SkyrimLE:2.10.0

SkyrimLE v2.10.0

Changelog   |   Release Date: June 11, 2017

WARNING

This guide is out of date and is NOT supported!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

- Visit the forums and provide feedback related to STEP.

- Also visit the STEP Facebook page maintained by TheCompiler (Daniel) and TechAngel85 (Jeremy).

- To support hosting and maintenance of the STEP Community Project, contributions are welcome.

STEP 2.10.0 Highlights

With this version of STEP comes a change in our versioning scheme. We realized from the last few releases the Guide needed a different solution for the versioning scheme. Up until now, we have included the underbelly of STEP as the first digit in our scheme. This meant major changes to software (like forum software and wiki upgrades) would count as STEP 1.x.x, STEP 2.x.x, and so on. This was not the best standard for us to use. Therefore, from this release and beyond, the versioning of STEP will go as: Major.Minor.Hotfix.

• Major - Introduce fundamental new functionality, tools, or methods. (e.g., Official Pack implementation [i.e., STEP Extended, STEP Lighting, STEP-sponsored Packs], BOSS to LOOT, Wrye Bash to MO).
• Minor - changes to mod lineup.
• Hotfix - Change/fix Guide instructions that require amendment to the changelog (however large or small) and any other 'hotfixes' (e.g., changes to mod install order).

For more information about the versioning scheme, see the link posted above.

Until now, we had been working up to STEP 2.3.0 as our next major release. With the change in the versioning scheme, we'll now be working towards STEP 3.0.0! From this release and beyond, each release will be a step towards bridging our move to the new paradigm. What does this mean for this release? This means that while there are no drastic changes to the Guide's structure, we have again fine-tuned the STEP setup to bring you a fluid mod list to enhance the beauty and feel of Skyrim.

A few of the larger changes in this release are:

• We have replaced Skyrim HD with Skyrim Realistic Overhaul has our baseline for all textures.
• Gone are several of the old character mods including: XCE, XCE - Dawnguard, Better Beast Races, and Better Freckles. These mods have been replaced by alternative selections.
• The entire Characters & Creatures section of the Guide has seen significant refinement.
• Many of the older mods in the Guide have been removed and replaced with more recent solutions.
• The entire INI section has been replaced with BethINI.
• There has been so many changes that we highly recommend users reviewing the changelog, for all the fine details.

About STEP

A Foreword

Created by TheCompiler, STEP is a collaborative project with input from the modding community, technical volunteers, and project administrators. The goal is to provide tested and validated methods for establishing and maintaining an enhanced modded Skyrim. Thus, the Guide provides detailed, well-tested build instructions for a solid modding template. New modders can follow STEP explicitly to achieve an enhanced, vanilla experience, or more experienced modders may use it as general guide to build a foundation from.

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

Nomenclature

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

• Core mods: Mods that are Core to the STEP Guide collectively known as STEP:Core. STEP:Core is an installation of ONLY Core mods listed in the mod tables within STEP 2 of this Guide.
• Extended mods: Mods that are not Core mods in the STEP Guide collectively known as STEP:Extended. STEP:Extended is an installation of ALL mods listed in the mod tables within STEP 2 of this Guide.
• Baseline: An installation of a mod using the recommend baseline option listed within the Baseline column of the mod tables.
• STEP Patches: A "patch" is a plugin which allows two or more mods to work together without conflict. The "STEP Patches" are the same thing but allow for all of the mods in the STEP Guide to work harmoniously together. All users should use the STEP Patches unless a custom patch will be made; even then the STEP Patches can be used as a base to make a custom patch for STEP + other mods. The STEP Patches are installed with the STEP Compilation in Section N of this Guide. Users should determine whether or not they will be using a STEP Patch before starting STEP 2 due to select mods having alternative installation steps for users not installing a one of the Patches.

Minimum System Requirements for STEP:Core

We recommend the following hardware configuration for running a Baseline installation. The minimum requirements will allow most users to install and run the STEP Baseline recommendations, which provide a good performance/quality trade-off. The recommended requirements will allow most users to install and run a modded setup beyond that of Baseline with higher quality options. For those wishing to use the highest quality options available with higher resolutions than 1920x1080, be advised that a more powerful system will likely be required.

Hardware	Minimum	Recommended
Windows OS	Windows 7 32-bit	Windows 7 64-bit or later
CPU	Intel Core i3/equivalent (dual core)	Intel Core i5/equivalent or higher
System RAM	8 GB	8 GB or higher
GPU	Nvidia GTX 660 2GB VRAM / AMD Radeon HD 7850 2GB	Nvidia GTX 660 2GB VRAM / AMD Radeon HD 7850 2GB / or better
Monitor Resolution	1366x768	1920x1080

NOTE

Start Out Clean!

It is particularly important for new users begin with clean installations of both Steam and Skyrim in order to be successful with the setup of this Guide the first time through.

PLEASE READ EACH SECTION BELOW CAREFULLY, as no information included in this Guide is irrelevant!

Mod Table Reference

Below is the legend and reference for the mod tables used in this Guide. Users should refer back to it when confused about a mod listing.

		Mod Name	Baseline	Notes
		Mod (patches not required)	Baseline	Notes
		Mod (requires patches)	Baseline	Notes

Mod Table Legend

The following is an example of the mod tables, found in Step 2 below, followed by the legend for reading the table. Users should familiarize themselves with this information.

Mod Table Legend

		Patch Requirement	A green vertical bar indicates that the mod is required by the Step Conflict Resolution Patch, and a red bar indicates that the LW patch is required.
		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'." In other cases, there may only be one appropriate option, which fits the STEP Mandate. These instructions will take the form of: "Download and install 'Option A'." Users will also see links displayed as: Detailed instructions available. Users should follow these links to find detailed instructions for installing the mod.

NOTE

Chapter Heading Layout

A link to more detailed information related to each section, for users wishing to have more in-depth information, is provided directly below the section heading and looks as follows:

Detailed Information --> Link

Brief, quick setup instructions follow the heading for users wishing to get through the guide AFAP (as fast as possible).

STEP 1

Pre-Installation Setup

1.A. Install Steam & Skyrim

Detailed Information --> Skyrim Installation Guide

1.B. Initialize the Game

Detailed Information --> Skyrim Launcher Guide

As a prerequisite to installing the remainder of this Guide:

1. Launch Skyrim from Steam to initialize the auto-detection process and accept the preset provided. Users will customize these settings below.
2. Launch the game to the main menu and then exit to desktop. This completes the required game initialization steps.

1.C. Install Utilities

Standalone applications that aid in the management of the modding process

A mod-management utility is REQUIRED in order to easily keep track of a complex mod setup like STEP. These utilities also make it far simpler to deconstruct a STEP install in order to update to a new STEP version and to update to newer versions of the mods. This is impossible to do simply or efficiently without a mod manager.

There are a two mod managers that can be used to manage the STEP setup; however, to simplify Guide maintenance/support for staff and mod management for users, the STEP Guide only officially supports Mod Organizer. Although Wrye Bash is also mod manager, STEP recommends that it only be used for the functionality of creating the Bashed Patch. The reason for the limited support of Wrye Bash is, again, due to simplifying this Guide. Users who wish to use Wrye Bash may do so to install and maintain STEP, however, unless these users are experienced in modding, these users may find it difficult to install this Guide. Wrye Bash users can use the Wrye Bash Guide for detailed instructions on setting it up as a modding utility package. Wrye Bash users should also be aware that support may be limited when seeking help on the forums due to Wrye Bash not being the officially supported mod manager.

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				DDSopt	DDSopt - pre-release - update 4	Detailed Instructions available
For users who do not want to do a custom run with DDSopt, STEP now provides the STEP Optimized Vanilla Textures which is installed during in the Fixes section of the STEP Guide. There is no need to run DDSopt if choosing to install this new mod from STEP. Do NOT run through Mod Organizer! See DDSopt Guide for usage details. The Quick-Start Guide is a good place to start.

				LOOT		Detailed Instructions available
Download the latest version of LOOT from their GitHub page (LOOT.Install.exe). Install LOOT by running the installer and changing the path to the Tools folder (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/) Users should now have a LOOT folder (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/LOOT).

				Mod Organizer		Detailed Instructions available
Download Main File from Nexus Mods and run the EXE. Windows may issue a warning. If so, click more information and then click [Run Anyway]. Install MO into the Tools using the name: Mod Organizer. Do not run MO yet! It will be run for the first time later in the guide.

				BethINI		Detailed Instructions available
Download BethINI from Nexus Mods. Extract the archive to the *Tools* folders (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/) User's should now have a new BethINI folder (e.g. ../Modding/Tools/BethINI).

				Skyrim Performance Monitor		Detailed Instructions available
Installing Skyrim Performance Monitor Download and install the Microsoft .NET Framework. Windows XP users should install Microsoft .NET Framework 4. Windows Vista or later should install Microsoft .NET Framework 4.5. Download the mod from the mod page using the download manually link and extract the zip archive. Install the SlimDX Runtime .NET 2.0 (January 2012).msi included in the archive. (If you're upgrading to a new version of SPM and already have SlimDX installed, there's no need to uninstall/reinstall SlimDX. You can simply skip this step) Install Skyrim Performance Monitor by running the setup.exe included in the archive. The default install location is in Documents. You may change this according to your preference. Please remember to completely uninstall any previous versions of SPM prior to upgrading. Initial Setup of Skyrim Performance Monitor Launch Skyrim Performance Monitor and click the Setup... button at bottom right. Select your Primary Gaming Video Card from the drop-down in the Primary Video Card tab. Go to the Miscellaneous Settings tab. ENBoost and ENB users should check the Attempt Support for Custom D3D9.dll and Combine TESV and ENBHost System RAM settings. Click Save Configuring Skyrim Performance Monitor for Use with Mod Organizer Launch Skyrim Performance Monitor and click the "Setup..." button at bottom right. Go to the File Paths tab and point the Skyrim Launcher File Path to your ModOrganizer.exe. Here is an example for Mod Organizer and other launchers. Click Save. Click the Launch Skyrim button at bottom right, which will start Mod Organizer (make certain that Mod Organizer is not already running first!). From there you can select your desired profile and run SKSE (or other launcher) to play Skyrim and monitor its performance.

				TES5Edit		Detailed Instructions available
Download TES5Edit from Nexus Mods. Extract the archive to the xEdit folder: ..Modding/Tools/xEdit To clean any mods that require it, run "Quick Auto Clean". It will allow users to select the mod to clean and automatically clean it. Reference videos

				Wrye Bash	Installer version	Detailed Instructions available
If updating to 306, you need to uninstall your previous version. MO users - Install and be certain to tick the stand-alone executable version when prompted for the path to the Steam/Skyrim directory. Wrye Bash users - see the Wrye Bash Guide. Since you must launch Wrye Bash through Mod Organizer in order for it to recognize your mods, add Wrye Bash to the list of executables by doing the following: Click the gears icon . This opens the Modify Executables window. In the Title field, type Wrye Bash. For the Binary field, browse to your Wrye Bash installation and select the Wrye Bash.exe application. Uncheck Close MO when started if necessary. Click the Add button. This will add Wrye Bash to your executables list. Click Close. Now each time you want to run Wrye Bash, simply select it from the drop-down menu at top right and click Run.

1.D. INI Tweaks

Detailed Information --> Skyrim Configuration Settings Guide

The INI tweaks from previous versions of the Guide have been replaced with the BethINI utility listed in section "1.C Install Utilities". If you did not set up BethINI per the mod page instructions, please return there and so so now. For more advanced information about INI settings, please see the "Detailed Information" link below the header above.

1.E. Display & Video Card Settings

Often under-appreciated, display and driver settings have a huge potential impact on the graphic quality of games and anything else displayed on the monitor in 2D or 3D, so it is important to get these settings done correctly. Below are listed only the essential settings. No further tweaking is necessary beyond them. It is highly recommended that only the bare minimal tweaking be done here until after the Guide is installed and configured according to the Baselines provided.

Update Video Drivers

If there is any reason to believe that the latest drivers installed are not installed correctly and are causing issues, then complete the following instructions. Else, simply install the latest drivers as normal.

1. Download the latest stable AMD drivers / Nvidia drivers.
2. Download DDU and install it (DDU forum Page).
3. Restart the system and boot into safe mode by repeatedly pressing F8 once the boot check initializes and before the OS begins loading (no need to uninstall the current drivers, but it will not hurt at all).
   • If using UEFI while using Windows 8 or later, go to to your power options and while holding down the Shift key, press restart. This will open the advanced menu where you can select to boot into safe mode.
4. Launch DDU, and select the appropriate driver from the drop-down combobox.
5. Note the recommendations in DDU and initialize the cleanup.
6. Reboot normally and install the latest drivers.

1.E.1. Configure Driver Settings

STEP has more detailed information in both the AMD-CCC guide as well as the Nvidia Inspector guide, and other AMD-CCC and Nvidia Inspector / Control Center guides exist for the inquisitive user. The following information is minimalistic, sound advice, and users are encouraged to add their own 2 cents for consideration via the AMD-CCC Talk and Nvidia Inspector Talk pages.

In Short - The graphics software should only be forcing max Anisotropic Filtering (AF). All other settings should be left to the Skyrim configuration (see above) and ENBoost configurations (see below).

1.E.1.1. AMD Users

Detailed Information --> Catalyst Control Center Guide (for old driver versions)
Detailed Information --> Radeon Settings

AMD users should read one of the above guides to correctly configure their driver graphics settings.

1.E.1.2. Nvidia Users

Detailed Information --> Nvidia Inspector Guide: Editing Skyrim Settings

Make the following changes via Nvidia Inspector, otherwise leave the defaults (they can be tweaked later if absolutely necessary).

1. Download Nvidia Inspector. This is a portable program and requires no installation. Simply place in a convenient location and create a shortcut to the executable.
2. Launch nvidiaProfileInspector.exe.
3. In the "Profiles" bar, select the "Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim" profile and keep all of the default settings except for the following changes:

1. Ensure Antialiasing - Mode is set to [Application-controlled]. If set to [Override], AA will be turned off in Skyrim, regardless of the Skyrim INI setting!
2. Force Anisotropic filtering:
   1. Set Anisotropic filtering mode to [User-defined / Off]
   2. Set Anisotropic filtering setting to [16x]
3. Click [Apply changes] at the top of the windows twice and then close.

1.E.2. Display Calibration

Color calibration is critical to photographers and graphic artists who work across media types, but it is also equally important for gamers. This is because there is a lot of screenshot sharing and qualitative discussion about in-game visuals. It is ideal if all users' systems are somewhat 'standardized' for comparative purposes alone. However, with that said, all monitors will be slightly different in their accuracy of displaying colors.

The gist: Calibrate the monitor's display settings based on the video driver configuration utility with all other configuration baselines set to something akin to "mid level".

There are three places to configure color saturation, temperature, brightness, contrast, gamma, etc:

1. The monitor's built-in configuration menu
2. Windows color management
3. The driver configuration utility (see "Configure Driver Settings" above)

The value of one setting can affect the appearance of other settings, and depending on the quality of the monitor, #1 above could be very good or just 'OK'. The #2 and #3 objects should be standard though, since they are made to work across various monitors.

• Ensure that #1 above is set to "the middle ground" with respect to all settings. Having extreme settings in the monitor configuration could potentially constrain the other configurations. For some, setting all #1 values to mid levels will be best, but for the other options the 'auto-config' will be best (auto-config may not set all #1 values to mid settings). Depending on the monitor, there may be other auto-config options based on various presets. Whatever seems most "middle of the road" is probably best for option #1 above.
• Optionally, also run option #2 (Control Panel > Display > Calibrate Color) and set to 'vanilla' mid-levels with respect to all attributes. If this was never run previously, then it should already be at mid-levels.
• Calibrate using option #3 (see below) using a this reference image and in a room with no direct lighting that could affect what the monitor shows (not-too-bright, diffuse-lighted room). The main calibration should be done using option #3 once a mid baseline 'canvas' has been established for options #1 and #2.
  • AMD-CCC: |Desktop Management| > |Desktop Color| (click "Reactivate AMD color controls").
  • Nvidia Control Panel: Access from the Windows Control Panel. |Display| > |Adjust desktop color settings|

Final Pre-Installation Notes

A Final Consideration

• A STEP:Core installation is an installation of all, and only, the STEP:Core mods indicated in the tables below by a green bar to the left of the mod's name.

• Remember that STEP:Core can be used as a base for ANY modded setup. It is a universal build and will not spoil any downstream setup or Packs, although there may be a few minor redundancies whereby a STEP:Core mod is later installed again with some added or subtracted options.

• A STEP:Extended installation is an installation of all the mods listed below.

• Whether installing STEP:Core or STEP:Extended, install mods in the order that they are presented in the mod tables to achieve the correct result.

• Read the ReadMe files and other mod-related documentation that comes packaged with most mods. This also includes the mod description on Nexus. If the mod author has seen fit and taken time to create these reference materials, then they are relevant and important in the eyes of the mod author. This means that they are relevant and important to you!

STEP Patches

The STEP Patches are patches provided by STEP for the STEP:Core and STEP:Extended mod lists below. These patches resolve any conflicts between these mods which could cause issues if left unpatched. Users should decide now, before installing any mods, whether they will be installing STEP:Core or STEP:Extended and whether or not they will be using the STEP Patches. These two decisions now will be referenced later during mod installations. Deciding now will allow users to know which instruction sets to follow and will alleviate any confusion when these decisions arise. Users who decide to install the STEP Patches will do so at the end of the Guide during the STEP Compilation install.

All users should use one of the STEP Patches unless a custom patch will be made!
We recommend the use of the STEP Patches, even if users will be installing mods on top of a STEP build which require further patching. Using the STEP Patches will give these users a head start as most of the mods will already be patched for them. New users who are unfamiliar with the mod patching process are highly recommended to use the Patches.

• STEP Patches Requirements - It is recommended to keep the STEP Compilation topic open for reference to this list of required mods.
  • Users who decide they will not use the STEP Patches will need to install all relevant patches for mods listed on that topic. Take note of those plugins since they are not listed throughout the Guide.

Finally, we offer the following options in regards to the STEP Patches:

• Full STEP:Core Patch
• Full STEP:Extended Patch
• STEP:Core Patch without Enhanced Lighting for ENB (ELE) and/or Immersive Citizens AI Overhaul
• STEP:Extended Patch without Enhanced Lighting for ENB (ELE) and/or Immersive Citizens AI Overhaul

That is a total of eight (8) Patch options to choose from.

STEP 2

Mod Installation

NOTE

Consider the following while installing mods

• Mods should be installed in the order that they are listed to ensure that mods further down the list overwrite those occurring before them. This is necessary to ensure the desired in-game effect.
• Mods are listed in alphabetical order within each section, and any deviations from this are purposeful to achieve the desired outcome.
• Always install plugins (ESPs/ESMs) unless otherwise noted. If there are not any notes associated with a particular mod, then all options fit the STEP mandate and it is the user's decision. The notes only provide instructions where necessary; otherwise, STEP encourages user customization.
• Unless otherwise stated, follow LOOT's advice with regards to mod cleaning and sorting.

2.A. LOOT Sorting

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

1. Launch LOOT via Mod Organizer from the executables drop-down menu.
2. Click the [Sort] button at the top.
3. Examine the resulting order carefully and look for any alerts or warnings and address each.
4. Click the [Apply] button which has replaced the Sort button at the top.
5. Close LOOT.

NOTE:

LOOT must be run prior to launching the game every time a mod is installed which adds one or more plugins.

2.B. Cleaning Vanilla Master Files

To remove errors in the Bethesda master files, it is recommended they be cleaned with xEdit before modding begins. This ensures maximum stability and compatibility within the modding experience.

Standard Cleaning Procedures

1. Run xEditQC from the drop-down executable list in MO.
2. On the plugin selection window, double-click on the mod being cleaned (i.ee, Update.esm, Dawnguard.esm, etc).
   • xEdit will now automatically clean up the "Identical to master" and "deleted" records from the selected mod.
3. Once xEdit is done cleaning, click the X at upper right of the program window.
4. At the prompt, check the box next to the mod that was cleaned and the Backup Plugins box. Click OK to close the tool.

After the vanilla master files are cleaned, users should create separate mods for them in MO and restore the original. This prevents users from having to re-clean the file after verifying their files in Steam. To do this, complete the following:

1. Right-click the Overwrite folder in MO and select Create Mod..., name it “MasterName.esm - Cleaned” (i.e., Update.esm - Cleaned), and click OK.
2. On the new mod listing that appears, right-click and select Open in explorer. Leave this folder opened.
3. Open the Skyrim Special Edition Data directory (i.e., C:/Modding/Steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim Special Edition/Data)
4. Drag and drop the just cleaned master file from Data to the "MasterName.esm - Cleaned" folder from step 2.
5. Open the TES5Edit Backups folder found in Overwrite in MO and rename the file to “MasterName.esm”.
6. Drag and drop the renamed file from the TES5Edit Backups folder to the Data directory and choose to overwrite it.
7. Close the explorer windows.
8. Drag and drop the new MasterName.esm - Cleaned mod listing in MO directly below its vanilla master mod listing.

Update.esm, Hearthfires.esm, Dragonborn.esm

Follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean these master files, one at a time. Place the “MasterName.esm - Cleaned” mod listing for each below it's vanilla master mod listing. Update.esm will not be listed in MO and Update.esm - Cleaned is placed at the top of the modlist.

Dawnguard.esm

Follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean Dawnguard.esm; however, it is a special case and must be cleaned twice. Therefore, once the first cleaning is complete, repeat the process a second time before continuing to the manual cleaning below.

Dawnguard also has some manual cleaning required. To do this, visit this topic on AFKMods and complete the section under “Dawnguard.esm needs manual cleaning as well as automatic cleaning”. Return here when those three (3) steps are completed: https://www.afkmods.com/index.php?/topic/4110-manual-cleaning-skyrim-and-skyrim-se-master-files/

After the manual cleaning is complete, create the mod listing as directed above and place the “Dawnguard.esm - Cleaned” mod listing directly below Dawnguard.esm.

02-Extenders

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				ENBoost		Detailed Instructions available
ENBoost is required! Due to Skyrim LE's 32-bit memory limit, ENBoost must be used by everyone. The following instructions pertain only to ENBoost; the memory manager of ENBSeries. Do not install a full ENB Preset during the Step Guide setup! This can be done later, after the installation of the Guide is confirmed to be working. Install Download and install the DirectX 9 Runtimes. This is for good measure to prevent some commonly reported issues on the forums. Be sure to install it and not just extract it! Visit ENBSeries website to download the latest archive. Do not use the Skyrim Nexus version of ENBoost due to incorrect settings for Step Guides. Click the link for the latest archive (usually the one on the top of the list) On the next page click the button to download the archive. Open the archive and go to the "WrapperVersion" folder, then extract only the following files into the root Skyrim directory (do NOT copy into the 'Data' directory!): d3d9.dll enbhost.exe enblocal.ini Alternatively, if the "WrapperVersion" does not function as advertised, try the "InjectorVersion". Remove any existing remnants of the Wrapper version, and extract only the enbhost.exe, ENBInjector.exe, enbinjector.ini, enblocal.ini, and enbseries.dll files from the "InjectorVersion" folder into ./skyrim/. Users must run ENBInjector.exe before running the game for the injector version to work properly. Configure enblocal.ini The following are important changes that are either required or highly recommended. Advanced users see the detailed INI configuration settings for more information: [PROXY] EnableProxyLibrary=true InitProxyFunctions=false ProxyLibrary=d3dx9_42.dll [GLOBAL] UsePatchSpeedhackWithoutGraphics=true UseDefferedRendering=false [MEMORY] ExpandSystemMemoryX64=false ReservedMemorySizeMb=128 ; This value should be set to lowest possible value without experiencing stutter. Increase this value until stuttering is either gone or minimal. See advanced guide above for more information. VideoMemorySizeMb={integer in MB} ; Download and run Boris's tool: VRamSizeTest. Run VRamSizeDX9.exe. Windows users subtract 350 from the value provided and use that value. AutodetectVideoMemorySize=false [ENGINE] EnableVSync=true VSyncSkipNumFrames=0  ; Be sure the parameters in the [THREADS] section match what is below! These are for special case use only. You are 99% not likely one of those special cases! The section should remain as follows: [THREADS] DataSyncMode=0 PriorityMode=0  ; This may be a necessary performance enhancement for some users. If experiencing stuttering and the [MEMORY] section is verified to be set up properly, enabling or disabling these parameters could help resolve some stuttering. [WINDOW] ForceBorderless=true ForceBorderlessFullscreen=true

				SKSE		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the latest archive: Place all *.exe and *.dll files into <skyrim>/ (not the data directory!). Should be three files (i.e., skse_1_9_32.dll, skse_loader.exe, and skse_steam_loader.dll). Click the Archive button. Browse to and select the downloaded skse archive. In the manual installation prompt, right-click data and select [Set data directory]. It should say it Looks good, and not say No game data at top level. Click OK Create the SKSE ini file OR download and install it from here. Right-click the SKSE mod in Mod Organizer and select [Open in explorer]. Open the SKSE folder or create one if one does not exist. In the SKSE folder, create skse.ini and paste inside it the following: [Display] iTintTextureResolution=2048 [General] ClearInvalidRegistrations=1 The SKSE folder structure, including the skse.ini should look like the following: Restart MO; if SKSE is installed correctly, MO will detect it and show in the executables drop down. Use the SKSE executable when launching Skyrim from MO from now on.

03-Resources

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				FISS

				PapyrusUtil-Modders Scripting Utility Functions

				Skyrim-Community-Uncapper		Detailed Instructions available
This mod is not packaged correctly. When installing this mod, right-click on the Data folder and choose [Set data directory]. Okay [OK] to install. STEP recommends the defaul INI values. To customize Uncapper see this Guide: Skyrim Uncapper guide.

				SkyUI

04-Foundation

Baseline mods 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 Skyrim Legendary Edition Patch

				Unofficial High Resolution Patch

				Dynamic Distant Objects LOD	Medium	Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the DynDOLOD Resources Main File, selecting the following options: 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		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Static Mesh Improvement Mod Options Main Installer Choice ◉ Original Skyrim 2011: 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 ☐ Select Nothing 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 (NOTE: Low VRAM graphic card users can use the half-size textures.) Xtra Options - Ultra-Sized Textures Addon ☐ Select Nothing Install

				Skyrim Realistic Overhaul		Detailed Instructions available
SRO contains files larger than the normal baseline for STEP Please be aware that SRO contains files that are typically 2-4K in resolution. The typical baseline for STEP is 1-2K (or the vanilla/HRDLC sizes), therefore, SRO is often double the baseline in most cases. Users who experience slowdowns after installing SRO, may wish to consider reducing the texture sizes, but process is not covered in this Guide. Download and install: Skyrim Realistic Overhaul Part 1 Skyrim Realistic Overhaul Part 2 Skyrim Realistic Overhaul Part 3 SRO 1.8. original Skyrim version update Overwrite any files, if extracting and combining before installation. If installing the individual files directly to MO either: Install the files separately and in the order listed above or, Install to a single "mod" using the Merge option.

				RUSTIC CLOTHING	2K-1K	Download and install the RUSTIC CLOTHING - COMPLETE - 2K-1K file.

05-Animation and Physics

Mods that affect animations or physics

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Animated Clutter		Install all options except for Ship Idles.

				Better Turn Animation		Detailed Instructions available
Install both the main file and the Fix Crossed Swords and Turn with Leg move update file. Hide the following files: meshes/actors/character/animations/1hm_shout_exhale.hkx meshes/actors/character/animations/mt_shout_exhale.hkx meshes/actors/character/animations/mt_shout_inhale.hkx

				D13 Faster GET UP STAND UP animation

				Dual Wield Blocking Animations

				NoMaaM Breathing Idles	non-BBB	Download and install the Female without BBB and Male Breathing Idles V0_1 optional file.

				Realistic Boat Bobbing		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Realistic Boat Bobbing Realistic Boat Bobbing Select an option ◉ Merged Versions Next Patches Patches ☐ Select Nothing Next Merged Patches Select Any Patches ☑ Realistic Water Two Next Extras Select Any Extras ☑ SMIM Next SMIM Select Barrels ◉ Modified Vanilla Barrels - Animated Select Crates ☑ Crates Install

				Running With Bows

				Skyrim Enhanced Camera

				XPMS Extended		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the XP32 Maximum Skeleton Extended main file. FOMOD Instructions XP32 Maximum Skeleton Extended Skeleton Meshes ☑ Skeleton Meshes Animation Rig Map ☑ Physics Extensions Next Character Creation Character Creation ◉ Racemenu Next Character Creation Weapon Style Randomizer ◉ 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 with Styles! ☐ Select Nothing Sword - Warning! Missing Sounds! Not compatible with Styles! ◉ None Next Mounted Combat Animation Axe - Warning! Missing Sounds! Not compatible with Styles! ☐ Select Nothing Bow ☐ Select Nothing Sword - Warning! Missing Sounds! Not compatible with Styles! ◉ 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 When updating this mod, remember to run FNIS. For new users, FNIS will be ran at the end of the Guide.

06-Models and Textures

Mods that replace existing models or textures

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				SkyFalls and SkyMills		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the "SkyFalls and SkyMills FOMOD-BAIN Installer" main file. FOMOD Instructions SkyFalls and SkyMills FOMOD-BAIN Installer Installed DLC? Dawnguard (DG) ◉ Yes Dragonborn (DB) ◉ Yes Flaskaar (FS) ◉ No Wyrmstooth (WT) ◉ No Next Check your choices Check your selection ◉ Both DG + DB Next LOD mod compatibility LOD mod compatibility ◉ I don't use these mods Next Optionals Optional Small Waterfalls ◉ None Optional Patches ☐ None Windmill sail Size ◉ 1.5x vanilla (Default) Select your water mod ◉ Realistic Water Two (Default) Install

				HD Misc

				High Quality Food and Ingredients	Performance repack	Detailed Instructions available
Hide the following files: textures/Clutter/ingredients/venison_meat_n.dds

				A Quality World Map		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the A Quality World Map 9.0.1 - Vivid with Stone Roads main file.

				AMidianBorn Caves and Mines	2K

				AMidianBorn Solstheim Landscape	1k

				AMidianBorn Whiterun	1K	Detailed Instructions available
STEP recommends removing the following files/folders: Hide the following files: Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrcitywall01.dds Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrcitywall01_n.dds Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrcitywall01plaster.dds Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrcitywall01plaster_n.dds Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrcitywalltopcap01.dds Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrcitywalltopcap01_n.dds Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrcitywalltrims01.dds Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrcitywalltrims01_n.dds Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrslate02.dds Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrslate02_n.dds Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrslatefloor01.dds Textures/architecture/whiterun/wrslatefloor01_n.dds

				Better Shaped Weapons		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions LeanWolf's Better-Shaped Weapons 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 Glass Refraction Options ◉ Refractive Glass Weapons Next Step 5 Stalhrim Stalhrim Refraction Options ◉ Stalhrim with Refraction Next Step 6A Dawnbreaker Sheath Dawnbreaker ◉ Dawnbreaker Sheath Dwarf Next Step 6B Dawnbreaker ENB Dawnbreaker ENB Option ◉ Dawnbreaker No ENB Next Step 7 Dragonbone Dragonbone Options ◉ DragonBoring Weapons Next Step 8 Dual Sheath Left-hand Meshes ◉ Dual Sheath Meshes Install

				Burn Freeze Shock Effects	Loose	Detailed Instructions available
This mod has been known to cause issues on some systems, therefore, it is highly recommended to use the memory patch included in SKSE. Download and install the BFS Effects 3_6 - Loose main file. Also install the optional BFS Effects 3_6 - Dragonborn Dawnguard file. Select [Merge] when prompted.

				Dawnguard Rune Weapons FXS

				Deathbell HD	1K

				Deadly Spell Impacts	Medium	Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Deadly Spell Impacts Options Options ◉ Custom Next Custom Fire Spell Dependent Feature ◉ One Fire Impact (Default) Next One Fire ◉ Default Frost ◉ Alternative 1 Lightning ◉ Default Install If issues arise from this mod, try installing the low resolution version.

				DRAGON PRIEST	2K	Download and install the Dragon.Priest.2k optional file. Select the Full option in the installer.

				DRAUGR	2K	Download and install the Draugr.2k optional file.

				DROPS	512	Detailed Instructions available
Step recommends downloading only the Drops v1 Optional File (the fomod version) with the following options: FOMOD Instructions Drops v1 x Main File ◉ DROPS - x512 Next x DROPS - Alternative Textures ◉ DROPS - Alternative Texture for x512 Install

				EASIER LOCKPICKING

				Embers HD	1024	Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Embers HD Embers HD Select One ◉ Embers HD 1K Next Embers HD Add-Ons Select Add-Ons ☑ Fireplaces Add-On ☑ Forges Add-On ☑ Lava Crater Add-On Next Embers HD Patches Select Add-Ons ☑ Ultimate HD Fire Effects Patch Install

				Enhanced Blood Textures		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the Enhanced Blood Textures LITE Main File. Optionally, download and merge the No Screen Blood Optional File. This will remove blood spatters from the screen.

				Burn Freeze Shock Effects	Loose	Detailed Instructions available
This mod has been known to cause issues on some systems, therefore, it is highly recommended to use the memory patch included in SKSE. Download and install the BFS Effects 3_6 - Loose main file. Also install the optional BFS Effects 3_6 - Dragonborn Dawnguard file. Select [Merge] when prompted.

				Footprints		Install the Footprints v1_00 - Legendary main file. Clean save required if updating from 0.99

				GIANT	2K	Download and install the Giant.2k optional file.

				HAGRAVEN	2K	Download and install the Hagraven.2k optional file.

				HD Dark Brotherhood Door		Step recommends: No glowing eyes version Optional File.

				HD Enhanced Terrain	1024	Step recommends: Hd Enhanced Terrain and Map snow 1024x1024 Version Old File.

				HD Stone Quarry and Clay Deposit	1k	Also install the Stone Quarry for Vanilla Rock Texture optional file.

				High Quality LODs	Hi-Res Meshes	Install the HQLODs - Meshes Hi-Res main file. Do not install the normals. For slightly better performance at slightly less quality, the medium-resolution meshes can be used.

				High-Res Dartwing Texture

				HQ Snow		Download and install the main file.

				Hybrids HD Plants and Herbs Retexture

				Improved Closefaced Helmets		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the "Improved Closefaced Helmets (Legendary Edition)" and the "Update - Male corundum Dragon Priest mask texture fix" update file. [Merge] when asked for installing the update file.

				Improved Vanilla Mountains

				Improved Weapon Impact Effects

				MAMMOTH	2K

				Northfires Skidmarks		Install the Main File and 2K Optional File.

				PondFish and Salmon Replacer

				Real Wood Textures-Farmhouses	1K	Detailed Instructions available
Download and Install 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: textures/architecture/farmhouse/StoneWall01.dds textures/architecture/farmhouse/StoneWall01_n.dds textures/architecture/farmhouse/WovenFence01.dds textures/architecture/farmhouse/WovenFence01_n.dds

				Re-Defined Dungeons	1024	Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the Re-Defined Dungeons 1024x1024 optional file. This mod is not packaged correctly. When installing this mod, right-click on the Data folder and choose [Set data directory]. Okay [OK] to install. If using the main file (2048x textures), hide or remove the candle textures as they conflict with SMIM. The recommended version (1024x textures) does not contain these textures and does not have this issue.

				Realistic Water Two		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the Main File. Those using the ENB Preset may want to also install Realistic Water Two - ENB Textures optional file. This optional file is not used for the Step Guide. FOMOD Instructions Realistic Water Two Options 0. Core ☑ Core Files 1. Resolution ◉ High 2. Compatibility ◉ Default Next Options 3. Combination ☑ Legendary 4. New Lands ☐ DO NOT SELECT ANYTHING 5. Waves ☐ DO NOT SELECT ANYTHING 6. Other ☑ Bobbing Longboats Install

				RUSTIC DEATH HOUND	2K-1K	Download and install the RUSTIC DEATH HOUND - 2K-1K - DARK VERSION main file.

				RUSTIC GARGOYLE	2K-1K

				SABRECAT	2K	Install both options in the installer.

				RUSTIC MONUMENTS and TOMBSTONES		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions RUSTIC MONUMENTS AND TOMBSTONES Select Files Monument Textures ◉ 1K Tomb Textures ◉ 2K Meshes ◉ SMIM Install

				Shadowmarks Improved	x256	Download and install only the Shadowmark Textures - 256 optional file.

				Skyrim Flora Overhaul	Basic	Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the Skyrim Flora Overhaul Basic Edition v1.87 main file. Also install the Dragonborn addon v02 main file. Select [Merge] when asked while installing the addon. Add/modify the following under [Grass] in Skyrim.ini to reduce the quantity of grass (as seen in this comparison): '"`UNIQ--pre-000000E1-QINU`"' Note that this value can be set to any number (default is 20), where a lower value corresponds to a higher grass density and thus lower performance. Try different values to see what provides the best balance of performance and visual quality. Add/modify the following under [Grass] in Skyrim.ini for more grass variety (with a slight performance impact): '"`UNIQ--pre-000000E2-QINU`"' (The typo in "texture" was made by Bethesda and should be written that way.) STEP recommends hiding or removing the following files: Hide the following file: textures/dlc02/landscape/volcanic_ash_01.dds textures/dlc02/landscape/volcanic_ash_04.dds textures/dlc02/landscape/volcanic_ash_04_n.dds textures/landscape/dirtcliffs (the entire folder) textures/landscape/fieldgrass02.dds textures/landscape/fieldgrass02_n.dds textures/landscape/trees/treepineforestbranchcompsnow.dds textures/landscape/trees/treepineforestbranchcompsnowl.dds textures/terrain/tamriel/trees/tamrieltreelod.dds

				Skyrim Improved Puddles	1024	Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the Skyrim Improved Puddles 1024 BAIN Main File. Choose both 00 - Core Files and 17 Dawnguard-HearthFires-Dragonborn DLC Users options from the installer.

				The Elder Scrolls V Rewritten-Arvak	HD	Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Dawnguard Rewritten - Arvak Installation Options Texture Sizes ◉ High Definition Model Options ◉ Soul Cairn Install

				Trees HD	High	Detailed Instructions available
If installing with MO: Hide the following files: meshes/landscape/trees (entire folder) textures/landscape/trees/Vurt_Pine01.dds textures/landscape/trees/Vurt_Pine02.dds

				TROLL	2K

				Vivid Clouds and Fogs		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Vivid Clouds and Fogs Options Vivid Clouds and Fogs ☐ Select Nothing Vivid Clouds and Fogs - Half Resolution ☑ Vivid Clouds ☑ Vivid Groundfogs ☑ Vivid Mountainfogs ☑ Vivid Steams ☑ Vivid fire smoke Next Weather Patches Do you use Climates of Tamriel? ◉ None Next Extended Weathers Vanilla Skyrim ◉ None Climates of Tamriel ◉ None Pure Weather ◉ None RCRN Weathers Only ◉ None NLA Weathers Only ◉ None Purity Weathers Only ◉ None Install

				Vivid Landscapes-Tundra Moss Revised	1024, Yellow	Detailed Instructions available
Install the Vivid Landscapes - Tundra Moss Revised - yellow 1024 Main File. Merge the SMIM compatibility patch Optional File. The optional file is not packaged correctly. Double-click high poly mesh... Right-click on Data found below high poly mesh... Select [Set data directory]. Click [OK] and then [Merge], when asked.

				Whiterun Trellis Redesigned	1024

				WISPMOTHER	2x1K	Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Wispmother.by.Kajuan Custom Select one ◉ Full Version - skin with linen fabric cloth Install

				AMidianBorn Blade of Woe	2k	Only the main file.

				AMidianBorn Book of Silence		Detailed Instructions available
Download the following files: aMidianBorn book of silence -- ARMORS aMidianBorn Book of Silence -- CREATURES aMidianBorn book of silence -- DRAGONBORN aMidianBorn book of silence -- UNIQUE ITEMS aMidianBorn book of silence -- WEAPONS This mod has two installation options. When multiple files are used from the same mod, either: create a single mod listing and merge all files into it or, create a separate mod listing for each file. STEP Recommends: Merging all files into single mod listing named aMidianBorn Book of Silence FOMOD 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 FOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence CREATURES Options Options ◉ Custom Next Options Skeleton ☐ Select Nothing Dragon Priest ◉ None Draugr ◉ None Falmer ☐ Select Nothing Chaurus ☑ Chaurus Spriggan ☐ Select Nothing Install FOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence DRAGONBORN DLC Options Options ◉ Next Install Custom Nordic Carved Armor ◉ Black Fur (default) Bonemold Armor ☑ Bonemold Armor Acolyte Masks ☑ Acolyte Masks Dragon Priest Acolytes ☐ Select Nothing Hulking Draugr ☐ Select Nothing Ash Spawn ☑ Ash Spawn Ash Guardians ☑ Ash Guardians Install FOMOD 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 ☐ Select Nothing Install FOMOD Instructions aMidianBorn Book of Silence WEAPONS Options Options ◉ Install all weapons (default) Install Optional ESPs Depending on how the mods are installed: Right-click the aMidianBorn Book of Silence or aMidianBorn Book of Silence WEAPONS mod Click [Information...]. Click the Optional ESPs tab and move aMidianborn_Skyforge_Weapons.esp from the right pane to the left. Repeat these steps whenever asked to moved plugins to the Optional ESPs. Hiding files and folders Hide the following files/folders: textures/clothes To do this, Double-click on the mod listing in the left pane. Click the Filetree tab. Expand the textures folder. Right-click on the clothes folder and select [Hide]. Repeat these steps whenever asked to hide files or folders from a mod.

				AMidianBorn Imperial Light and Studded	2k

				AMidianBorn Stormcloak Officer Armour	2k

				Dawnguard Crossbow Bolts Visualized		Also install the optional "Explosive Bolts Visualized HD Textures" file.

				Dragonbone Mastery - Weapons Retexture		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the main file version of your choice. FOMOD Instructions Dragonbone Mastery - Weapons Retexture Page 1 Main Weapon Textures ◉ Darker Bone Next Page 2 Arrow Options ◉ Vanilla Style Arrows Next Page 3 Scabbard Style ◉ Shorter Scabbard Next Page 4 Short Scabbard Texture Options ◉ Plain Scabbard Install

				Dragonborn Mages Robes Retexture Pack

				Elemental Staffs	1024	Install the Main File and merge the Elemental Staffs LE Basic Optional File.

				Gemling Queen Jewelry		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the Gemling Queen Jewelry - All In One Installer main file. FOMOD Instructions Gemling Queen Jewelry Main Modules Main Modules ☑ Amulets ☑ Circlets ☑ Rings DLC Addon ☑ Dawnguard Addon Next Amulet Textures Amulet Texture Options ◉ Gamwich Amulet Textures - 512 Next Ring Textures Ring Texture Options ◉ SMIM Textures Optional Mesh Packs ◉ None Optional Mesh Packs Dawnguard ☐ None Install The plugin has been made redundant by the Unofficial Patches. In MO: Double click on the mod Select Optional ESPs tab Select GQJ_DG_vampireamuletfix.esp Click left-pointing arrow to move it to "Optional ESPs" in left pane This will remove the redundant plugin.

				Skyrim Weapon De-LARP-ification Project		Also install the optional Dawnguard and Dragonborn files.

				Greatsword Sheaths and Scabbards Redux		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Greatsword Sheaths and Scabbards Redux Installation Options Select DLC ☑ Skyrim ☑ Dawnguard ☑ Dragonborn Meshes Type ◉ Meshes - Thin Sheath/Scabbard Type ◉ Fullsize Skyforge Steel ☐ None Install

				Mage Outfit Texture Overhaul		Download and install the Mage Outfit Texture Overhaul - MOTO - SOM - USLEEP USKP CCF main file.

				New Thinner Torch		Download and install the Ultimate HD Torch by rheadude compatible Optional File.

				Nightingale Prime	Leather

				Not Really HD-Mask of Clavicus Vile		STEP recommends "Wrecked".

				RUSTIC FORSWORN	2K-1K

				TDN Vampire Armor Retexture		Download and install the Main File only.

				The 418th Step	Snow Version

				Barenziahs Glory		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Barenziah's Glory Optional Textures Crown Texture Options ◉ Desaturated Crown Texture - 1k Jewelrybox Texture Options ◉ Gamwich Jewelrybox Texture - 1k Gem Texture Options ◉ Original Install

				Book Covers Skyrim	Desaturated

				Book Covers Skyrim - Lost Library		Download and install the Book Covers Skyrim - Lost Library - DESATURATED main file.

				Dark Brotherhood Tenets Restored	Standard (medium)

				Detailing the Eldrich - Higher-Res Riekling	Higher-Res	Detailed Instructions available
This mod is not packaged correctly. Double-click on Detailing the Eldrich - Higher-Res Riekling Architecture. Right-click on Data and choose [Set data directory] Click [OK] to install.

				Enchanting Candle Meshes Improved

				Gemling Queen Dragon Claws		STEP Recommends: Solid with Refraction version

				HD Linens

				HD Ore and Ingots		STEP recommends the "With manager" file. The main file is mostly extraneous screenshots and duplicate files.

				HD Reworked Baskets

				HORNCANDLES	2K-1K

				HQ Paper

				Not Really HD-Display Case		STEP recommends "Smudged Glass".

				Not Really HD-Keys	With normals

				Not Really HD Leather Strips

				Pilgrim's Delight		Step recommends: Pilgrims Delight - Legacy Optional File.

				Radiant and Unique Potions and Poisons HD		Use "Booze v2 Non-Glow".

				Realistic Instruments

				Rens HD Shrines		Detailed Instructions available
The following are the Step recommended options; however, users can install the options of their preference. FOMOD 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		Download and install the main file.

				Retexture for Soup		Download and install For SMIM Mesh - Poor Version.

				RUSTIC DRAGON CORPSE	2K	Step recommends: RUSTIC DRAGON CORPSE - 2K Main File.

				RUSTIC ELDERSCROLL	2K

				RUSTIC NORDIC MURALS	2K-1K

				RUSTIC POTIONS and POISONS	1K

				RUSTIC SOULGEMS	1K	Download and install the RUSTIC SOULGEMS 1K - SORTED main file.

				Septim HD		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Septim HD Texture and Mesh Options Texture Options ◉ Authentic Next Septim HD Plugin Plugin Install? ◉ Yes!

				Silly Level of Detail-Wine Cellar		Install both the Main and Optional Files.

				SKELETON	2K	Detailed Instructions available
STEP recommends to download and install only the Skeleton.and.Human.Bones.2k optional file. FOMOD Instructions Skeleton.and.Human.Bones.by.Kajuan Custom Select One ◉ Skin, clutter without the sounds Install

				Skyrim Redesigned		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the FOMOD version and install according to the instructions below: DO NOT use the STEP option in the installer. It pertains to old versions of the Guide. FOMOD Instructions Skyrim Redesigned Options Options ◉ Custom Installation Next Custom Installation Skyrim Redesigned ☑ Alchemy Table ☑ Anvil ☑ Bloody Rags ☑ Brown (less saturated) Money Bags ☑ Buckets ☑ Enchanting Table-Css01 Retexture ☑ Hagraven Claws ☑ Skeever Tail ☑ Skeleton Key Install Users who experience black and purple or rainbow colors on their money bag and alchemy lab tables need to set iTexMipMapSkip to the value of 0. This is found in the SkyrimPrefs.ini file under the [Display] header.

				Smaller Ice Spikes and Spear		Step recommends: Smaller Ice Spike 50 Optional File.

				Super Realistic Ore		Download the Just the textures optional file. This mod is not packaged correctly. Right-click on Data and choose [Set data directory]. Click [OK] to install.

				Sweet Mother

				WEBS extended	x2048

				White Phial Replacer		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions White Phial Replacer Version Selection Version Selection ◉ Non-Dawnguard Edition Next Options - Non-Dawnguard Edition Texture Resolution ◉ 1024 Bottle Size ◉ 80% Install

				Lepidoptera Of Skyrim		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the Lepidoptera Of Skyrim for Dawnguard DLC main file.

				High Quality 3D Map	Hi-res meshes, 1k normals	STEP recommends installing both the HQ3DMap - Meshes Hi-Res and HQ3DMap - Normals Original main files. Do not install any of the files with "Textures" in the file name. Choose the 03 - High 1024x1024 option in the installer.

				Dual Sheath Redux		Detailed Instructions available
Install the Main File. Ensure the latest 32-bit version of Java Runtime Environment is installed, it's required for the patcher. FOMOD Instructions Dual Sheath Redux Base Mod and/or Compatibility Packs Base Packs or Both ☑ Patcher and Vanilla Meshes ☑ Mod Packs Next Back or Hip Do you use a swords on back skeleton? ◉ NO Next Replacer Mods Skyrim Weapon De-LARP-ification Project Select Nothing Next Standalone Mods (select only the options below) aMidianBorn Book of Silence ☑ aMidianBorn Book of Silence Elemental Staffs ☑ Elemental Staffs Install Dual Sheath Redux Patcher must be launched through Mod Organizer for it to recognize installed mods. Add the DSR Patch to the list of executables by doing the following: In the right pane, go to the Data tab. Locate the SkyProc Patchers directory and expand the Dual Sheath Redux Patch directory. Right-click the Dual Sheath Redux Patch.jar file and select Add as executable. If asked to locate the Java binary, browse to where you installed Java (usually Program Files (x86)/Java/jreX.X.X_XX/bin) and select javaw.exe. Enter a name and finish. Now each time you want to run the DSR Patch, simply select it from the drop-down menu at top right and click Run.' Example video

07-Sounds and Music

Mods that affect sounds or music

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Lucidity Sound FX		Install the main file.

				Better Animal Footsteps		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Better Animal Footsteps Custom Select one option ◉ Install all of the footstep sounds Next Custom Optional Pets of Skyrim patch ☐ Select Nothing Install

				Better Horse Pain Sounds

				Better Weapon Swing Sounds

				Audio Overhaul for Skyrim		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Audio Overhaul for Skyrim 2 Welcome to the AOS Installer Choose the type of installation: ◉ Install for STEP or SR:LE Install Users that play with headphones may also consider the AOS_Reduced_Reverb Optional File.

				Dragons Shout With Voice	Loose	Also install optional file, Dragons Shout with Voice from location.

				Heart of the Beast	High Agression

				IHSS-Improved Horse Steps

				Immersive Thunder		This mod is not packaged correctly. Double-click on ImmersiveSkyrimThunderV6. Right-click on Data and choose [Set data directory]. Click [OK] to install.

				Improved Combat Sounds

				Lower Sounding Thieves Guild Door

				Smooth Blade Draw and Sheathe		Detailed Instructions available
Install the Smooth draw and Sheathe sfx - Full options Main File. FOMOD Instructions Smooth blades draw and sheath Introduction Please Read ☑ All should be selected Next Choose one ADS version A.D.S. ◉ Audio Dynamic Sneak Next Choose your options SBDS options ☑ Daggers ☑ 1Handed blades ☑ 2Handed blades ☑ Enchanted weapons ☑ Mute activation fail ☑ Mute critical hit ☑ Mute left hand Next Outro Enjoy ! ☑ It's done ! Install

				Thundering Shouts		Install only the Thundering Shouts - loose files Optional File.

				Ultra Realistic Bow Shoot Sounds

				Ultra Realistic Crossbow Shoot Sounds

08-Character Appearance

Mods that affect the appearance of the player character or NPCs

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Beards	1K	Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Hvergelmir's Aesthetics - Beards Choose Options Choose full or vanilla replacer ◉ Full Choose resolution ◉ Low: 1024 Install

				Better Males	Geonox Faces + Underwear - Default	NSFW Mod Page. Direct downloads to remain SFW: Geonox Faces Underwear - Default

				Brows	Standard Resolution	Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Hvergelmir's Aesthetics - Brows Choose Options Choose full or vanilla replacer ◉ Full install Choose resolution ◉ Low: 512 Install

				Consistent Older People		Install the Consistent Older People All NPCs USLEEP Main File.

				Cover Khajiits	1024	Install both Main Files. Merge when asked.

				FAR-Forgotten Argonian Roots	2k	Detailed Instructions available
The instructions are broken up into segments for easier tracking: During installation, expand FAR-Forgotten Argonian Roots Expand Females→Default Body→MAIN texture Drag and drop the Textures folder onto < data > above Now fully expand the Textures folder that was just moved and leave it expanded. Expand Males→Better Males body→textures→actors→character Drag and drop the argonianmale folder onto character folder from the expanded Textures folder in step 4 above. Now expand the two argonianfemale and argonianmale folders from the expanded Textures folder in step 4 above. Untick the boxes next to the *body_s.dds, *hands_s.dds, and *head_s.dds within both the expanded folders. Expand no glow skin→Female→Textures→actors→character→argonianfemale Drag and drop the three files into the argonianfemale folder from the expanded Textures folder in step 4 above. Expand no glow skin→Male→Textures→actors→character→argonianmale Drag and drop the three files into the argonianmale folder from the expanded Textures folder in step 4 above. Untick FAR-Forgotten Argonian Roots and click [OK]

				Female Vampires Have Fangs

				Immersive Citizens-AI Overhaul		Detailed Instructions available
Users not installing the STEP Patches will want to install the options the FOMOD installer automatically selects. Additionally, this mod is optional and the STEP Compilation detects if it is not installed, thus providing a version of the Patches without this mod incorporated. Download and install the main file. FOMOD Instructions Immersive Citizens - AI Overhaul First Screen Install Options ◉ Full Next First Screen Main Part ◉ Legendary Version Enhanced Lighting for ENB ◉ None Enhanced Lights and FX ◉ None Open Cities Skyrim ☐ Select Nothing Moonpath to Elsweyr ☐ Select Nothing Realistic Room Rental (Enhanced Version Only) ☐ Select Nothing Install

				More Realistic Hair

				Northborn Scars

				PAINTERLY

				RUSTIC CHILDREN	2K-1K	Download and install the RUSTIC CHILDREN - BODY - 2K-1K main file.

				Superior Lore-Friendly Hair	Rough Hair 1K	Use the "SLF Hair - Rough Hair - Lite 1K" main file.

				WSCO - Windsong Skyrim Character Overhaul		Detailed Instructions available
Install the WSCO Occidental Vanilla Body v1 Main File: FOMOD Instructions WSCO - Windsong Skyrim Character Overhaul Choose the sex Choose the sex ◉ Female only Next Improved NPC's Appearance Improved NPC's Appearance ◉ No - Don't install the add-on Next Final Step Final Step ☑ Inform Install xEdit Cleaning Required 1 ITMs After cleaning this mod, open it in xEdit: Expand the mod and expand Non-Player Character (Actor) Right-click on FormID 0009F83A dunBluePalaceMareMaiden Choose [Remove] Choose yes to any warnings to remove the record Close xEdit saving the plugin

09-Fixes

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Dawnguard

				Hearthfire

				Dragonborn

				High Resolution Texture Pack		Detailed Instructions available
This is the Official DLC from Bethesda. It consists of three plugins, which should be listed right after Unofficial Skyrim Legendary Edition Patch in the left pane of Mod Organizer and prioritized sequentially (HighResTexturePack01, HighResTexturePack02, HighResTexturePack03). If optimized versions of the textures from the High Resolution Texture Pack are used they should be placed directly after HighResTexturePack03.

				STEP Optimized Vanilla Textures	Standard	Simply download and install one of the Optional Files and then check the archive in the Archives tab.

				Appropriately Attired Jarls

				Bug Fixes

				Enchantment Reload Fix

				Fuz Ro D-oh		Detailed Instructions available
The Fuz Ro D'oh.ini file needs to be edited manually. To do this: While in Mod Organizer, right-click the Fuz Ro Doh mod on the left-hand side Select the menu option Open in explorer Within the new window, navigate into the SKSE/Plugins folder Right-click within the folder and select the menu option New > Text Document Name the file Fuz Ro D'oh.ini (make sure you are showing File Extensions - click here to see how) Open the new file and copy the below contents, pasting them into the file: [General] WordsPerSecondSilence=2 Save and close the file

				Invisibility Glitch Eyes Fix

				Modern Brawl Bug Fix

				NARC		STEP recommends the NARC main file. All needed patches are included in the STEP Patches.

				Ragdoll Paralysis		Only install the Paralyze Miscellaneous file.

				Skyrim Project Optimization	Full Version	Install the "Skyrim Project Optimization - Full Version" Main File. Tick Data and click [OK] to install.

				Smart Souls		Detailed Instructions available
The Smart Souls.ini file needs to be edited manually. To do this: While in Mod Organizer, right-click the Smart Souls mod on the left-hand side Select the menu option Open in explorer Within the new window, navigate into the SKSE/Plugins folder Right-click within the folder and select the menu option New > Text Document Name the file Smart Souls.ini (make sure you are showing File Extensions - click here to see how) Open the new file and copy the below contents, pasting them into the file '"`UNIQ--pre-000001D6-QINU`"' Save and close the file NOTE: If you forget to follow the instructions above, the Smart Souls.ini file should be created upon running the game for the first time after this mod's installation. It will be located in the Mod Organizer Overwrite folder. This file needs to be dragged and dropped into the SKSE/Plugins folder within the Smart Souls mod.

				Wiseman303s Critter Fixes		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Wiseman303's Critter Fixes Introduction Introduction ☐ Select Nothing Next Install Options ☑ Monarch Wing Fix ☑ PondFish and Salmon Replacer (STEP Extended users only) Install

				Wiseman303s Flora Fixes		Download and install the main file and the WM Flora Fixes SMIM Patch optional file.

				Realistic Ragdolls and Force	Realistic	STEP Extended Patch users can remove the plugin from this mod. All other files are required.

				Wiseman303s Trap Fixes		Install checking only the Traps Make Noise compatibility option.

10-Gameplay-General

Mods that affect general or multiple gameplay mechanics

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Auto Unequip Ammo		Detailed Instructions available
In the MCM settings for Auto Ammo Unequip, STEP recommends changing following settings: Follower Addon Default: unticked STEP: ticked This will add the mod's functionality to your followers as well.

				Clothing and Clutter Fixes		Download and install the "Clothing and Clutter Fixes" main file.

				Complete Crafting Overhaul Remade		Install the Main File and the CCO Compatibility Patch for WAFR Optional File.

				Weapons and Armor Fixes		Detailed Instructions available
Install the Main File: FOMOD Instructions Weapons and Armor Fixes Remade Main File and DLC Selection Main File and DLC Selection ◉ Skyrim Legendary Options ◉ Customize Options Next Select Custom Options True Weapons ◉ True Orcish and Daedric Weapons Dragon Priest Masks ☐ Select Nothing Faster Arrows ☐ Select Nothing Dark Brotherhood Mask Fix ☑ Dark Brotherhood Mask Fix Better Fitting Glass Helmet ☑ Better Fitting Glass Helmet Meshes Next Texture Size Choose Texture Size ◉ 2K-1K Next Compatibility Patches aMidianborn Skyforge Weapons ☐ Select Nothing Immersive Weapons ☐ Select Nothing Improved Closedfaced Helmets ☑ Legendary Next Final Final Final Step ☑ Read Me File Install

11-Gameplay-AI and Combat

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Better Stealth AI for Followers		Install the Better Stealth AI for Followers Main File.

				Come together N Out of the way

				Dual Wield Parrying		Detailed Instructions available
Install the 00 Dual Wield Parrying SKSE 3_1 beta Main File. In the MCM settings for Dual Wield Parry, please note the default key (V) for blocking when dual wielding weapons. You may change this if you like. Make sure the Mod Active setting is ticked or the mod will not work.

				Follower Trap Safety

12-Gameplay-Economy

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Trade and Barter		Install the Trade And Barter - Hearthfire Main File.

13-Gameplay-Immersion

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Clams Drop Pearls

				Convenient Horses

				Dead Body Collision

				Disease Descriptions		Select Vanilla, Dawnguard, and Dragonborn in the installer.

				Guard Dialogue Overhaul		Do NOT clean with TES5Edit. ITMs/UDRs are intended by the author for the mod to work correctly.

				Non-Essential Children		Use the Hearthfire version.

				Point the Way

				Relationship Dialogue Overhaul		Install the Main File. Skip all patches in installer.

				SM Drop Lit Torches

				Skyrim Coin Replacer Redux		Install the SCRR - Legendary Edition Main File and Septim HD Coinpiles Optional File.

				Traps Make Noise		Detailed Instructions available
Install the Traps Make Noise Main File. Merger the Mining Makes Noise (for CCOR) Optional File. Merge the Traps Make Noise - Follower Safety Patch and Wiseman303's Trap Fixes Update Misc Files.

				Wet and Cold	1024	Detailed Instructions available
Install the Wet & Cold - Ashes optional. Optional Installation: Higher quality fur coats can be installed by ticking the High Res Fur Coats optional. This will install 2K textures. This is completely optional. Otherwise, just leave it unticked for the 1K textures.

14-Gameplay-Quests

Mods that alter aspects of quests and/or related lore

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				ESF - The Companions Guild		Download and install the ESFCompanions REQUIREMENTS-ONLY VERSION main file.

				Even Better Quest Objectives		Detailed Instructions available
Do not install any patches (untick them), they are included in the Step Patch - Conflict Resolutiones. FOMOD Instructions Even Better Quest Objectives Options for this mod Main ☑ automatically selected Optional Files Select Nothing (untick everything) Compatible Mods Select Nothing (untick everything) Install

				Gildergreen Regrown

				Not So Fast - Mage Guild

				Not So Fast-Main Quest

				The Choice is Yours

				The Paarthurnax Dilemma		Note: The Nexus page for this mod has a spoiler for those that have not played the main quest yet.

				Thieves Guild Requirements

				Timing is Everything

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		Detailed Instructions available
You must activate the options in the MCM for Lock Overhaul or the mod will basically do nothing. If the mod is not active, activate it. In activating it, you'll have to exit the menus back to the game before you're able to see the available options. STEP recommends changing following settings: Smash Locks Activate Smash Locks Default: unticked STEP: ticked This will turn on the ability to smash locks with a weapon. Allowed Weapons Default: Only Two Handed STEP: Two+ One Handed This will allow locks to be smashed with one and two handed weapons but not with bows and crossbows, as long as you have the skill requirement. Unlock with Magic Enable Unlock Spell Default: unticked STEP: ticked This will turn on the ability to unlock locks with destruction magic as long as you have the skill requirement.

				Smithing Perks Overhaul		Choose the Both Dawnguard and Dragonborn and Modified Vanilla Perk Tree options in the installer.

				Stealth Skills Rebalanced		Download and install the Stealth Skills Rebalanced - Full Version main file.

16-Interface

Mods that affect any aspect of the user interface

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Better Dialogue Controls

				Better MessageBox Controls

				Immersive HUD

				KenMOD Time On Loading Screen

				Lore-Based Loading Screens

				Main Font Replacement	Fertigo Pro	DO NOT USE this mod if Skyrim language is not set to English!

				Main Menu Spinning Emblem		STEP recommends the Main Menu Spinning Skyrim Emblem Average Speed main file.

				MoreHUD

				RaceMenu

				Skyrim Skill Interface Re-Texture		Detailed Instructions available
Download and install the SSIRT v3.0 main file. FOMOD Instructions Skyrim Skill Interface Re-Texture Introduction Introduction ☑ Please Read Next Background Mesh Fixes ☑ Mesh Fixes Background ◉ Background - Default Stars - HDR Nebula Next Perk Lines Perk Lines ◉ Perk Lines - Default Next Perk Line Colours Perk Line Colours ◉ Perk Line Colour - Default Next Constellations Constellations ◉ Constellations - HD Default + Dawnguard Next Perk Stars Perk Stars ◉ Perk Stars - Enhanced Default Next Dawnguard Dawnguard Moons and Stars ☑ HD Vanilla Moon and Vanilla Stars Next Vampire Background Vampire Nebula Background ☑ HDR Nebula Next Thanks Thanks ☑ Thank You Install

				Viewable Faction Ranks		Install the Viewable Faction Ranks Dawnguard and Dragonborn Main File.

17-Locations

Mods that programmatically add new or alter vanilla locations

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Bring Out Your Dead

				Cutting Room Floor

				Farmhouse Chimneys		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Farmhouse Chimneys Core Options Meshes ◉ Thinner Meshes Base Selection ◉ Vanilla Next Extra Options New Lands ☐ Select Nothing Villages ☑ Helarchen Creek Misc Mods ☑ Live Another Life ☑ Cutting Room Floor Next Arthmoor Villages Arthmoor Village Expansions ☐ Select Nothing Install

				Hearthfire Extended		Install the Hearthfire Extended - All DLCs (Legendary Edition) Main File.

				Oblivion Gates		Detailed Instructions available
Install the Oblivion Gates v3 Skyrim and Dawnguard DLC Main File. Move the Oblivion Gates v3 without Markers - Skyrim + Dawnguard DLC.esp to Optional ESPs in MO.

18-Lighting and Weather

NOTE:

This section is optional!
We wish to be clear that the mods included within this section are completely optional. They are still within the Mandate, however, we've made this section optional for users who wish to customize their own lighting and weather for their games. As such, we've included an additional patch solely for this mod group.

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Enhanced Lighting for ENB-LITE	Interior Lighting	Detailed Instructions available
ENB Preset users: This alters the look of the interior lighting when used with any Preset! If an ENB Preset is planned to be installed, either verify the chosen Preset works with the Interior Lighting version of ELE or skip this mod installation entirely. Step recommends the ELE_Lite_v0_95c_Only IL STEP Specific main file.

				Lightning During Thunder Storms		Detailed Instructions available
In the MCM settings for Lightning During Thunder Storms (Minty Lightning), STEP recommends changing following settings: Lightning Config - Fork Lightning Options Hostile Default: unticked STEP: ticked This will make the lightning strikes that hit the ground hostile. This means they can hurt you, NPCs and creatures. This is more realistic. If you don't like this, leave it unticked. Frequency Delay Default: 5 secs STEP: 25 secs This will reduce the frequency at which these ground strikes occur. STEP has increased this setting to provide a more realistic feel. The new setting will produce approximately one strike every 25 secs instead of one strike every 5 secs. Leave all other settings unchanged.

				Relighting Skyrim	No JIT	Detailed Instructions available
STEP recommends the "Relighting Skyrim - No JIT" main file.

				Wonders of Weather		Detailed Instructions available
FOMOD Instructions Wonders of Weather Options Core ☑ Wonders of Weather Optionals ☑ Less Opaque Splashes Install

19-Utilities

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

				Mod Name	Baseline	Instructions

				Fores New Idles in Skyrim		Detailed Instructions available
Install the FNIS Behavior Main File. FNIS is run through Mod Organizer like most other tools. Add FNIS to the list of executables by doing the following: 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 for the Title. Click [OK] Now each time you want to run FNIS, simply select it from the drop-down menu at top right and click Run. Example video

2.O. Launching STEP:Skyrim

When ready to play for the first time after a STEP install, it is recommended to start a brand new character. In the past, we advised that users they could continue an existing save, but with recent mod updates, we feel it is imperative users start a new character.

NOTE:

When loading Skyrim for the first time after STEP is installed, the load could take significantly longer than normal. This will only be a one-time load wait as all the installed mods are being initialized. Subsequent load times should be shorter.

Archive Management

MO2

Mod Organizer allows loading archives without their dummy plugins.

1. In the Plugins tab, deactivate HighResTexturePack01.esp, HighResTexturePack02.esp, HighResTexturePack03.esp, Unofficial High Resolution Patch.esp, STEP DLC Optimized Textures, STEP Vanilla Optimized Textures, Modern Brawl Bug Fix.esp, and BWS.esp as they are all dummy plugins.
2. Go to the Archives tab.
3. Tick Have MO manage archives.
4. In the archive list, ensure all the mods are checked.

LOOT Meta Rules

Once all mods have been installed, run LOOT one final time to ensure the correct plugin order is set. Ensure the rules below were not missed before creating the Bashed Patch! If any were missed, please apply them and re-run the Bashed Patch:

LOOT:

ELE_Legendary_Lite.esp

Main:

• Global Priority: 45

---

RelightingSkyrim_Legendary.esp
Main:

• Global Priority: 30

---

RealisticWaterTwo.esp
Load after:

• RelightingSkyrim_Legendary.esp

---

Clothing & Clutter Fixes.esp
Load After:

• Lepidoptera Of Skyrim DLC1.esp

---

AOS.esp
Load after:

• ADS.esp

---

Book Covers Skyrim.esp
Load After:

• TheChoiceIsYours.esp

---

TheChoiceIsYours.esp
Load After:

• Relationship Dialogue Overhaul

Mod Configuration Menu Settings

Coming soon...

STEP 3

Tips & Troubleshooting Common Issues

3.A. Troubleshooting Common Problems

A heavily modded Skyrim can bring even a very powerful system to its knees. Maximum visual quality is highly dependent upon total on-card graphics-dedicated video memory (VRAM), the number of GPUs, and monitor resolution. The goal should be to maintain 30 or more FPS on average without any noticeable stuttering.

3.A.1. Failure to Launch

Skyrim still sometimes fails to launch, and the following are some of the most common causes and solutions:

• Improper load order - Run LOOT and examine the output. Plugins out of order or plugins with missing masters will cause this. LOOT will sort everything properly, but certain patches installed with certain mods included with STEP:Extended will not apply under a STEP:Core install, so these plugins need to be un-ticked in MO or WB plugin lists.
• Improper Bashed Patch - This can result from ticking options that are not explicitly mentioned in this guide, or it can result if the Bashed Patch was not rebuilt after a mod-list/order change.
• Bad INI settings - If Skyrim.ini or SkyrimPrefs.ini were edited in a way that was not described in STEP 1.D. (or if a fresh, default INI was not used as a baseline), certain settings can cause this issue. The quickest solution is to revisit that section and regenerate a fresh INI with the recommended settings.

3.A.2. Crashes to Desktop (CTD)

There are unfortunately many reasons for CTDs just after launch or shortly thereafter, but if this guide was followed precisely, STEP mods should not be the cause. Following are some common causes and solutions.

• Improper Load Order - Run LOOT and examine the output as in the previous section.
• Missing Masters - If an active plugin is missing its dependent master, a CTD will occur immediately. To fix, either locate the missing master and add it in or deactivate the plugin missing its master.
  • MO will show a red exclamation icon next to the plugin, while Wrye Bash will show a red checkbox next to the plugin.
• Improper Bashed Patch - See the previous section.
• Bad INI settings - Yep, see the previous section.
• Bad video settings or incompatible driver version - Revisit STEP 1.E. and verify settings, back them down to 'performance' options, or update to the proper video driver.
• Windows environment issue - This is highly possible and unfortunately too difficult to prescribe any remotely ubiquitous solution other than restarting the computer and checking for conflicting processes (e.g., anti-virus/maleware). Google is a friend to all in need.

3.A.3. Semi-Invisible People, Objects or Misbehaving Walls

Following are some solutions:

• Transparency Antialiasing - Turn off any transparency (adaptive) sampling if enabled under antialiasing settings of the graphics-driver software (see references under STEP 1.E.). Also, remember to download the latest graphic drivers.
• Bad INI settings - If using ENB, set bFloatPointRenderTarget=1 in the SkyrimPrefs.ini.

3.A.4. Stuttering

• Microstutter - This is an annoying 'glitchiness' when moving or panning for those using higher-end graphics cards (usually) or multiple GPUs in SLI or CrossfireX configs (purportedly). Follow the recommendations for ENBoost, noting in particular EnableVSync=true . If this does not resolve the issue:
  • Ensure that microstutter is not being confused with 'macro'-stutter, which is more severe and memory related. Remember: microstutter is very annoying, but not hindering in any way.
  • Try forcing vsync via Nvidia Inspector (Nvidia users) or RadeonPro (AMD users) ... sorry Intel users. Also (and this is very important), enable D3D-compatible triple buffering via RadeonPro. Nvidia Inspector users: D3D-compatible triple buffering is not available. Use D3Doverrider instead. This may also have a vsync function.
• Macrostutter - This is most likely the result of using textures and meshes that exceed the limits of GPU VRAM. ENBoost should prevent this in most cases, but certain user configurations and/or hardware may not behave as expected:
  • Verify ENBoost settings and graphics settings described under STEP 1.E.!
  • Re-install the most performance-friendly versions of mods as indicated by the "Quality Options" column of the mod tables above.
  • Consult the DDSopt Guide to learn how to optimize textures accordingly.
  • Finally, Un-install Skyrim Flora Overhaul, which is easily the most VRAM-intensive mod in STEP (although there are others under STEP 2.F. and STEP 2.G. in particular).
  • Enable windowed mode via ENBoost (instructions at bottom of mod page).

3.A.5. Texture Flickering, Etc.

Refer to the Z-Fighting Guide.

3.B. In-Game Tips

• The console can be activated by pressing the tilde ([~]) key, often located just below [Escape], while in-game.
• ENBoost has a couple built in hotkeys that are helpful (can be adjusted in enblocal.ini section [INPUT]):
  1. Show FPS: [*] (on the numpad not shift+8)
  2. Free VRAM: [f4]
  3. Screenshot: print screen (Skyrim's screenshots do not work with ENB/ENBoost)
• Steam screenshots are [f12], but if using a keyboard with multimedia keys it could be [shift+f12].
  1. Be aware [shift+f12] is also the ENB Series Graphics hotkey to toggle the effects on/off. ENBoost ONLY users are not affected.

3.B.1. Optimize Field of View (FOV)

Prior to 2008, the most common monitor resolutions were 16:10 aspect ratio (source). Since then, 16:9 has become the standard. The Skyrim FOV defaults to 65 and is optimized for a monitor aspect ratio of 16:10. Therefore, users with 16:9 monitors (e.g. 1920x1080) will want to increase their FOV to 70.59. Setting this in the INI does not persist, so it must be done via the console. Within Skyrim, open the console (tap the tilde [~] key) and type: fov 70.59. Those rare and unfortunate users stuck with 4:3 aspect ratio will need to reduce their FOV down to 55.93.

A helpful conversion calculator can assist in calculation of other monitor types and aspect ratios. To use:

1. Change Resolution of single monitor to your total resolution (if using multiple monitors, use the combined resolution)
2. Change Number of monitors? to the number of monitors being used Across and Tall (e.g., if you only have 1, set both Across and Tall to 1. If you have 3 beside each other, set Across to 3 and Tall to 1. If you have 4 monitors arranged so that it is 2 by 2, set Across to 2 and Tall to 2.
3. Change Old Res or Ratio to 16:10.
4. Change Old hFOV to 65.
5. Your new optimized FOV value will be labeled New hFOV immediately below and to the right.

3.B.2. BIG Frame Drops During Cell Loading

This is a likely indicator that VRAM is too often operating at or beyond capacity (see 3.A.4).

STEP Packs

Community Add-ons

STEP Packs are generally intended to go over the STEP:Core build. Be certain to read the Pack instructions to determine what build the Pack is dependent upon.

MO2

You will now experience one of the reasons why Mod Organizer is the chosen mod-management utility for STEP. Pack installation is a breeze, as it is possible to have profiles for each build dependency that a given Pack relies upon.

Consider reviewing some of the Packs that our users have been developing to augment STEP.

STEP Packs

User Contributions

How YOU Can Help

STEP can only get bigger and better with help from the user community. Even simply maintaining the current STEP is too much work for the core STEP team to ensure that the highest quality is maintained. We need people to help us identify mods that improve Skyrim while adhering to the STEP Mandate. We also need ongoing reviews and updates on mods that may be causing problems or that stray from the STEP philosophy. Finally, we need help from the community in terms of mod testing. More detail is presented in the Mod Testing Guide.

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

Call for Wiki Content Editors

The STEP Community Wiki is open to editing by all registered community members; however, we need assistance maintaining and creating new supporting content. We are particularly interested in obtaining a few people with a passion for writing and editing. Familiarity with wiki markup is preferable but not necessary. Interested parties please contact TechAngel85 via PM on the forums (Please register on the forums and see the very bottom of the Forum Team page).

Call for STEP Mod Testers

STEP community members interested in becoming testers, please contact TechAngel85 via PM on the forums (Please register on the forums and see the very bottom of the Forum Team page). Once registered, record your system specs by clicking on the button and filling out the form. These specs will be associated with performance data given by testers. Before deciding, read through the Mod Testing Guide to get a sense what mod testing involves.

Call for STEP Benchmarks

Users interested in helping out with the STEP Benchmarking Project, see our benchmarking guidelines and submit results on the forums (see link at upper left of site header bar).

Call for Forum Moderators

Regular STEP community members interested in becoming moderators, please contact TechAngel85 via PM on the forums (Please register on the forums and see the very bottom of the Forum Team page).

Thank you for reading and enjoy the game!

Credits

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

• The authors of mods recommended in STEP
• The authors of mods who granted permission for their mods to be placed inside the STEP Compilation
• The core STEP Community for feedback, suggestions and input
• The STEP testers for their good humor and rigorous analyses
• The Nexus community
• Bethesda Softworks for Skyrim (and TES in general)
• Tannin for the gift that is Mod Organizer

The core STEP team is:

• EssArrBee - Release Coordinator, Fallout survivor, STEP Patches maintainer
• stoppingby4now - Lead Site Developer, administrator, Semantic Mediawiki developer & extraordinaire, site founder
• TechAngel85 - Lead Release Coordinator, Forum administrator, FOMOD extraordinaire
• z929669 - Wiki & forums content editor, administrator, hosting maintenance, site founder
• Other active volunteer staff: Aiyen, DoubleYou, Greg, GrantSP, GSDfan, hishutup, Kelmych, Nebulous112, phazer11, WilliamImm
• Honorary members: TheCompiler, Farlo, MontyMM, oqhansoloqo, rootsrat, torminater