The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition Remaster
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition, developed by Bethesda Game Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks, is a remastered version of the original Skyrim game released in 2011. Launched in October 2016, the Special Edition brings a host of enhancements that breathe new life into the iconic RPG, making it a must-play for both veterans and newcomers. This blog delves into the features, improvements, and enduring appeal of Skyrim Special Edition.
I spent the vast majority of my time with the PS4 version of Skyrim Special Edition, because who could forget how the PS3’s 2011 version suffered from muddy graphics, load times so long I could write and shoot off important emails before the next map appeared, and major frame rate issues that became worse as the size of your save increased? For any other PS3 owner who lived through that, this version is special indeed: load times while fast-traveling now breeze by in about the time it takes to recite the infamous line about taking an arrow to the knee, and for all my sourness over Ralof’s taffy hair, it’s never looked better on consoles. It’s also complete, in that it includes the substantial Dawnguard, Heathfire, and Dragonborn DLC expansions.
I struggled with this realization at first: in my memory, it always looked much like this, with the woods around Riften alive with detailed vegetation. (I’ve also spent almost all of my roughly 400 hours with Skyrim on PC, where naturally I stuffed it with graphical enhancements.) But a side-by-side comparison with the original version quickly unmasks the considerable differences. The Special Edition doesn’t go for sweeping character model and animation overhauls like I and many other players had hoped, but it does enhance the world’s occasionally meaningful details.
The star in this regard is the volumetric lighting, which managed to leave me in awe all these years later as I stalked through Falkreath forests where moonlight dropped in ghostly shafts through the trees. Then there are the new dynamic depth-of-field options, which add some subtle focus to conversations (and which the Special Edition introduces with over-the-top intensity in the opening dragon attack). Textures are improved as well, with generally sharper detail everywhere you look.
I personally never had much of a problem with 2011 Skyrim’s grim color palette — I found it well-suited to the northern setting and story — but I can’t deny that I admire the way the improved color saturation adds a striking intensity to sunny days around Whiterun, which is further improved by greater draw distances. PC mods have allowed these kinds of things for years, of course, but the enhancements here deliver the version of Skyrim the PlayStation and Xbox always deserved.
One of the most significant upgrades in Skyrim Special Edition is its graphical overhaul. The remastered version features enhanced art and effects, volumetric god rays, dynamic depth of field, screen-space reflections, and new water and snow shaders. These improvements result in a more immersive and visually stunning experience, making the vast landscapes of Skyrim more breathtaking than ever.
Performance and Stability
Skyrim Special Edition also offers better performance and stability compared to the original game. The 64-bit engine allows for more efficient memory usage, reducing crashes and improving the overall gameplay experience. This is particularly beneficial for players using mods, as the increased stability supports more complex and numerous modifications without compromising performance.
Mod Support
One of Skyrim’s defining features has always been its robust modding community. Skyrim Special Edition takes this to the next level by offering full mod support on consoles, a feature previously limited to PC. This opens up a world of possibilities for console players, allowing them to customize their game with new quests, characters, weapons, and graphical enhancements created by the community.
New Content and DLCs
Skyrim Special Edition includes all three official DLCs: Dawnguard, Hearthfire, and Dragonborn. These expansions add substantial content to the base game, introducing new storylines, characters, and locations. Whether you’re battling vampires in Dawnguard, building your own home in Hearthfire, or exploring the island of Solstheim in Dragonborn, these DLCs enhance the already rich and diverse world of Skyrim.
Gameplay Improvements
In addition to the visual and performance upgrades, Skyrim Special Edition also features various gameplay improvements. The user interface has been refined for better navigation, and the game’s mechanics have been polished to provide a smoother experience. These changes, while subtle, contribute to a more enjoyable and seamless adventure.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition is more than just a remaster; it’s a celebration of one of the greatest RPGs ever made. With its stunning visual enhancements, improved performance, extensive mod support, and all-encompassing content, it offers an unparalleled adventure for both seasoned fans and new players. Skyrim’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to transport players to a world brimming with possibilities, where every mountain peak and shadowy cavern holds a new story. If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of Skyrim, the Special Edition is the perfect way to embark on this legendary journey.