Modding on the Spectrum

Gooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. it is Middas the 26th of Sun's Height and another sultry predawn here on warm sands. The blessed moons have set, the paths are closed, and it is once again time for Ah'vrie to tend the inn for our most honored guests. Excuse please while the fires are stoked and fresh water put to the boil...

Brew of the day is Honduras again. That kind of morning, I just grabbed what was there. and the all important biscuits are Chips Ahoy... don't ask Checking the hot sheets we have 40 new with the usual eclectic mix. Lets see what catches the eye of an old cat this day over a fresh cuppa... make it a double.

snipps98 returns to Skyrim modding after 2 years with their first house mod.

Stendarr's Retreat - Paladin-themed player home in the Rift
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96703
"A centuries old, abandoned shrine to Stendarr in the Rift, Stendarr’s Retreat has been repurposed as the home of a Vigilant"

The old cat has mixed feelings. The Solitude/Thalmor kit is sort of out of place in this location, but it's oddly fitting by virtue of Stendar's beacon. The house is remarkably modest and lore friendly. Due to the height of the kit pieces it could/should have had a second floor. Nicely cluttered. A very nice second mod for snips. Welcome back. Have a cookie

Gonzeh84 released Gonzeh - Stonehills Re-imagined
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96657

Okay, it's an interesting look, but totally offends my sensibilities as a contractor. The is no way ANY ONE would go to all the trouble of replacing a campsite with permanent buildings in a frozen region and not bother closing in the roofs or adding doors. Your game your way. Pass

Lets see... temporalpoporal released SPIDable Bodies - SPID Distribution
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96705
'This is just a SPID file that spread intelligently determined bodymorphs to NPCs.'

Considering the outfits and dialogs in the pictures the old cat questions "intelligent determination" but at least there are no gravity defying breast in the shots. Thanks

tcbflash released two small QOL mods today.
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/4550566 ... files&BH=0
Less Horse Fall Damage, and Calm Your Follower. Thanks

DEEJMASTER333 released two more today
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/90469748?tab=user+files
Carvains Look Dirty... does what is says. thanks, but what catches the eye...
Better Court Wizards, is a merge/patch of three well chosen mods with permission.
This one... confuses an old cat. They create interesting mods and mix them with groundless reversions of the patch. Your game your way. Thanks

Dragoon23 released Symmetric Ebony Plate Armor Replacers
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96644
Based on Alternative Armours - Ebony Plate, this mod does a rather nice job of giving us three forms of symmetrical pauldrons, and both a flat and rounded female chestplates. Not the first, but nicely done and worth a look. Thanks

Apples 2K-8K by iimlenny
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96645
"This is a Mesh and Texture Replacer for Skyrims Apples in 2K-8K" Thank the divines. Finally a retex from Lenny that doesn't look intentionally bad. These are probably the nicest models the old cat has seen, though in 8K... LN2 cooling? LOL Thanks

Okay, lets get to the good stuff...

TMushS released CS' Fishing Nets
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96720
"My personal framework, with added patch mods, that adds fishing nets. Instead of having the player swim to harvest fish, now you can use your net. For quick RP so you don't freeze in water if using any survival mods."

There are a few requirements so read the bloody mod page. The old cat is liking this as an addendum to CC fishing with a survival build. Buy rope from a general vendor, and craft your net. The gather radius is a tad large, but that work well with vanilla fish spawns. It was made for personal use and is offered as is. But it's a great concept. Needs testing Have a cookie.

And finally Meats Meals and More - Food Additions by Suinier
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96718
"An expansion of the available meats and cooked meals, designed to fill in the gaps left in the original game."

Expands the vanilla death drops to add meat to vanilla animals that don't have them and offers varied recipes for all of them with very reasonable buffs. There are survival and non survival versions. This could be really useful for a non hunterborn survival play through, and would probably work very well with Sunhelm out of the box. 2 cookies

And that will do for today. The fires are stoked, the kettles scrubbed and the floors are... Don't drop your food. Now where did Ah'vrie place his mop? We-B-Open!

Gooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Fredas the 28th of Sun's Height and thank the divines, the weekend is nigh. It's a quiet predawn at the inn. The blessed moons will be gibbous Sundas and the goddess' crazy puppies will soon be out making mischief again, you have been warned. Anyway, Ah'vrie has an inn to tend. Excuse please while the fires are stoked and fresh water is put to the boil.

Our brew of the day is Le Cap Lungo, and the biscuits are Verona. Checking the hot sheets we have 37 new with the usual eclectic mix. Let's see what catches the eyes of an old cat...

Tribevel released two more 'various' mods today
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... user+files
These use DAR to provide variations in tanning racks, and work benches. We like these, but make sure you look at the requirements, as the original mods are required for the models.

zloineil released Happy Little Trees - Lighter Pine Trees
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96833
"HLT lighter pine textures. Only the "summer" pines have been redone, the snowy pines are not affected. Compatible with HLT Add-On - DynDOLOD 3, both with Quality and Performance version." A nice alternative look to HLT, We love choice, have a cookie.

Xtudo released Medieval Wine HD by iimlenny - My version SE
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96830
Gets rid of wine bottles altogether in favor of ugly and dirty... Your game your way. The old cat wonders if they bothered patching all of the crafting overhauls that let you 'smelt glass' ?

MaskedRPGFan has released a new SKSE based framework, and two sample mods
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... user+files
Item Manipulator - ITM is an SKSE plugin framework allowing you to change the parameters of forms using configuration files In order to reduce the number of conflicts between mods. As a user just install and forget, you're done.

Showcasing it's use for modders 'Re-Weighter' and 'Weapon Speed - ITM' both use the framework to demonstrate it's potential. "Change the weight of groups of items to anything you want... without scripts, instantly. MCM included. ESP-FE" and "Change weapon speed... without scripts, instantly. MCM included. ESP-FE."

The Gray Cowl of Nocturnal - Music Overhaul by ToosTruus
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96864
"A music overhaul for "The Gray Cowl of Nocturnal" from MannyGT covering only the desert region for now" Ooh, an interesting mix of Middle Eastern music. Seriously fitting and worth a listen. Have another cookie Toos

xavbio released Vampire Armors and Weapons Retexture SE
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96855
"Retextures the Vampire Royal armor, all 3 color variants of the vampire armor, Valerica's unique armor and Harkon's Sword. Also contains an optional retexture for Yamanotaka's Volkihar Knight - Vampire Armor's 3 variants of the volkihar armor set."

Royal Purple Vampire and Volkihar Knight Armor by MidnightVoyager
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96869
"Purple retexture of Xavbio's Royal Vampire Armor, with an optional variant for the royal Volkihar Knight Armor."

Another beautiful retex worthy of a vampiric nobility. And the old cat won't even complain about adding Harkon's sword this time... Well other than having the Hamone line on the edge not the spine, and then Ah'vrie realized that fudge up was vanilla
Beautiful work as always 2 cookies.

If anything, xavbio takes the top slot. Their work is always mod of the day material. The old cat wanted to break this one out, so it's on the bottom.

DEEJMASTER333 is attacking the patch... again, and this time citing ESO We will not debate the stupidity of citing an MMO spin off as 'canon' here.

Reasonable Redbelly Mine Fix
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96850

This is a different approach to the same vanilla bug the team addressed, and in all honestly it is a reasonable approach. Like the patch it changes the vanilla ebony veins to iron (as indicated by the dialog) and it adds a single ebony vein at the lowest level. It also leaves the "mystery" ore Filnjar gives the player as ebony, and does not alter Northwind mine.

This is simply a different approach to addressing the same vanilla bug, and the old cat remembrs the stomping feet, gnashing teeth, pitchforks and torches that popped up in oldrim when the team first addressed the vanilla bug, and then relented to 'pressure' and made Northwind an ebony mine to quiet the whiners. I'll leave the 'color' to Arthmoor as I'm sure there are stories to tell.

It almost feels like Deej plays without the patch, and is now trying to recreate the parts of it that are smacking him upside the head. If the trend moving forward is more and more reversions of the patch, Ah'vrie has decided not bother to covering them, or just giving them 'mention', but the old cat would like the thoughts of the rank and file on this one.

The old cat always struggles deciding to choose what to cover.

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 29th of Sun's Height and wage slaves rejoice, the weekend has arrived. It would appear the monsoons have also arrived in Elsweyr and Ah'vrie is glad they have finally begun, but he is not looking forward to weeks of bad fur days no he's not. Anyway, it's time for this one to tend the inn. Excuse please while the ash pits are emptied and the fires rebuilt. You may wish to cover your tankards for a bit. This can get a tad dusty yes it can... There, much better no? Ah'vrie always likes to start the weekend off with happy fires. They warm more than the room as his mother always said. Now to compost the ash check the garden, and draw fresh water for the kettles...

Our brew of the day is from Indonesia, and the biscuits are classic oatmeal raisin. Sometimes you just need a good cookie. We'll bake fresh tomorrow, Ah'vrie needs to visit the markets yes he does. Checking the hot sheets we have 53 new with all the usual suspects. Let's see what catches the eyes of an old cat over a fresh cuppa.

DEEJMASTER continues their mindless assault on the patch team. and opens a second front on cutting room floor, Film at 11 Moving right along...

Roastlawyer's Restored WR Drawbridge, their first mod. welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96941
"Rebuilds the mesh for the Whiterun drawbridge's gatehouse, turning the decrepit side building into a maintained structure. Also changes the main opening from an unsupported rectangle into a structural archway!"

This is actually quite nicely done. There's a little bit of clipping at the base of the side stairs but as a first mod the old cat is impressed. I'm fairly sure this author probably didn't think to ID and reposition any of the CW or dragon perch X-markers but in this case the old cat doesn't think it should be an issue even with the location being scripted. Have a cookie

6Pilot4 released Damage Undead Enchantment as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96969
"Simply adds 1 enchantment that damages all undead. base damage is 10 points. Also adds a unique sword to disenchant called "Sword of the Dead" located in Whiterun Hall of the Dead on the shrine"

You know, as a rule, first weapon mods are usually OP nonsense and somewhat laughable. It's refreshing to see reasonable stats, and a very well chosen location for the sword. This one gets a nod and cookie. Thanks

Yomogiu released Stillrecite Priory
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96940
"This mod add small priory named "Stillrecite Priory" at north-west of Falkreath"

Their second 'house' mod. Still into decrepit lore friendly little places. This one is a bit better than Whistling mine. Still quite a bit of visible clipping, but in this case it actually adds just a little charm. Keep working at your craft. This is noticeably better than the last one, but keeps the 'flavor'. Thanks, have a cookie

GreenyDragon456 released Winterhold Sedimentary Overhaul - WSO
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96930
"Fixes the hideous rock formation that the College of Winterhold sits atop"

First, it doesn't need fixing, all they did was make it look less magical, and undermine the Archmage's dialog in game. Hard pass on this on, but your game your way.

CHIMgarden released Stand still in RaceMenu (OAR)
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96970
"Standing still mt_idle animation replacer for RaceMenu conditioned with OAR to automatically overwrite all other (perhaps) too animated idle animations you have added for your character. And to disable this still animation at the same moment you exit RaceMenu"

The old cat finds it mildy ironic that one of the leading DAR idle authors (Of which the aold cat uses three of hers) is having a problem with having her character 'too' animated in Racemenu. A friendly poke, she does nice work.

Kanjs - Keening Animated
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96975
"Keening up to 4k with a crazy animation and enb glowing particle effect!"

Speaking of animated; this one is as ridiculous as their spell breaker mod. The old cat loves it because it's ridiculous. Not for old cats but have a cookie.

Okay, lets get to the good stuff...

zzjay released Argonian and Khajiit Teeth FIx
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96952
"Fixes the mouth and teeth meshes of argonians and khajiits,, which were using the incorrect normalmap format.
Reflections and orientation was not working as intented, this mod fixes that problem."

It's about time Skyrim got a proper dentist. Now if you could only fix Belethor's breath. Whew! Didn't this one used to be a podiatrist? Check out their collection. Some of the best clothing mods in the game. Thanks zzjay, glad you're still around.

Kojillama released Nexus Collections Downloader for Mod Organizer 2
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96964
"Allows you to use MO2 to download Nexus Collections"

This could come in very handy looking forward. As always I'll check with Al and the rest of the MO2 team, and verify this plugin has been tested for use with the current QT6 Alpha, but thanks. Have a cookie.

And finally the top slot goes without question to the prolific Jayserpa

Alternate Perspective - Voiced Addon
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96865
"This mod voices every single line included in the amazing "Alternate Perspective" alternate start mod by Scrab."

Some minor changes to the dialog were needed to splice in vanilla voice files, and Jay the consummate author they are points them out... BTW, reading through the posts, Jay is planning on releasing a collection Vs. an all in one. That may be the thing that get's me to actually try a collection. Thanks, Have another cookie.

And that will do for today. The fresh ale was delivered last night, and the new batch of mead is ready so Ah'vrie hopes you're thirsty. We'll be serving medallions of venison marinated in spices wine, serves on a bed of roast diced potatoes and served with an egg on top. and we'll be serving ale braised sabrecat with twice baked garlic potatoes and sauteed carrots for the late meal. As always we'll have a hearty stew for our those that prefer more filling fare. 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!

Gooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Sundas the 30th of Sun's Height and the old cat woke to the smell of water (and almost soiled himself when a loud peel of thunder cracked as he entered the inn, but we won't go there) Anyway, the blessed moons have set, the paths are closed, and Ah'vrie has an inn to tend. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water is put to the boil...

Our brew of the day is from India, and the biscuits are Bordeaux. We'll be baking fresh again when Ah'vrie returns from the markets a little later. Checking the hot sheets we have 51 new with all the jiggles, dangles, patches and goofs we've come to expect. Let's see what catches the eyes of an old cat over a fresh cuppa... Make it a double.

DaedricPhantump released All Spells Including Creation Club as a first mod. Welcome
A game ruining batch file, how... Noobish. No link for you

mysteryman8253 released Cursed Rings of Skyrim as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97070
Scatters 'hidden curse' enchantments on random items which require a quest to break... Dozens of cursed items all linked to the same break quests? Your game your way. PASS!

Manan6619 released two first mods today. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/7511756 ... files&BH=0
Evidently their weak zombie minions ran away, and they forgot to make steel. Sounds like a reason to mod to me. Why not LOL

Quantumyilmaz released two today as well. Let there be light!
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/8078894?tab=user+files
Fuelable lanterns for quicklight, and simple wearable lanterns.

(Ah'vrie finds it interesting that a decade later, lantern mods are 'just now' adding features that Chesko included from day one. One of the greats and sorely missed by many)

RedBag's Solitude Trees by Poellafrire
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96983
"Adds some pines in Solitude." Nooo, it adds pine trees to Rebag's solitude. Don't get lazy. The fact that there are exactly like 2 or 3 locations in the entire city that could even support a tree not withstanding, if you like huge trees growing out of paved streets this mods for you, but not for old cats. your game your way.

Speaking of Solitude, wSkeever decided to incorporate the mesh improvements from Drengin's Blue Palace Terrace into a mesh only vanilla replacer. And it really looks good.

Drengin's Blue Palace - Mesh Only Replacer
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96798
"Improved mesh for the Blue Palace exterior"

Let's see... Suinier likes eating Mihail critters. Three more today
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... user+files

CatOfEvilGenius added missing/additional crafting benches to Morthal and Dawnstar
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... user+files

Okay, let's get to the good stuff...

Spaghetti's Faction Halls - Thieves Guild
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97051
"This mod adds some light clutter around the Thieves Guild Headquarters." Ah'vrie has to admit, that for a vanilla plus playthrough on a weaker rig. Spaghetti rules. Nicely done as always. Have a cookie

HS Windhelm - New Gnisis Cornerclub
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97052
"Overhauls the New Gnisis Cornerclub in Windhelm." The patched floors makes a statement the old cat likes, but the garbage strewn around not so much. Worth a look, nicely cluttered and adds a basement bath as well.

SonderBain released Seamless Varied Masculine Idles OAR
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96504
"A similar styled Male Idle equivalent to my Seamless Varied Feminine Idles Mod
Made especially for features in Open Animation Replacer"

SonderBain's idles Are very smooth, The old cat is currently using the Modern Female Sitting Animations Overhaul, and while the animations look really good, the transitions can be a bit jarring. The 'seamless idles' however look very smooth and fluid. Flagged for testing. Have a cookiie

And finally we'll finish up with yet another attempt to make cooking... needed?

SimonMagus616 released Gourmet - A Cooking Overhaul and it's patch page
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/67410746?tab=user+files
"Gourmet is a complete overhaul of Skyrim’s cooking system that distributes food, ingredients, and crafting tables throughout the game. In addition to thoroughly reworking cooking recipes, it also rebalances the inventories of all food vendors, including innkeepers, general merchants, grocers, butchers, and brewers. New recipe items, cookbooks, and chef merchants have also been added to the game, as well as new drinks and drugs."

Love him or hate him Simon does a nice job of integrating food and cooking into the game. What I don't like is the removal of CC hot soups... Breaking vanilla to fix it doesn't sit well with old cats. Ah'vrie likes the additional hot stews, but why take away hot soups? And like all the other "Simonhauls" that can't keep their scope contained this one also alters alcohol and drugs while adding it's own addiction mechanics. No wonder it needs a patch page, it's having an identity crisis.

The mod want's to be RND, the title is a lie, this isn't a cooking overhaul it's yet another needs mod Oh well, pass. Simonrim revolves around itself. Shame really. All that great work and not even cookie worthy.

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 final day of Sun's Height 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 also full tonight, but then you've all been previously warned. Don't come into the inn smelling of wet dog or you'll be introduced to the old cat's mace. That silver filigree is not there for looks no it isn't. Anyway, excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water put to the boil...

Our brew of the day is from Indonesia, and the biscuits are Dublin butter cookies. Checking the hot sheets we have 61 new with all the usual suspects. Lets see what catches the eyes of an old cat over a fresh cuppa, and probably another.

Our first mod is a tale of caution the old cat warned of ages ago.

sokco816 released SkyClimb as their first 'real' mod after a years absence. Welcome back
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97253
"SkyClimb brings a true climbing mechanic to Skyrim. Utilizing EVG Traversal's animations, SkyClimb uses techniques seen in modern games to allow you to realistically climb onto anything."

First, there's nothing wrong with this mod from a conceptual level. Though as a new mechanic based on an internal form of scripted procedural implementation it will require testing in a well modded game for script load.

The old cat's reservations are simply based on the fact that the game was designed with several 'tease' ledges you're not supposed to be able to climb that will allow you to enter the exit as it were. The Sinkhole is a perfect example. Your game your way, but this mod will let you traverse several locations backwards, and unlike EVG, no authors are placing climb markers to limit the damage to the game. Just a word of caution.

We'll move on to two for LOTD

Bioblade64 released Landlord safe in safehouse as a first mod. welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97241
"Places a landlord's safe inside of a pillar in the safehouse treasury for ease of access" Basically a QOL patch for RE - Real Estate Continued. See a need fill a need. Thanks

Pie4aPie released Legacy of the Dragonborn - Museum Renovations
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97237
"A new swanky look for the famous Dragonborn Museum" This is what happens when a professional architect mods... Wow! Seriously worth a look and a cookie.

Let's see... ferrari365 released Simply Optimized Scripts AIO
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97155
(You'll forgive an old cat for ignoring stupid anagrams) If memory serves most of these do little if anything, but at least their all in one place. Thanks

jeromeJrm released S.M.C. - SKYRIM MOTION CONTROL
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97204
"SMC is a script free SKSE plugin, that changes the player movement in multiple ways." You'll want to look at the gifs. The changes are reasonably subtle, but the old cat is not thrilled with the accelleration or the jumping. Your game your way. Worth a look.

Freyr95 released Skyrim Master Trainers Actually Train to Level 100
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97261
"Sets Master Trainers max training skill to be 100, and also edits their dialogue conditions so you're not locked out of training at level 90" It's your game to unbalance, though as cheats go the old cat sort of likes this one

Let's look at some floors...

neardaniel released Near Vanilla Project - Blue Palace Floor Redone
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97179
A classic box weave tile pattern in white. A little too shiny for an old cat's taste and the UV maps need to be redone with better detail. Someone will upscale this. Thanks

markuskarttunen1 released Warm and Cozy Farmhouse Floor Retexture
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97190
"Simple retexture of farmhouse stonefloors. Parallax supported" Not thrilled with the color, but worth a look.

Pieter82 released 2 wall basket mods today
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/7490969 ... files&BH=0
Higher Poly Vanilla Wall Baskets, and Wall Basket Variants. It's about time we have a HP alternative, and some variety. Both are worth a look. The HP vanilla is an instant DL for old cats. Have a cookie.

BlubboDE released two BOS based tree Replacer Base Object Variation Mix(s)
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/9479959 ... files&BH=0
Pinetree, and Aspen... The old cat loves the variation but some of the trees are ridiculously over sized. Worth a look, and a cookie. Thanks

And finally we'll give the top slot to gutmaw

Snazzy Ruins Chests - Base Object Swapper
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97235
"Using Base Object Swapper, randomly distribute 6 different custom made Ruins Chest models to all vanilla and mod-added Ruins Chests."

This mod will randomly swap out the big ruins chests with models that allow the lid to swing open fully, and display actual loot items you can then pick up from inside the chest.
While the old cat really like this idea, the truth is expect clipping when the chest is near a wall. Includes patches for several of the 'quick loot' mods. We love the concept, but expect quite a bit of clipping.

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 Tirdas the 1st of Last Seed, and another sticky predawn here on warm sands. The blessed moons have set, the paths are closed and it is once again time for this old cat to tend the inn for our most honored guests. Excuse please while the fires are stoked and fresh water is put to boil...

Our brew of the day is Inspirazione a Napoli, and the biscuits are Almond biscotti. Checking the hotsheets we have 50 new with all the usual suspects. Let's see what catches the eyes of an old cat over a fresh cuppa.

bjgrem released Wizard's Pocket Realm as a first mod. Welcome
a disjointed mashup of kit pieces from the college and Solsteim in a pocket dimension... Keep working at your craft and someday....

AdamDunmer released Dialogue Expansion- Shor's Stone
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97337
"Hello! This mod adds around 250 lines of dialogue to the existing denizens of Shor's Stone" And it sorely could use some, but I'm not sure childish bickering counts as dialog. Your game your way. Thanks

Pugahkiin released Ingots of Magnificent Pixels
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97252
Polished ingots in 2K and 4K. A little too reflective for raw metals which brings the shared cube maps into question as well. This is the third in the series. The old cat didn't mention yesterdays over-sharpened, shiny 4k broom, or the plastic looking shiny 4K dagger from the day before... This one is the antithesis of ILenny. Thanks

Olioster released More Apothecary's Satchel Ingredients
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97291
"Make's the apothecary's satchels more lucrative by increasing the amount of ingredients they can contain" Translation: added more random stuff to the form list. Thanks

TREBoy released UpScale - AI Upscaled Textures 2x 4x Armor
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97319
Another for the pile... grainy and over-sharpened like so many AI upscales. The overdone DOF used in the pics can't hide the grainyness or the clipping... We already have better.

DEEJMASTER333 released Whitewatch Tower Guards are Alive
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97308
"Some basic necessities and better AI packages for Whitewatch Tower" Adds a couple of tents, a wood chopping block, and a quarried stone activator to the watch tower.

The old cat has no issues with this other than the entire premise... Who ever said the guards live there? Ever heard of shifts? Whiterun is a short walk... Just saying. Pass

Let's get to the good stuff already.

Immersive Death Cycle - Configurable by MaskedRPGFan
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97269
"Small addon for Immersive Death Cycle by Naxmaardur and JaySerpa, that will let you change in game hours for both stages of death cycle. Optional ESP-FE MCM plugin."

Some people don't get the credit they deserve... 2 cookies

And out mod of the day, is also a first mod. Welcome to the community

ghdOne released Better Female Elks
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97006
"Removes small antlers from female elks (including wallmounted ones). Slight mesh improvements (mainly the ears). Small antlers can no longer be looted from dead female elks, and are no longer required to build wallmounted female elks."

Thank you... Looks like the old cat is not the only one that actually hunts. Yes Virginia, there may be a Santa clause, but female Elk, Deer, and even reindeer do not have antlers. This is long overdue. Instant download, and 2 cookies for addressing a pet peeve of mine.

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

Goooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Middas the 2nd of Last Seed and another sultry predawn here on warm sands. The blessed moons are full tonight, as Ah'vrie has already mentioned. The goddess' crazy puppies will be causing all sorts of mischief. Hopefully you took an old cat's advice and are keeping your silver weapons are close. anyway, it's time once again for Ah'vrie to tend the inn for our most honored guests.

Our brew of the day is Inspirazione a Napoli, and we'll bake fresh biscuits a little later. Checking the hot sheets we have 66 new with the usual eclectic mix. Let's see what catches the eyes of an old cat over a fresh cuppa... A big one!

LeatherKing6688 released 2 first mods today. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/79235318?tab=user+files
laughing at nudity, and break merchant restock intentionally. Obviously Austin takes his iron man runs seriously. Your game your way, but no thanks

khajtran released 2 first mods today as well. Welcome
Your basic noob cheats, no link needed.

rhonjhonson released Glowing Death SE
It amazes an old cat that an author with 247 mods to their credit would release something with virtually no information... It's a destruction spell, no info no link. Pass

tcbflash released 2 today.
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... user+files
Earn Your Bard Status; adds the requirement to complete the first bards college quest before triggering become a bard...
Dwemer Pipe Steam Warms You (Survival Mode). Self explanatory
Both of these arr cookie worthy. Thanks

IWantATardis released Vahloks Tomb Keyhole Retexture
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97385
Stuart did a rather nice job of adding a design element to the 'plate' but failed to upscale the actual key hole for the claw. Nice effort but it feels half finished. He should have began with an updated normal map. Nice effort, no cookie

nimwraith released Hunter's Dream - Quest Mod
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97408
"Hunter's Dream is an encounter based quest mod that features high quality voice acting along with an interesting and tragic story." This and their last 'quest mod' seem more like a very interesting excuse for story telling and voice acting rather than an actual quest. The old cat would be interested in feed back, as the information is... vague

"the player can speak to him of his woes, regrets in life and can engage in moral discussions with Vashharr"

Seems similar to Maig, but with more dialog, and he doesn't run away. Not really a 'quest' more an interesting NPC to stumble across. I may add him in my next restart. Seems an interesting cat.

And finally the prolific JaySerpa surprises yet again with another dynamic replacer.

DVA - Dynamic Vampire Appearance
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96817
"Changes the appearance of vampires to visually represent the different stages of vampirism. The hungrier for blood you are, the more feral you look. Ported to SE/AE, original mod by Aipex8 + TaikoDragon"

This is an updated port with permission that Jay does not intend to alter. More he is hosting a really good oldrim mod he feels should not fall through the cracks. Good for you sir. Have a cookie

And that will do for today. The fires are stoked yada yada We-B-Open!

The old cat saved a group of mods that needed to be broken out. in a follow up post which will ... follow LOL. Yeah, still need more coffee

Okay This one needed to be broken out...

Dynamic Interface Patcher - DIP by Cutleast
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/96891
"A dynamic user interface patcher for mods with closed permissions like RaceMenu or Minimap."

Wuerfelhusten released 7 patches for use with DIP already
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/1221602 ... user+files

DIP is an app based on Java that targets specific UI related .SWF files and makes them visually conform to the specific UI you're patching to. IE: make Racemenu screens and menus appear as say Dear Diary Dark Mode.

At first glance it struck an old cat as intentionally skirting permissions, but on closer reflection DIP provides a mechanism for injecting a consistent 'look' without actually editing the mod's scripts and menus. It literally injects visual elements dynamically into the SWF files only. It does this outside the game, and without directly editing and re-releasing the mods.

Looking at the patches for MiniMap, and Racemenu... I think the old cat will be testing this one on his next restart. It really does look better with a consistent interface. The old cat is giving this 2 cookies, but is still a little fuzzy on if this is considered violating permissions.

I guess we'll find out shortly.

Goooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Turdas the 3rd of Last Seed and a quiet predawn here on warm sands. The blessed moons wane gibbous tonight so keep those silver weapons close a little longer. One can never be too careful. Anyway. Excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water is put to the boil...

Checking the hot sheets we have 45 new mods with all the bimbos, himbos, patches and goofs we've come to expect. Let's see what catches the eyes of an old cat today.

mofupheus released two first mods today. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/1464066 ... user+files
An un-needed change to the perk tree, and a mask that would complement cheese armor...
Thanks

Siren3484 released Morrowind Mystique Decor - Dunmer Furniture Remastered
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97500
Their second mod. This is a retex of Skyrim Overhauled Furniture Assembly (SOFA)
The wood textures are a bit overdone to the point of clashing with the fabrics. Like wearing paisley and plaid. Not for old cat's but thanks.

Siege74 ported Aspen Lodge by Suna1
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97476
"A three story player home northwest of riften with fast travel always enabled,door is also unlocked" And it still looks out of place, but enjoy

Yuril released Relic of Dawnstar
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97460
"Try to give Dawnstar some Lore. In memory of the Ice Tribe attack"

It's ugly, doesn't look like anything recognizable, and wants to fall on the jarl's head. Perfect. Moving right along.

gutmaw released Snazzy Strongboxes - Base Object Swapper
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97436
"Using Base Object Swapper, randomly distribute 6 different custom made Strongbox models to all vanilla and mod-added Strongboxes"

The logical follow up to the ruin chest swapper. Includes Gamwich East Empire strongbox texures with permission, and a few patches. Thanks

Speaking of swaps... Static Swaps Variety - Festival Flags by Suinier
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97506
"Adds new variants of the Festival Flags static items, using the general colour palette of the hold which they represent" Bland pallet and low res... festival? PASS

Lets see... Skelvald converted 3 more armors to 3BA
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/76472313?tab=user+files

tcbflash feeds his horse with Ineed, and fixed 'his' fires Thanks
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/45505662?tab=user+files

DEEJMASTER 333 released Silver Hand Aren't Bandits
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97452
"Silver Hand won't immediately attack you on sight if you are not a member of the Companions." The old cat is honestly surprised BGS didn't include faction awareness in the Silver hand. Thanks, there's also a version that buffs their armor to make them look like bad-asses

tonycubed2 released Populated Lands Roads Paths for SE LITE
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97492
"Lite Version!" New and improved... Only tanks you're FPS half as much as the full version used to. Fewer calories and sugar free... Ah'vrie can't fault the SOT team from trying to stay relevant. Your game your way.

And finally, old cats don't forget their roots...

Moonpath to Elsweyr SSE - Music - Weather and Other Fixes by ToosTruus
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97517
"My take on fixing stuff with Moonpath to Elsweyr SSE" More epic battle music... We love this guy. Have another cookie.

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!

Goooooooooood Morning Tamriel riel iel el

It is Fredas the 4th of Last Seed, and thank the divines the weekend is nigh. it would seem Ah'vrie is greeting an empty inn. It is not the first time, and makes cleaning the floors easier for this one. Anyway, excuse please while the fires are stoked, and fresh water is put to the boil.

Checking the hot sheets we have 30 new mods with the usual eclectic mix of jiggles, dangles, patches and goofs. Let's see what catches the eye of an old cat over a fresh cuppa.

Lizecheng01 released Bottles To Drinks Recipes as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97567
"So this mod made over 20 recipes, some of them utilized these empty bottles to make them useful."

Not what the old cat expected based on the title, this is a food recipe mod that has some of the recipes requiring empty bottles and tankards. Machine translation aside, we welcome our new friend from the PRC.

Tribevel is still fixated on coin purses. Today's flavor is Crocheted and Cloth Coinbags
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97528
Standalone replacer textures from their Various Immersive Coinbags mod if you don't want to use BOS. 7 to choose from, not for old cats.

Kalambre released Hulk Potions - A steroids effect
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97520

Now this is an interesting concept, Have the players body 'morph' based on specific potions. Made by request for the BOSSE body system, the author included a basic version which has no requirements, an advanced version which uses the Racemenu Morph system, and finally the BOSSE version. Needs testing, but sounds like fun for the correct PC. No pictures or videos unfortunately.

That's about it for today. We'll finish up with a player home near Ivarstead.

Brightmoon Lodge by GoatMistress
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97465
"A Riften-style lodge overlooking Lake Geir southeast of Ivarstead. This player home is very lore-friendly and has storage throughout, crafting areas, follower and adoption compatibiliity, two NPC vendors, and a secret passage to an underground chamber. Brightmoon Lodge has a subtle lycanthropy and druid theme."

Basically Blackbriar lodge copied, with some crafting and 2 vendor NPCs. reasonable clutter, but looks sparse and unlived in. Worth a look.

And tht 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!

Gooooooooood Morning Tamriel!

Ah'vrie wishes you well. It is Loredas the fifth of Last Seed and wage slaves rejoice, the weekend has arrived. The blessed moons are waning through the first crescents on a beautiful stary predawn here on warm sands. You'll excuse please while the ash pits are emptied and the fires rebuilt... There, much better no? Ah'vrie always likes to start the weekend off with happy fires. They warm more than the room as Ah'vrie's mother liked to say. Anyway, now to compost the ash, scrub the kettles, wash the tankards and put fresh water to the boil... And all before breakfast. The life of an inn keeper is glamorous no?

Our brew of the day is from India, evidently there's only one farm there that's all the information you get with that roast. and our biscuits are Dublin Shortbread. Checking the hot sheets we have 40 new with plenty of jiggles, dangles, patches, and goofs. Let's see what catches the eye of an old cat over a fresh cuppa...

jamjul67 released JTweaks as their first mod. Welcome. It tweaks 3BFTweaks to allow normal experience leveling in Requiem. No link needed but welcome.

makenzy101 has assaulted us with Arachnophobia as a first mod. welcome. "Retextures the frostbite spiders to be hot pink!" Khajiit has mushrooms that do that also. Your game your way.

xKON7ROLx released Unique Dwarven Boots - Predator's Grace as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97581
"This mod replaces the item "Predator's Grace" with a set of Dwarven Boots"

There were no good unique CC / Dwemer boots, and Ah'vrie has to admit this one's choice of enchantment was perfect for a heavy armor. This is the soul of modding. Have a cookie

EmperorAleksander released Imperial Officer Armor as a first mod. Welcome
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97603
"This mod adds a new Imperial cuirass to be used by Imperial officers" Hey, they wanted a more muscled look, added an emblem to a Frankly HD cuirass... Why not. They didn't list Frankly HD Imperial Armor and Weapons as a requirement, but it's a first mod, we'll forgive them.

Hyperdelusion released Humble Beginnings - A Riverwood Player Home
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97606
"Adds two small cellars to Alvor and Gerdur's houses that act as a base of operations for players starting their adventure into Skyrim." Dark, poorly furnished... What's not to like. Well done, this one gets a cookie.

MMX452 Summon Chest
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97572
"This mod adds summonable chest that can be used for storage." This was forked from their Additional Starts for Live Another by request. A good, basic, forgivable, cheat even the old cat might choose. Thanks.

Let's see... we have a tale of two facepalms.

HeilingerKresy released Northern Scenery - Ysgramor's Tomb... Ah'vrie will re-title it hurricane at the yacht club... ? No comment
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97584

Liseralla released two today
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... user+files
Darker Nights - Vivid weathers - My version - Updated and Tweaked, and
I dont care Rumpelstiltskin - No Dyndolod 3 Loading screen.

As to the Loading screen mod. They edited an ESP that is generated automatically as part of running the Dlod application, It is unique for your modlist and load order. Do NOT download her plugin, however the instructions for removing them from your own plugin might be useful if Sheson's humor has anyone else's knickers in a twist.

Okay, let's get to the good stuff...

Blubbos Sleeping Tree 2023
https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... mods/97579
"Simply a replacer for the sleeping tree in 5 different variations"

Maybe it's just Ah'vrie, but this is awful. This really is just an opinion, but this does NOT! look like some magical tree that grew from a spoor that fell from a floating island to old cats. It looks like a poorly pruned, stunted oak, with the wrong leaves. Come on Denis, We love your stuff around here, but swing and a miss on this one. Maybe a hint of blueish glow? Moving right along

SimonMagus616 added two more to SimonRim
https://www.nexusmods.com/users/67410746?tab=user+files
Starfrost - A Survival Overhaul, and Candlehearth - An Inn Overhaul...
Guaranteed to play nice with other SimonRim mods and pretty much nothing else.
Always worth a look though. Don't read that the wrong way.

And finally Taking the top slot once again with two today The One, The Only. Jay Serpa and the crowd goes wild. Sound the trumpets and call the dancers!

https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrimspecial ... user+files

Simple Hunting Overhaul: You really want to read this. If you've used Hunterborn forever as many of us have, you're really going to want to read this. The old cat will most definitely be testing this on the next restart...

But wait there's more. Free with your order (just pay separate shipping and handling)

GATE TO SOVNGARDE - Resources and Small Mods
"These are the patches, tweaks and some standalone small mods I've prepared for the collection "Gate to Sovngarde". Most of it requires everything else in the collection, but there are some standalone things you might find useful for your playthrough or your own collection. Check the files for more info."

"Gate To Sovngarde - An Immersion-Themed Collection by JaySerpa"
KEY FEATURES

Roleplaying: Player choice is at the center of this mod list and your decisions are reflected in the world.
Immersion: Start as a nobody. Train, study, hunt and survive to thrive in a dynamic world.
Streamlined: No complicated in-game menus. No complicated manuals to understand mechanics or gameplay.
Vanilla+: Skyrim, but better. It improves every aspect of the original game while staying true to its design.
Lite-ish: 30GB of download size, but +900 mods. Customizable experience that should work well in most PCs.
Easy to Install: 1 Click Installation. Download and play.
Carefully Crafted: No BS mods, every mod has a solid reason for being included and is fully patched with everything else.
Exclusive Tweaks: Enjoy all the mods I've tweaked or worked on over the years but never had the chance to publish on their own.

You have to sign up for the closed beta if you want to help test the collection.
Jay, We love you, and you're one of the best modders out there right now, but your timing really sucks the big one. Now? you're calling for a closed beta Now? Good luck with that.

And that will do for today. The ale was delivered last night, and the fresh batch of mead is ready so this one hopes you are very thirsty. We'll be serving Slaughterfish scrambles for the early meal, and Ale braised Sabrecat with twice baked garlic potatoes and steamed carrots for the late meal. We'll have a hearty stew simmering all day for those that prefer a more simple fair. The fires are stoked yada, yada, We-B-Open!