Modding on the Spectrum

Goooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Loredas the 8th of Sun's Dusk, and a very quiet predawn at the inn. Wage slaves rejoice the weekend has arrived. 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 ash pits are emptied, and fires are rebuilt. Ah'vrie always likes to start the weekends off fresh mead, and happy fires. At this point, it's tradition.

Our brew of the day is Inspirazione a Roma, and the biscuits will simply have to wait on this one visiting the markets a little later. But there are still plenty of fudge brownie cookies to tide everyone over for now. Checking the hot sheets we have 41 new with lots of jangle and accessories as always. Lets see what catches the eye of an old cat this day over a fresh cuppa or two... Mmm, goood coffee.

Cutleryat25 released Unfashionable Equipment Begone Equipment Toggle config. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163856
"A config file for Equipment Toggle to hide certain equipment that hides the armor/outfit from being properly seen" Interesting first mod. Thanks for sharing.

dragondottie released Weightless Items - Soul Gems as their first mod.
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163849
Plenty of these on the pile already, but thanks.

Mezerin released Riften Forge - BOS patch as their third mod
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163852
"This moves the Forge in Riften just enough to make it stop clipping with the roof" LOL, we've been fixing that little glitch since 2011 ;-) This one does it with BOS. What's old is new again. Reminds this one of women's fashions.

Speaking of which huh, huh, see what ah'vrie did there? The art of the Segway

Literal Who - Female Necromancers Replacer by runescapebot
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163912
"Replacers for generic female Necromancers"

Well if you're going to do a twenty something eye candy build, why not? The old cat quite likes some of the... paint, makeup, tats? Anyway, cuter targets to kill. Why not ;-)

And speaking of eye candy, Skymodels released three presets today. We'll give them a shoutout. Why shouldn't your female dragonborn also get the eye candy treatment? ;-)
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/Skymodels/mods?gameId=1704

We'll finish up the jangle corner today with OBodies - 3BA Preset Pack by Granhadd
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163386 (NSFW)
"100 unique BodySlide presets designed for realism and variety"

The old cat wouldn't normally directly cover pure jangle, but what sets this apart is that there is literally a separate body preset for just about every named female, with a lot of variation, and not all are top heavy and flattering. It's an interesting mix. A few could be chubbier, but it's a reasonable mix, and not an H cup in the group. Have a cookie.

Speaking of jangle, JohnTheJohner released Fanola's House of Pleasures
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163843
"So to put it bluntly, this is a brothel."

The only reason this made it into the review is the way it was handled. This is a safe for work brothel with only fade to black encounters outside Riften. The "services" are not cheap, but provide a six hour buff to certain skills. It's for men, or women, of any personal preference. You'll need to read the page. The old cat might actually add this. It fits in well in Riften. Why not?

Lets get to the good stuff

Zerofrost's Tamriel Alchemy
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163794
"Adds new potions from different regions of Tamriel, new beverages, and replaces existing potions with new design from Zerofrost"

This was a group effort, and requires Container Item Distributor, for merchant list integration, and Skypatcher to replace the vanilla models, unless you choose the new drinks only version. Again, this adds a lot of variety to the base game, and looks very well done. The new models are beautiful. The old cat wishes a few were clear glass an animated, so Ah'vrie might try the 'new drinks'. Thanks. This one gets a cookie as well.

Speaking of potions... Huh, huh

WhereDeadAngelsLie released B.O.O.B.I.E.S (aka Immersive Icons) - POTIONS
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163838
"Hundreds of new icons and a smart unique ordering system for maximum enjoyment. Long gone are the days when one icon had to represent twenty different kinds of potions."

Interesting ordering system, and the icons are simple and clean despite the name. This is a very complete system. Worth a look, a read, and a cookie. tracking for now.

lets see. littlehand6 put a fresh coat of paint on Traitor's post, and Ironback hideout
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/littlehand6/mods?gameId=1704

Both are quite nicely done. Patched up and with roofs, but not looking new. They do however look occupied. Both of these locations are in 'freeze to death' territory so it makes perfect sense for the bandits to slap a few boards up over the holes. This could have easily been an unexpected mod of the day. Definitely cookie worthy. the old cat does wish there was a more damaged roof mesh that fit, but they are worth a look. Thanks

And finally well give the top slot to Javier. Over the top as always...

JK's Nightgate Inn
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/161218
"A lore-friendly overhaul of Nightgate Inn, including both interiors and exterior."

Yeah... Lore friendly? I guess. JK does tend to invent his own lore LOL. Absolutely beautiful new model, and well cluttered as only JK can it pull off. 2 cookie work, but as always with Javier, this will be a patching nightmare with most Inn mods, lighting mods, cutting room floor, Bathing in skyrim... it's an extensive list as always LOL

And that will do for today. The new casks of ale were delivered on time last night, the fresh batch of mead is ready. We're serving medallions of marinated roast venison on a bed of diced potatoes and onions served with an egg on top for the early meal. And ale braised sabercat for the late meal. As always we'll have a hearty stew simmering all day for those that need to ward Skyrim's chill. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are swept and mopped. Have a seat by the fires and warm your bones. We-B-Open!

Goooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Fredas the 7th of Sun's Dusk, and thank the divines, the weekend is nigh. It's another chilly 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 from Indonesia, and the biscuits are Chocolate fudge cookies. Checking the hot sheets we have 36 new mods today. Let's dive in over a fresh cuppa and see if anything catches the eye.

marooncarl2 released Different Onion Effects for Diverse Foods as their first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163782
"changes the alchemy effects of the onion so they are different than that of garlic."

Interesting first mod. There are a scant few ingredients in Skyrim that have only positive effects. Duplicating them in a new record makes cheap, and very powerful potions, that are also worth a lot of septims. This is a very reasonable correction. Thanks Have a cookie.

DJQuiet released SunHelm Saltier Salt Water as their first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163806
"Adds the ability to use SunHelm's salt water bottles to create salt piles AND water. Highly compatible, safe to uninstall."

"This is something I made entirely for my own game with a impressive amount of help from chatGPT. It is my first mod, and I have virtually no experience with papyrus and creation kit; that is to say, if it doesn't work for you, I won't be much help troubleshooting. Good luck."

Honesty is cookie worthy ;-) The old cat is on the fence with this. We should have always been able to create salt pile by boiling/evaporating salt water. That's how most salt is made if it isn't being mined from ancient dried seas. The question is how do you extract purified water without a still? Honestly I like the mod, and may just test it.

KryptKusher8 released Better Smithing Rings. Another noobish OP buff, no link needed

heckinBeck patched Alchemy Adjustments - Vanilla Restore Potions as their third.
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163785
Basically de-nerfs the changes to restore potions as it says on the box. Thanks

TheOneTrueFuzzBeed released Legal Tender - Diverse Stamped Ingots
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163774
"Adds multiple new ingot variants that represent differing factions who would forge them."

Your game your way... and yet you'll still find imperial gold in ancient falmer temples. Gold id gold, and silver is silver. Stamping them as originating from different locations (like the regional soaps in BIS and Sunhelm) is cool, but ultimately gold is gold.

ftwranger released Dwarven Centurion Variety
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163793
"bring more variety to Dwarven centurions by adding forgotten season centurion frost and wraithguard messenger to the centurion leveled list."

Original mods required along with Skypatcher, but not a bad idea. Thanks

We'll finish up today with AW Females All in One Skypatched
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163688
"My High Poly Female Replacers All-in-One are now available in a Skypatched version!"

Very customizable through 9 INI files. Make sure to read the mod page. Old/young, painted/unpainted, Scars/no scars... You get the idea. Worth a look. At least their not all teenagers.

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!

Gooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Turdas the 6th of Sun'd Dusk, and time for this one to tend the inn. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water is put to the flame...

Your brew of the day is Umatima wa Uganda, and the biscuits are chocolate chip. Checking the hot sheets we have 58 new mods with lots of jangle and little substance. Let's see what did catch the eye today.

ZckeZckT is still pumping out cookie cutter eye candy replacers film at 11
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/ZckeZckT/mods?gameId=1704

spaz490 converted a few more Ave rins to UBE
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/spaz490/mods?gameId=1704

Moving on to real estate, we'll start just plain silly and see where it goes

Horus04 released Whiterun Museum - WIP
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/162802
It's in Breezehome's 'basement' ... Moving right along

OddBard released Harmonious Hjerim
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163580
"A vanilla-assets, vanilla-plus take on Hjerim that combines Nordic and Dunmeri influences. I made this for a specific character and now I'm releasing it into the wild."

The old cat actually likes this one. Understated with very reasonable clutter, and 'hidden' crafting. This one gets a cookie. Definitely worth a look. Thanks

havitaz released two skypatcher mods today. warm foods, and... ridiculous
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/havitaz/mods?gameId=1704
vegetarian vampire? ... LOL, just poking

gera1264 released Better Vanilla Pelt Prices
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163707
What it says on the wrapper. Thanks

And we'll finish up with Angis Camp Overhaul by iyreshot
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163700
"Angi has been hammering away for the past 14 years...it's time she has something to show for it! This is a lightweight overhaul. Meant to be friendly to most, if not all load orders."

Adds a little garden, some very cold looking chickens, and an additional archery target or two. (Not sure about the suicide ramp at the end of the platform though ;-)

Again, understated and very reasonable. Worth a look.

That's about it for today. The fires are stoked, yada yada. We-B-Open!

Gooooooood morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Middas the 5th od Sun's Dusk and another chilly predawn here on warm sands. The blessed moons were full, but at least for now they have set. Anyway, it's time once again for Ah'vrie 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 Inspirazione a Napoli, and the biscuits are fudge brownie cookies. Checking the hot sheets we have 48 new mods, but not much catches the eye today. Let's dive in over a fresh cuppa...

BrOverShield is still removing everything of interest in the game. Your game your way

aluucarrd released Full Moon Fever as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163554
"If a werewolf scratches you, there's a chance you will contract Full Moon Fever. This new disease will cause you to transform into a werewolf every night of the full moon. It can be cured like any common disease and as such will not provide bonuses such as disease immunity like regular werewolves."

Oookay... So you can cure lycanthropy 'lite' at a shrine. Somebody should tell the companions ummm, thanks

dfas014333 released Easier Pickpocket as a first mod. Welcome
"Makes pickpocketing easier by changing how value and weight affect success chance." Thanks

Justinwolf11 released Infinite Soul Tomatos and Crafting as their second mod.
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163606
"Simply makes the soul tomatos infinitely usable and craftable"

Ah, a graduate of the Al Gore school of spelling ;-) An interesting cheat, thanks

ydgrasil87 released Akiss Imperial BnP HPH as their second mod.
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163564
"My first character presset that I've been using for a while" Thanks for sharing

gera1264 released three 2nd mods today
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/gera1264/mods?gameId=1704
A patch for Animals are not monsters, and a couple of interesting tweaks. Thanks

Horus Crafting Overhaul
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163588
"This is simply a combination from 3 of my other Mods: Planting - more growable Ingredients, Skyrim Recycling Recipes, Forgotten Enchantments" Thanks

We'll throw in a wee bit of jiggle

Goth Witch - Illia Replacer (High Poly) by runescapebot
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163574
"Replacer for Illia" Young, pretty, and looks like a vampire. For once the old cat doesn't really have an issue with her apparent age. Definitely worth a look.

But evidently it's not only the old cat that thinks she looks like a vamp

braxusx released two today
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/braxusx/mods?gameId=1704
one makes Solstheim use Skyrin weather, and the other... wait for it

"A Serana Replacer based on assets from runescapebot's Goth Witch - Illia Replacer"
And the old cat has to admit, it's probably a better fit than Illia ;-) Thanks

And that's pretty much it for today, The fires are stoked, yada yada. We-B-Open!

Gooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Tirdas the 4th of Sun's Dusk and another chilly predawn here on warm sands. The blessed moons are gibbous tonight, and will be full tomorrow, so remember the old cat's warnings. If you show up smelling of wet dog, you'll be tasting the old cat's mace not his mead, and the silver filigree is not just for decoration if you catch my meaning. Anyway, the 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 boil...

Our brew of the day is Istanbul espresso, and the biscuits are Tate's lemon cookies. Checking the hot sheets we have 43 new mods. Lets dive in over a fresh cuppa and see what catches an old cat's eye this day.

BabiloOnNexus spammed us with 8 patches for shattered as first mods. Welcome
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/BabiloOnNexus/mods?gameId=1704

Daxtreme released Nerf Sabre Cat Damage - Skypatcher
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163506
"Bad kitty, over-tuned damage. Let's reduce it, with maximum compatibility though. No ESP"

1/3, 1/2, and 2/3 rds damage available. These kitties hunt mammoths. They're supposed to be mean. If you're a wimp, take the carriage, or git gud

Lets see... Styyxus found null descriptions in the CK and filled in a few blanks. Thanks

Default Object Manager Fix
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163540

JobiWanUK released Outfit Recognition Framework
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163502
"Distributes 33 new keywords to clothing and armour so NPCs will make comments based on what they are wearing and what the player is wearing. Highly compatible. ESL flagged."

Thanks. Read the mod page, as this also adds two new voice types, everything was voiced with Eleven Labs, and there are several requirements... Grain of salt on this one.

Lets get to the good stuff...

LevisageDeDior released LDD - Eyes For UBE
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163522
"This mod is a part of Levi's Choice series. Adds customized eye meshes and 35 new textures."

These are quite nicely done, and the variations in tone are both subtle and beautiful. Definitely worth a look and a cookie. The old cat is not sure why it's flagged for UBE? It should work fine with an body type / texture. Tracking, Maybe the old cat needs to learn something new, or there's going to be a CBBE conversion? Either way it gets a cookie

Mimirwisdom released Whiterun's Rustic Benches
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163488
"Yet another replacement for Whiterun's benches. This one offers a more rustic and less fancy look"

Intentionally almost PBR level boring, and very well done. LOL. This would lend itself very well to variations in the carvings. Thanks woth a look, but the ld cat is not thrilled with the textures at all.

And for our mod of the day... Something very unusual for this old cat.

Fox Replacer- Mihail Monsters and Animals
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163477
"High-quality vanilla Fox replacer, featuring brand-new detailed models and 4K textures"

Mihail has always been an exceptional modeler, but has a nasty habit of over spawning his added critters everywhere. His replacers though, are beautiful and seriously worth consideration in any build. This is no exception. Beautiful work. 2 cookies

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

Goooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. it is Morndas the 3rd of Sun's Dusk, and wage slaves lament, the weekend is over. The blessed moons are gibbous tomorrow, and the goddess' crazy puppies will be out in force so keep those silver weapons close and well honed. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water is put to the flame. It's time for this one to tend the inn once again.

Our brew of the day is Istanbul espresso and the biscuits are chocolate chip. Checking the hot sheets we have 37 new in the usual eclectic mix of jangles and patches. Let's see what catches an old cat's eye over a fresh cuppa or two. Definitely a fresh cuppa...

The True Armor of Dragonborn - SrPrust Version as their first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163393
"The goal is to bring a look that stays true to the original artistic vision of the Dragonborn — with reworked tones, materials, and contrast to match the aesthetic of the legendary Nordic hero"

Hopefully there will also be an upscaled version, with optional physics. (Already requested in the posts) The old cat likes that you begin to collect the pieces in Helgen, and have to craft the 'rough' armor yourself. Obviously this only works with the vanilla start unless you spawn the materials. Maybe not cookie worthy, but not destined for the pile either. Thanks

VaelKaltar released Fabled Alchemy as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163437
Interesting if totally OP as expected. Potions that offer permanent boosts to stats and skills. Not for old cats, but worth a look if you want a cheat you can drink. Thanks

Ikered released water base as a first mod. Welcome.
They have a weak PC and downscaling base water textures reduced their size. Some files flagged as suspicious, but it's a first mod. Very nitch, but thanks for sharing.

roskospoko released No More Dungeon Greenery
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163164
"Changes few textures, provides a light plugin and uses the power of Base Object Swapper to completely remove any unwanted plants from dungeons. FOMOD with modular options."

As far as the old cat is concerned this is a 2 cookie mod. Downloaded to endorse. Needs testing though. The devs used a lot fringe 'grass' and ferns to hide bad rock placement and seams. This one is looking forward to not seeing this in game, and has requested a followup mod to remove all the stupid interior ivy that's so popular right now. ;-)

gera1264 released two today
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/gera1264/mods?gameId=1704
Wispmother And Albino Spider Respawn Fix, and Better Vanilla Night Eye Toggle

The respawn fix is so you can collect their ingredients, again, and the the night eye toggle gives infinite duration to vampires and beast races... That one the old cat likes. It never made sense for Khajiit night vision to run out. It's genetic not a power. Vamps and werewolves should actually have predator vision (thermal not night) So this one is still on the fence. Thanks

kuroishitam released Female Dragon Priest
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163417
"This mod adds a new variant of dragon priest, female dragon priest to dragon priest leveled list."

The old cat is fine with the concept, but not with the models used. Taste is subjective, but clawed feet, spiked knees, horns, a devil's tail, and demon wings... Your game your way. Not for old cats. Thanks but no thanks ;-)

melchizedek92 released Gem Extractor for Vanilla Jewelry and Staves
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163441
"A minimalistic workbench for gem extraction from various jewelry and staves."

Turn all those staves you never use into filled grand souls gems... The idea has some merit. The jewelry part of is ridiculous any way you slice it though. the gems are destroyed on removal, and you combine the shards to form a new gem? Pass on that, but thanks. The old cat does like the stave idea though.

And finally we do have a mod of the day, but their wasn't a lot of competition ;-)

Exterior Wooden Table Variants by Pieter82
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163415
"Adds three additional variants of the 'Exterior Wooden Table' model using Base Object Swapper." This one gets a cookie. We love variety, and the models look good. Thanks

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

Gooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It's Sundas the 2nd of Sun's Dusk and a rather brisk predawn here on warm sands. The blessed will be full on Middas, so it's time to hone those silver weapons again, but for now the moons have set, the paths are closed, and it's 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 pot luck. This ones eyes were closed when he chose. Tastes African so it's probably Kahawa ya Congo. We'll be baking fresh thumbprint biscuits later this morning. Maybe strawberry rhubarb, maybe apricot, but I also want to try them with a fresh, tart, apple cranberry chutney, or a nice bitter orange marmalade. Or all of the above, we'll see... Checking the hot sheets we have 46 new. Lets see what catches the eye over a cuppa.

xzwyy released PineTreeReplace as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163333
"use 2.5mb-big high poly model replace PineTree01 to PineTree04，and disable 33% of them to gain fps，need a powerful pc"

Oookay, well they're not pine. Beech with pine bark maybe? From the description they're also not very well optimized, but they are rather pretty. The old cat could see scattering a few around the actual pine forest, but not as a replacer. Your game your way. Thanks

atamg released Modern Brawl Bug Fix flaged ESL as their first SSE mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163390
What it says on the wrapper, Word of caution for a heavily modded game though. So many authors included this fix in their own mods over the years, it became imperative to put the current version near the bottom of your load order to force the game to use the current version. The old cat would use the same location recommendation for this one. It's a flagged ESP so it will respect the load order. Thanks

Seb263 released Smart Talk (Dialogue Menu Enhancer)
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/161500
"Smart Talk enhances dialogue by making conversations clearer, smoother, and more dynamic" ... This one likes the feel of sunshine on his bottom LOL

It changes the text color of quest related lines to goldenrod, and marks the line. Looks very nice as well. (but it doesn't enhance any dialogs ;-)

lets see sevnces released Whiterun City Walls - Collision Redone
After dumping them around Riverwood and calling them ruins they realized you couldn't jump over them... So let's break Whiterun PASS No link needed

Moving right along

braxusx released Non-hostile Spriggans
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163351
"Makes Spriggans either flee from you, or more likely to flee after an attack. Two choices for your play style."

The old cats on the fence with this one. There was a similar mod for Oblivion Remastered. It somehow feels wrong to turn the warriors of Kyne into cowards, but then the old cat plays with the voice of the sky ring, because this one doesn't like killing them either. Your game your way. We love choice. Thanks

And finally Chiselsky released Whiterun Vanilla Wall Totems Improved
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163337
"Model improvements for Whiterun wall totems with more polygons and a less geometrical aspect. Complex material shader enabled."

Here we go again... This mod doesn't touch the totems. I makes the makes the wall below them less sharply angled by breaking of the corners and adding parallax support. If you use a decent parallax retex you probably don't want or need this, but thanks.

There's really no mod of the day. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are swept. Enjoy what remains of the weekend. We-B-Open!

Goooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Loredas the 1st of Sun's Dusk, and wage slave rejoice the weekend has arrived. The blessed moons have set, and it is once again time for this one to tend the inn for our most honored guests. Excuse please while the ash pits are emptied, and the fires rebuilt. You may wish to cover your tankards. This get's a bit dusty...

There. much better no? Ah'vrie always likes to begin the weekend with happy fires. As his mother liked to say; A happy fire warms more than the room. Now to put some fresh water to the flame while this one scrubs the kettles, composts the ash, and checks the garden.

Our brew of the day is Arpeggio Extra and the biscuits are ginger. Checking the hot sheets we have 50 new mods from the usual eclectic sources. Let's see what catches an old cat's eye over a fresh cuppa or two.

JackODonoghue released Men of North Skybound Watch as a first mod. welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163231
"This mod is my first mod, and I made it in conjunction with my Youtube video. It includes the Bard camp, which can be found just East of Anise's cabin rear Riverwood, and some modifications to the North Skybound Watch - where, you will find an in-game book of the story, yes that's right, the whole story. I also placed a few treasures there for anyone curious enough to search!"

This is pretty cool for a first mod. They wrote a story, made a video of the story, then created a mod to bring the story into the game... 2 cookies for the effort alone. Thanks

Vladislay released Stoneheart Mine
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163268
"I created this mod as a personal challenge—to see if I could build a small dungeon, not just houses or tweak weapons. I hope you enjoy it! I’m planning to make more mods like this in the future."

Why not? a small mine, unpretentious... It's how we learn. The added NPCs appear to have brownface, and including spider webs and cocooned bodies, along with a couple of draugr without this being a crypt is questionable, but it's a start. Thanks

Kittytail released Midnight Sun
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163295
"Venture into the Boreal Valley and overcome new adversaries in this multi-hour adventure!"

Worth a look. Not for old cats. Looks like they had fun. Ah'vrie has just never been fond of adding models that don't fit the lore, and a whole Victorian city of the dead? Thanks

MyrandaMiller91 released Alchemical Cooking Recipes - CC Survival... PATCHES
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163277
"Gives all of the items from Alchemical Cooking Recipes CC Survival Mode effects, and the option to craft some of the items using the CC Camping Campfire."

Ah'vrie doesn't usually cover patches, but Myranda is a disabled gamer girl that loves the game. She deserves mention, and a virtual hug with her cookie. Downloaded to endorse.

transgressor released POI Persistence
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163253
"Once all hostiles are killed friendlier fellows may return and occupy the location. This takes 12 in-game hours and you need to be away in another location so it can update in secret."

Similar to the takeover series, but for tiny POIs. It does remove a couple of ambush traps because of the way the game handles them, but all in all, a well thought out game tweak. Tracking, the old cat may add this... thinking about it anyway ;-)

Lets see... Styyxus released Missing Location Keywords FIX
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163249
"While making a mod that relies on interiors having specific keywords i noticed that a bunch of locations are completely missing basic ones. So, i added some that made sense."

They avoided adding / altering anything clearable. Just the basic ones so a cave is a cave, and a dungeon is a dungeon... Can't fault the thinking. We love little fixes. Thanks.

Now for a peek under the hood

AlhimikPh released DDS Preview Plus (Professional Edition) for MO2
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163260
"I completely rewrote the texture viewer. Now you can view dependencies, delete and hide textures, and see which NIFs they belong to.

This needs testing, but looks like a very useful plugin for tracing texture conflicts, and has some serious horsepower. Downloaded to test. Thanks

We'll give honorable mention to two mods that would never see the old cat's game, but it's not the old cat's game, sooo...

TurntLogic released The Walls of Karthwasten
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/162376

Ancient battlements for three houses and a mine... your game your way.

RedBag's Shor's Stone
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163261

See above, only these three houses now look like a bandit camp with a windmill. PASS

AndrealletiusVIII released Archery Skill Archetype - Consistency Tweaks
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163246
"This is my (hopefully nuanced) take on the Archery Thief Stone debacle."

The old cat likes this one. USSEP balanced the guardian stones to each buff 6 skills by moving archery to the warrior stone. There are lots of valid arguments for that. No poking needed. Unfortunately the 'fix' also took away the only offensive skill for thieves. This mod doesn't point fingers, it simply gives you a choice. And we do love choice. Have a cookie.

And we'll finish up with Ampulhex's Keeper Carcette and Vampire Carcette
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163141
"A standalone high-poly head makeover of the ill-fated Vigilant of Stendarr, including a vampire form for A Cure For the Keeper. ESL."

Another interesting vamp makeover. A bit young to be keeper, and the old cat is not fond of the hair, but definitely a unique look. patches to support a cure for the keeper. Thanks

And that will do for today. We have fresh ale casks, the new batch of mead is ready, and we're serving mudcrab scrambles for the early meal. Ah'vrie will plan the late meal after visiting the markets. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed, and the floors are swept and mopped. Have a seat by the fires and warm your bones. We-B-Open!

Goooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Fredas the 31st of Frostfall, and thank the divines the weekend is nigh at hand. It's a chilly predawn here on warm sands, but the blessed moons have set, and this one has an inn to tend. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water is put to the flames...

Our brew of the day is Kahawa ya Congo, and Ah'vrie is thinking of Oatmeal sour cherry biscuits, or maybe or maybe thumbprint cookies with apple cranberry chutney... We'll bake something fresh a little later. Checking the hot sheets we have 46 new mods, so let's dive in and see what catches an old cat's eye this day.

BrOverShield released Disable Tricking Brother Verulus as their third mod. Evidently it's not prudishness, they want a 'G' rated version of Skyrim. If they're just going to shut down every quests that poses a moral dilemma, no review is required. Your game your way. Thanks

Ufoksen released Bracers of Magical Defense as their third
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163014
"Mod adds magical bracers enchanted with armor spells. Four in total for each spell oakflesh, stoneflesh, ironflesh and ebonyflesh"

Mage armor as an enchantment... If the bracers were considered clothing and not armor, and benefited from the mage armor perk, the old cat could see this being useful in a pure mage build. The specs were not on the mod page, so the old cat asked. Thanks

Wuerfelhusten released RaceMenu - Remove Useless Columns.
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163070
"This mod removes the timestamp and file size columns from the file view menu in RaceMenu Mod to make more room for the file name."

Obviously intended for the vanilla menus. Most UI overhauls include wider menu boxes at this point. But thanks. We love choice.

HurricainReaperProductions released HollowSeed Pumpkin Patch
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/162798
"a growable pumpkin house similar to the telvanni mushroom towers."

pumpkin on the outside, mushroom on the inside... Oookay. Your game your way. Thanks

sevnces released Another Riverwood Bridge - Overhaul
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163078
We do love choice, and this is certainly a choice. The additions make little sense. Your game your way. Not for old cats, but Thanks.

Moving right along, let's look at some NPC replacers

Women of Skyrim Refined by RedguardDiaspora
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163114
"Women replacer using COtR"

A WIP, and claims not to be cookie cutter, but the old cat is not really thrilled with the sculpting at all. Hooked noses, and pointy jutting jaw lines all. Add pointy hats and they could be chanting bubble bubble toil and trouble around a cauldron. Worth a look, but not for old cats. At least they're not glam teens. Thanks

Speaking of glam, ZckeZckT continues to release "cute" replacers
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/ZckeZckT/mods?gameId=1704
requires their 3ba female assets pack. Cute? Yeah. Lore friendly? Doesn't even try. The old cat is glad these are being released as separates. Not for old cat's, yet anyway, but you never know. Thanks

Ampulhex's Sybille Stentor
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163121
"A standalone high-poly head makeover of Solitude's court wizard, whom may or may not be a vampire. ESL"

An interesting look, Not thrilled with the makeup or the hair, but the bite marks on the neck, and the claw finger nails were a cute touch. This one's worth a look. Maybe not for old cat's but definitely interesting. Thanks.

And finally The Frozen Heart by Kreiste (and wSkeever)
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/159911
"Step through a magical mirror into a cursed frozen realm. Explore labyrinths, solve puzzles, ponder orbs, battle shadows, and help an ancient Snow Elf warrior cure her curse."

You'll want to watch the video, this looks really interesting. Tracking for now, but this might just make it into the old cat's next build. 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 Turdas the 30th of Frostfall, and a very quiet predawn here on warm sands. The blessed moons have set, and it's 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 flames...

Our brew of the day was Stockholm Lungo, but the shaman have decreed no more coffee for this one today, but biscuits are allowed, and Ah'vrie is baking peanut butter chocolate chip cookies this morning, and the inn smells wonderful... A few more minutes. Checking the hot sheets we have 42 new mods in the usual eclectic mix. Let's see what catches an old cat's eye today.

Mordrukai dropped three first mods this morning. Welcome
https://next.nexusmods.com/profile/Mordrukai/mods?gameId=1704
Silly, unbalanced... Nothing an old cat would load, but welcome

James1545 released BetterNightingaleBow AE as their second mod.
Exactly what you expect, no link needed but thanks

BrOverShield released Disable Caught Red Handed Quest as their second mod.
So, it's not just the nude statues. We'll call it a prude overhaul (WIP) Thanks

A couple more for the pile

Remove Followers Hunting Bow by TheHalfDwarf
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163068
A script edit resurrected from a copy of a removed mod. Thanks

No Follower Bow Skypatch by sneakymage
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/159967
"Using Skypatcher this mod finds all NPCs in the Current and Potential Player Follower Factions and removes the Follower Bow from their inventory" This is actually a better alternative seeing as it also works on mod added followers, but requires Skypatcher.

lets see... DarkDukla released DDV - Vergi SpellBooks replacement
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163013
"The time has come to make new spell tomes for Skyrim"

But maybe not these... the iron bindings would make them impossible to open without breaking the spine. the 'open' model has a different iron binding to the closed model. They look good... your game your way. Thanks

HeewetSheldon released All Mine
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163067
"You can claim any dwelling in the game. Everything inside will be yours too if you pay the price."

Adds a spell that let's you assume ownership of any interior cell at a cost of 7 septims per item in the cell. The benefits... The cell won't reset making the containers safe storage, and if you kill the baddies first, they don't reset either. Interesting... Thanks

JohnTheJohner released Winter's Gale Cabin
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/163020
"Just a tiny player home I made because I like the Aretino Residence interior so I wanted to make a player home out of it." Perfect starter home for a hermit, but little storage and only a smithy outside. Thanks, talk about being 'out of the way' LOL.

And finally our mod of the day. beat the drums and sound the trumpets

Farm Diversity - Feeding Troughs - Base Object Swapper by FrankBlack
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecialedition/mods/162983
"A diversity mod that adds eight variant water/feed troughs to farms around Skyrim."
"I don't know how many times I've said this, but this was not the mod I intended to work on 😂. I was revisiting my Real Water mods for an update ahead of the release of Diverse Hunter Camps (almost...almost...) and I saw the rather sad troughs animals drink from in vanilla...and I got distracted. This mod is the result of that."

LOL, this one gets a cookie. Downloaded to endorse. The old cat will use this one. Comes in two replacer versions. persistent, and changing. Ah'vrie grabbed the persistent one.

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!