Skyrim Special Edition versus PC mods – graphics comparison

19 July 2016
Skyrim modded

Bethesda recently announced that it would release a Special Edition of The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim, which would include a remastered version of the original game, along with other small updates.

The remastered version of Skyrim includes all DLC and add-ons for the base game, and players who own all DLC and add-ons can upgrade to the Special Edition at no cost.

While the remaster in certainly a worthwhile purchase for Skyrim fans who play on consoles, it is a slightly more difficult decision for PC gamers.

This is because the features boasted by the Special Edition of Skyrim are already available to PC gamers in the form of mods.

Skyrim Mods

Since the release of Skyrim, modders have continuously created content for the game, allowing PC gamers to upgrade graphics, experiment with new gameplay systems, and greatly expand on the world Bethesda originally created.

Although mods may be slightly complex to install, they offer a great deal of features and are an integral part of Skyrim’s longevity on PC.

The main advantage of the Special Edition (other than the graphics overhaul) is that it will be a 64-bit version of the game, allowing modders to create content unimpeded by memory limits.

Graphics Comparison

The Special Edition and modded versions of Skyrim both offer vastly improved graphics, but which is better?

Check out the comparisons below and decide for yourself (click images to enlarge):

(Pictures courtesy of CandyLand)

Remaster comparison 1

Remaster comparison 2

Remaster comparison 3

remaster comparison 4

Remaster comparison 6

Remaster comparison 5


Digital Foundry comparison:


More gaming news

How to get cheap iPhones and cheap iPhone repairs in South Africa

How soon fibre can overtake ADSL in South Africa

Pokémon GO is more popular than Tinder

You have read 1 out of 5 free articles. Log in or register for unlimited access.
  1. Jay
    02.11.2016 at 22:37

    I think the special edition looks fantastic. I will definitely be using it without any graphics mods except maybe water.

Read now

The best gaming website in South Africa
MyGaming proudly displays the “FAIR” stamp of the Press Council of South Africa, indicating our commitment to adhere to the Code of Ethics for Print and online media which prescribes that our reportage is truthful, accurate and fair. Should you wish to lodge a complaint about our news coverage, please lodge a complaint on the Press Council’s website, www.presscouncil.org.za or email the complaint to [email protected] Contact the Press Council on 011 4843612.