Modding on the Spectrum

Goooooooood morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. it is Tirdas the 28th of morning Star and from the smell water in the air, a storm must have blown through last night. Tonight is the new moon, and the hunters have already started celebrating of course, but for this old cat it is time to tend the inn once again. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water is put to the flame.

Our brew of the day is Roma, and the biscuits are Sweet Loren's sugar cookies. Checking the hot sheets we have 36 new mods and a few don't have a cup size believe it or not. Lets see what catches an old cat's eye over a fresh cuppa or two...

SuperSailorGloom released Faster Dynamic Looting
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140184
"Speeds up some animations from the Dynamic Looting and Harvesting Animations mod, mainly focused on the gathering animations." They like the mod and simply wanted the animations quicker. That's modding. Have a cookie, thanks for sharing

Tenor1411 released Pearl Drop
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140241
"Adds pearls and small pearls to clam loot tables" The game already provides oysters, and clams are not oysters, but your game your way. Pass

manlethamlet released Reach Foods
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140234
The author tried to create an overhaul mod for the reach, and shelved the project. These are the foods that were created for the mod. Some of the foods buff magic, which is rare in Skyrim. Worth a look, The old cat likes the idea of regional foods... Why the hell is quarried stone an ingredient in soup? Thanks? LOL

Digsu released Hircine's Quest Gives Werewolf Damage Boost
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140189
"Completing Ill Met By Moonlight grants a permanent +25% damage boost while in werewolf form, as befits a champion of Hircine."

Okay, the buff is a bit high, but the concept is solid. Not everyone likes the armor. Thanks

Vaiula released FallForestFern Retexture (SE)
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140218
"I've made a retexture of autumn ferns and edited the UVMap, but it's still a low-poly vanilla mesh." And it even looks good in seasonal colors. Proof not everything needs to be 8K. Thanks for sharing. Have a cookie

Ivy - Faendal Home Overhaul
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140252
"Faendal’s home is transformed into a cozy, lore-friendly hunter’s retreat with improved interiors, exterior details, and compatibility patches for popular mods." Interesting looking cabin, Lots of flowers and of course ivy growing on the roof. Worth a look. Thanks

Veyrah's Reshade Preset for Cabbage ENB
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140223
Increases contrast and dynamic range slightly while keeping the look of the preset. A little bright for an old cat's taste, but looks well done. Thanks

And finally, it was only a matter of time...

The Enigma Series - Dawn - by Satafinix
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140205
"The High quality remake of the old enigma series: Dragon Voices
Over 725+ Voice files has been remade"

There's a reason this got the top slot. The old cat has been using Enigma since it was released, and has always liked the voices... These are noticeably better. You'll want to listen to the voice files, Paarthy alone was worth the update. Instant download, 2 cookies

And that will do for today. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are swept. Have a seat and the wenches will serve you. We-B-Open!

Goooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Morndas the 27th of Morning Star, and wage slaves lament, the weekend is over. Hide if you can, or work if you must, it's Morndas again. The blessed moons are gibbous tonight, and so begins the celebration of the new moons, but for this old cat it is once again time to tend the inn. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water put to the flame.

Our brew of the day is from Indonesia, and the biscuits will have to wait on Ah'vrie returning from the markets a little later. Checking the hot sheets we have 61 new mods, from the usual sources. Let's see what catches the eye over a fresh cuppa or two...

Cephyrah released Cephy's Smaller Vanilla Shields as a first mod. welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140071
"Makes all vanilla shields 20% smaller" Awww, they're so cute when they're little.

Actually the old cat likes the smaller models, but not as a general replacer. It would be nice to see this released as a 'female' model. It does look like a better scale for smaller framed characters, but would look as silly carried big a big orc brute. Having a choice would be better.

Juxk3 released Ma'dra the potion seller as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140085
"Ma'dra is a basic khajiit potion seller added to the game based in the temple of kynareth in whiterun" It's a first mod, so we won't poke too painfully, but a khajiit merchant in the city, and in a temple? Keep working at your craft on one day you might be.....

We're seeing more and more authors removing particles for performance.

Kynias released Remove NAT III Mist Particles
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140084
"This little ESPFE plugin sets NAT IIIs mist particles to "initially disabled" " i wanted to try is to replace NAT IIIs mists with others, and the easiest way i found to do so was to simply disable them." Thanks for sharing.

Corsafire1 released two today
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/Corsafire1/mods?gameId=1704
Remove Cobwebs and Useless Spider Sacs, and Remove Dragonpriest Dust

Interesting, this one has been publishing mostly 'remove' mods for 5 years now.

JonathanFeenstra released Predictable Persuasion
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140140
"SKSE plugin to display more info about persuasion/intimidation/bribe dialogue topics, such as the required speech level, calculated outcome (success or failure), and predicted response, without requiring compatibility patches for mods that add new speech challenges" Your game your way, but way to ruin a speech challenge.

Vampire Chalice 2K-8K by iimlenny
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140173
Still making Skyrim uglier one texture at a time. Your game your way. Not for old cats

And finally, Proof that some people just have way too much free time ;-) lol

Shores of Skyrim - Base Object Swapper by FrankBlack
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140081
"A mod that adds over two hundred hand placed rocks and shells on Skyrim beaches. It also adds new driftwood and mussels" Along the coast from Dawnstar to Windstad manor at present. Harvestable mussels? Why not.

And that will do for today. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are swept. Have a seat by the fires and warm your bones. We-B-Open!

Gooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. it is Sundas the 26th of Morning Star and a quiet predawn hereon warm sands. It is once again time for this one to tend the in for our most honored quests. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water is put to the flame.

Our brew of the day is India, and the biscuits are chocolate chip. Checking the hot sheets we have 57 new with all the usual jiggles, dangles, patches and pointy sticks. Let's see what catches an old cat's eye over a fresh cuppa... maybe two ;-)

Manatee001 released Freya Alvorsdottir as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140017
"This mod is for an NPC follower that encourages a different kind of play style where the player seeks to support his followers rather than the other way round!"

An interesting concept... A damsel in distress by design. Not essential, not protected, and no combat skills at all. Your 'job' is to keep her alive... ... ? Moving right along

6VioletMoon9 released Rest In Peace Katria as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140072
"I hate to see Katria's body staying behind in that ruin, Now you can honor her by bury her body so she can rest forever." There's no information given as to the details, but this one gets a cookie none the less.

Sengetsu released two today
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/Sengetsu/mods?gameId=1704
Dynamic spell cost; The heavier the armor, the more magic costs.
Perk point bosses; The stronger the boss, the greater the probability of getting a perk point.
I have to say these both seem well thought out and balanced. Have a cookie

PrincessPeachFan2014 released 4 today.
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/PrincessPeachFan2014/mods?gameId=1704
Seems this one want to turn all of the children into potential followers. 4 so far.

I'm not so sure about handing Braith an axe and turning her loose. LOL. Not for old cats

Lexa0100 released MW Carlotta Valentia's Family - Marriage and Adoption - ESL
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/132748
"My Outlaw as a Carlotta replacer, plus MARRIAGE, plus ADOPTION of Mila." The marriage and adoption patch is standalone so you can also use it without using the replacer.

Thanks for keeping the marriage and adoption separate. Have a cookie

Renthal released two today
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/renthal311/mods?gameId=1704
Feathers, and small gates. Classic Renthal LOL. Beautiful work on the feathers, though the color wouldn't have been my first choice. And the gates don't appear to open.

Now the old cat wants to look for farm gates in the game LOL

We'll finish up with Detailed Landscapes - Raven Rock (BOS) by BecomingNplus1
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/140042
"Flora overhaul of Raven Rock using new assets from v1.6.1130 to make it a bit more aesthetically pleasing. Local NPCs remain sullen, bitter, and unfriendly"

Tropical paradise Ravenrock? Your game your way. not for old cats

And that will do for today. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are swept. Have a seat by the fires and warm your bones. We-B-Open!

Gooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. it is Loredas the 25th of Morning Star, and wage slaves rejoice, the weekend has arrived. It is another quiet, and chilly predawn here on warm sands. The blessed moons have set and it is once again time for this one to tend the inn yes it is. Excuse please while the ash pits are emptied and the fires are rebuilt. Ah'vrie always likes to start the weekend with happy fires, and a happy fire needs to breathe. Tis can get a bit dusty so you might want to cover your tankards. Khajiit do not know from free refills no we don't...

There, much better no? Now to compost the ash, tend the garden, scrub the kettles, and bring fresh water to the boil. Our brew of the day is Capetown Lungo, and the biscuits are apricot and strawberry rhubarb thumb print sugar cookies. Feel free to tuck in. The old cat made plenty. Checking the hot sheets we have 62 new mods today and over a dozen caught the eye. Let's dive right in over a fresh cuppa or two.

Aezandris released Nordic Dwelling Home as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139870
"This is essentially my first complete* mod. Been messing around with CK for about a year and a half, almost two." We love fresh blood. This adds a small Nordic ruin converted to a shelter, that opens into an underground grotto... It's actually quite well done, and even pretty in places. The clutter is a bit noobish, but it is a first mod. Congrats, have a cookie

At the other extreme...

alect released Sartorial Orsinium Silkwear SPID as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139951
"Sartorial Orsinium Silkwear distributed by SPID" Thanks? Your game your way. Orcs in silk robes... like giving silverware to a caveman LOL.

Timberfang released Unofficial Skyrim is Luminous-USSEP Patch as their first. welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139919
"Fixes several minor conflicts between Skyrim is Luminous and the Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch" No mention as to what got patched, but thanks for sharing. Have a cookie

Cursedobjects released Andvett Chasm - A BYOH Cave Home
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139502
"Andvett Chasm is a cave that you excavate and build into a cozy home in the wilds of Skyrim. Fits you, a spouse and a follower." Very interesting mod, and nicely done. if it wasn't for all the imported assets that don't remotely fit the game, it would be a perfect fit for my prospector build. Oh well. Worth a look.

L3e7 released Verdant Alchemist's Shack
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139966
"This mod overhauls the Alchemist's Shack with flora, and some more." Banner drapes for the door ways, a platform for the alchemy bench, and repaired the roof... with lots of added flowers. This is quite pretty, and nicely done. Have a cookie. tracking

SETVI released An overhaul of the Sleeping Giant sign
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139931
Just what it says on the box. Nice sign. Thanks

th3rm0pyl43 released Ingot-Shaped Stalhrim SE
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/65636
"Replaces raw Stalhrim with an ingot-shaped model, with or without a multilayer parallax effect, inspired by Stalhrim Refrozen" Looks good as well...

because chipping enchanted ice from a tomb will always produce uniform rectangular chunks. Everybody knows that They do look good. have a cookie

Sswaye released Strange Wards - Vanilla Ward Replacer
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139921
"Replaces the mesh and texture of Wards I No ESP, scripts or extra attachments. I Choose from three different color wards with ENB light optional." Give your mage a little visual bling. Why not. It makes no sense, but magic is like that LOL. Thanks

ZhizhenCong released 5 character mods today
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/ZhizhenCong/mods?gameId=1704
Eyes, makeup, brows, tatoos, and a preset, with a decided Chinese flair. Thanks. We love choice. Some are NSFW, but worth a look.

gutmaw released three more today.
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/gutmaw/mods?gameId=1704
Snazzy common and upper Cupboards, Dressers, and End Tables, and Orc Dressers, and End Tables as well with a BOS random distribution. Snazzy ;-)

Lets see... Phantasmagoria - Female Ghosts Voice Rework by Satafinix
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139952
"Full Female Ghosts SFX and Voice Rework, been waiting long?"

This is one of his better mixes. Worth a listen

GearyMark2 released Dravynea the Stoneweaver Remake
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139981
"This mod changes the appearance of Dravynea the Stoneweaver in Kynesgrove,
and allows her to become a follower. She is a marriageable NPC in vanilla."

As a teen age marriagable follower... I'm sure it fits her voice perfectly Thanks

antique candles SE by renthal311
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139936
"if you are bored with old candlesticks here is a new model of antique candles with efficient Mesh, you write a lot that I should do more in ... 4k so UHD 4k version, Vortex installation, overwrite files, have fun Ren"

What can an old cat add LOL. Totally over the top. Maybe for inns? Beautiful work, but the old cat can't figure exactly where these would look fitting. Thanks

And we'll finish up with one the old cat is definitely tracking. Ah'vrie likes this ones thinking. And goes along with what Rom has been saying about grass mods as well.

fxxkthisworld released Wildlands Renewal - grass and groundcover improvement mod
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139896
"A realistic grass and ground cover mod with a touch of artistic style, also adds grass to dirt cliffs. Supports ENB Complex Grass."

These are simply the most natural looking ground covers the old cat has seen period. This would be an immediate download for testing, but the author teased that the DLCs are also being worked on... Patience is a tool, but the old cat is really looking forward to seeing these in game. Beautiful work.

And with that we'll call it a day. The ale is fresh, and the new batch of mead is ready. We're serving mudcrab scrambles for the early meal, and Ale braised saber cat for the late meal. As always there will be a hearty stew simmering for those that need to ward the chill. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the old cat needs a fresh cuppa. We-B-Open!

Goooooood morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Fredas the 24th of Morning Star and thank the divines the weekend is nigh. The blessed moons have set, the paths are closed and it is once again time for this one to tend the inn for our most honored guests. excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water is put to the flame...

Our brew of the day is Indonesia, and the biscuits are Tate's Ginger Zingers. Checking the hot sheets we have 33 new mods with the usual eclectic mix of jiggles, patches, and goofs. Let's see what catches an old cat's eye over a fresh cuppa or two.

ZenrenTakeda released Weapon and Armor Weight Rework as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139879
"A complete rework of a mod I had made before, changing the weight of all weapons and armor to more closely match real world weight." Thanks, the weights are in pounds, and it does not cover mod added anything. These are just Vanilla weights.

XTGamez009 released two first mods today
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/XTGamez009/mods?gameId=1704
A reshade preset, and a camera preset. The preset is interesting. It leans very much toward the blues while also desaturating the world in general. Looks very Brrr!. Not for old cats, but thanks. We love choice.

L3e7 returns with Verdant Old Hroldan as a second mod.
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139880
"This mod overhauls Old Hroldan with some flora, and a new farm behind the inn."

Well done, and pretty in a fantasy sort of way. Makes use of different versions of the same asset using SPID in a very creative way. Most of the flowers are Mari, Cathedral, and Eeks. Why not. This one gets a cookie.

Time for a little magic...

tirol211 released Illusion - Distract
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139865
"This mod introduces a new illusion spell that creates distracting sounds to manipulate enemy behavior, adding depth to stealth gameplay. Use it to lure foes away, set up ambushes, or navigate dangerous areas unseen."

While it's well known the old cat will usually shy away from major magic overhauls, THIS, is a perfect Novice illusion spell, and could have been vanilla. It complements the Aural whisper shout in that you can use it to lead the enemy where you want them to go. Perfect for Stealth / thief builds. This one gets a cookie as well. Nicely done. Downloaded

rhonjhonson released illusion paralysis
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139857
"changes Paralyze and Mass Paralysis into illusion spells. it also makes Drevis Neloren sell them instead of Tolfdir."

The old cat is not so thrilled with this one. Game balance is a very tricky thing to get correct. While the old cat completely agrees that paralysis could have been, and possibly should have been an illusion spell to begin with. You're also gutting one of the few good higher level alteration spells. Logic and convenience are not always the best guides... Just saying. Your game your way, but not for old cats.

Nuedere released No Magic Immunity for Orchendor
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139848
"Orchendor is infamously completely immune to spells due to having 100% magic resist tied to his teleport. This mod reduces his magic resistance by 100% with a perk via SPID, making it compatible with people's overhauls." See a need, fill a need. Thanks.

Lets see... Glacia - Ice Wraiths SFX Rework by Satafinix
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139869
"HQ Ice Wraiths SFX Replacer" You'll need to listen tot he sample and make up your own minds, the old cat likes parts of it, but hears too much breath and bass... Sounds too much like a much larger wounded animal. Your game your way. Pass

We'll finish up with two by plozaq one slipped through the cracks
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/plozaq/mods?gameId=1704

Feel the burn: When a vampire burns in the daylight they will now stagger in pain and cry out. If the vampire is seen by anyone while on fire, they will be attacked and identified as a blood sucker.

Vampire Lord and Lady - Revamped: This is a new re-mesh of the Vampire Lord form which includes several armor options.

Obviously Vampired themed tweaks. While Feel the burn would be considered 'historically accurate' to all the novels and movies. It's going to make it very hard to complete Dawnguard. Serana is not going to be very happy either. The new meshes however do a nice job correcting some weirdness in the vanilla meshes like angular belly bulges and the like. Those are worth a look. We'll call that a 'fix' Thanks. have a blood cookie. Serana hates you.

And that will do for today. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are swept. Have a seat by the fires and warm your bones. We-B-Open!

Gooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Middas the 22nd of Morning Star and a crisp predawn here on warm sands. The blessed moons have set and it is once again time for this one to tend the inn. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water is put to the flame...

Our brew of the day is Capetown Lungo, and the biscuits are Strawberry rhubarb thumbprint cookies (baked way too many though LOL) Checking the hot sheets we have 38 new with all the usual suspects. Let's see what catches an old cat's eye over a fresh cuppa.

DieRoteHand released Nemesis to Pandora switch as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139713
"Guide on how to swtich from Nemesis to Pandora For MO2 users"

Why does the old cat think this one must have struggled with the conversion? Grain of salt needed here. Intended for the Nolvus mod pack. Thanks

Passerandloser released mind twist--plus as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139743
"Jinxxed0 create the basic mod. I continue modify and perfect itadding area illusion spell."

'Corrosion Maze Net' causes corrosion damage? Ah'vrie thinks this one needs to understand what "illusion" represents. Pass, but keep at it, thanks

scrollr released The Great Forest of Whiterun Hold no clover version as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139718
"my edited version of The Great Forest of Whiterun Hold that removes all the clovers so that it works better with northern roads" See a need, fill a need, have a cookie, thanks for sharing

Sostratus released Mzulft Researchers wear Bruma Synod Robes
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139729
"Changes the outfits of the Synod researchers in Mzulft to use the Synod Robes added by Beyond Skyrim: Bruma." Obviously you need the beyond Skyrim Bruma mod. Shame the author didn't bother to fork the textures. Oh well. Thanks

DaankeyKang released Simply Rest Anywhere - No Sleeping In Inns
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139688
"Small change to the mod's quest script to prevent the player from sleeping in inns"
"I thought it made sense from a gameplay and immersion perspective to not let the player sleep in the safety of an inn for free." The old cat agrees, you want to sleep under my roof, you pay for the room like everyone else. Have a cookie

VellokMillion released Saint Jiub the Eradicator - A Jiub lore accurate replacer
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139731
"Change Jiub's appearance, stats, weapons and clothes for one much more in line with the character."

This one takes their lore seriously, Dunmer ghost, and priest robes do fit well. Thanks

Satafinix released Enigma Series - Book Of The Wild - RE
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139720
"The complete redesign of the old book of the wild chapter 3 including: Bear"s - Dog"s - Wolve"s - Troll"s - Sabrecat"s - Mammoth's to keep up with my newest releases"

Updates the book to use his latest versions... Thanks

Ivy - Ivarstead Well Addon
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139737
"Adds a custom well in Ivarstead" Right next to the river? ... Okay

Includes seasonal changes to the ivy covering the well, Ah'vrie thinks the ivy makes the well look abandoned. Your game your way, not for old cats. Hopefully it will at lease get patched for needs mods. Thanks

And finally, Another NPC overhaul by LevisageDeDior

LDD - Aretuza - NPC Overhaul (Guards)
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139706
"This pack features completely overhauled guards, redesigned to enhance immersion and improve your game play experience." The old cat is not really a fan of scars and arbitrary war paint, but thanks, worth a look.

And that will do for today. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are... Where's that mop? We-B-Open!

Goooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Tirdas the 21st of Morning Star and the weather here on warm sands is cold and blustery. The blessed moons will wane through the final quarter tonight, but they have set for now. Time to tend the inn. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water put to the flame...

Our brew of the day is still Kahawa ya Congo, and the biscuits are oatmeal raisin. Checking the hot sheets we have 51 new with the usual eclectic mix. Let's see what catches an old cat's eye this day.

Ev1lVaultBoy released Birthsigns - A Minimalist Trait Mod
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139672
"Adds traits to Skyrim! Requires a new game and Blade and Blunt." The buffs are not very creative, another for the pile. Thanks

Tlam99 released Transmutate Chapter 2
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139611
"adds 3 spell tome transmutating ore" Well, at least there's a theme...
Elf - iron to quicksilver to Moonstone, Orc - Iron to orichalcum to ebony, Human, Iron to Corundum to Dwarven ingot. Your game your way. Books need to be crafted, no world drops

Xioraa released Improved Candlelight
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139623
An interesting take on this. Improve the spell book at a tanning rack, and gain the ability increase the duration depending on how long it's powered? Okay, not for the pile. The old cat may test this in game. I wonder if you can intentionally make the duration short? Thanks, have a cookie.

rhonjhonson released master spells rebalanced
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139657
"this mod doubles the damage and magicka cost of the 3 vanilla master spells." With another version coming that doesn't double the cost.

Okay, the old cat is on the fence with this one. Rhon is treating this as a fix for the vanilla mechanic not applying the two handed bonus on master spells. This may be true. You do still have to do the master quests, but now they just might be worth it. Waiting on version 2 myself. Hard to test if you're not a mage... we'll see. Thanks.

thesignedpainter released Invisible Backpacks
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139576
"A collection of patches to make backpacks from various mods invisible"

Finally the antithesis of IED. Hide everything, including tacky backpacks that clash with your outfits LOL. This one gets a cookie on principal. We love choice.

inscenique released Dawnstar Farms
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139635
"This mods turns two Dawnstar Houses into farms by adding animals, coops and crops."

Well, it's no more ridiculous than the three farms outside Windhelm. Nothing should grow there either. Snowberries anyone LOL

Let's get to the good stuff...

h495 released Shelter of Skaal - fadingsignal's Skaal Tent for Solstheim (BOS)
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139614
"Uses Base Object Swapper to swap several tents near Skaal Village on Solstheim with fadingsignal's Skaal tent mesh"

H495 knocks it out of the park with their second mod. This uses the assets from Skaal fishing camp. Great mod, but the old cat wasn't thrilled with the location. This is a wonderful use of the assets. original required of course. 2 cookies, Downloaded

Snazzy Noble Cupboards - Base Object Swapper by Gutmaw
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139573
"randomly distributes 15 different custom made Noble Cupboards, Nightstands, and Wardrobe Chests to all vanilla counterparts, as well as any other mod-added vanilla Noble Cupboards, Nightstands, and Wardrobe Chests."

You'll want to read the mod page. The doors open all the way showing the contents before opening the loot menu... Very snazzy. Needs testing in game. Have a cookie

And finally we have a new grass mod from Jilvane

Wildlyfe - Fantasy Grass Overhaul - Seasons Support
"An all-encompassing grass mod that covers every biome in Skyrim; with full Seasons support and many customizable options to choose from."

Uses grass model from Cathedral 3D landscapes as well as assorted models from other grass mods. The Author uses a fantasy style ENB (Not a bad one) so the greens are over saturated, but if you look past that, the grass texture combinations are wonderful, fitting, and varried. This one could give Kyne's grass a run for the money.

Tracking for now, needs to be seen in game. The old cat will be testing this. 2 cookies

And that will do for today. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are swept. Have a seat by the fires and warm your bones. We-B-Open!

Goooooood morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Morndas the 20th of Morning Star and wage slaves lament, the weekend is over. hide if you can or work if you must, it's Morndas again. The blessed moons have set and it is again time for this one to tend the inn. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water put to the flame...

Our brew of the day is Kahawa ya Congo, and the biscuits will have to wait for Ah'vrie to go to the markets a little later. Checking the hot sheets we have 56 new Mostly jiggles and patches, but several caught the eye. Let's dive in over a fresh cuppa.

Slampears released Snow Material UV Fixes (SOS) as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139591
"Addon for simplicity of snow which edits the UV scaling of Skyrim's snow shaders for consistency with terrain."

It's hard to get past how bad the rocks look LOL, but the UV scaling does appear to make a difference. No information on the patch itself. The old cat mat test this one. Have a cookie

Ferithh released Autumn Reshade as a first mod Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139580
Brightens, increases contrast, and favors reds. The old cat is not thrilled, but taste is subjective. Thanks

rhonjhonson released fortify skills omega.
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139532
Evidently the mod creates spells that function like an enchantment? Ah'vrie has given up on making sense of the mod page. It's discussing 15 version of the mod, but this is version one. It's much too early on a Morndas for the old cat to translate stupid. Moving right along

tirol211 is still creating Alteration spells, but the old cat likes this one's thinking

Alteration - Grant Armor
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139541
"Enjoy traveling with non-essential followers but afraid they might die? This mod brings spells that allow you to grant armor to others." Includes 'grant' versions of each level of mage armor, that lasts 3X longer and costs less to cast. Now you can protect your posse.
This one gets a cookie. Their last three alteration mods the old cat would actually use.

Satafinix returned with Wyrm - The Ancient Ones
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139539
"My newest Dragons SFX-VSFX Aimed for elders & Ancient dragons type, they're less aggressive might as well let them sleep, but should you go for one you'll hear the destructive might of their new VSFX" No voices this time only effects. It's hard to judge from the samples. This is more about scattered pebbles and distant roars. Worth a listen.

Lets see... ICFur released Enhanced Vanilla - Spiky Grass
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139584
"This is a higher poly version of the vanilla spiky grass mesh with an optional texture replacement." A slight improvement, thanks.

noahlong0313 released Thrones Expanded
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139544
"This mod aims to overhaul the thrones of the Jarls of Skyrim, giving them seats truly fitting for their noble position and specially catered to their hold and history."
"Disclaimer : The collisions are not finished, these thrones use vanilla collision boxes."

Wow, just wow... beautiful and inventive. This one has come a long way. Tracking for now. The old cat will probably add these in the next restart.

LevisageDeDior re-released LDD - Aretuza - NPC Overhaul (Whiterun)
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139547
"This pack features 64 completely overhauled NPCs, redesigned to enhance immersion and improve your gameplay experience." The old cat is not thrilled with some of the overlays, like Adrianne and Ulfberth have identical birth marks? Worth a look. Not for old cats

gutmaw snazzied up two more today
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/gutmaw?gameId=1704
Calixto, and Silus Vesuius get a snazzy overhaul. Beautiful work as always. Worth a look and a cookie

And the top slot goes to AndrealphusVIII, but this is a WIP / Beta. Tracking for now

AISO - Andrealphus Illusion Spells Overhaul
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139535
"I never liked how Illusion spells work in Skyrim. They are either too powerful, or completely useless. In addition, only the player can cast most of them, so the player themselves are never in danger of losing control, but for some reason they and they alone can do it to NPCs. As such, I decided to address this."

"Disclaimer: This mod is considered an open beta. It may still have certain bugs that need to be ironed out."

And that will do for today. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are swept. Have a seat and the wenches will serve you. We-B-Open! :steamhappy:

Goooooood morning tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Sundas the 19th of Morning Star, and a peaceful predawn here on warm sands. The blessed moons have set, and it's time once again for this one to tend the inn. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water is brought to a boil...

Our brew of the day is literally pot luck. The old cat is blending some leftover roasts. Let's see how Cuban and South African beans dance in the cuppa. Ah'vrie will be baking oatmeal sour cherry biscuits fresh in a little while. Should pair up nice.

Checking the hot sheets we have 53 new mods, and as always a few don't have a cup size. Let's see what catches the eye over a fresh cuppa... Definitely a fresh cuppa.

ikiller1996 released 'bug' as a first mod. Welcome
Literally no information given. It looks to be a re-upload of a patch. No link

tynot released Skyforge Completed as a second mod.
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139473
adds a smelter, tanning rack and armor bench to the skyforge. It looks like they modded a modded game. The old cat would wager things will float a bit in a vanilla build LOL.

CourierSixOG released two today gormet coffee, tea, and skooma
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/CourierSixOG/mods?gameId=1704
Breakfast of champions

Curtainosphere25 released Yet Another Spell Tome Crafting Mod - SE
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139517
This is actually a patch for Another Spell Tome Crafting Mod by Santheos, that removes all crafting restrictions. It also requires Mysticism, and Sorcerer. Not for old cats, but thanks

Horus04 released Forgotten Enchantments
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139478
"This mod adds enchantments to a chest near riverwood" Yet another cheat chest... the old cat can respect that, but this one steals virtually all the best quest rewards from the game and hands them to you at the start. Why play? Pass

kwamagg released Dynamic Candles - Blow Them Out and Light Again
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139494
"Now you can blow out and re-light candles of all kinds." It includes a couple of mesh patches, but the old cat has a feeling this will play hell with lighting overhauls. Someone already complained their character turned invisible when they blew out a candle, but they were using lux, the ultimate patching nightmare. Grain of salt with this one. Needs testing

And finally our mod of the day is specially made just for BA (whether the author knew it or not ;-)

barrel lid opens for Immersive Barrels bos by dffhxc
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139500
"reworked collision in all barrels + added caps with animation. you still need the original mod Immersive Barrels bos"

Finally someone is making strides in luxury barrel technology. Now we need the interior redone in hand stitched rich Corinthian leather, and a cup holder...

And that will do for today. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are swept. Have a seat by the fires and warm your bones. We-B-open!

Gooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Loredas the 18th of Morning Star and wage slaves rejoice the weekend has arrived. It's another crisp predawn here on warm sands. The blessed moons have set and it is once again time for Ah'vrie to tend the inn for our most honored guests. Excuse please while the ash pits are emptied and the fires rebuilt. Ah'vrie always likes to start the weekend off with happy fires and a happy fire needs to breathe... There, much better no? Now to compost the ash, tend the garden, scrub the kettles and bring fresh water to a boil... an innkeepers life is glamorous no?

Our brew of the day is Miami espresso, and the biscuits are Tate's lemon cookies. Checking the hot sheets we have 53 new from all the usual suspects. Let's see what catches an old cat's eye that doesn't require an antigravity bra

A quick shout-out to TSarGR. Following up on their first mod (Silver hand Lore overhaul) We got two more today tweaking the companions quests.
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/TSarGR/mods?gameId=1704
Requirements, and more loot for radiant quests.

I will poke the requirements mod a touch. The companions quests are supposed to be accessible in the early game. It's the first faction you meet. That's why you're introduced outside Whiterun before ever making it to the front gates. Setting a minimum arms skill at 40 turns them into a mid / late game faction, and undermines Kodlack's dialog. Your game your way, the old cat will pass, but thanks

yoshiki The Winking Skeever Improved
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139416
"Immersive renovation mod for Winking Skeever, in Solitude."

There's that I word again. The old cat likes some of the changes, and questions others. Is this an inn or a player house? Evidently for this author with plans on marrying Sorex it's both. It's a nitch overhaul to support a story. Ah'vrie applauds that. This might not be for old cat's, but this one gets two cookies on the merits. Nicely done.

tirol211 continues refining Alteration for their play through. Today they added Waterwalking spells to lock picking and Mark and Recall.

Alteration - Waterwalking
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139372
"This mod adds two simple Apprentice-level Waterwalking spells, allowing you to walk on water yourself and grant the ability to your follower or horse."

Immediate Download... I have to be able to cast a spell on my horse and gallop across a lake. That, the old cat can't pass up on. It will also make exploring the black books more interesting... This one gets a cookie, Ah'vrie will be testing this one today (hopefully ;-)

Let's get into visuals a bit...

IDDeimos released Deimos ENB Reshade as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139387
Another ENB + reshade as a first mod. Only three pics? For an ENB, and the best one is with the mod disabled... Keep working at your craft and someday you'll be saying "Do you want fries with that?"

Makes you almost miss those Riverwood shacks. Just poking LOL, Thanks, and welcome

Cabbage ENB ReShade by FishingPower
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139380
"ReShade Preset for Cabbage ENB. Less warm colors and more AO."

Actually the old cat would classify this as slightly brighter with increased dynamic range. Taste is always subjective, and to the old cat, the 'original' pics look better. Your game your way. ( Now this one wants to look at cabbage again LOL )

We'll finish up with two 'under the hood' mods

Form Id Searcher and Autocompletion by rhonjhonson
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139335
"If you often use in game console for debugging and modding you may find this SKSE plugin helpful." To be honest the old cat is not exactly sure what this does. It 'feels' like a manual form of additem menu. Here's the old cat's first gut impression which may be completely unfounded, and may miss the mark totally...

"type Editor Id(for example, if you want the forsworn fireball staff, you need to type dunBlindCliffStaffReward, not Eye of Melka)"

If Ah'vrie has to search for dunBlindCliffStaffReward, I've already found the formID and don't need your mod... Just saying. Additem Menu and similar mods are more useful.

And this one gets the top slot today because the old cat already stubbed a toe on this one

Dynamic Cubemap Patcher - Mod Organizer 2 Plugin by kiin98
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/139324
"An Mo2 plugin to find all cube maps in your load order and convert them to dynamic cube maps for ENB. Only a single click is needed." where were you a week ago when the old cat had to fix his statues of Dibella looking like melting butter? Ugh!

LOL, kiin98 has been around for years, and the old cat is still using their diversified chickens mod from 2 years ago. If more and more authors switch to dynamic cube maps, this could become a very valuable tool. 2 cookies

And that will do for today The Ale casks were delivered on time last night, and the new batch of mead is ready. We're serving mudcrab scrambles for the early meal, and Ah'vrie will plan the late meal when he returns from the markets. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are swept and mopped. Have a seat and the wenches will be happy to serve you. We-B-Open!