STEP:0.2.0b

STEP v0.2.0b

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Changelog   |   Release Date: February 09, 2020

Notice: This is the Current version of the STEP Guide. Don't forget to visit STEP on the Nexus to endorse, if you are a returning user. Please report any bugs on the latest Bug Reports thread. Thanks and enjoy the guide!

STEP Skyrim SE Guide

Because we have been working towards a major website overhaul and guide methodology change since the last release (v2.10.0), we have been using "STEP 3.0" as an overarching term in reference to our new site, methodology, and guide(s). Details about the coming changes are on the forums, and we have refined the STEP:Mandate and some of the detail on our new direction. With the release of STEP 3.0, we will be releasing guide updates to Skyrim SE, exclusively. For our STEP Skyrim LE Guide, we will release a final update and continue to support it, but do not plan on releasing any updates beyond routine maintenance. Here, we present a beta release of the STEP Skyrim SE Guide v0.2.0b under our standard versioning scheme but distinct from that of our Skyrim LE guides.

There has been so many changes that we highly recommend users reviewing the Changelog, for all the fine details.

- Visit the forums and provide feedback related to STEP.
- Also follow STEP on Facebook.
- To support hosting and maintenance of the STEP Community Project, contributions are welcome.

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 from which to build a foundation.

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

New to Modding?

We recommend that you ...

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

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

Nomenclature

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

• Baseline: An installation of a mod using the recommend file option listed within the Baseline column of the mod tables below.
• STEP Patches: A "patch" is a plugin that allows two or more mods to work together without conflicting. The "STEP Patches" are such plugins, but allow all of the mods in the STEP Guide to work harmoniously together. Some users refer to this as a "conflict resolution patch" or "CR Patch".

Minimum System Requirements

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

Hardware	Minimum	Recommended
Windows OS	Windows 7 64-bit or later	Windows 7 64-bit or later
CPU	Intel Core i5-2400 or equivalent	Intel Core i5-4430 or equivalent
System RAM	8 GB	8 GB or higher
GPU	Nvidia GTX 780 3GB / AMD R9 290 4GB	Nvidia GTX 970 or equivalent or better
Monitor Resolution	1920x1080	1920x1080 or higher

Time Requirement

Users should be aware that it will usually take several hours to complete a STEP Guide from start to finish. STEP encourages users to always follow proper computer ergonomics when modding. Remember to take breaks and happy modding!

STEP 1

Game & Tool Installation

Game Installation and Modding Setup

Notice: 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!

Before continuing with this Guide, users who have not completed the System Setup Guide should stop and do so now. Before continuing, users should already have the game installed and folder structure set up for modding. Our game guides are written with the expectation of the linked setup process already being completed. Users deviating from our recommendations will need to adjust the instructions in our guides accordingly.

Mod Organizer 2

Mod Organizer 2 is the successor to Mod Organizer, and is now the official mod manager for all STEP game guides. It supports both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Bethesda games. The major changes it brings are ...

1. A return to normal plugin/BSA relationship - Users will no longer be able to load BSAs without loading the corresponding plugin as they did with MO. The plugins must be active for the BSAs to load, which is the intended behavior that the game expects.
2. New MO2 installation options - Users will have the choice between installing MO2 in "standalone" or "portable" mode. Unless Merge Plugins is going to be utilized, it’s purely an individual preference. Merged Plugins will currently only work when MO2 is installed and used in “portable” mode. STEP recommends “standalone” mode for use with this guide. This allows us to design all of our game guides around using MO2's "Instances". This means one MO2 installation is used for all supported games. Users should decide how they wish to install and use MO2 before continuing; keeping in mind the space requirements mentioned in our System Setup Guide.

Notice: For more information about MO2 installation options, please see the Mod Organizer Guide.

Tools Installation and Setup

STEP recommends the tools for modding be installed and setup as “standalone” applications, when possible. This means a tool is installed once and used for all games. Most of the modding tools used already have this feature built in and some are meant to be used as such. Following this recommendation will also reduce redundant tool installations; thus, saving hard drive space, and it's more organized. The instructions throughout this Guide will assume the tools are installed as “standalone” applications. However, users are free to set up their tools as they see fit.

Tool Installation

Users should install the tools to the location created while following the System Setup Guide (i.e., ..\Modding\Tools\). Install the following tools to that location:

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	BethINI SE				Detailed instructions available
	DynDOLOD SE				Detailed instructions available
	LOOT (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Mod Organizer 2				Detailed instructions available
	SSEEdit				Detailed instructions available
	SSELODGen				Detailed instructions available

The Modding folder structure should now reflect:

• ..\Modding\Steam (optional; may be installed elsewhere)
• ..\Modding\Tools
  • ..\Tools\BethINI Standalone
  • ..\Tools\DynDOLOD SE
  • ..\Tools\LOOT
  • ..\Tools\Mod Organizer 2
  • ..\Tools\xEdit
  • ..\Tools\xLODGen

STEP 2

Tool Configuration

Mod Organizer 2 - Configuration

Initialization

STEP recommends using all applications, including Mod Organizer 2, as standalone programs. The below instructions for MO2's first run reflect this. If MO2 is ran in Portable mode, users will need to adjust the instructions as appropriate. To initialize Mod Organizer 2:

➕ Initialization Instructions

1. Launch MO2 by running its executable (i.e. ..Modding\Tools\Mod Organizer 2\ModOrganizer.exe)
2. Upon launch, users will have a choose between setting it up as portable or create a new Instance. Choose to create a new Instance.
3. Select SkyrimSE and choose OK.
   • A prompt will appear informing you about the option of changing the location of data stored. Read it and click past it.
4. The installer should automatically detect the Skyrim SE installation (ie. ..Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition). Select it.
   • If it didn't find the location, browse to to the Skyrim SE installation path.
5. Another prompt will appear for first time installers asking to run the tutorial or not. First time MO users should run it for a quick lesson on MO. Experienced MO users can skip it.
6. The last prompt will ask if MO can handle .NXM links from the browser. Allow it to do so.
7. MO2 is now set up and ready to use.

Profile Setup

Now users will take advantage of Mod Organizer's profile feature by creating/editing two profiles for use during this Guide:

➕ Profile Setup Instructions

1. Launch MO2, choosing the Skyrim SE Instance.
2. On the default profile, arrange the mods in the left pane in the following order:
   1. DLC: Dawnguard
   2. DLC: HearthFires
   3. DLC: Dragonborn
3. Click the Configure Profiles button on the menu bar.
4. Select the “Default” profile and click “Rename”.
5. Rename this profile to Vanilla Skyrim or something similar
6. Ensure the Use profile-specific Game INI Files box is checked and select OK.
   • Users can also check the Use profile-specific Save Games, if they wish.
7. Ensure the renamed profile is still selected and click Copy.
8. Name the new profile "STEP SE Core v0.1.0", or anything similar.
9. Check the same boxes from step 6, above.
10. Close the window by clicking Close.
11. Ensure that the STEP SE Core profile is the currently selected profile in the Profile drop-down menu.

Tool Setup

The final step of setting up Mod Organizer 2 is to add all the tools to it, which were install in the previous step. Some tools will have been auto-detected and added for the user, however, ensure the settings below are set for all tools, even the auto-detected ones. Use the instructions below to add the tools to MO2. xEdit is used for the example:

➕ Tool Setup Instructions

1. Click the Executables button at the top of the main Mod Organizer window.
2. In the Title field type SSEEdit or xEdit.
3. In the Binary field either type the path to the SSEEdit.exe file or browse for it by selecting the ... button (i.e. ..Modding\Tools\xEdit\SSEEdit.exe)
4. (optional) The following arguments can be helpful. Input them in the Argument field separated by a single space:
   • -IKnowWhatImDoing : This turns off a warning present using users make edits.
   • -AllowMasterFilesEdit : By default xEdit will not allow master file editing. This allows users to these files.
   • -o:"Path\to output\folder" : This is the output path xEdit will use when it saves certain files. (i.e. ..Modding\Tools\xEdit\xEdit_Output)
5. Check the Use Application’s Icon for shortcuts box.
6. Click the Apply button.
7. Repeat steps 2 through 6 for adding the executables from the table below; filling in the appropriate data. The titles we use are suggestions:

Tool Setup Table

Executable	Title	Argument(s)
DynDOLOD64.exe	DynDOLOD SE	-SSE
LOOT.exe	LOOT	--game="Skyrim Special Edition"
SSEEditQuickAutoClean.exe	xEdit Quick Auto Clean
TexGen64.exe (installed with DynDOLOD)	TexGen SE	-SSE
xLODGen64.exe	xLODGen	-lodgen -sse

Users can arrange their tools in any order they wish using the up and down buttons above the list. When complete, close the window by clicking the Cancel button.

BethINI Setup

BethINI needs to be set up to run for the current profile in MO2 and ran to establish solid INIs before beginning the mod installations. To do this:

➕ BethINI Initialization

1. Close MO2 and run BethINI.
2. Select Skyrim Special Edition from the game selection box.
3. Allow BethINI to handle custom INIs, if prompted.
4. Go to the Setup tab
   • Ensure the Game Path is correct (i.e., ..\Modding\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim Special Edition).
   • Ensure the Mod Organizer path is correct (i.e., ..\Modding\Tools\Mod Organizer 2).
   • If the MO path is correct, the INI Path menu will find the user’s profiles in MO2. Select the profile created earlier in the Guide (STEP SE Core v0.1.0).
     • If BethINI does not automatically find the profiles, browse to MO2's Profile folder.
     • For Instance users the profile will be stored in the user's AppData folder (i.e. C:\Users\UserName\AppData\Local\ModOrganizer\SkyrimSE\profiles)

At this time BethINI should restart to grab the correct INIs. Once it is restarted:

➕ BethINI Initial Setup

1. Return to the Setup tab.
   • BethINI will be used for multiple games from a single installation, thus users should check the “Always Select Game” box.
   • To prevent changes to the INIs, check the “Make INIs Read-Only” box.
2. Select the Basic tab.
   • Ensure the Window Resolution matches the system resolution.
   • Click the Medium profile button (this can be changed at the end of the Guide).
   • Check the box for “Recommended Tweaks”.
3. Now Save and Exit.

Users now have a minimal setup for the game INIs for testing and running the game during the mod installations. Once all mods have been installed, BethINI will be ran again to complete the INI setup.

STEP 3

Cleanup and Considerations

LOOT

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

1. Launch LOOT via Mod Organizer 2 from the executables drop-down menu.
   
         Notice:If LOOT fails to start, try adding the following argument to it: --single-process
2. Click the “Sort” button at the top of the LOOT window.
3. Examine the resulting order carefully and look for any alerts or warnings and address each (clean any mods it says has ITMs or UDRs)
4. Click the “Apply” button, which has replaced the Sort button at the top.
5. Close LOOT.

Notice: "LOOT may throw errors or warnings of missing mods or running tools if executed before the entire mod installation step of the Guide is complete. If LOOT is run before the entire mod installation set is complete, please ignore these particular errors and warnings. These issues will resolve themselves as the Guide progresses.

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

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

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

Cleaning Vanilla Master Files

To 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

➕ Toggle cleaning procedures...

1. Run xEdit64 Quick Auto Clean from the drop-down executable list in MO2.
2. On the plugin selection window, double-click on the mod being cleaned (i.e., Update.esm, Dawnguard.esm, etc).
3. xEdit will now automatically clean the "Identical to master" and "deleted" records from the selected mod.
4. Once xEdit is done cleaning, click the X in upper right of the program window to close the program.

Clean the Vanilla Masters

Vanilla masters should be cleaned in the following order:

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

Follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean Update.esm, follow by Dawnguard.esm. Once Dawnguard is cleaned, complete the manual cleaning below...

➕ Toggle Dawnguard manual cleaning procedures...

1. Run xEdit from MO.
2. At the prompt, double-click on Dawnguard.esm.
3. Once loaded, type in 00016BCF in the FormID field (above the mod list) and hit Enter/Return.
4. In the right pane, find the XEZN - Encounter Zone record.
5. In the Dawnguard.esm column, right-click on the RiftenRatwayZone [ECZN:0009FBB9] entry and select Remove.
   • If a prompt appears select Yes for each of these removals.
6. In the FormID field again, type in 0001FA4C and hit Enter/Return.
7. On the Dawnguard.esm column, right-lick on the Dawnguard.esm header and select Remove.
8. In the FormID field again, type in 0006C3B6 and hit Enter/Return.
9. On the Dawnguard.esm column, right-lick on the Dawnguard.esm header and select Remove.
10. Now close xEdit, ensuring Dawnguard.esm is checked on the prompt.
11. Return to Step 3 above, under Clean.

Once Dawnguard's manual cleaning is complete, follow the standard cleaning procedures to clean Hearthfires.esm, and then last, Dragonborn.esm.

Notice: Any time Bethesda updates these master files, users should complete this cleaning process again. This ensures users have any fixes Bethesda may have included within their updates.

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

1. DLC: Dawnguard.esm
2. DLC: HearthFires.esm
3. DLC: Dragonborn.esm
4. Cleaned Vanilla Masters

Understanding the STEP Patches

A “conflict resolution” patch, or CR Patch, is a plugin that resolves conflicts between various active plugins. They allow users to use various mods together without any major issues, while still achieving the desired outcome from the mods. The STEP Patches are CR patches and more.

The STEP Patches are CR Patches built specifically for the mod list within this Guide. They are required to run the Guide without issues; providing conflict resolution between various mods. Additionally, the patches provide both mod integration and custom edits surrounding the use of specific mods. This means the patches are one part CR patch and one part mod.

Users should decide now, before installing any mods, whether or not they will be using the STEP Patches or creating their own. This decision will be referenced during mod installations below. Users who decide to install the STEP Patches will do so after the mod installations.

Notice: Users installing only the Guide's mod list or only installing mods on top of this mod list, are recommended to use the STEP Patches! These patches will solve all conflicts for users. For users adding a few additional mods on top of this mod list, the Patches can be used as a foundation to build upon. This ensures a stable game.

We do not offer support for unpatched mod installations!

STEP Patches Requirements - We recommend keeping the forum topic from the link open for referencing the list of required mods. This is helpful for users deciding whether or not to install a mod that may be required by the Patches.

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

• STEP Skyrim SE - Conflict Resolution Patch
  • patches the entire STEP Skyrim SE mod list besides the Lighting & Weather mod group.
• STEP Skyrim SE - Lighting & Weather Patch
  • patches the mods listed within the Lighting & Weather mod group with the rest of the STEP Skyrim SE mod list.
  • this is provided as a separate patch for users wanting to customize their own lighting and weather setup.

STEP 4

STEP Skyrim SE Mod List

At this point users should have their systems fully set up and ready to install mods from the mod list below. Users who are unaware of how to complete mod installations using Mod Organizer 2 should return to that Guide and refresh their knowledge. When installing mods from the list below, keep the following in mind:

• Mods should be installed in the order that they are listed to ensure other 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 (ESLs/ESMs/ESPs) unless otherwise noted.
• If there are no notes associated with a particular mod, then all options fit the our mandate and it's the user's decision which option to install. Mod notes only provide instructions where necessary; otherwise, STEP encourages user customization.
• Unless otherwise stated, follow LOOT's advice in regards to mod cleaning and sorting.

Notice: STEP does not recommend extracting BSAs for this Guide. Each BSA has been manually checked by the staff to ensure the proper overwrites are maintained, without the need for extraction.

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	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Mod Name	Baseline		DG	Notes

Legend

	STEP Patch	Mods included in the STEP Patches are indicated by the presence of a green vertical bar in the row at the immediate left-hand column of the table before the mod name.
	Mod Name	Shortened version (where applicable) of 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.
	Quality Options	Indicates if there are lower or higher quality options for the mod relative to the Baseline recommendation:
		Relative to Baseline, a lower quality, less demanding version of the mod is also available.
		Relative to Baseline, a higher quality, more demanding version of the mod is also available.
		Relative to Baseline, both lower and higher quality versions of the mod are available.
	Notes	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.

Extenders

Third-party programs (or extensions thereof) that enhance a games functionality or display.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	SKSE64				Detailed instructions available

Resources

Programs or mods that provide additional resources or functions for modding.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	FileAccess Interface for Skyrim SE Scripts				Only the Main File is required.
	PapyrusUtil SE
	Scaleform Translation++
	Skyrim Skill Uncapper (SE)
	SkyUI (SE)

Foundation

Mods that should be listed early in a modded setup and overwritten by other mods.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Unofficial High Definition Audio Project				Download and install all Main Files. Merge when asked.
	Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch
	Skyrim SE particle patch for ENB				Download and install the Special Edition PARTICLE PATCH ALL-IN-ONE INSTALLATION file.
	Static Mesh Improvement Mod (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Cathedral - Plants
	Skyrim Realistic Overhaul (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Majestic Mountains - Cathedral Concept				Detailed instructions available
	Landscapes - Cathedral Concept				Detailed instructions available
	RUSTIC CLOTHING - Special Edition	2K
	Unofficial Material Fix

Audiovisual - Animations & Effects

Mods that alter the animations and effects in the game.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	D13 Faster GET UP STAND UP Animation	Loose
	No Spinning Death Animation (SE)				STEP Recommends: No Spinning Death Animation MERGED
	Smooth Running Animations
	XP32 Maximum Skeleton Special Extended				Detailed instructions available

Audiovisual - Models & Textures

Mods that alter the appearance of objects in the game.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	AMidianBorn Book of Silence (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	AMidianBorn Blades Armor SSE Patch
	AMidianBorn imperial light and studded (SE)	2K
	AMidianBorn stormcloak officer armour (SE)	2K
	Animated Weapon Enchants (SE)
	Arctic - Frost Effects Redux	Lite			Detailed instructions available
	Armor and Clothing Extension	2K
	Barenziah's Glory SE				Detailed instructions available
	Bellyaches Animal and Creature Pack SSE				Detailed instructions available
	Bellyaches HD Dragon Replacer Pack (SE)
	Better Dynamic Ash SE
	Better Dynamic Snow SE				Detailed instructions available
	BetterFalmerCaveCeilingGlow				STEP Recommends: BetterFalmerCaveCeilingGlow_Cyan
	Book Covers Skyrim (SE)				STEP Recommends: Book Covers Skyrim SE - Desaturated
	Book Covers Skyrim - Lost Library (SE)				STEP Recommends: Book Covers Skyrim SE - Lost Library - Desaturated
	Chicken Butthurt Minimizer (SE)				STEP Recommends: Full Version - Nests and World Models file
	Dark Brotherhood Tenets Restored (SE)	1K
	Deadly Spell Impacts (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Deathbell HD (SE)	1K
	Detailed Rugs (SE)
	Detailing the Eldrich (SE)	Higher Res			Detailed instructions available
	Divine Amulets and Daedric Rings				Download and install both the Main and Optional files.
	Dragon Glyphs HD - Fixed (SE)	Dragon Chiseled
	Dragon Masks Retextured SE	2K
	DRAGON PRIEST (SE)	2K Full			Install with the Full (Highly suggested) option.
	Frankly HD Dragonbone and Dragonscale	2K			Download and install both a Main File and the Update File.
	Dragonbone Mastery				Detailed instructions available
	DRAUGR (SE)	2K
	DROPS (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Dust Effects
	EASIER LOCKPICKING (SE)
	Elemental Staffs SE	2K			STEP Recommends: Elemental Staffs SE 2K-1K Main File.
	ElSopa HD - Ants SE	1K
	ElSopa HD - Briar Heart	1K			STEP Recommends: ElSopa HD - Briarheart Red 1k
	ElSopa HD - Dirt Blast SE	2K			STEP Recommends: 2K ElSopa HD - Dirt Blast
	Embers HD (SE)	2K			Detailed instructions available
	Enhanced Blood Textures SE				Detailed instructions available
	Enhanced Vanilla Trees SE				Detailed instructions available
	ETHEREAL CLOUDS - Special Edition	1K
	FALMER (SE)	2K
	Fire Halo Remover
	Frankly HD Thieves Guild Armors	2K
	Gemling Queen Jewelry SE	1K			Detailed instructions available
	GIANT (SE)	2K
	Gold Septim - Coins Retex	1K
	Greatsword Sheaths and Scabbards Redux SE	v2.7.6			Detailed instructions available
	HAGRAVEN (SE)	2K
	Hardy Hares
	HD Dark brotherhood door (SE)				STEP Recommends: No glowing eyes version
	HD Executioners Block SE
	HD Misc (SE)
	HD Pondfish
	HD Reworked Horses	2K-1K
	HD Road Signs	2K			Install Main and both Optional files.
	HD Stone Quarry and Clay Deposit (SE)	1K			Detailed instructions available
	High-Res Dartwing Texture (SE)
	High Quality Food and Ingredients SE				Detailed instructions available
	HORNCANDLES (SE)	2K-1K
	Hybrids HD Plants and Herbs Retexture (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Iconic's Real Hay	2K Alt
	Immersive Dragons
	Immersive Smilodons
	Improved closefaced helmets (SE)
	Improved Sparks				STEP Recommends: Grindstones - 10X Sparks and Impact Effects - Vanilla Sparks
	Improved Weapon Impact EFFECTS Correct Metal SE
	Inferno - Fire Effects Redux	Lite			Detailed instructions available
	Just Ice (SE)	2K
	LeanWolf's Better-Shaped Weapons SE				Detailed instructions available
	LeanWolf's Improved Enchanter Candle Meshes SE
	MAMMOTH (SE)	2K
	Metallurgy - Ingots and Ore HD	1K			STEP Recommends: Metallurgy - Ingots and Ore HD 1K (LOOSE) file
	MM - REAL ELKS	2K
	New Thinner Torch (SE)				Download and install the Ultimate HD Torch by rheadude compatible file.
	Nightingale Prime HD (SE)	Leather Version
	N-R HD Display Case (SE)
	Not Really HD Keys (SE)
	Pilgrims Delight
	Rally's Instruments				STEP Recommends: Rallys Instruments HQ - Version 2 Vanilla Lute
	Real Wood Textures - Farmhouses (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Realistic HD Baskets Remastered
	Realistic HD Pickaxe Remastered
	Realistic HD Woodcutter's Axe Remastered
	Realistic Water Two (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Red Dog's Smaller Realistic Ice Spike and Ice Spear
	Remove Small Rocks
	Rens HD Shrines (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Retexture for Bread - Hearthfire (SE)
	Retexture for Soup (SE)				Download and install: SMIM Mesh - Poor Version
	Ruins Clutter Improved (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	RUSTIC ANIMATED POTIONS and POISONS	1K
	RUSTIC ARMOR and WEAPONS SE	2K
	RUSTIC AZURA'S STAR - Special Edition	2K
	RUSTIC COOKING - Special Edition	1K
	RUSTIC DAEDRA - Special Edition	2K
	RUSTIC DEATH HOUND and GARGOYLE - Special Edition	2K
	RUSTIC DRAGON CORPSE - Special Edition	2K
	RUSTIC ELDERSCROLL - Special Edition	2K
	RUSTIC FROSTBITE SPIDER - Special Edition	2K
	RUSTIC NORDIC MURALS (SE)	2K-1K
	RUSTIC SOULGEMS - Special Edition	1K
	RUSTIC SPRIGGAN - Special Edition	2K
	RUSTIC WINDOWS - Special Edition	2K
	SABRECAT (SE)	2K			Install both options in the installer.
	SKELETON (SE)	2K			Install selecting the Skin, clutter without sounds option.
	Skygazer Moons SSE	No Glow
	Skyrim Redesigned WIP (SE)				Download and install the 'FOMOD Version and install using the STEP option.
	Skyrim SE Improved Puddles				Detailed instructions available
	Skyrim SE Skill Interface Re-Texture				Detailed instructions available
	Smooth Sky mesh - SSE
	Stalhrim Source	2K
	Sweet Mother (SE)				STEP Recommends: Sweet Mother HD
	The Elder Scrolls V Rewritten - Arvak SE				Detailed instructions available
	TROLL (SE)	2K
	Ultimate HD Torch (SE)	2K
	Vistant's HD Night Sky SE				Detailed instructions available
	Vivid Landscapes - Tundra Moss Revised (SE)	1K Yellow			STEP Recommends: Vivid Landscapes - Tundra Moss Revised - yellow 1024 Main File and SMIM compatibility patch Optional File.
	WEBS S.E.	2K
	White Phial Replacer SE				STEP Recommends: White Phial Replacer SE Main File and White Phial Replacer 0.5x size Optional File.
	Whiterun Trellis Redesigned SE	2K
	WISPMOTHER (SE)	2K-1K			Detailed instructions available

Audiovisual - Sounds & Music

Mods that alter game audio including music, sound effects, environment, voice, etc.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Audio Overhaul for Skyrim SE				Detailed instructions available
	Better Animal Footsteps (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Better Horse Pain Sounds (SE)
	Dragons Shout with Voice (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Heart of the Beast (SE)				STEP Recommends: Feral Werewolf sounds - HIGH AGGRESSION
	IHSS - Improved Horse Step Sounds (SE)
	Lower Sounding Thieves Guild Door (SE)
	Realistic wolf howls (SE)				STEP Recommends: Realistic Wolf Howls more barks than howls
	Sound Hammering Sounds (SE)
	Thundering Shouts (SE)
	Ultra Realistic Bow Shoot Sounds (SE)
	Ultra Realistic Crossbow Shoot Sounds (SE)

Character Appearance

Mods that alter any aspect of character appearance.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Beards (SE)	1K			Detailed instructions available
	Brows (SE)	512			Detailed instructions available
	Consistent Older People (SE)				STEP Recommends: Consistent Older People XX Loose
	Coverkhajiits (SE)	2K			Download and install both Main Files.
	FAR - Forgotten Argonian Roots (SE)	2K			Detailed instructions available
	Female Vampires Have Fangs (SE)
	Immersive Spectral Assassin				Detailed instructions available
	More Realistic Hair (SE)
	Natural Eyes SSE
	Northborn Scars (SE)
	RUSTIC CHILDREN (SE)	2K			STEP Recommends: RUSTIC CHILDREN - BODY - 2K
	Superior Lore-Friendly Hair (SE)	1K			STEP Recommends: SLF Hair - Rough Hair - Lite 1K
	Tempered Skins for Females - UNP				Detailed instructions available
	Tempered Skins for Males				Detailed instructions available
	Vanilla Body with UNP Textures
	Vanilla Makeup HD	2K			STEP Recommends: VMHD - All Races - 2K Also install the 2K update file, choosing to merge when asked.
	Vanilla Warpaints Absolution	2K			Detailed instructions available

Fixes

Mods that fix various bugs within the game.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	(SKSE64) Havok Fix
	1st Person Candlelight Fix
	Butterflies Land True
	Butterflies Unchained				STEP Recommends: Butterflies Unchained (ESL Version) Main File and Butterflies Unchained (ESL Version) CACO... Optional File.
	Critters Ain't Snitches
	Dragon Stalking Fix
	Enchantment Reload Fix SE
	Eye Normal Map Fix SSE				STEP Recommends: Eye Normal Map Fix SSE BC7
	Fuz Ro D-oh - Silent Voice				Download and install both the Main and Optional Files.
	Hearthfires Houses Building Fix
	Invisibility and Eyes Mesh Fix				Detailed instructions available
	Reasonable Movement Speed
	Skyrim Landscape and Water Fixes				Detailed instructions available
	Skyrim Project Optimization SE	ESM Version
	SkyUI SE - Flashing Savegames Fix
	SSE Engine Fixes				Detailed instructions available
	Stay At The System Page
	Unlimited Bookshelves (SE)
	Waterbreathing Breathless Emerge SSE
	Wiseman303's Critter Fixes (SE)				Detailed instructions available

Gameplay - General

Mods that alter gameplay mechanics, which don't fit into any other gameplay mod group.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Complete Alchemy and Cooking Overhaul (SE)				Install the Main File and two Update Files.
	Complete Crafting Overhaul Remastered
	GIST - Genuinely Intelligent Soul Trap SE				Download and install the Main File and the GIST - Rustic Soul Gems patch Optional File.

Gameplay - AI & Combat

Mods that alter AI and combat mechanics.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Auto Hide Ammo				Detailed instructions available
	Better Stealth AI for Followers (SE)
	Follower Trap Safety (SE)
	Immersive Citizens - AI Overhaul SE				Detailed instructions available
	Realistic AI Detection SE				STEP Recommends: Realistic AI Detection 2 SE - Medium Interior Medium Exterior
	Run For Your Lives (SE)
	Tavern AI fix

Gameplay - Economy & Item Balance

Mods that alter the money systems in various ways and/or alter item stats.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Trade and Barter (SE)
	Weapons Armor Clothing and Clutter Fixes	2K			Detailed instructions available

Gameplay - Immersion & Role-playing

Mods that help to improve game immersion and add in character role-playing scenarios.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Convenient Horses (SE)
	Disease Descriptions for the Immersive Adventurer SE
	Get Snowy (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Go On Ahead
	Guard Dialogue Overhaul SE
	Improved Traps				STEP Recommends: Improved Traps and Mining Makes Noise
	No Lockpick Activate (SKSE) - Updated
	Point The Way (SE)
	Relationship Dialogue Overhaul - RDO SE
	Simple Drop Lit Torches SE
	Torches Ignite Oil

Gameplay - Quest & Stories

Mods that alter aspects of in-game quests.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Alternate Start - Live Another Life - SSE
	Even Better Quest Objectives SE				Detailed instructions available
	Gildergreen Regrown (SE)
	Not So Fast - Mage Guild (SE)
	Not So Fast - Main Quest (SE)
	The Choice is Yours (SE)
	The Paarthurnax Dilemma (SE)
	Timing is Everything SE				Download and install: Timing is Everything SE - FISS version Main File.

Gameplay - Skills and Perks

Mods that help to improve skills and perks.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Lock Overhaul (SE)
	Smithing Perks Overhaul SE

Interface

Mods that alter various aspects of the in-game user interface.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Better Container Controls for SkyUI				STEP Recommends: BCC-SkyUI-ESL-vxx Optional File.
	Better Dialogue Controls (SE)
	Better MessageBox Controls (SE)
	Cathedral Weathers MCM
	Font Overhaul - Natural Typefaces for Skyrim
	Immersive HUD - iHUD Special Edition
	Lore-Based Loading Screens (SE)
	MoreHUD Inventory Edition
	MoreHUD SE
	RaceMenu (SE)
	Smaller Vanilla Cursors SE				Detailed instructions available
	Viewable Faction Ranks (SE)
	Whose Quest Is It Anyway
	Yes Im Sure

Locations

Mods that add new locations and/or alter vanilla locations by either changing them in small ways or overhauling them entirely.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Bring Out Your Dead (SE)
	Cutting Room Floor - SSE
	Farmhouse Chimneys SE				Detailed instructions available
	Helarchen Creek
	Landscape Fixes For Grass Mods				Detailed instructions available
	Oakwood
	Oblivion Gates Remade (SE)				Detailed instructions available
	Smooth Shores

Audiovisual - Lighting & Weather

Optional mods that alter the lighting and weather systems in the game. An additional patch is provided for users who choose to install these mods.

      Notice: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.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Cathedral Weathers and Seasons				Download and install the Main File.
	Enhanced Lighting for ENB (ELE) - Special Edition				Users do not need any of the patches. These are incorporated into the STEP SE Core - L&W Patch.
	Lanterns Of Skyrim II				Detailed instructions available
	Relighting Skyrim - SSE				Users do not need any of the patches. These are incorporated into the STEP SE Core - L&W Patch.
	Storm Lightning for SSE				Detailed instructions available
	Wonders of Weather (SE)				Detailed instructions available

Utilities

Tools that are installed within the Data drive, therefore making them a "mod" of sorts.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Fores New Idles in Skyrim SE				Detailed instructions available

Generating Animation Files

Once FNIS SE is installed, the animation files need to be generated for the skeleton changes.

1. Sort the load order with LOOT.
2. Run FNIS SE via Mod Organizer 2.
3. In the Available Patches at the bottom of the window, check the box adjacent to "SKELETON Arm Fix".
4. Click the [Update FNIS Behavior] button and wait for a message to appear in the window stating "X animations for Y mods successfully included".
5. Click [Exit].

After closing FNIS SE, there will be files in Overwrite (essentially a fake mod located at the bottom of the left pane if sorted by priority ascending):

1. Right-click Overwrite and select Create Mod
2. Name it FNIS SE Output and click OK.
   • This will create a new mod listing in the left pane for the FNIS SE generated files.
3. Check the new mod entry to enable it.

Patches

Game patches.

	Mod Name	Baseline	Quality Options	DLC Required	Notes
	Better Dynamic Majestic Mountains	ESL
	Kryptopyr's Patch Hub				Detailed instructions available
	STEP Skyrim SE Patches				Detailed instructions available

Sorting and cleaning the new load order

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

Users should be aware the new STEP Patches are designed to work with a default, LOOT-sorted order. This eliminates the need to set rules on the load order, thus, reducing user tasks and streamlines the Guide's installation. From this point on, users should:

• sort their load order using LOOT when adding, removing, updating mods that adds, removes, or replaces a plugin (ESL, ESM, ESP) from their load order.
• update LOOT (the program) any time it notifies their is an update available.

STEP 5

Level of Detail (LOD)

DynDOLOD

Users will now create LODs using Dynamic Distant Objects LOD (DynDOLOD). DynDOLOD is one part mod and one part tool. Users should already have the tool installed from the beginning of the Guide. Now it's time to install the mod portion:

➕ Install DynDOLOD Resources SE

1. Visit the Skyrim SE DynDOLOD forum topic.
2. Download the DynDOLOD Resources SE vX.XX file.
3. Install the file using MO2 by selecting the following options:
   • Solitude Exterior
   • Whiterun Exterior
   • 3D Plume
   • High Hrothgar Window Glow
   • Desync Birds of Prey

Before moving on, users need to create two empty mods to use for the files DynDOLOD outputs:

➕ Create empty mods

1. Right-click on the mod list in MO2 and hover over All Mods.
2. Select, Create empty mod.
3. Name it STEP Skyrim SE - TexGen Output or anything similar.
4. Place this new mod directly after DynDOLOD Resources SE.
5. Repeat these steps to create another new mod call STEP Skyrim SE - DynDOLOD Output, or anything similar.
6. Place this other new mod directly after the new mod from step 3 (i.e., STEP Skyrim SE - TexGen Output).

The last few mods in the mod list should now reflect:

1. ..
2. STEP Skyrim SE - CR Patch
3. STEP Skyrim SE - L&W Patch (optional)
4. DynDOLOD SE Resources
5. STEP Skyrim SE - TexGen Output
6. STEP Skyrim SE - DynDOLOD Output

Run TexGen

TexGen, shipped with DynDOLOD, is a program that will create custom LOD textures for objects based on the full-size texture installed. This means distance object textures will better match their fully rendered counterparts. To create custom LODs:

➕ Instructions for TexGen

1. Run TexGen from the MO2 executable drop-down list.
2. Keep the default Output location and and choose one of the follow two options:
   1. Option 1: Keep the default settings. This is for the average system.
   2. Option 2: Users who have the a bit more performance room, change the LOD Texture Size to 512. This will result in higher resolution LOD textures.
3. Once the option has been chosen click Start.
4. Once the completed message has appeared, click Save & Exit.
5. Navigate to the DynDOLOD folder location (i.e., ..\Modding\Tools\DynDOLOD).
6. Copy or cut the files from the TexGen_Output folder.
7. In MO2, hold down the Ctrl key and double-click on the TexGen Output mod created above. This opens the mod's folder in an Explorer window.
8. Paste the files into the mod's folder and close the window.
9. In MO2, ensure the TexGen Output mod is active (checked).

Run DynDOLOD

DynDOLOD will now be run to generate the remainder of the LODs for the game. Users have the options of generating higher quality 3D Trees or generating the standard tree LOD. Following one of the two sets of instructions below, depending on the option desired.

Standard Tree LOD

➕ Instructions for Standard Trees

1. Run DynDOLOD from the MO2 executable drop-down list.
2. Click the Advanced button once the main tool window is displayed.
3. Select all worldspaces.
4. Ensure the Candles, FXGlow, Generate static LOD, Windows, and High boxes are checked.
5. Keep the default Output location and settings and click Medium.
6. Users with systems able to handle High settings, may do so.
7. Once the completed message has appeared, click Save & Exit.
8. Navigate to the DynDOLOD folder location (i.e., ..\Modding\Tools\DynDOLOD).
9. Copy or cut the files from the DynDOLOD_Output folder.
10. In MO2, hold down the Ctrl key and double-click on the DynDOLOD Output mod created above.
11. Paste the files into the mod's folder and close the window.
12. In MO2, ensure the DynDOLOD Output mod is active (checked).
13. Sort with LOOT.
14. Ensure DynDOLOD.esp is the last plugin in the load order.

3D Tree LOD

There are two options for 3D Trees. Full or Hybrid.

1. Full 3D Trees will generate the entire tree (branches and trunks) in 3D.
2. Hybrid 3D Trees is more performance friendly. It will generate 3D branches with 2D trunks.
   

➕ Instructions for 3D Trees

1. Open the root DynDOLOD folder (i.e., ..\Modding\Tools\DynDOLOD\).
2. Open the DynDOLOD_SSE.ini file (i.e., ..\DynDOLOD\Edit Scripts\DynDOLOD\DynDOLOD_SSE.ini)
3. Set TreeLOD=0
   • If generating Hybrid 3D Trees, skip to the next step now.
   • If generating Full 3D Trees, also set TreeFullFallBack=0.
4. Run DynDOLOD from the MO2 executable drop-down list.
5. Select all worldspaces.
6. Ensure the Candles, FXGlow, Generate static LOD, Windows, and High boxes are checked.
7. Keep the default Output location and settings, click High preset button, and run it.
   • The High preset is require for 3D Trees!
8. Get a cup of coffee. This takes ~40 minutes on SSDs.
9. Once the completed message has appeared, click Save & Exit.
10. Navigate to the DynDOLOD folder location (i.e., ..\Modding\Tools\DynDOLOD).
11. Copy or cut the files from the DynDOLOD_Output folder.
12. In MO2, hold down the Ctrl key and double-click on the DynDOLOD Output mod created above.
13. Paste the files into the mod's folder and close the window.
14. In MO2, ensure the DynDOLOD Output mod is active (checked).
15. Sort with LOOT.
16. Ensure DynDOLOD.esp is the last plugin in the load order.

      Notice:One issue that can arise when generating LOD with DynDOLOD is having a "bad run", though it doesn't happen often. However, when it does happen CTDs are usually the result. If this happens, for example while fast traveling, try disabling the generated output and recreate the conditions in-game. If the CTDs are resolved, trash all of the files from the bad run and complete the process again.

When do users need to rebuild LODs?

Users should rebuild their LODs any time they update their mod lists with mods that adds, removes, or relocates exterior objects such as buildings, roads, trees, etc. Users should also rebuild any time an update to DynDOLOD SE Beta is released.

STEP 6

Mod Configuration (MCM)

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

• When launching the game for the first time after a STEP Guide 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.
• When ready to play, a new game is required! Don't load a from a save when first launching after a new STEP Guide install. Start a new game!

Mod Configuration Menu Settings

Note that if a mod's MCM pages aren't listed within the screenshots below, then the choices for those pages should be left at their default, but this is completely up to the user.

Complete Crafting

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

Recipe Display

Learning & XP

Mining & Materials

Miscellaneous

Farmhouse Chimneys SE

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

Mod Support

Lanterns of Skyrim II

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

Settings

Storm Lightning

The Realistic preset in the MCM is recommended.

Timing is Everything

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

DLC Quests

Other Quests

Extra Options

Remaining Mod Configurations

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

STEP 7

Optional Customizations

(optional) BethINI Customization

Users are now ready to play their enhanced Skyrim SE, however, please consider reading the remainder of the Guide before taking an arrow to the knee.

The final consideration is customizing BethINI once the game is confirmed to be stable. Users who have no issues with performance, however, aren't knowledgeable with the settings can simply choose a higher preset. Other users can feel to customize the settings to their personal preferences. Caution is advised against using the custom INI input feature. This feature will allow users to make custom INI edits, however, doing so without the knowledge of exactly what the customizations are doing can cause instability.

The following are provided as examples of the settings used for taking the screenshot's on Nexus (1920x1080 using a GTX 1060 6GB card). The recommended settings are called out and/or shown in the screenshots below. All settings can be customized per user preference. Simply click on a section heading to expand it.

➕ Basic  STEP Recommends: Antialiasing: TAA Windowed Mode Borderless Vsync Lock Frame Rate FPS: 60 Recommended Tweaks BethINI Presets Users should select a preset. High was chosen for the screenshots. Basic Tab	➕ General  STEP Recommends: Users should match the screenshot. General Tab	➕ Gameplay  STEP Recommends: Over-Encumbered Reminder: 300 (5 mins) or 3600 (1 hour) Optionally, users can check NPC Use Ammo or a more realistic experience. This will cause NPCs to only use the ammo available in their inventories. Gameplay Tab	➕ Interface  STEP Recommends: Fix Map Menu Navigation Remove Map Menu Blur Interface Tab
➕ Detail  STEP Recommends: Water: Select all but Sky Reflecting the sky can cause LOD seams on the water to be more visible. Particles: 4500 (this just over doubles vanilla) Depth of Field Uncheck Lens Flare (optional) Uncheck Anamorphic Lens Flare (optional, this is the flare seen on candles) This use of Sparkles is optional as they are a preference feature. However, if using Landscapes - Cathedral Concept, then this mod includes custom edits to the Sparkles and Improved Snow Shader. Detail Tab	➕ View Distance  STEP Recommends: Grass Fade: 18000 (max) Light Fade: 50000 (max) Flickering Light: 8192 The remainder of the Fade values are user preference. They are set fairly high for Tech's system, which allows for longer distance viewing of NPCs for archery and strategy planning. uGridsToLoad should never been changed from vanilla's default of 5. The preset here should match the preset selected on the Basic tab. View Distance Tab	➕ Visuals  If using Landscapes - Cathedral Concept, these setting should not need to be adjusted. If not, set the values here according to the installation instructions of the grass mod in use. Visuals Tab	➕ Custom  Making the following custom adjustment to speed up the book opening animation by twice the speed of vanilla: Custom Tab

(optional) ENBSeries with the STEP Skyrim SE Guide

The Guide doesn't include an ENB preset for reason that should be obvious, however, we know it can be difficult to find a preset that works with Cathedral Weathers. To make this a bit easier, we've included a small list of ENB presets below which were made to work with Cathedral Weathers, without breaking the horizon. We've included a variety of "looks", but users should search on Nexus to find the preset that works best for their preferences.

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

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS

Help build STEP

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

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

Call for Mod Testers

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

Call for Forum Moderators

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

STEP Core Builds

STEP Builds are user-created guides that use one of the STEP Core mod lists as a foundation to their own mod list within their guide. If a STEP Build adheres to our guidelines, it can be considered as a candidate for being hosted on the STEP 3.0 website. An example of a STEP Build will be provided with the release of STEP 3.0 in the form of Tech's Skyrim Special Edition Guide. Be certain to read the STEP Builds documentation when it becomes available.

USERS

This one of the reasons why Mod Organizer is the chosen mod-management utility for STEP. MO2 makes building mod lists for STEP Builds a breeze.

Thank you for reading and enjoy the game!

Credits

Thank you all!

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

• The authors of mods recommended within our Guides
• The authors of mods who granted permission for their mods to be incorporated into the STEP Patches
• The core Community for feedback, suggestions and input
• The Beta and Mod Testers for their good humor and rigorous analyses
• The Nexus community
• Bethesda Softworks for their games
• Tannin for the gift that is Mod Organizer
• All the developers that kept MO alive to create MO2

STEP Staff

Administrators

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

SM Forum Moderators

Currently active STEP Forum Moderators:

• DoubleYou
• Greg
• GSDfan
• Kelmych

Honorary Staff

Retired Founders, Administrators, and Staff:

• Aiyen
• Bealdwine
• deathneko11
• EisDrache
• EssArrBee
• Farlo
• frihyland
• GrantSP
• hishutup
• MontyMM
• Nebulous112
• oqhansoloqo
• phazer11
• rootsrat
• stoppingby4now
• TheCompiler
• torminater
• Uhuru
• WilliamImm
• wolverine2710