing savegame (ESL-flagged plugins can 'break' a save that relies on a ESP or ESM version of the same plugin!).
• Always follow LOOT's advice in regards to mod cleaning and sorting unless otherwise noted.
• Do NOT extract BSAs if support is expected.

ModGroup Separators

Mod Organizer features the ability to create separators within the mod list to group mods for easier visual reference. Step recommends using these separators for each ModGroup below:

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

1. Click at the top of the mod list pane.
2. Select [Create Separator], and give the separator a name. Step recommends using the Mod Group names (i.e., Extensions, Resources, Lighting and Weather, etc.).
   • Create a new separator for each new Mod Group while working through the Guide.
   • Separator colors can be customized by right-clicking on any separator and selecting Select Color.

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	Instructions
			Mod (patch/enb-independent)	Baseline	Notes
			Mod (patch/enb-dependent)	Baseline	Notes

Mod Table Legend

			Table Flags	A red vertical bar indicates that the mod is required by the Step Patch - Conflict Resolution. A yellow bar indicates that the mod is required by the Step L&W Patch. A blue bar indicates the mod supports or otherwise relates to ENB.
			Mod Name	Nexus mod name presented as a link to Nexus for download.
				Link to the mod's wiki page, which includes various information about the mod.
			Baseline	This notes the Step Baseline version or option of the corresponding mod that should be installed, and usually refers to options affecting performance/quality. General suggestions are located in the "Notes" column; see below.
			Instructions	Brief notes that apply to the mod or installation. In some cases, mods with several options will include a suggested option. These suggestions will take the form of: "Step recommends: Option A Main File." In other cases, there may only be one appropriate option, which fits the Step Mandate. These instructions will take the form of: "Install Option A Main File." Users will also see links displayed as: [Expand]. Users should click these links to expand the mod row to reveal detailed instructions for installing the mod.

02-Extenders

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Address Library for SKSE Plugins		Install the All in one (Special Edition) Main File.

				FileAccess Interface for Skyrim SE Scripts		Install only the FileAccess Interface for Skyrim SE Scripts - FISSES optional file for compatibility with 1.5.97.0.

				NET Script Framework		Ignore the required Loader. A loader will be installed with SkyrimSE:SSE Engine Fixes.

				PapyrusUtil SE		Install the PapyrusUtil SE - Scripting Utility Functions Miscellaneous File.

				Scaleform Translation++

				SKSE64		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Root Files Installation Download the "Current SE build" archive file. Open the archive and extract the following files to the Skyrim Special Edition root folder ..\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition: skse64_X_X_X.dll skse64_loader.exe skse64_steam_loader.dll Keep this archive open for the next steps. Data Files Installation Click on the button and select, [Create empty mod]. Name it SKSE64. This places the new, empty mod at the bottom of the mod list. Enable SKSE64 in the MO left pane. Open the SKSE64 in Windows Explorer (Ctrl + double-click). Create a new folder named SKSE and open it. INI File Within the SKSE folder, create a new file named SKSE.ini i.e. ..SKSE64\SKSE\SKSE.ini Open the new file and copy and paste the code in the box below, and save and close the file when finished. [Display] iTintTextureResolution=2048 [General] ClearInvalidRegistrations=1 Scripts From the archive downloaded above, open the Data folder e.g. SKSE64_x_x_x.7z/SKSE64_x_x_x/Data/ Extract the scripts folder from the archive to the SKSE64 folder i.e. ..\SKSE64\scripts\. Close archive and Windows Explorer sessions. Once complete, the SKSE64 mod's folder structure should be: ..\SKSE64 \scripts \Source <file list> <file list> \SKSE \skse.ini \meta.ini Launcher Configuration Normally, MO should auto-detect that SKSE is installed upon a restart of the program, and it will auto-generate the SKSE game launcher. This should be used for launching Skyrim going forward. Below are some recommendations for further configuration of the SKSE launcher ... or, if for some reason MO fails to configure this. Please ensure the following is correct for SKSE: In MO, click the button at the top of the main Mod Organizer window. Over the left pane, click the [+] (add executable button) and select [Add from file...]. Navigate to the skse64_loader.exe file (e.g., ..\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition\skse64_loader.exe). "SKSE" can be renamed for clarity, however, if this is done, MO will automatically create the "SKSE" launcher again and place it at bottom of the list. Use this executable to launch Skyrim SE going forward. Reference Image:

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

				SSE Engine Fixes		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download and install (Part 1) Engine Fixes for 1.5.xx Main File in MO. Download (Part 2) Engine Fixes preloader Main File. Extract the contents of the second archive to the root Skyrim SE directory (e.g. ../Steam/SteamApps/Common/Skyrim Special Edition) Once installed, double-click on the mod to open up the information window, and ensure the following settings in EngineFixes.toml ("Text Files" tab): [Patches] EnableAchievementsWithMods = true FormCaching = true MaxStdio = 2048 TreeLODReferenceCaching = true WaterflowAnimation = true WaterflowSpeed = 16.0  ; 20.0 = default. Smaller = slower, larger = faster [Fixes] ArcheryDownwardAiming = true AnimationLoadSignedCrash = true DoublePerkApply = true LipSync = true MemoryAccessErrors = true MO5STypo = true SlowTimeCameraMovement = true TreeReflections = true VerticalLookSensitivity = true Leave the remainder of the settings at their defaults, unless the changes are known and desired.

03-Resources

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				XLODGen Resource - SSE Terrain Tamriel		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
NOTE: This file is only used for generation of terrain LOD using xLODGen and should be disabled afterward. Download and install SSE Terrain Tamriel Extend. Rename the mod to (TEMP) Terrain - xLODGen so that it is easy to find and enable/disable (this will only be used as a resource for xLODGen).

04-Foundation

Baseline mods having many conflicting assets that should be overridden by other mods OR mods having programmatic changes that are widely accepted and adopted/expected by other mods

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Unofficial High Definition Audio Project		Download and install all Main Files. Merge when asked.

				Skyrim Landscape and Water Fixes		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Skyrim Landscape and Water Fixes Main Main Files ☑ Main plugin, meshes and scripts Patches ☑ CACO ☑ Landscape Fixes for Grass Mods Walkway Wall FIX ☑ Walkway Wall FIX SMIM Optional ☐ Select Nothing Install

				Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch

				Skyrim SE particle patch for ENB		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Particle Patch for ENB Installation Installation Type ◉ Loose Files ENB Helper ◉ No Custom Textures ◉ Yes Install Disable the following plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): Particle patch for ENB.esp

				DynDOLOD Resources SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download and install the DynDOLOD Resources SE Main File, selecting ONLY the following options (Do NOT select DLC2 Vvardenfell 3D Plume): Whiterun Exterior Solitude Exterior High Hrothgar Window Glow DLC2 Vvardenfell 3D Plume Desync Birds of Prey As with all mods in this guide, this mod should be enabled in MO once it is installed. This mod in particular MUST be enabled for proper LOD generation later in this guide.

				Static Mesh Improvement Mod		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Static Mesh Improvement Mod Options Main Installer Choice ◉ Skyrim 2016 Special Edition: Custom Next Original Skyrim Custom Install Barrels ◉ Modified Vanilla Barrels Bowl Ingredients ☑ Improved Bowl Ingredients Bridges ◉ Bridges Candelabras ☑ Improved Candelabras Carriage Seats and Fixes ☑ Improved Carriages Chains 3D - Misc ☑ Chains 3D - Misc Chains 3D - Pull Levers ◉ Chains 3D - Pull Levers Small Rings (Recommended) Chains 3D - Signs ☑ Chains 3D - Signs Chains 3D - Whiterun ☑ Chains 3D - Whiterun Chandeliers ◉ Improved Chandeliers (Recommended) Clothing Fixes ☑ Clothing Fixes Dawnguard Soulcairn Bone Piles ◉ Bone Piles Yellow Bones (Recommended) Draugr Corpses ☑ Draugr Corpses Dungeons Cliffs Snow Skirts ◉ Snow Blending ESP (Recommended) Dwemer Animated Lifts ☑ Dwemer Animated Lifts Dwemer Clutter ☑ Dwemer Clutter Farmhouse Woven Fence ◉ Woven Fence Less Flicker (Recommended) Food ☑ Improved Food Food - Tomato Style ◉ Default Heirloom Furniture Chests ☑ Improved Furniture Chests Furniture Common ◉ Improved Furniture SMIM Textures (Recommended) Furniture Noble ☑ Improved Furniture Noble Hanging Rings ☑ Hanging Rings Hawk ☑ Hawk Improvements Hearthfires Stuff ☑ Hearthfires Stuff Human Skull Fixes ☑ Human Skull Fixes Imperial Jail ◉ Improved Imperial Jail (Recommended) Jewelry Rings ◉ Jewelry Rings CCO Remade or Jewelcraft Lanterns ☐ Lanterns    leave unticked! Nordic Tables and Benches ☑ Nordic Tables and Benches Orc Longhouse ☑ Orc Longhouse Poor Coffin ☑ Poor Coffin Rabbit ☑ Improved Rabbit Rocks - Blackreach ☑ Rocks - Blackreach Rocks - Generic ☑ Rocks - Generic Rocks - Mountains ☑ Rocks - Mountains Ropes 3D - Dungeons ◉ Dungeons 3D Ropes Ropes 3D - Farmhouse ◉ Farmhouse 3D Ropes No Fade (Recommended) Ropes 3D - Raven Rock Docks ☑ Raven Rock Docks 3D Ropes Ropes 3D - Riften ◉ Riften 3D Ropes Default Ropes Style (Recommended) Ropes 3D - Solitude Docks ☑ Solitude Docks 3D Ropes Ropes 3D - Stockade ☑ Stockade 3D Ropes Ruins Sarcophagus ☑ Ruins Sarcophagus Shack Roofs ☑ Improved Shack Roofs with Dragonborn Skeletal Remains 3D ☑ Skeletal Remains 3D Smelters ☑ Smelters Solitude Gate Doors ☑ Solitude Gate Doors Tankards ◉ Dark Brushed Metal Tankards Tree - Juniper Tree ☑ Improved Juniper Tree Tree - Tundra Tree ☑ Improved Tundra Tree Whiterun Castle Wood Carvings ◉ Wood Carvings Improved Vanilla Whiterun Doors ☑ Whiterun Doors Windmills ◉ DynDOLOD/SkyMills Compatibility Xtra Options - Half-Size Textures Addon ◉ None    use the half-size textures if VRAM is an issue Xtra Options - Ultra-Sized Textures Addon ☐ Ultra-Sized 4096x4096 Textures    leave unticked! Next Merged Plugin Special Edition Forced Install Merged Plugin Special Edition Forced Install ☑ Special Edition Merged Plugin Will Be Installed Install

				Cathedral - Plants

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

				Majestic Mountains		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Step Recommends: Lightside Lightside is the most vanilla-like replacement, however, it can appear too bright in-game when combined with certain post processors. Users are free to choose the style that suits their preference. Download the Main File of preference. Ignore the Blended Roads requirement. It will be included with Cathedral Landscapes. Download the Lod Pack for DynDoLod (all versions) Optional File. The "Lod Pack for SSELodGen xLodGen (all versions)" optional file is NOT needed, since we are not using landscapes (terrain) from this mod. Main File ExpandFOMOD Instructions Majestic Mountains Lightside Required ☑ Main files Snow Mountain Type ◉ Snow Mountain New version ESL Optionals ☑ Moss Rocks ESL Version Sun Direction (choose one or none) ◉ None Next Final Notes ☑ Load order and notes Install Optional File (merge into the main file) ExpandFOMOD Instructions Lod Pack for DynDoLod (all versions) Step 1 Lod Meshes ☑ Lod Meshes LOD Textures ◉ Lightside Install Hide the following files (instructions for hiding files/folders): meshes\Landscape\rocks\rockcliff07.nif meshes\Landscape\rocks\rockpilem02.nif meshes\Landscape\rocks\rockpiles01.nif

				Cathedral Landscapes		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Please be aware this mod deviates to a degree from the vanilla style with respect to some landscape textures. However, we feel the benefits the mod brings out-weigh this drawback. Those who wish to use another mod must install Blended Roads. The following FOMOD instructions are for the most vanilla-like options, but deviation from this is user preference. Download and install the Main File (instructions below). ExpandFOMOD Instructions Landscapes - Cathedral Concept Select Install ◉ Full Install, Brown Tundra Next Select Roads ◉ Blended Roads Install Download and install the LODGEN Textures for v3 Optional File. Don't merge this file! Install it separately! This file will be installed as a separate mod so that it can be activated for LOD generation later in the guide and deactivated after. Name the mod: (TEMP) Cathedral Landscapes - xLODGen.

				RUSTIC CLOTHING - Special Edition	2K

				Unofficial Material Fix		Install the Unofficial Material Fix main file.

05-Animation and Physics

Mods that affect animations or physics

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				D13 Faster GET UP STAND UP Animation	Loose

				Dual Wield Improved Animation SSE

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

				Run Sprint and Jump SE

				Stronger Swimming Animation SE

				XP32 Maximum Skeleton Special Extended		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File: NSFW link: Download the mod directly! ExpandFOMOD Instructions XP32 Maximum Skeleton Special Extended Skeleton Meshes ☑ Skeleton Meshes ☑ Creature Meshes Animation Rig Map ◉ Physics Extensions Next Character Creation Character Creation ◉ Racemenu Next Character Creation Weapon Style Randomizer for NPCs ◉ None Next Animation Variants Belt-Fastened Quivers ◉ None Dagger on Back ◉ None Dagger on Hip ◉ None Magic ◉ None Sword on Back ◉ None Sword on Hip ◉ None Next First Person Animation Axe - Warning! Missing Sounds! Not compatible...! ☐ Axes on Back Sword - Warning! Missing Sounds! Not compatible...! ◉ None Next Mounted Combat Animation Axe - Warning! Missing Sounds! Not compatible...! ☐ Axes on Back Bow ☐ Belt-fastened Quivers Sword - Warning! Missing Sounds! Not compatible...! ◉ None Next Compatibility Patches The Joy of Perspective ◉ None Schlongs of Skyrim ◉ None Next Compatibility Patches Deadly Mutilation ◉ None Next Compatibility Patches Enderal ◉ None Install

06-Models and Textures

Mods that replace existing models or textures

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

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

				AMidianBorn Book of Silence		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download the following files: aMidianBorn book of silence -- ARMORS aMidianBorn book of silence -- DRAGONBORN aMidianBorn book of silence -- UNIQUE ITEMS aMidianBorn book of silence -- WEAPONS Step recommends: Merge all files into single mod listing named aMidianBorn Book of Silence SE The instructions below are for the most vanilla-like replacements. ExpandFOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence ARMORS Options Options ◉ Custom Next Options Iron and Banded ◉ Iron - Vanilla Cut Steel ◉ Steel Steel Plate ☑ Steel Plate Leather ☑ Leather Hide and Studded ◉ Hide Fur ☑ Fur Elven ◉ Elven - Gold Dwarven ☑ Dwarven Ancient Nord ☑ Ancient Nord Orcish ◉ Orcish Scaled ◉ Scaled Wolf ◉ Wolf - Grey Fur Glass ◉ Glass - Golden Ebony ◉ Ebony - Black Blades ☑ Blades Falmer ☑ Falmer Install ExpandFOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence DRAGONBORN Options Options ◉ Custom Next Custom Nordic Carved Armor ◉ Black Fur (default) Bonemold Armor ☑ Bonemold Armor Acolyte Masks ☑ Acolyte Masks Dragon Priest Acolytes ☐ Dragon Priest Acolytes Hulking Draugr ☐ Hulking Draugr Ash Spawn ☑ Ash Spawn Ash Guardians ☑ Ash Guardians Install ExpandFOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence UNIQUE ITEMS Options Options ◉ Custom Next Custom Targe of the Blooded ☑ Targe of the Blooded Wuuthrad ☑ Wuuthrad Savior's Hide ◉ Savior's Hide Helm of Yngol ☑ Helm of Yngol Mace of Molag Bal ☑ Mace of Molag Bal Mehrune's Razor ☑ Mehrune's Razor Volendrung ☑ Volendrung Tsun's Armor ☑ Tsun's Armor Ebony Mail ◉ Ebony Mail - Black Staff of Magnus ☑ Staff of Magnus Dragon Priest Masks ☐ Dragon Priest Masks Install ExpandFOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence WEAPONS Options Options ◉ Install all weapons (default) Install Disable the following plugin installed with aMidianBorn Book of Silence WEAPONS (instructions for disabling plugins): aMidianborn_Skyforge_Weapons.esp Hide the following file installed with aMidianBorn Book of Silence - Armors (instructions for hiding files/folders): textures/clothes

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

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

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

				Armor and Clothing Extension	2K

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

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

				Bellyaches Animal and Creature Pack SSE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Bellyaches Animal and Creature Pack Options Options ◉ Custom Install Next Custom Bear (brown and black) ◉ Bear Replacers Chaurus ◉ None Chicken ◉ Brown Dog ◉ Default HD Dragonfly ☐ Dartwing replacers Deer ☑ Deer replacers Fox (Red) ◉ Red Fox (Arctic) ◉ Arctic Frostbite Spider (Brown) ◉ None Frostbite Spider (Arctic) ◉ None Goat ◉ None Hawk ◉ None Highland Cow ◉ Orange Horker ◉ Grey Next Horse Options Horse Tails ◉ None Horse Textures ◉ None Next More Custom Options Mammoth ◉ None Mudcrab ◉ None Rabbit ☑ Rabbit Replacer Sabre Cat (Brown) ◉ None Sabre Cat (Arctic) ◉ None Skeever (Grey) ◉ Mangy - Dark Grey Skeever (Arctic) ◉ Mangy - Grey Hooded Wolf (Black) ◉ Darker Black Wolf (Ice) ◉ White (Brown Eyes) Wolf (Red) ◉ Brown Werewolf ◉ Dark Grey Werewolf Eyes ◉ Normal Brown Install

				Better Dynamic Ash SE

				Better Dynamic Snow SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Better Dynamic Snow SE Better Dynamic Snow SE - Plugins Plugin Installation ◉ Brighter Snow Materials Better Dynamic Snow SE - Options Projected Diffuse Textures ◉ None Optional Addons ☐ No Glacier Snow Install

				Better Falmer Cave Ceiling Glow		STEP Recommends: BetterFalmerCaveCeilingGlow_Cyan

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

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

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

				Deadly Spell Impacts		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Deadly Spell Impacts Options Options ◉ Custom Next Custom Fire Spell Dependant Feature ◉ One Fire Impact (Default) Next One Fire ◉ Default Frost ◉ Alternate 1 Lightning ◉ Default Install

				Deathbell HD	1K

				Detailed Rugs

				Detailing the Eldrich	Higher Res

				Dragon Masks Retextured SE	2K

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

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

				Dragonbone Mastery	2k/1k	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Step recommends: Dragonbone Mastery - WITHOUT Engravings This recommendation is for the vanilla experience. Users can install whichever version they desire and adjust the instructions below to suit their preferences. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Dragonbone Mastery - Weapons Retexture Page 1 Main Weapon Texures ◉ Darker Bone Next Page 2 Arrow Options ◉ New Style Arrows Next Page 3 Scabbard Style ◉ Full Length Scabbard Next Page 4 Full Sized Scabbard Texture Options ◉ Traditional Design Full Sized Scabbard Mesh Optional ◉ Transparent Meshes Install NOTE: The archive is missing is an empty "99 None" folder so click Install Anyway when prompted.

				DRAUGR	2K

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

				Dust Effects

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

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

				ElSopa HD - Ants SE	1K

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

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

				ElSopa - HD Keys SE	1K

				Embers HD	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Embers HD Main Component Select One ◉ Embers HD 2K Next Embers HD Fireplaces Add-On Component Select One ◉ Fireplaces Add-On Next Embers HD Add-On Components Select Add-Ons ☑ Forges Add-On ☑ Lave Crater Add-On Next Embers HD Compatibility Patches Select Add-Ons ☐ Select Nothing Install

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

				Enhanced Vanilla Trees SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download 1) EVT - Basic v2.1.0 (DynDOLOD 2) Optional File. This option is for the most vanilla-like experience, and instructions below will reflect this option. Customize the installation to suit preferences or choose another Optional File as desired. For example, the images on the STEP SE Nexus page uses the Lush version. NOTE: only files available from "Optiona Files" of the mod are supported by the guide, because the latest Main Files are not compatible with DynDOLOD 2 (missing billboards). ExpandFOMOD Instructions Enhanced Vanilla Trees SE Mesh Options Select a version ◉ Enhanced Vanilla Meshes Next Optional Addons Clutter ☑ Enhanced Tree Clutter (recommended) Next Tree LODs Select One ◉ Billboards Install

				ETHEREAL CLOUDS - Special Edition	1K

				FALMER	2K

				Fire Halo Remover

				Footprints		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File.

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

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

				GIANT	2K

				Gold Septim - Coins Retex	1K

				HAGRAVEN	2K

				Hardy Hares

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

				HD Executioners Block SE		Step recommends: Darker Dried Blood version

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

				HD Pondfish

				HD Reworked Horses	2K-1K

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

				HD Stone Quarry and Clay Deposit	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install one of the Main Files. Step recommends: ...2K Merge the Majestic Mountain Patch from Optional Files. Merging should be fine for this mod, since it probably won't be updated, and all files use the global version. Select the option corresponding to the version chosen for Majestic Mountains. If the Step recommendations were followed, choose Lightside.

				High-Res Dartwing Texture

				High Quality Food and Ingredients SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions High Quality Food and Ingredients SE High Quality Food and Ingredients SE Select One ◉ Custom Next Pick and Choose Select all you want ☑ Baked Potatoes ☑ Boiled Creme Treat ☑ Bone Meal ☑ Bread ☐ Cabbage ☑ Carrots ☑ Charred Skeever Hide and Meat ☑ Chicken Breast ☐ Chicken ☐ Cooked Beef ☑ Dead Hare ☑ Dead Pheasant ☐ Elder Cheese ☑ Garlic ☐ Goat Cheese ☑ Green Apple ☑ Grilled Chicken Breast ☑ Grilled Leeks ☑ Honey Nut Treat ☑ Long Taffy Treat ☑ Mead ☑ Moon Sugar ☑ Mora Tapinella ☑ Pie ☑ Potatoes ☑ Powdered Mannoth Tusk ☑ Raw Beef ☑ Red Apple ☑ Salmon Meat ☐ Salmon ☑ Salmon Steak ☑ Salt Pile ☑ Scaly Photiota ☑ Seared Slaughterfish ☑ Slaughterfish Scales ☑ Sweet Roll ☐ Venison Chop ☑ Venison ☑ Void Salts Next Please Read Finish ☑ Confirm Install

				HORNCANDLES	2K-1K

				Hybrids HD Plants and Herbs Retexture		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Hide the following files (instructions for hiding files/folders): Textures/Plants/FloraNirnroot01.dds Textures/Plants/MountainFloweringPurple.dds Textures/Plants/MountainFloweringPurple_n.dds Textures/Plants/Snowberry01.dds Textures/Plants/SnowberrySnow01.dds Textures/Plants/TundraCotton01.dds

				Iconics Real Hay	2K Alt

				Immersive Dragons

				Immersive Smilodons

				Improved closefaced helmets

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

				Improved Weapon Impact EFFECTS Correct Metal SE

				Inferno - Fire Effects Redux	Lite	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Inferno - Fire Effects Redux Inferno Installation Main Installation ☑ Core Files Next Inferno Texture Resolution Resolution Options ☑ Lite Next Inferno Flame Glow Glow Options ☑ Normal Next Inferno Flame Color Color Options ☑ Yellow Next Inferno Flame Tile Tile Options ☑ New Next Inferno Flame Size Size Options ☑ Regular Next Inferno Optional Patches Patch Options ☑ Ember HD Next Inferno Optional Patches Patch Options ☐ Select Nothing Next Inferno Optional Plugin Plugin Option ☐ Select Nothing Install

				Just Ice	2K

				LeanWolfs Better-Shaped Weapons SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download and install the LeanWolfs Better-Shaped Weapons INSTALLER - SE Main File. The instructions below are suggestions. Users can customize the options according to their preferences. Users following the instructions or selecting Greatsword Sheaths, should merge the LWs BSW Orcish Greatsword inventory fix - sheath Update File after installing the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions LeanWolf's Better-Shaped Weapons SE Step 1 All or Custom ◉ Install everything (default) Next Step 2A All Sheath Options ☑ Onehanded Sheaths ☑ Greatsword Sheaths Next Step 3 Variants and Patches Patches ☑ Keening with Refraction Next Step 4 Glass Patches ◉ Refractive Glass Weapons Next Step 5 Stalhrim Patches ◉ Stalhrim with Refraction Next Step 6A Dawnbreaker Sheath Patches ◉ Dawnbreak Sheath Dwarf Next Step 6b Dawnbreaker ENB Patches ◉ Dawnbreak No ENB Next Step 7 Dragonbone Patches ◉ DragonBoring Weapons Next Step 8 Dual Sheath Patches ◉ No Dual Sheath Install

				LeanWolfs Improved Enchanter Candle Meshes SE

				MAMMOTH	2K

				Masque of Argonian Vile SSE

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

				New Thinner Torch		Disregard the Main File, and download/install the Ultimate HD Torch by rheadude compatible file.

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

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

				N-R HD Display Case	Clear Glass

				Pilgrims Delight

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

				Rallys Hanging Moss	Desaturated

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

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

				Real Wood Textures - Farmhouses		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. Install only the Real Wood Textures - Farmhouses No Green Moss Version Optional File. Please ignore the "STEP" version of the mod available for download. It's for retired Guides. For SE, the 2K textures are desired. Hide the following files/folders (instructions for hiding files/folders): textures/architecture/farmhouse/StoneWall01.dds textures/architecture/farmhouse/StoneWall01_n.dds

				Realistic HD Baskets Remastered

				Realistic HD Pickaxe Remastered

				Realistic HD Woodcutters Axe Remastered

				Realistic Water Two SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Realistic Water Two SE Core Files Core ☑ Core Files Next Mod Options Optional Textures ☐ Select Nothing Watercolors ☐ Select Nothing Next Mod Patches Optional Patches ☐ Select Nothing Covered by the Step Patch Install

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

				Rens HD Shrines		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Ren's HD Shrines by Rengel Choices Akatosh ◉ Sands of Time Arkay ◉ Golden Shells Dibella ◉ Springs of Love Julianos ◉ Magic Circles Kynareth ◉ Heavenly Air Mara ◉ Gilded Saint Stendarr ◉ Tusk of Mercy Talos ◉ Rusted Steel Zenithar ◉ Golden Circuit Install

				Retexture for Bread - Hearthfire

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

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

				RUSTIC AMULETS - Special Edition

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

				RUSTIC ARMOR and WEAPONS SE	2K

				RUSTIC AZURAS STAR - Special Edition	2K

				RUSTIC COOKING - Special Edition	1K

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

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

				RUSTIC DRAGON CORPSE - Special Edition	2K

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

				RUSTIC ELDERSCROLL - Special Edition	2K

				RUSTIC FROSTBITE SPIDER - Special Edition	2K

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

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

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

				RUSTIC WINDOWS - Special Edition	2K

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

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

				Skygazer Moons SSE	No Glow

				Skyrim Redesigned WIP		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. Install the FOMOD version. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Skyrim Redesigned Main Modules Main Modules ◉ S.T.E.P. Recommended Textures Install

				Skyrim SE Improved Puddles		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download and install the Non-ENB version from Miscellaneous Files and IGNORE the the Windhelm-only file. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Skyrim SE Improved Puddles Options Windhelm Ice Puddle Textures ◉ 1024x1024 Resolution Choose an ESP ☑ Skyrim Special Edition (all DLCs) Install

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

				Smooth Sky Mesh - SSE		Only install this mod if 18-Lighting and Weather ModGroup will NOT be installed!

				Stalhrim Source	2K

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

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

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

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

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

				Ultimate HD Torch	2K

				Vivid Landscapes - Tundra Moss Revised	1K Yellow	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. STEP Recommends: Main File: Vivid Landscapes - Tundra Moss Revised - yellow 1024 Optional File: SMIM compatibility patch To install the Optional File: During installation right-click on the first Data folder listed under the root "data" folder. Select [Set data directory] Click [OK] to finish installation (merging is fine for this one).

				WEBS S.E.	2K

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

				Whiterun Trellis Redesigned SE	2K

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

07-Sounds and Music

Mods that affect sounds or music

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Audio Overhaul for Skyrim SE		Install Audio Overhaul Skyrim (x.x.x) main file, without any of the optional patches.

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

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

				Dragons Shout with Voice		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a SkyrimLE mod, and the MO warning indicator in the left pane can be ignored. Install the Dragons Shout with Voice - LOOSE main file. The Optional File, Dragons Shout with Voice from location, enables the voices to sound as if they're playing from the dragon's location. Without this option, the voices will sound as if they're playing right next to the player. Users can install this Optional File, however, it requires converting the plugin using the SkyrimSE Creation Kit. Porting mods is not covered within the scope of any Step Game Guides. Users with the knowledge to do so may follow Step's general guide for converting SkyrimLE mods to SkyrimSE.

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

				IHSS - Improved Horse Step Sounds

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

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

				Sound Hammering Sounds

				Thundering Shouts

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

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

08-Character Appearance

Mods that affect the appearance of the player character or NPCs

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

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

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

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

				Coverkhajiits	2K	Step Recommends: CoverKhajiits 2K main file

				FAR - Forgotten Argonian Roots	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the 2K Main File if possible, but if it's still corrupt, use the 4K version. ExpandFOMOD Instructions FAR - Forgotten Argonian Roots FAR - Main ☑ Males ☑ Females Next FAR - Males Choose your body type ◉ Better Males Body Next FAR - Females 1 Choose your body type ◉ UNP Body Next FAR - Females 2 - UNP Body Optional Patterns ☑ None Install {{{1}}}

				Female Vampires Have Fangs

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

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

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

				Northborn Scars

				Simple Children		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File using the instructions below. Merge the Update File, selecting the textures of choice. NOTE: This mod relies on meshes from TK Children, which will be installed later. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Simple Children Vanilla or USSEP? ◉ USSEP Required ☑ Base Data Next Texture Choices ◉ Paler Eye Area Install This mod's plugin should be cleaned, as it contains an old USSEP forward that will result in the game freezing otherwise. Load the FacegenForKids.esp in xEdit. Locate record: 00014132 and select it. Scroll down to Packages(aligned). On the FacegenForKids column, there will be one package listed that reads: [xxxxxxxx]< Error: Could not be resolved >. Right-click on this listing and select Remove. Close xEdit, saving the edited plugin when prompted. Reference:

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

				Tempered Skins for Females - UNP		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This is a Not Safe For Work (NSFW) mod page and installer! The instructions below are for the most vanilla-like options. Users are free to customize the options to according to their preferences. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Tempered Skins for Females A - Body type Body type ◉ A7 - Bikini type IV Next B - Body diffuse options Body diffuse options ◉ B09 - Dirty, hairy, no scars Next C - Body normal options Body normal options ◉ C2 - Fit Next D - Face diffuse options Face diffuse options ◉ D2 - Elder Next E - Face normal options Face normal options ◉ E2 - Rougher Next F - Facemarks, scars (not necessary) Scars ☐ F1 - Female Scars by Xenius Female tintmasks by Xenius ◉ None Male tintmasks by Xenius ◉ None Beast tintmasks by Xenius ◉ None Next Warning Attention ☑ I got it Install

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

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

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

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

09-Fixes

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				1st Person Candlelight Fix

				Archery Quick Shot Perk Bug Fix

				Bug Fixes SSE

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

				Critters Aint Snitches

				Enchantment Reload Fix SE

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

				Fuz Ro D-oh - Silent Voice		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Merge the Optional File. As with any mod with an INI configuration, Step recommends creating an 'empty' mod to contain a customizable configuration that will not be overwritten when the mod is updated. The INI file will not be generated until the game is launched, and it should appear in Overwrite. Once that is done later in the guide, revisit this mod and complete the following if it will be customized: Click > Create empty mod, and name it (CONFIG) Fuz Ro D-oh - Silent Voice. Copy the entire SKSE/ path from the source mod into the new mod. Delete all content under SKSE/Plugins/ except the INI file. Prioritize this configuration mod just after the source mod in MO such that the INI will override that of the source mod.

				Hearthfires Houses Building Fix

				Hunters Not Bandits

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

				Modern Brawl Bug Fix

				NPC AI Process Position Fix - SSE

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

				Unlimited Bookshelves

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

10-Gameplay-General

Mods that affect general or multiple gameplay mechanics

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Complete Alchemy and Cooking Overhaul		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File, the CACO SKSE 2.0.19 - 2.0.20 DLL Update (Special Edition) update file, and the Temporary Patch for Complete Crafting Overhaul Remastered update file. Select Merge when asked about overwrites.

				Complete Crafting Overhaul Remastered		Download and install the Main File and Update File.

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

				Weapons Armor Clothing and Clutter Fixes	2K	ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Weapons Armor Clothing and Clutter Fixes Weapons Armor Clothing and Clutter Fixes Main File ☑ WACCF Next Textures Texture Resolution ◉ 2K (default) Next Orcish Weapons Patches ◉ None Bashed Patch ☐ WACCF_BashedPatchLvlListFix.esp Next Options Optional Files ☐ Select Nothing Next Documentation Documentation ☑ Documentation Credits ☑ Credits Install

11-Gameplay-AI and Combat

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

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

				Better Stealth AI for Followers

				Faction Fixes SE		Install the Main File only.

				Follower Trap Safety

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

				Run For Your Lives

				Tavern AI fix

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

12-Gameplay-Economy

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Trade and Barter

13-Gameplay-Immersion

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

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

				Convenient Horses

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

				Get Snowy		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download and instal the Main File Disable plugins (instructions for disabling plugins): getSnowy_ObsidianWeathers_Patch.esp getSnowy_WnC-Ashes Patch.esp

				Go On Ahead

				Guard Dialogue Overhaul SE

				Improved Traps		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Improved Traps main file. Merge the Improved Traps - Follower Safety Patch miscellaneous file. Do not install Mining Makes Noise file!

				No Lockpick Activate (SKSE) - Updated

				Point The Way

				Reasonable Movement Speed

				Relationship Dialogue Overhaul - RDO SE

				Simple Drop Lit Torches SE

				Torches Ignite Oil		Install the Torches Ignite Oil - Shock Edition main file.

14-Gameplay-Quests

Mods that alter aspects of quests and/or related lore

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

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

				Even Better Quest Objectives SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Even Better Quest Objectives SE Mod Options Mod Version ◉ EBQO with USSEP Optional Files ☑ Dark Brotherhood Forever to Miscellaneous Quests Next Grouped Mod Patches Book Patches ◉ Book Covers Skyrim (by DanielCoffey) Paarthurnax Patches ◉ The Paarthurnax Dilemma (by Arthmoor) Next Individual Mod Patches Available Patches    Only tick the following options ☑ Alternative Start - Live Another Life by Arthmoor ☑ Cutting Room Floor by Arthmoor Install

				Gildergreen Regrown

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

				Not So Fast - Mage Guild

				Not So Fast - Main Quest

				The Choice is Yours

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

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

				Timing is Everything SE

15-Gameplay-Skills and Perks

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Lock Overhaul		Install the Lock Overhaul main file.

				Smithing Perks Overhaul SE		Download Smithing Perks Overhaul -- Modified Vanilla Tree Main File. Consider the "New Perk Tree" option for a more intuitive experience.

				Skyrim Skill Uncapper		Ignore the required Loader. A loader is included with SSE Engine Fixes.

16-Interface

Mods that affect any aspect of the user interface

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

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

				Better Dialogue Controls

				Better MessageBox Controls

				Font Overhaul - Natural Typefaces for Skyrim		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download and install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Font Overhaul - Natural Typefaces for Skyrim Info Info ☑ Okay Next Patches Patches ◉ None Next Configure Fonts Interface ◉ Fertigo Pro Book ◉ Morris Roman Handwritten ◉ Anke Calligraphy FG Realistic Print ◉ Install Install

				Immersive HUD - iHUD Special Edition

				Lore-Based Loading Screens

				MoreHUD Inventory Edition		Install moreHUD Inventory Edition Loose Version - Pre AE Optional File.

				MoreHUD SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
From Optional Files, install moreHUD SE - Pre AE if upgrading Step with an existing save game. Otherwise, install moreHUD SE Light Master- Pre AE file instead.

				RaceMenu

				SkyUI

				SkyUI SE - Flashing Savegames Fix

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

				Stay At The System Page

				Viewable Faction Ranks		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Viewable Faction Ranks ESL main file. NOTE: This mod has a reporting issue with respect to making the PC a member of the respective thane faction upon discovering the corresponding settlement/town, even if the respective quests are not completed. See the forum link for more details.

				Whose Quest Is It Anyway

				Yes Im Sure		Install the v1.5.0 old file.

17-Locations

Mods that programmatically add new or alter vanilla locations

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Bring Out Your Dead

				Cutting Room Floor - SSE

				Farmhouse Chimneys SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
ExpandFOMOD Instructions Farmhouse Chimneys Base Options Alternative Toppers ☐ Clay Chimney Stacks Next Modded Towns Towns ☐ Helgen Reborn New Locations New Lands ☐ Falskarr ☐ Wyrmstooth New Villages ☐ Fall of Granite Hill Install Nothing is selected in this installer. Ignore the optional USSEP patch.

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

				Helarchen Creek

				Landscape Fixes For Grass Mods		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Merge the Patches for Arthmoor's Town add-ons FOMOD under Optional Files: ExpandFOMOD Instructions Landscape Fixes For Grass Mods - Patches Select an Option Select options ☑ Patch for Alternate Start - Live Another Life ☑ Patch for Cutting Room Floor ☑ Patch for Oakwood Next Patches Installed. Select an Option ☑ Reminder Install

				Oakwood

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

				Smooth Shores

18-Lighting and Weather

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Cathedral Weathers MCM

				Cathedral Weathers and Seasons		Install only the Main File.

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

				Luminosity Lighting Overhaul		Download and install the Luminosity - Lightweight Lighting Main File.

				Relighting Skyrim - SSE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
No patches are needed, since are incorporated into the Step L&W Patch. Install the Main File only. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Relighting Skyrim SE Installation Options Choose with or without USSEP requirement ◉ With USSEP (Recommended) Choose a version to install ◉ Full Version Install

				Storm Lightning for SSE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. ExpandFOMOD Instructions Storm Lightning for SSE and VR Select Game Select Game ◉ Skyrim Special Edition Next Select Game Version Select SSE Version ◉ 1.5.97 Next Select Plugin Type Select Plugin ◉ ESL Flagged Next Select Night Time Sheet Halo Select Sheet Halo ◉ Halo with Dimmer Lightning (Level 0) Next Select Day Time Sheet Halo Select Sheet Halo ◉ Halo Very Dim (Level 3) Next Select Night Time Fork Halo Select Fork Halo ◉ Halo Dimmer (Level 1) Next Select Day Time Fork Halo Select Fork Halo ◉ Halo Very Dim (Level 3) Next Select Thunder Delay Select Fork Halo ◉ With Delay (Realistic) Install

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

19-Utilities

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				DynDOLOD SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Ensure that both x86 and x64 versions of Visual Studio 2015, 2017 and 2019 are installed. Download the DynDOLOD Main File. The Resources file was installed previously, so ignore it. Extract the archive to the Tools folder (e.g. ..\Modding\Tools\DynDOLOD). Create a folder for the application output: ..\Modding\Tools\DynDOLOD\DynDOLOD_Output Configure MO Executable Configure as follows (If necessary, revisit the Tool Setup in the guide.): Application Title Executable Argument(s) DynDOLOD DynDOLODx64.exe -SSE TexnGen TexnGen64.exe -SSE

				Fores New Idles in Skyrim SE		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
This mod is packaged incorrectly. To install, Download and install the Main File. MO will prompt to confirm how to install. Expand the FNIS Behavior SE x.x.x folder. Right-click on Data and select Set data directory. Click OK to install the mod. Enable the mod. Add to Mod Organizer Executables FNIS is run through Mod Organizer like most other tools. Add FNIS to the list of executables by doing the following: In the right pane, go to the Data tab. Locate the tools folder and expand it. Then expand the GenerateFNIS_for_Users folder. Right-click the GenerateFNISforUsers.exe file and select [Add as Executable]. In the window that opens, type FNIS SE for the Title. Click [OK] Create Mod for Output It is recommended to create a mod to store output files from FNIS by doing the following: Click on the button and select, [Create empty mod]. Name it Step SkryimSE - FNIS Output. Open the Executables menu and choose [FNIS SE]. Tick the Create files in mod instead of overwrite (*) checkmark and select Step SkryimSE - FNIS Output from the dropdown. Click [Apply] and then [OK]. Run FNIS FNIS needs to run in order to generate a new skeleton any time that animation/skeleton mods are added/changed. To do so: Ensure all plugins are ticked, and sorted with LOOT. Choose FNIS SE from the executables dropdown and click [Run] to run it through Mod Organizer. In the Available Patches at the bottom of the window, tick the box adjacent to "SKELETON Arm Fix". Click the [Update FNIS Behavior] button and wait for a message to appear in the window stating "X animations for Y mods successfully included". Click [Exit]. Sort plugins with LOOT.

20-Patches

Mods that programmatically resolve load-order conflicts

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Kryptopyrs Patch Hub		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Since the FOMOD is not updated as regularly as the individual patches, DO NOT install it. Instead, please download and install the following individual patches under "Miscellaneous Files". In MO, these can be merged into custom name like kryptopyr's Patch Hub, or simply install them separately under unique mod names: Cutting Room Floor __ TCIY Improved Closefaced Helmets __ WACCF Metallurgy - Ingots and Ore HD __ CCOR Unofficial Material Fix __ Improved Traps Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch __ CACO

				Useless Patches Collection		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Download and install the Main File using the following instructions: ExpandFOMOD Instructions Useless Patches Collection Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch Patches Plugin Type ☐ Select Nothing Next Song of the Green (Auri Follower) Patches Plugin Type ☐ Select Nothing Next Audio Overhaul for Skryim Patches Plugin Type ☐ Select Nothing Next Weapons Armor Clothing and Clutter Fixes Patches Plugin Type ☑ The Choice is Yours ☑ Cutting Room Floor Next Cutting Room Floor Patches Plugin Type ☑ Relationship Dialogue Overhaul - RDO SE Next Armor and Clothing Extension Patches Plugin Type ☐ Select Nothing Next The Forgotten City Patches Plugin Type ☐ Select Nothing Next Recorder - Standalone Fully Voiced Follower Patches Plugin Type ☐ Select Nothing Next Enhanced Lighting for ENB (ELE) Patches Plugin Type ☐ Select Nothing Next Immersive Sounds - Compendium Patches Plugin Type ☐ Select Nothing Next Extra Patches Plugin Type ☐ Select Nothing Install

				Step Patch - Conflict Resolution		ExpandDetailed Instructions available
Consistent Older People mod was recently hidden on the Nexus, but it can still be obtained from an alternate source. The FOMOD currently makes the mod optional. Download and install the Step Patch - Conflict Resolution main file.

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

Sorting and cleaning the new load order

Before moving on, users should run LOOT, sort, and accept the default load order provided. Users should also take note of any plugins that LOOT reports as needing to be cleaned and perform the standard cleaning procedures on these mods. Keep in mind that LOOT tends to lag behind on the report information, therefore, it will not always be accurate. Users should ignore any reported missing compatibility patches. The Step Patches take care of all the patching, thus eliminating the need for those additional plugins.

Be aware the new Step Patches are designed to work with a default, LOOT-sorted order. This eliminates the need to set rules on the load order, reducing user tasks and streamlining installation. From this point on, users should:

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

NOTE

At this point, it's a good idea to launch a NEW GAME to verify that Skyrim loads without CTD (after sorting with LOOT). The game should successfully load into the Alternate Start character generation interface. If so, open the console (~), type qqq, and hit Enter/Return to close the game. If the game crashes before closing, there is a problem with load order, enabled mods, or any number of things missed in the above instructions. Please validate the MO mod list and mod installations against the guide, because there is most likely a deviation (hopefully intended and easy to find). Always run LOOT after making changes to mods with plugins.

STEP 5

Level of Detail (LOD)

Now that all the mods and patches have been installed and sorted, the next step is to generate custom LOD data based upon this. Before moving on, create three empty mods for the LOD output:

1. Click on the button and select, [Create empty mod].
2. Name it xLODGen Output.
   • This places a new, empty mod at the bottom of the mod list. However if it's not, place it last in the mod list.
3. Repeat these steps to create two other new mods named:, TexGen Output, and DynDOLOD Output; or anything unique and descriptive to their source/function.
4. Place these new mods directly after xLODGen Output.
5. Find the (TEMP) Cathedral Landscapes - xLODGen and (TEMP) Tamriel - xLODGen mods from 03-Resources and 04-Foundation ModGroups and enable these not enabled. These mods ONLY need to be enabled for terrain LOD generation. If they are not disabled before actually playing the game, it will cause visual glitches.

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

1. DLC: Hearthfires

271. ...
272. (TEMP) Cathedral Landscapes - xLODGen NOTE: This mod can be here or under 04-Foundation with Cathedral Landscapes main mod, but it must be DISABLED later as instructed!
273. (TEMP) Terrain - xLODGen
274. xLODGen Output
275. TexGen Output
276. DynDOLOD Output

NOTE

Complete the following in order, and ensure that all mods are enabled and plugins enabled and sorted!

xLODGen

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

Preparation

1. Ensure the both (TEMP) Terrain - xLODGen and (TEMP) Cathedral Landscapes - xLODGen are active in the plugin list (ticked), as they will be used by xLODGen to regenerate corrected landscape LOD and disabled afterwards.
2. Sort with LOOT.

Generation

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

   

   LOD4

   

   LOD8

   

   LOD16

   

   LOD32

5. Click [Generate] to run the process, which will require upwards of 30 minutes, depending on the PC.
6. Once the "LOD generation complete" message has appeared, close xLODGen.

Wrap Up

1. Navigate to the xLODGen output folder (e.g. ..Modding/Tools/xLODGen/xLODGen_Output).
2. Back on MO, open the xLODGen Output mod in an Explorer window (Ctrl+double click).
3. Cut and paste the files from the LOD generation to the xLODGen Output folder. Close both folders.
4. Enable xLODGen Output mod.
5. Disable (TEMP) Terrain - xLODGen and (TEMP) Cathedral Landscapes - xLODGen mods (only needed as xLODGen resources for terrain generation only).

DynDOLOD

Object LOD will be created using Dynamic Distant Objects LOD (DynDOLOD).

Run TexGen

TexGen, shipped with DynDOLOD, is a program that will generate custom object LOD textures based on enabled mods. This means distance object textures will better match their fully rendered counterparts. To run TexGen:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Instructions for TexGen

1. Run TexGen from the MO executable drop-down list.
2. Keep the default Output location. Step recommends:
   • GPU with VRAM ≤ 4 GB:
     • LOD Texture Size = 512
     • Diffuse Alpha = BC3
     • Normal Specular = BC7 Quick
     • Diffuse = BC1
     • Normal = BC7 Quick
   • GPU with VRAM > 4 GB:
     • LOD Texture Size = 1024
     • Diffuse Alpha = BC7 Max
     • Normal Specular = BC7 Quick
     • Diffuse = BC7 Max
     • Normal = BC7 Quick
3. Once the option has been chosen, click [Start].
4. Once the completed message has appeared (5-30 minutes, depending on the PC), click [Exit].
5. Navigate to the DynDOLOD TexGen_Output folder location (e.g. ../Modding/bethesda Tools/DynDOLOD/TexGen_Output).
6. Copy or cut the files from the TexGen_Output folder.
7. In MO, hold down the Ctrl key and double-click on the TexGen Output mod created previously. This opens the mod's folder in an Explorer window.
8. Paste the files into the mod's folder, and close the window.
9. Enable the TexGen Output mod in MO.

Run DynDOLOD

DynDOLOD will generate the remainder of the LODs for the game. Follow one of the two options below, which differ in terms of performance and quality. More powerful systems can handle 3D trees.

Standard (2D) Tree LOD

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Instructions for Standard Trees

1. Run DynDOLOD from the MO executable drop-down list.
2. Click [Advanced] once the main tool window is displayed.
3. Select all worldspaces.
4. Ensure the following are ticked:
   • Candles
   • FXGlow
   • Generate static LOD
   • Generate tree LOD
   • Create texture atlas
   • Generate DynDOLOD
   • Windows
   • High
5. Set Max tile size equal to the texture size used for TexGen previously.
6. Keep the default Output Path and click [Medium]. NOTE: Users with systems able to handle High settings, may do so.
7. Click [OK], and get a cup of coffee. This takes ~20-30 minutes on SSDs.
8. Once the completed message has appeared, click [Save & Exit].

3D Tree LOD

Hybrid 3D Trees are a performance friendly option for high quality tree LODs. It generates 3D branches with 2D trunks. It is also possible to generate 'full' 3D trees by using the full models (not covered here).

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Instructions for 3D Trees

1. Open the ./DynDOLOD folder (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/DynDOLOD/).
2. Open the DynDOLOD_SSE.ini file (e.g. ../DynDOLOD/Edit Scripts/DynDOLOD/DynDOLOD_SSE.ini)
3. Set TreeLOD=0
4. Run DynDOLOD from the MO executable drop-down list.
5. Select all worldspaces.
6. Ensure the following are ticked:
   • Candles
   • FXGlow
   • Generate static LOD
   • NOTE: "Generate tree LOD" will be greyed out as 'N/A' if TreeLOD=0 was set in DynDOLOD.ini as described above.
   • Create texture atlas
   • Generate DynDOLOD
   • Windows
   • High
7. Set Max tile size equal to the texture size used for TexGen previously.
8. Keep the default Output Path and click [High].
   • NOTE: The High preset is the only preset that will generate 3D Trees!
   • NOTE: If High is too performance heavy, users can select another preset and manually edit the tree line in the mesh rules to match how it reads from the High preset.
9. Click [OK], and get a cup of coffee.
10. Once the completed message has appeared, click [Save & Exit].

Wrap Up

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Instructions for DynDOLOD Wrap Up

1. Navigate to the ../DynDOLOD folder location (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/DynDOLOD).
2. Copy or cut the files from the ../DynDOLOD_Output folder.
3. In MO, hold down the Ctrl key and double-click on the DynDOLOD Output mod created above.
4. Paste the files into the mod's folder and close the window.
5. In MO, enable the mod.
6. Ensure the DynDOLOD.esm and DynDOLOD.esp files are ticked in the right pane.
7. Sort with LOOT.

Occlusion

xLODGen will be used to update the occlusion data for the new mod list. This fixes holes in the distant landscape that are notoriously bad over water cells:

➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Instructions for occlusion generation

1. Run xLODGen from the MO executable drop-down list.
2. Select only the Tamriel and DLC2SolstheimWorld worldspaces.
3. Ensure only the Occlusion box is ticked.
4. Use the following settings:
   • Quality: 3
   • Height: 0
   • Radius: 100
   • Mode: -Flat +Borders
5. Click [Generate] to run the process.
6. Once the completed message has appeared, click the red X to close xLODGen.
   • Occlusion.esp is saved automatically and will be placed in the Overwrite folder in MO.
7. Right-click on the Overwrite mod listing and select, [Create new mod].
8. Name it Occlusion Output or anything unique.
9. Ensure the new mod is active (ticked).
10. Ensure the Occlusion.esp is the last plugin in the load order just after DyDOLOD.esp and that it is enabled, else run LOOT and sort plugins.

When to Regenerate LOD

Regenerate LOD any time mods affecting exterior objects are added, removed, or relocated in the mod list.

STEP 6

Mod Configuration (MCM)

Users should now be ready to load the game for the final steps, configuring mods in the MCM. The MCM is a feature of SkyUI that allows mod authors to provide custom settings for their mods, which users can set within the game. Below users will find recommendations for all the mods installed within this Guide.

First Launch

NOTE

The MCM menu item may juxtapose the 'Exit' menu item, so be sure to scroll down to exit if it is 'missing'.

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

• A new game is required! ... In other words, don't load from a save when first launching after a fresh Guide installation unless you know what can happen (which is beyond scope to support). NOTE: Users upgrading from a previous installation of the Guide should review the changelog of the update to determine whether or not a new game is recommended.
• When launching the game for the first time after a Guide install, the load could take significantly longer than normal. This will only be a one-time wait as all the installed mods are being initialized. Subsequent load times should be shorter.
• Finally, INI files may appear in their Overwrite folder after closing the game (e.g. ../SKSE/Plugins/SkyrimUncapper.ini). NOTE: These files should be moved to their respective mod folders, respecting their folder structure in the move.

Alternate Start

Upon starting a new game, the Alternate Start - Live Another Life is the first mod in play. Lets face it, Skyrim is old and the vanilla start quest is the last thing many want to play through. Alternate Start provides a variety of ways to start the game. Once a new game is started, a locked cell is loaded. Simply talk to the statue in the room, choose a preference for starting the game (the vanilla start is provided as an option), and then sleep in the bed to start your new life. An alternate start location for the main quest line can be initialized by simply visiting Helgen.

Mod Configuration Menu Settings

Cathedral Weathers

Users who have installed the optional Lighting and Weathers mod group should set Interior Vision to "Darker" in order for Luminosity to have the correct interior brightness.

Complete Crafting

The following screenshots display the recommended settings for the mod's MCM:

Recipe Display

Learning & XP

Mining & Materials

Miscellaneous

Farmhouse Chimneys SE

Vanilla villages should all be ticked on the first page. The following screenshot displays the recommended settings for the Mod Support page:

Mod Support

Lock Overhaul

This mod must be activated to work. Once enabled, the settings are user preference.

Storm Lightning

The Minimal preset in the MCM is recommended.

Timing is Everything

Timing is Everything is set up in a way that integrates DLC content and balances the game's quests. Vampires and werewolves will show up early in the game because the are a part of the world. Dragonborn will not start until the news of your deeds have time to reach the island and you become something that must be dealt with. Attack chances are lowered from 100% so there will be less of a chance to predict an attack. Other things are active that make sense, such as not being able to do the Break of Dawn quest if you're a vampire, Thalmor, won't attack until after engaging the quest line, etc. The following screenshots display the recommended settings for the mod's MCM:

DLC Quests

Other Quests

Extra Options

Remaining Mod Configurations

The remaining mod configurations are recommended to be left at their defaults for the most enhanced, vanilla experience. However, users may adjust the settings for these mods to their preference.

STEP 7

Optional Customizations

(optional) BethINI Customization

The Step-nhanced SkyrimSE is now ready; however, please consider reading the remainder of the guide before taking an arrow to the knee.

Once the game is confirmed to be stable, a final consideration is customizing BethINI. Those who have no issues with performance and aren't knowledgeable of the settings can simply follow along. Customize the settings to suit personal preference. Caution is advised against using the custom INI input feature. This feature will allow custom INI edits; however, doing so without knowledge of exactly what the customizations are doing can cause instability.

The following are provided as examples of the settings used for taking the screenshot's on Nexus (1920x1080 using a GTX 1060). The recommended settings are called out and/or shown in the screenshots below. Simply click on a section heading to expand it.

Basic Tab Step recommends: ➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Show recommendations   Tick the Recommended Tweak box and then click the High Preset. Set Antialiasing: TAA Tick the following boxes: Windowed Mode Borderless 64-Bit Render Targets Vsync Lock Frame Rate FPS: 60 Basic Tab	General Tab Step recommends: ➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Show recommendations   Users should match the image. Screenshot settings are optional and can be customized. General Tab	Gameplay Tab Step recommends: ➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Show recommendations   Set Over-Encumbered Reminder to: 300 (5 mins) or 3600 (1 hour) Optionally, users can tick NPC Use Ammo for a more realistic experience. This will cause NPCs to only use the ammo available in their inventories. Gameplay Tab
Interface Tab Step recommends: ➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Show recommendations   Untick Bethesda Modding Platform and Mod Manager Menu Tick Fix Map Menu Navigation and Remove Map Menu Blur Interface Tab	Detail Tab Step recommends: ➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Show recommendations   Water: Select all but Sky Reflecting the sky can cause LOD seams on the water to be more visible. Set Particles to: 4500 Tick Depth of Field Untick Lens Flare (optional) Untick Anamorphic Lens Flare (optional, this is the flare seen on candles) Detail Tab	View Distance Tab Step recommends: ➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Show recommendations   Set Grass Fade to: 18000 (max) Set Light Fade to: 50000 (max) Set Flickering Light to: 8192 The remainder of the Fade values are user preference. uGridsToLoad should never been changed from vanilla's default of 5. The preset here should match the preset selected on the Basic tab. View Distance Tab
Visuals Tab Step recommends: ➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Show recommendations   Grass: If using Cathedral Landscapes, these setting should not need to be adjusted. If not, set the values for grass according to the installation instructions of the grass mod in use. Tick Project UV Diffuse Normal Untick Improved Shader. Majestic Mountains includes a custom INI that makes edits to the Sparkles and Improved Snow Shader, if used. Visuals Tab	Custom Tab Step recommends: ➕ [Click to show]➖ [Click to hide] Show recommendations   Ensure the following edits are made: Section drop-down, select Decals. Settting drop-down, select uMaxSkinDecalsPerActor. Set value: 100 and click [Save]. Settting drop-down again, select uMaxSkinDecals. Set value: 100 and click [Save]. Section drop-down again, select Display. Settting drop-down, select fWaterSSRIntensity=0.5. Set value: 0.5 and click [Save]. Settting drop-down again, select iMaxDecalsPerFrame. Set value: 200 and click [Save]. Settting drop-down again, select iMaxSkinDecalsPerFrame. Set value: 200 and click [Save]. Section drop-down again, select Interface. Settting drop-down, select fBookOpenTime. Set value: 500 and click [Save]. Return to Basic tab, and click [Save and Exit]. Custom Tab

(optional) ENBSeries with the Step SkyrimSE Guide

Because the effects of ENB are so variable, depending on 1) use of lighting/weather mods, 2) a great many other options for various mods, and 3) PC hardware and software environments, the Guide doesn't include an ENB preset. Instructions and recommendations would result in a massive flurry of support 'issues'. To provide a bit of direction, we've included a small list of ENB presets below which were made to work with Cathedral Weathers without breaking the horizon. We've included a variety of "looks", but search on Nexus to find the preset that works best.

• A Cathedralist's ENB
• Blubbos ENB ReShade
• CELESTIAL CATHEDRAL ENB
• iiENB
• Ljoss
• Lucid ENB
• PRENB
• Ragnar's Vivid ENB for Cathedral Weathers 2
• Rudy ENB SE for Cathedral Weathers
• Serio's ENB
• Silent Horizons ENB

NOTE:

ENBoost is entirely redundant in SkyrimSE on a 64-bit system with > 4 GB RAM. A 64-bit PC should ALWAYS have > 4 GB RAM, as ≤ 4 GB introduces a completely unnecessary memory ceiling for any 64-bit app. The ENBoost option exists solely so that the Skyrim LE engine can behave more like a 64-bit game engine by providing extra memory space in a 32-bit environment. Use it only for Skyrim LE (past Step SkyrimLE Guides). It might be beneficial for those running SkyrimSE on a 64-bit system with ≤ 4 GB RAM.

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS

Help build STEP

STEP can only get bigger and better with help from the community. It is very time consuming for the STEP team to ensure that the Guide is consistently maintained at the highest quality possible. We need people to help us identify mods that improve the vanilla game while adhering to our Mandate. We also need ongoing bug reports, reviews, and updates on mods that may cause problems or that stray from the Mandate.

In order to suggest a mod for inclusion, visit the Mods section of the Forums.

Call for Mod Testers

Community members interested in becoming Mod Testers, please contact TechAngel85 via PM on the forums. Once registered, Mod Testers will be given access to Staff forums that houses useful information. For more information about our mod testing process, read through the Mod Testing Guide to get a sense of what's involved.

Call for Forum Moderators

Regular community members interested in becoming moderators, please contact TechAngel85 via PM on the forums. Forum Moderators will be determined based upon level and quality of activity within our community.

Thank you for reading and enjoy the game!

Credits

Thank you all!

The STEP administrators would sincerely like to thank (from the bottoms of our fuzzy little hearts):

• The authors of mods recommended within our Guides
• The authors of mods who granted permission for their mods to be incorporated into the STEP Patches
• The core Community for feedback, suggestions and input
• The Beta and Mod Testers for their good humor and rigorous analyses
• The Nexus community
• Bethesda Softworks for their games
• Tannin for the gift that is Mod Organizer
• All the developers that kept MO alive to create MO

Step Staff

Administrators

• TechAngel85
  • Lead Release Coordinator, Patch Coordinator, Lead Forum Administrator, Mod Author
• z929669
  • Project Founder, Lead Site Developer, Lead Site Administrator

Step Admin

• DoubleYou
• Greg

Honorary Staff

Retired Founders, Administrators, and Staff:

• Aiyen
• Bealdwine
• deathneko11
• EisDrache
• EssArrBee
• Farlo
• frihyland
• GSDfan (still active: MO Support)
• GrantSP
• hishutup
• Kelmych
• MontyMM
• Nebulous112
• oqhansoloqo
• phazer11
• rootsrat
• stoppingby4now
• TheCompiler
• torminater
• Uhuru
• WilliamImm
• wolverine2710