What’s New in Skyrim: Special Edition? Everything You Need to Know

All the Content

Skyrim: Special Edition is the best possible package for anyone who’s yet to play the game, or for anyone who just didn’t get around to checking out the DLC and wants to hop into the world once more. Special Edition packs in all three DLC drops.

Dawnguard will see you either joining forces with either the Vampire Lord Harkon to become a powerful vampire yourself, or the Dawnguard to put an end to him. Hearthfire allows you to build a house, decorate it as you wish, and start a family, and Dragonborn takes you to the island of Solstheim as you complete quests, defeat enemies, and tame dragons. Though it’s not necessarily new content, it’s certainly something to keep in mind if you’re considering picking it up.

Prettier Visuals

Thanks to the additional power of the Xbox One and PS4, as well as the technological advancements made in PC GPUs since 2011, Skyrim: Special Edition comes looking a hell of a lot prettier than before. Special Edition boasts remastered art and effects, volumetric god rays, dynamic depth of field, screen-space reflections, and a whole lot more.

What this all actually means is that the game is going to look a hell of a lot better compared to what it looked like all those years ago. Flora and fauna will look that bit more detailed, atmospheric lighting will enhance the immersion, and you’ll be able to admire views stretching much farther into the distance. The land of Skyrim will never have looked so pretty.

Mod Support

One of the most exciting aspects for many console players regarding Skyrim: Special Edition is the inclusion of mod support. While it was originally announced that the PS4 version would not have mod support, it has now been confirmed that both the Xbox One and PS4 versions will get some form of mod support when the game releases.

Mods bring a whole batch of new content to Skyrim. Whether it’s further refining and tweaking the visuals, adding in cool new weapons to the game, or even entire new quest lines, the possibilities are near-endless when it comes to mods. It’s important to note, however, that if you’re playing on PS4, there are some limitations to what you’ll be able to do. Still, we can’t wait to start experimenting all the same.

When’s it Out?

For those of you who can’t wait to jump back into Skyrim, you’ll be able to pull that arrow out of your knee and all the rest of it on Oct. 28. Skyrim: Special Edition will be available on PS4, Xbox One, and PC.

Any PC players who already have the base game and all of the DLC drops will also be able to get the Special Edition upgrade for free. Will you be picking up Skyrim: Special Edition when it releases later this week? Let us know down in the comments below.