**Disclaimer - this is my personal view from the knowledge i've built up as an author and user of this site. I'm not affiliated with Bethesda, SONY, or Microsoft as anything other than a user of their products so this is 100% unofficial but designed to help other users**
A lot of users post impossible requests for PS4 mods on this site (either directly in this forum or by spamming XB1/PC mods asking for or demanding a PS4 version). Before you do please read the following:
SONY chose to allow free community created mods for Fallout 4 onto the PS4 after they had already been released on other platforms but to do so in a highly restricted format. The simple way this has been described is 'No External Assets' or in terms mod authors understand 'No files other than .esp or .esm, no archives, and no loose files'.
Because SONY chose to restrict user access to many of the file types needed for many popular XB1 mods (file types Microsoft allowed on XB1) many mods that are available on XB1 simply can't be ported to PS4, and many others can but only by removing features and spending considerable time reworking them. That's not to say that there aren't a lot of things mods on PS4 can do, and there are some very talented authors who find new and novel ways of getting PS4 mods to do certain things that ordinarily would use external assets but ingenuity only goes so far so there is a limit to how much these mods can do.
What specifically is blocked?
Skyrim Ps4 No Mods
The SONY block on external assets in free community mods covers:
- New models (so any shape that doesn't already exist in the game files whether that's weapons, armor, body etc)
- Altered models (to add snap points, to remove part of a model like the arm-piece of Kellogg's armor etc)
- New color patterns (recolors of existing patterns etc)
- New .bgsm 'linkage' files to enable high quality material swaps (aka color swaps) linking an item model to an existing color pattern for another item in a way that retains the fine details and shape of the model.
- New scripts (which run in game either via a pipboy menu, an onscreen toggle, or just in the background and change the way certain parts of the game function)
- New Precombined Environment data (which is a key component of the game optimization to reduce processor load on weak hardware like consoles)
- New Long Distance View data
- New Sound Files
This isn't an exhaustive list - there are various other things that are blocked, and not all of these are files brought into the mod - some like precombines and scripts are actually generated by the CK but as they are stored in an archive file automatically are treated as external and blocked.
As an easy rule of thumb - any mod that's over about 5MB is almost certain to include external assets, mods smaller than this can also include external assets so being small doesn't automatically make it OK with the restrictions but being large almost guarantees that it isn't (at least not in the form it currently exists for other platforms).
But the mod already exists - why can XB1 have it and PS4 can't?
Because SONY decided to make it that way. As mentioned, some mods can be converted to work on PS4 but usually this is with a loss of features and requires a lot of work on the part of the author if it's possible (and many mods it's just simply not possible) - given that mods for PS4 also launched very late many authors either aren't actively modding anymore, or aren't willing to spend large amounts of their own time producing lower quality version of their mods for the PS4.
Why did Bethesda block these?
Bethesda didn't - the reason mods for XB1 are different than those for PS4 is due to the policies and restrictions SONY put in place. Having different rules for different platforms is not in either Bethesda's or Author's benefit and creates more work and cost to maintain.
Why did SONY block these?
SONY has never addressed this publicly. For whatever reason they don't seem to feel that customers who've purchased consoles from them should receive an official explanation.
What can I do about this as a PS4 player?
- Support the legitimate mod authors. Recognize that providing a PS4 version of a mod may not be possible, or may be far too time consuming. And recognize that mods on PS4 are more limited on other platforms (so to be blunt be happy with what you get and don't complain about mod authors not providing mods or that those mods aren't 'as good' as PC/XB1 ones or don't do something you want - the authors are fighting with a very difficult system in order to get you anything so need support).
- Do not support stolen mods. There are a lot of PS4 users who think it's OK to take a PC mod without permission and upload it. Not only is this a breach of the site rules and copyright law, it also isn't likely to work, will result in an unsupported mod that is extremely unlikely to have patches made or user support (and will likely corrupt your game), and will further discourage authors spending their own time to come up with creative solutions to allow these sorts of mods to work properly on PS4.
- Don't spam requests or make demands - too many mod pages have dozens of 'PS4 version?' / 'Make for PS4' spammed on them, often directly after someone has explained it's not possible on PS4. Don't do this.
- Think about future purchases. This whole situation exists due to the different decisions SONY and Microsoft made regarding what users would have access to and how they would communicate this to users. As the old saying goes 'Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me'.
Bethesda Game Studio’s iconic fantasy epic is a great game with a ton of content on its own, but with the hard work of a tirelessly hard-working modding community, Skyrim becomes something truly unique.
In this article, we’re going to run down some of the best, most interesting, and most essential mods that Skyrim has to offer.
How do I install Skyrim mods?
There a few ways to install and manage your mods for Skyrim, and how you do it depends on which version of Skyrim you have. The Special Edition includes tools for searching for, installing and managing mods all built into the game. You can access it all from the main menu and it allows you to find and install new mods and update old ones without closing the game.
We have also compiled some of the best Minecraft mods of 2018 right now. Check this
If you have the original version of Skyrim, then your best bet is using a third party mod manager such as Nexus Mod Manager. This software allows you to easily install and update mods and handily keep them all in one place. Of course, you could always install mods manually into the game’s directory, but third-party managers make it quicker and simpler.
20 Best Skyrim Mods You Need To Check Out
1. SkyUI
SkyUI is an excellent mod that overhauls the game’s original cumbersome inventory. It makes the UI much easier to navigate and is much more appropriate for the many, many, many items, weapons and random objects you’ll be picking up. It may also be a good introduction to the Skyrim Script Extender (SKSE), a tool that expands the capabilities of mods and allows you to make more dramatic changes to the game.
2. Static Mesh Improvement Mod
The Static Mesh Improvement Mod is a graphical mod that simply makes the game’s static 3D models look nicer. It’s no secret that Skyrim’s graphics haven’t exactly aged well in the 7 years since its original release and this is one of countless mods that attempt to alleviate that problem one bit at a time. An essential mod for anyone trying to make Skyrim look as not-bad as possible.
3. Total Character Makeover
Total Character Makeover is a mod that aims to make the character models of Skyrim look a bit more aesthetically-pleasing and less muddy and rough. The faces of Skyrim have always been a little on the ugly side, and this mod gives the NPCs and the player avatar some improved resolutions without ruining your frame rate.
4. Skyrim Special Edition Unofficial Patch
The Unofficial Patch for Skyrim Special Edition is a comprehensive bug-fixing mod that intends to be your one-stop-shop for eliminating all those nasty bugs that can still be found in the Special Edition. Essential for the smoothest Skyrim experience.
5. Opening Scene Overhaul
Skyrim Mods Ps4 Download
The Opening Scene Overhaul mod restores some lines that were cut by Bethesda but can still be found in the game’s files. It adds additional carriage dialogue, and offers some deeper insight into the world you’re about to explore. It also gives you the option of escaping with Ulfric himself if you decide to side with the Stormcloaks.
6. Open Cities
The Open Cities mod curbs the immersion-breaking loading screens that hit you whenever you enter a city, and aims to give the game a more Morrowind-like feel. Stroll through cities on horseback and come and go as you please. This mod helps to make the world of Skyrim more seamless and connected.
7. Alternative Start
The Alternative Start mod offers a different start for new characters. It’s the ideal mod for players who have experienced the original Skyrim opening more than enough times for one lifetime. A fun and unique role-playing mod, this mod is a great way to mix things up a bit if you have to start again with Special Edition, or simply want to make a new character.
8. Diverse Dragons Collection
This very cool mod overhauls the dragons you’ll encounter in Skyrim. The original game featured a small variety of dragon designs and the fights quickly become repetitive and underwhelming. The Diverse Dragons Collection adds a staggering 28 new dragons, each boasting their own big dicks. It also features a variety of new dragon breaths and abilities to make the fights more interesting, as well as new ranks for the dragons intended to make the encounters scale with your level.
9. Achievements Mod Enabler
This mod is pretty straightforward. It allows you to earn achievements when using mods. Using mods doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re cheating, so why shouldn’t you be able to earn achievements whilst modding the game? Who plays Skyrim without mods, anyway?
10. Skyrim Flora Overhaul
Another nice graphical overhaul mod, the Skyrim Flora Overhaul mod replaces most of the game’s trees, grass and plants with original models, including 16 new trees and more than 180 new textures for ground cover and plants. One more essential mod for players looking for the prettiest Skyrim possible.
11. Surreal Lighting
Surreal Lighting adds a bit of wonder to the landscapes of Skyrim, helping to make it feel more fantasy and less ordinary. Helps to make Skyrim more colourful and vibrant.
12. Interesting NPCs
Interesting NPCs adds some variety to Skyrim’s oft-bland and lifeless NPCs, most of which, if they don’t have a quest for you, will just spout generic lines that you’ll hear repeated over and over again. This mod adds a whole host of new characters, all with their own back stories, unique lines, and (most importantly) new voice acting that is (mostly) high quality.
Jul 12, 2017 If i am inviting some one very senior to an event - can I also use the same phrase at the end of my email 'please confirm that you will be able to attend'. How can the answer be improved?
13. The Forgotten City
This mod resembles something more akin to a Bethesda DLC expansion. The Forgotten City is a murder mystery set in the titular Forgotten City. It offers around 8 hours of gameplay and some high-quality writing that won a national Writer’s Guild award. It’s a very unique mod that’s well worth checking out.
14. Way of the Monk – Unarmed Overhaul
This Unarmed Overhaul mod does exactly that. It overhauls unarmed combat in an attempt to make it a viable play style. Featuring two new skill trees, Unarmed and Unarmoured, as well as a variety of related perks and equipment, it allows players to roll a Monk-like character and discover their inner zen.
15. Duel – Combat Realism
Duel is a mod that aims to fix the unrealistic combat system in Skyrim and completely change the way you play. It makes the player pay close attention to their stamina bar in order to survive, it ties in your weapons and armour to bring added realism, it changes how archery works, and more. If you’re looking for a dramatically different combat experience in Skyrim, Duel is your best bet.
16. Apocalypse – Magic of Skyrim
Apocalypse is a much-needed overhaul of the magic in Skyrim. Any fan of mages in RPGs is more than aware of how underwhelming magic is in Skyrim. This mod introduces 140 new spells that give you a large variety of new ways to tackle your enemies. These spells aren’t just the usual hold down spray of fire/cold/lightning until enemy dies and then rinse/repeat, this mod includes disables, summons, and a number of other cool surprises. Essential if you want to play a mage without getting bored.
17. Sneak Tools
Sneak Tools is a mod that aims to make the stealth more dynamic than simply staying in the shadows and getting bonus sneak attack damage. This mod allows you to slit throats, knock out enemies from behind, wear masks that hide your identity. Douse torches and lanterns to move through the shadows. Add an arsenal of trick arrows, including one that launches ropes that allows you to climb walls. Sneak Tools gives Skyrim a touch of Thief to make it’s stealth more interesting.
18. Falskaar
The Falskaar mod is one of the most impressive and comprehensive mods you’ll find for Skyrim. It’s essentially the size of an official expansion and introduces a new continent with an incredible 25 hours of new material. The creator of this mod took around 2000 hours to make it and now works at Bungie. The continent introduces a huge variety of new quests, wildlife, and a gorgeous landscape. Falskaar is an amazing achievement in modding and is a must-try for any Skyrim fan.
19. Skyrim Redone
Skyrim Redone is the mod of all mods for Skyrim. A true overhaul in the most literal sense, this monumental package of mods brings together a variety of different mods to give the game a massive makeover. It overhauls every aspect of the game, from perks and skills to the character stats and more, and even includes some more unique things like a grappling hook and disguises. It’s such a complex mod that it can be a bit of a pain to get working properly, but once you get it all up and running it’s the truly definitive modding experience for Skyrim.
20. Immersive Patrols
Immersive Patrols is a mod that creates a series of patrols for the factions of Skyrim: Stormcloak, Imperial, Thalmor, Dawnguard, Bandits, and so on. These routes will sometimes cross paths, leading to some violent clashes between the factions and offering more of the emergent chaos that we all love to watch.
21. The Gate of Solitude
A huge content mod that adds a whole new questline to Oblivion, playing off of the Oblivion gates from the main storyline. It recommends you be at least level 35, and the creator suggests playing on Master difficulty for the best experience. It’s a hard and challenging load of content that’s sure to be a fun and interesting experience for experienced Oblivion player who have tired out the rest of the game’s content and its expansions.
Download here.
Well, if you have heard about Skyrim VR, you can learn how to use mods with Skyrim VR at uploadvr.
These are just some of the amazing mods available at your fingertips. Skyrim is the ultimate modding game. Its extreme flexibility and open-ended nature make it the perfect game to tweak and create new content for. Check out these best mods for Skyrim and see how it changes your Skyrim experience.
Let us know if you think we missed anything!