Comparing Skyrim Modding: Special Edition vs Anniversary Edition
When discussing the best edition of Skyrim for modding, it's essential to consider several factors, including modding support, tools, and performance. This article explores the differences between Skyrim Special Edition (SE) and Skyrim Anniversary Edition (AE). Whether you're an experienced modder or new to the modding community, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Modding Support
Skyrim Special Edition (SE): Having a well-established modding community, SE offers a vast library of compatible mods. Many mods have been tested and are stable, making it easier for users to find reliable content. This well-documented modding environment often leads to a more straightforward modding experience for new users.
Skyrim Anniversary Edition (AE): AE includes all the content from SE, plus new Creation Club content. However, some mods may require updates or compatibility patches to work with the new features and content. The modding community is still adapting to AE, so popular mods may not yet be fully compatible. This can make the modding process more challenging and time-consuming for users.
Modding Tools
Both editions use the same tools such as Nexus Mods, Mod Organizer 2 (MO2), and Vortex. These tools provide a consistent modding experience in terms of installation and management. Whether you prefer MO2 or Vortex, the choice of tools won't significantly impact your modding experience between the two editions.
Performance
Both Skyrim SE and Skyrim AE are optimized for modern hardware. However, the performance can vary based on the mods used. Many users report better performance with SE due to its established modding ecosystem, which can lead to a smoother gaming experience.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a more extensive library of mods and a more stable modding experience, Skyrim Special Edition (SE) is generally the better choice. However, if you are interested in the new content offered by Skyrim Anniversary Edition (AE) and are willing to navigate potential compatibility issues, AE can also be a rewarding experience as the modding community continues to adapt.
It's also worth noting that the old Legendary Edition (LE) has the best mod catalogue of the lot. If you haven't purchased AE, consider whether the game is still 32-bit or 64-bit. Special Edition (SE) purely by virtue of being 64-bit has better mod support and much higher stability under large mod lists. However, as every single mod has to be converted from 32-bit to 64-bit, the mod catalogue for AE is much smaller. If AE is 32-bit, it would inherit the enormous mod catalogue of the old LE, making it a better choice in that scenario.
Ultimately, both editions have their advantages and disadvantages. If you want a vast range of mods and stability, SE is the way to go. But if you're excited about the new content and willing to take on the challenge of navigating compatibility issues, AE is also a worthwhile choice.